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How to Play Lotto via Cellphone

Katlego Modise
Katlego ModiseSports Betting & Lottery Specialist
Fact checked by
Ilse Lotz
Ilse LotzHead of Editorial
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Playing the lotto on your cellphone in South Africa is quick, easy, and convenient. Whether you're using SMS, a mobile app, or USSD codes, you can buy tickets, even if you don't have internet access. You’ll never miss out on a draw again! If you want to be in it to win it, here’s how to play lotto via cellphone.

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How to Play Lotto On Smartphone App

Follow these easy steps to get your lotto ticket from South African lotteries:

1. Choose a Banking App

You can download the official Lotto app, but most South African banks offer Lotto services through their mobile apps. Here are some options:

• Absa Banking App

Play PowerBall and Lotto directly through the app.

• Capitec Bank App

Buy LOTTO, PowerBall, and DAILY LOTTO tickets.

• FNB App

Buy LOTTO, DAILY LOTTO, and PowerBall tickets using your account or eBucks.

• Standard Bank App

Play Lotto conveniently through the app.

• Nedbank Money App

Access Lotto games via the app.

2. Download and Install the App

Visit your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). Search for your bank's official app and download it.

3. Register or Log In

Open the app and log in with your banking credentials. If you're a new user, follow the registration process to create an account.

4. Go to the Lotto Section

Once logged in, look for the "Lotto" or "Lottery" option in the app's menu.

5. Choose Your Lotto Game

Choose the game you want to play, such as Lotto, PowerBall, or Daily Lotto.

6. Pick Your Lucky Lotto Numbers

Manually select your numbers or use the "Quick Pick" option for random numbers.

7. Confirm and Pay

Review your selections and confirm the purchase. The ticket cost will be deducted from your linked bank account.

8. Receive Confirmation

A confirmation message will be sent via the app or email, ensuring your ticket has been successfully purchased.

Smiling woman playing the lotto South Africa on her phone

How to Play Lotto Via USSD (Data Free)

1. Dial the USSD Code

Use the National Lottery’s USSD code: 1207529# (DATA-FREE).

2. Register or Log In

Follow the prompts to register or log in with your personal details.

3. Choose Your Lotto Game

Choose the game you want to play (e.g., Lotto, PowerBall, or Daily Lotto) from the USSD menu.

4. Pick Your Numbers

Enter your chosen numbers directly when prompted. Or choose a random option for a quick pick.

5. Confirm and Pay

The ticket cost will be deducted from your airtime.

6. Receive Confirmation

A confirmation SMS will be sent to your phone, ensuring your ticket has been successfully purchased.

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Playing Lotto via SMS

Learning how to play lotto via cellphone is a straightforward option for those without access to apps or the internet. 

To submit your numbers, open your SMS app and type your chosen lotto numbers in the correct format, separated by commas or spaces (e.g., 5, 12, 18, 23, 34, 46). Send the message to the designated lotto service number, 34090. 

Each SMS costs R1, with the ticket cost deducted separately, usually from your airtime or linked account. 

After sending your numbers, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS verifying your ticket purchase and the numbers entered. It’s essential to save this SMS as proof of your entry and for checking results.

Buying Lotto Tickets via Capitec

  1. Open the Capitec app and click the Transact button.

  2. Select Play Lotto.

  3. Choose either Lotto, Powerball, or Daily Lotto, and click on Choose Numbers to select your own or Quick Pick if you want them chosen for you.

  4. Add Lotto PLUS 1 if you want to, and/or Lotto PLUS 2.

  5. Choose how many boards you want to play.

  6. Choose how many draws you want to enter. 

  7. Tap the Next button. 

  8. If you select Choose Numbers, this board will appear. Tap your numbers and click on the Next button. Remember, the Pick for Me option generates random numbers, but you can change these.

  9. Review your ticket’s summary, accept the terms and conditions, and tap Buy Now to purchase your ticket or end the transaction if you change your mind. 

  10. Select Account and press Pay.

  11. You’ll see the Successful screen. It features a reference number for your ticket and the board selection. 

Buying Lotto Tickets via Vodacom 

Learning how to play lotto via cellphone with Vodacom is a breeze! You can now access the lottery online at your convenience. The online lottery system allows you to enjoy the ultimate convenience by participating anytime, anywhere. 

Should you win, you’ll be notified of your prize via SMS, and winnings are automatically deposited into your secure electronic wallet, removing the need for manual claims.

Benefits of Playing Lotto via Cellphone

There are numerous advantages to knowing how to play lotto via cellphone, with the main one being convenience. You can buy tickets anytime, anywhere, and don’t have to wait until you see a land-based vendor. You can use multiple ways to pay for your lotto tickets, too, including airtime, banking apps, and your mobile Vodacom wallets. No internet? No problem! Use SMS and USSD options to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of playing via SMS?

When you’ve learnt how to play lotto via cellphone via SMS, it will cost you R1 to play lotto using SMS’.

How can I confirm my ticket purchase?

Once you’ve bought your ticket, you’ll get an email confirmation.

Can I play the lotto via cellphone without internet access?

Yes, you can use SMS or USSD to play the lotto.

Sports Betting Expert

Katlego Modise is a South African sports enthusiast turned sports betting writer. With years of experience analysing teams, studying trends, and placing strategic wagers on sports like soccer, cricket, and rugby, he's earned a trusted reputation in the industry. He’s no stranger to the world of gambling, adding Lotto and Powerball aficionado to his repertoire. When not writing or betting, Katlego enjoys travelling and mentoring young athletes at a local sports academy.

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FactCheckIcon Fact-checked by: Ilse Lotz
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