Understanding the German Lotto 6aus49 rules is essential for anyone interested in participating in one of Europe’s most prestigious lotteries. This game offers straightforward mechanics combined with substantial winning opportunities that attract millions of players worldwide. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced lottery enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the game with confidence and maximize your chances of success.
What Is German Lotto 6aus49?
German Lotto 6aus49, also known as Lotto 6/49, stands as one of Europe’s oldest and most respected national lotteries. First launched on October 9, 1955, this iconic lottery has distributed billions of euros in prizes to players worldwide over nearly seven decades.
The name “6aus49” literally translates to “6 out of 49,” describing the fundamental game mechanics. Players select six numbers from 1 to 49, along with an additional bonus number called the Superzahl (Super Number), ranging from 0 to 9. This double matrix format (6/49 + 1/10) creates multiple prize tiers and winning opportunities.
Operated by the Deutscher Lotto- und Totoblock, a consortium of 16 regional lottery operators across Germany, Lotto 6aus49 operates with a unique rotating leadership structure. The lottery has undergone several significant transformations throughout its history. Initially, draws were held only on Saturdays, but in 1982, a Wednesday draw was added. The game format evolved from a 7/38 matrix to the current 6/49 format in June 1986. The most impactful change came in May 2013 when the Superzahl was introduced, improving players’ odds of winning any prize from 1 in 54 to 1 in 31.
Today, German Lotto 6aus49 generates approximately €3.6 billion in annual prize payouts and creates an average of 364 new millionaires every year. Thanks to Lottomat – you can play German Lotto 6aus49 online anytime and anywhere!
What Are the Rules of Playing German Lotto 6aus49?
The German Lotto 6aus49 rules are designed to be accessible while maintaining excitement and substantial winning opportunities.
To participate, players must choose six main numbers from 1 to 49. You can either select numbers manually based on personal preferences or opt for the Quick Pick (Lucky Pick) option, which automatically generates random numbers. Both methods offer equal chances of winning.
The Superzahl (Super Number)
The Superzahl, ranging from 0 to 9, is derived from the last digit of your ticket serial number. Unlike the main six numbers, players typically don’t choose the Superzahl themselves – it’s automatically assigned.
To win the jackpot, you must match all six main numbers plus the Superzahl. Even matching all six main numbers without the Superzahl wins a substantial second-tier prize, typically worth several hundred thousand euros.
Ticket Purchase and Draws
A standard ticket costs €1.20, plus any applicable processing fees. Players can purchase multiple lines, with most platforms allowing 1-10 lines per ticket. At Lottomat you can pick up to 20 lines.
German Lotto 6aus49 holds two weekly draws:
- Wednesday draw: 18:25 CET (6:25 PM), minimum jackpot €1 million
- Saturday draw: 19:25 CET (7:25 PM), minimum jackpot €3 million
Ticket sales close one hour before each draw. Since July 2013, draws have been broadcast live via internet video stream, ensuring complete transparency.
Lotto 6aus49 features nine distinct prize tiers. If no one wins the jackpot, it rolls over to the next draw for up to 12 consecutive draws. The maximum jackpot cap is €50 million.
What Are the Risks and the Chances of Winning German Lotto 6aus49 Prizes?
The odds of winning the German Lotto 6/49 jackpot (matching all six main numbers plus the Superzahl) are approximately 1 in 139,838,160. While these odds may seem challenging, German Lotto 6aus49 creates an average of 364 new millionaires annually.
Overall Winning Odds
The overall odds of winning any prize stand at approximately 1 in 31, exceptionally favorable compared to many international lotteries. This means roughly one in every 31 tickets wins something.
What Are the Rules of Claiming German Lotto 6/49 Prizes?
Claiming German Lotto 6aus49 prizes involves straightforward procedures. Winners have 13 weeks (91 days) from the draw date to claim their prizes. This generous timeframe provides ample opportunity to verify your ticket and make necessary arrangements.
