SC Lottery Players Can Now Use Debit Cards to Buy Tickets

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Starting Tuesday, South Carolina lottery players can finally use debit cards to buy their favorite scratch-off and draw game tickets, marking a major shift in how the state handles lottery purchases.

The change, now officially in effect, follows a provision in South Carolina’s 2025 state budget that authorizes participating lottery retailers to accept debit cards and contactless debit options as payment. Previously, lottery players could only use cash to buy tickets — and that restriction has long been a frustration for some frequent players.

No Credit Cards Allowed — But Debit Is In

While debit cards are now permitted, the law still prohibits the use of credit cards for any lottery-related purchases. That rule remains unchanged.

According to South Carolina Education Lottery spokesperson Holli Armstrong, retailers now have the option to enable debit payments, but it is not mandatory. Each store can decide whether to adopt the new payment method.

Why the Change Matters

Governor Henry McMaster mentioned this update in his 2025 State of the State Address, listing the ability to purchase tickets via debit as one of his “wish list” items. Lottery officials believe this shift could lead to a $52 million boost in revenue — money that would go directly to scholarship and education initiatives statewide.

“Allowing debit card purchases helps modernize our system and expand access,” Armstrong noted, pointing to increased convenience for both players and store owners.

Where It Applies

• The policy is now active statewide, though it will only apply at participating lottery retailers.

• Most grocery stores and gas stations already offer lottery products and are likely to adopt the new system.

• No additional fees will be charged to players — tickets will still be sold at face value, regardless of payment type.

What This Means for Players

For many South Carolinians, especially those who don’t carry cash often, this update offers new convenience and encourages broader participation in lottery games.

It also aligns South Carolina with several other states that already permit non-cash lottery payments, reflecting changing consumer habits in how people prefer to pay.

Do you think allowing debit card payments for lottery tickets will increase your participation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments at saludastandard-sentinel.com — your input helps shape the local conversation.