The lottery generated $1.2 billion in 2023 and returned more than 25% to Philadelphia through various programs. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Mar. 12, 2025 

PHILADELPHIA – The luck of March isn’t needed when it comes to Philadelphia benefiting from the Pennsylvania Lottery, according to City Controller Christy Brady’s latest Municipal Money Matters report that details revenue the city receives for various programs and taxes on cash winnings. 

In 2023, the lottery generated $1.2 billion in revenue for the state of Pennsylvania. Of that revenue, $302.7 million was returned to Philadelphia to support programs for older adults. Those programs include care services, shared and free-ride transportation, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) and senior centers, property tax and rent rebates, and PACE/PACENET pharmaceutical assistance. 

Philadelphia also receives revenue through taxes on cash lottery winnings. In 2023, city residents collected nearly $370.5 million in winnings from the lottery. Locally, winnings are subject to the School Income Tax (SIT) at 3.75%, which directly benefits the School District of Philadelphia. Cash lottery prizes are also subject to federal and state tax. 

“The state lottery is a unique revenue driver for our city and state,” said City Controller Christy Brady. “In a way, residents are contributing directly to City revenue whether they win or lose. If they are lucky enough to win, the tax on that money goes directly to the School District.” 

Visit https://controller.phila.gov/ to view the City Controller’s latest report. 

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