Virginia Lottery winners can now claim prizes anonymously at any prize level, under a state law that took effect July 1, 2026.
The Virginia Lottery’s claims guidance says the agency will not publicly release a winner’s name, hometown, or prize amount unless the winner gives written permission. The current Code of Virginia says the department may not disclose information about an individual lottery winner’s identity unless that winner consents in writing.
The change expands the privacy rule beyond earlier prize thresholds and makes anonymity the default for Virginia prize claims. The Lottery says winners still need to complete the normal claims process, including required identification and tax documentation where applicable.
The Lottery also says Lottery Rewards and second chance winners will be notified by email instead of having their names posted publicly, so players should keep account contact information current.
Read the Virginia Lottery claims guidance at valottery.com.
See the current Code of Virginia section at law.lis.virginia.gov.