Pennsylvania Lottery Bond Overview
- Purpose: To ensure proper management of lottery funds and equipment
- Who Needs It: Lottery retailers who don’t meet the financial stability requirements
- Regulating Body: The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, Bureau of State Lotteries
- Bond Amount: $10,000–$100,000
- Minimum Price: Starts at 1–2%, credit-based
What Is a Pennsylvania Lottery Bond?
A Pennsylvania lottery bond protects the Commonwealth if a lottery seller mishandles funds owed to the state. Lottery bonds also ensure that the seller adheres to industry regulations. This helps keep the Pennsylvania lottery safe and fair for everyone.
Who Needs a Lottery Bond?
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, Bureau of State Lotteries can require a lottery bond of any business intending to sell lottery tickets in the state.
Typically, you will need a surety bond if you are not able to indicate strong financial stability. For example, if you have a low credit score or a history of bankruptcy, you may need a lottery retailer bond.
How Much Do Lottery Bonds Cost in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Lottery will determine the lottery retailer bond coverage you need. Your price will vary based on:
- The required bond amount
- Your personal credit score
With excellent credit, you could pay as low as 1% of the bond amount. For example, $5,000 lottery bonds start at $500. If you need a bond greater than $10,000, rates start at 2%.
Fill out our quick quote request form to get started!
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a PA Lottery Bond Work?
A Pennsylvania lottery bond creates a legally-binding contract and financial guarantee between three parties.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| 1) Principal | The lottery retailer filing the bond |
| 2) Obligee | The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, Bureau of State Lotteries |
| 3) Surety | The issuing surety provider |
The bond ensures that the lottery retailer acts ethically and adheres to all regulations in Chapter 805: Licenses of the Pennsylvania Code.

How Do I Get a Lottery Bond in Pennsylvania?
With SuretyBonds.com, you can get your Pennsylvania lottery ticket seller bond in just four easy steps:
- Apply for your bond online
- Receive a free quote within one business day
- Sign your documents with DocuSign
- Checkout on our secure, online portal
Once you pay, we'll mail you the official bond documents. Be sure to file these with the Bureau of State Lotteries as instructed.
How Do I Renew My Lottery Bond?
These bonds expire annually. When you work with us, we’ll provide text and email reminders to make sure you don’t have a lapse in coverage.
If you need to update your bond coverage, call us at 1(800)308-4358 for assistance. If you need the same bond coverage for another year, just pay your renewal invoice.
How to Get a Lottery Retailer License in Pennsylvania
To become a lottery retailer in Pennsylvania, begin the application process with the Pennsylvania Lottery.
The following will occur during the licensing process:
- A credit check completed by the Pennsylvania Lottery
- A background investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police
- A tax clearance check completed by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance check completed by the Pennsylvania Lottery.
Note: No license will be issued to a person intending to sell only lottery tickets, this license is given to current business owners.