Small to Medium Prizes
For smaller prizes (typically up to €2,500), if you purchased from an authorized retail location in Germany, you can claim prizes directly at lottery shops. Present your original ticket, and the retailer will validate it and pay out your winnings.
Large Prizes
Larger prizes require visiting a regional lottery office with:
- The original winning ticket
- Valid government-issued identification
- Proof of address
For security purposes, lottery officials may conduct additional verification checks, especially for jackpot wins.
International Winner Considerations
International players who win through authorized online lottery services have their prizes handled through the platform they used. Smaller wins are automatically credited to your online account. For major prizes, the lottery service’s winner support team contacts you directly and coordinates with German lottery authorities.
German Lotto 6aus49 Rules – Tax Information
German lottery winnings are tax-free at source. Winners receive the full value without deductions. However, international players should be aware that their home country’s tax regulations may still apply.
What Are the German Lotto 6aus49 Rules of Claiming Prizes at Lottomat?
Playing German Lotto 6aus49 through Lottomat offers a streamlined prize-claiming experience designed for international players.
Automatic Prize Notification
After each draw, Lottomat immediately checks all tickets. If you’ve won, you receive instant notification. This automated system ensures you never miss knowing about a win.
Automatic Prize Crediting
For prizes up to €2,500, Lottomat automatically credits winnings directly to your player account immediately after official results are published. This means:
- No manual claims for smaller prizes
- Instant access to your winnings
- Ability to withdraw funds or use them for additional tickets
- Complete transparency with detailed transaction history
Large Prize Support
For prizes exceeding €2,500, Lottomat’s dedicated winner support team:
- Contacts you directly via phone and email
- Explains the complete claiming procedure
- Coordinates with German lottery authorities on your behalf
- Assists with necessary documentation
- Arranges for release of the physical ticket when required
Physical Ticket Handling
Lottomat purchases genuine German Lotto tickets from authorized retailers in Germany. These tickets are scanned and uploaded to your account for verification, stored securely in Germany, and made available to you as the rightful owner.
Withdrawal Options
Once prizes are credited to your Lottomat account, you have flexible withdrawal options including bank transfer, various payment methods, or keeping funds for future purchases. Lottomat ensures secure transactions using industry-standard encryption.
What Are German Lotto 6aus49 Prizes – How Much Can One Win?
German Lotto 6aus49 offers an impressive prize structure with total annual payouts exceeding €3.6 billion.
Jackpot Prizes
The German Lotto 6/49 jackpot varies by draw day:
- Wednesday draws: Minimum €1 million
- Saturday draws: Minimum €3 million
When no one wins the jackpot, it rolls over to the next draw, allowing prize pools to accumulate substantially. The maximum jackpot cap stands at €50 million.
All German Lotto 6aus49 prizes are paid as tax-free lump sums. Winners receive the full value without deductions. The pari-mutuel system means exact prize amounts fluctuate based on total ticket sales and number of winners in each tier.
What Was the Record Winning in German Lotto 6aus49?
The largest German Lotto 6aus49 jackpot in history was won on December 5, 2007, with a staggering €45,382,458. This historic win came after 13 consecutive draws without a winner. The massive prize was shared among three winning tickets from different regions of Germany, with each winner receiving over €15 million.
Largest Single-Ticket Win
The biggest German Lotto jackpot awarded to a single player was worth €42.5 million, won in October 2020 by a lucky player from Baden-Württemberg.
Other Notable Jackpots
- €45 million (January 19, 2022): Shared among six winners, each receiving approximately €7.5 million
- €37.7 million (October 7, 2006): Single jackpot win after 12 consecutive draws
- €35.04 million (January 31, 2009): Another substantial jackpot
- €31.73 million (September 23, 2009): Won just eight months later
The introduction of the €50 million jackpot cap in November 2023 ensures more frequent major wins, as excess amounts remain in the prize pool for subsequent draws.
Who Can Play German Lottery and Win German Lotto 6/49 Prizes?
German Lotto 6aus49 is accessible to players both within Germany and around the world.
