Short answer: Yes — until signed, a scratch-off is a bearer instrument. Always sign immediately and store winning tickets like cash or jewelry until claimed.
Reviewed by Marcus Chen, Lead Data Scientist · 2026-06-09
This guide is informational, not legal or tax advice. Always verify requirements with the official NY Lottery before submitting a winning ticket.Data sourced from nylottery.ny.gov and NY Open Data. Independent, non-commercial project. Play responsibly — NY Problem Gambling · 1-877-8-HOPENY.