What Are the Three-Letter Codes on Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets?

Scratch off-lottery tickets include a three-letter code that can sometimes indicate the dollar amount a person has won. These codes vary depending on location, because each state has its own lottery system.

For example, in Wisconsin, a winning ticket worth $5 would have the letters “FIV” on it. A $10 winner would include the letters “TEN.” However, when the winning amount is over $600, the three-letter code looks random, which means it is not always possible to tell which cards are winners simply by looking at that code. Always be sure to scratch off the entire card to avoid throwing winning cards away.

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