Age Requirements
All players must be at least 18 years old to purchase tickets and claim prizes. This age restriction promotes responsible gaming practices and complies with German gambling regulations.
Residency and Nationality
German Lotto 6aus49 has no restrictions based on nationality or country of residence:
- German citizens and residents can play through traditional retail outlets or online platforms
- International players from virtually any country can participate through authorized online lottery services
- Tourists and visitors to Germany can purchase tickets directly from authorized retailers
Claiming Prizes as an International Player
International winners have full rights to claim their prizes. For smaller prizes, automatic crediting to online accounts occurs. For larger prizes, coordination with the lottery service provider assists with the claiming process.
Tax Considerations
- German residents: All lottery winnings are tax-free at source in Germany
- International players: German lottery winnings remain tax-free at source, but players must comply with tax laws in their home country
How to Play German Lotto 6aus49 Over the Internet?
Playing German Lotto 6aus49 online through Lottomat has revolutionized access to this prestigious lottery. You can play lotto online from anywhere in the world – if you have Internet access and an account on our website.
Getting Started with Lottomat
Step 1: Registration
- Visit Lottomat.com and create a secure player account
- Provide basic information and verify your age (18+)
- Complete the registration process in just a few minutes
Step 2: Account Funding
- Choose from multiple secure payment methods including credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets
- Complete the transaction using secure, encrypted payment processing
Step 3: Selecting Your Numbers
- Choose six main numbers from 1 to 49 (manual selection or Quick Pick)
- Decide on the number of lines (typically 1-20 per ticket)
- Choose single draw or multiple consecutive draws
Step 4: Review and Purchase
- Review your selected numbers and entry options
- Confirm your purchase
- Receive immediate confirmation via email
Key Advantages of Playing Through Lottomat
- Play 24/7 from anywhere in the world
- Every ticket is scanned and stored in your account
- Automatic notification of winning tickets
- Lottomat purchases genuine tickets from authorized German lottery retailers
- Access to results immediately after each draw
- Comprehensive customer support available 24/7
How Draws Work Online
When you purchase tickets through Lottomat, your entry is submitted before the deadline, Lottomat agents purchase physical tickets on your behalf, tickets are scanned and uploaded to your account, and German lottery results are checked automatically after the draw. Winnings are credited to your account or the winner support team contacts you for larger prizes.
Lottomat operates with full compliance to international gaming regulations, uses secure SSL encryption, and provides transparent terms and conditions with responsible gaming features.
When Do German Lotto 6aus49 Drawings Take Place?
German Lotto 6aus49 maintains a consistent draw schedule providing multiple opportunities to win each week.
Regular Draw Schedule
Wednesday Draw:
- Draw time: 18:25 CET (6:25 PM)
- Ticket sales close: 18:00 CET (6:00 PM)
- Minimum guaranteed jackpot: €1 million
Saturday Draw:
- Draw time: 19:25 CET (7:25 PM)
- Ticket sales close: 19:00 CET (7:00 PM)
- Minimum guaranteed jackpot: €3 million
Live Streaming
Since July 2013, all German Lotto draws have been broadcast live via internet video stream on official lottery websites. Wednesday draws are also broadcast on ZDF television at 18:54 CET, while Saturday draws appear on ARD television at 19:57 CET.
Results Publication
After each draw, results are published immediately through official lottery websites, Lottomat and other authorized platforms, email notifications, and SMS alerts. Players can check German Lotto 6aus49 results within minutes of the draw’s conclusion.
Understanding the German Lotto 6aus49 rules, prizes, and playing procedures empowers you to participate confidently in one of Europe’s most respected lotteries. With Lottomat’s secure and convenient online platform, playing German Lotto 6aus49 has never been easier, regardless of where you are in the world. From the €1 million minimum Wednesday jackpots to the potential €50 million maximum prizes, German Lotto 6/49 offers genuine opportunities to transform your life – and with overall odds of 1 in 31 to win any prize, every ticket brings you closer to that possibility.