Article Guide
The Michigan Lottery Retailer Application form is a crucial document for businesses interested in selling Lottery products. This form outlines specific requirements that applicants must meet to obtain a retailer license. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have an acceptable credit history, along with no criminal record that could impact the integrity of the Lottery. A nonrefundable application fee of $150 is required at the time of submission. Additionally, applicants must maintain a separate bank account for electronic funds transfers related to Lottery transactions. The application includes a checklist of necessary documents and a Personal Data Sheet that must be completed and signed by all owners or partners involved in the business. Furthermore, the form emphasizes compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides guidance on the operational responsibilities of retailers, including ticket sales, redemption processes, and record-keeping. Annual renewal of the license incurs a fee of $200, which may be waived for compliant retailers. Understanding these elements is essential for any business aiming to participate in the Michigan Lottery system.
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RETAILER
APPLICATION
Rev. October 2019
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909
retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER - APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS -
The requirements listed below pertain to Retailers interested in selling Michigan Bureau of State Lottery (Lottery) products. Failure to meet any of these requirements, the terms and conditions of the contract or any other provision of the Lottery Act and Rules may result in disciplinary action up to and including license revocation depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
1.The Lottery advises all applicants for licenses and/or changes of ownership not to invest any money or commit themselves by any binding agreements in the expectation of being issued a license or approval of a change of ownership until officially notified by the Lottery that their application has been approved.
2.Most applicants with an acceptable credit history and no criminal record that would adversely affect the integrity of the Lottery may be licensed. Lottery may require a bond from a Retailer as a condition
of licensure. ANY CRIMINAL RECORD MUST BE DISCLOSED ON PERSONAL DATA SHEETS.
3.The items listed in the applicant checklist are required before the Lottery will license the location.
4.A nonrefundable application fee of $150 is due at time of application. This fee may be remitted by check payable to the State of Michigan or paid
5.Retailers are required to maintain a separate account in a financial institution that is a member
of The National Automated Clearing House Association. The Lottery must be authorized to initiate electronic funds transfers (EFT) to or from the Retailer’s designated account for the net weekly settlements due from the sale of instant and/or
“Good” funds are defined as unrestricted funds credited to a Retailer’s account that a financial institution will release for payment of an EFT. Unrestricted funds do not include checks placed on hold until they have cleared the maker’s account or deposited checks that the maker’s financial institution has returned unpaid. Any cash alternative settlement methods (such as line of credit, overdraft protection, a
Applicants should submit a completed Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Form with the application. If this EFT account will not be established until closing of the sale, a void check or a letter, on bank letterhead, with the bank’s routing number and your checking account number may
be submitted at that time. Lottery products will not be made available to the Retailer until this information is provided.
6.Annual license renewal fee is $200. This fee will be waived for those Retailers who are not on probation for violation of the Lottery Act or its Rules at the time of renewal.
7.It is recommended the Retailer provide (prior to the installation of Lottery equipment) a dedicated circuit with 115 volts, 20 Amp. 60 HZ service with an isolated ground that remains on 24 hours per day. The dedicated circuit must have a 4 outlet box that will accommodate 3 prong, “U” grounded type plugs. The Lottery reserves the right to require a Retailer to obtain certification of a dedicated electrical circuit from a qualified electrician. All installation and ongoing costs for this service will be the responsibility of the Retailer. The outlet shall be located within five feet of the terminal. The Retailer shall provide sufficient space for the operation of the equipment.
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Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
8.BUSINESS TYPE - to determine your business type use these definitions when completing the application. A Personal Data Sheet and signature is required before the application will be processed.
a.PROPRIETORSHIP - a business enterprise doing business under an assumed name, that is owned by one person (not registered with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth). A Proprietorship may use the owner’s Social Security number as a tax identification number or s/he may have a registered Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). The owner must complete and sign the contract and submit a Personal Data Sheet.
b.PARTNERSHIP - a business enterprise doing business under an assumed name that is NOT registered as a Partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth. Each Partner must sign the contract and Personal Data Sheets must be provided for all partners.
c.LIMITED PARTNERSHIP - a business enterprise, doing business under an assumed name, that IS registered as a Partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth. A General Partner must sign the contract and Personal Data Sheets must be provided for all general partners.
d.LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY - a business enterprise, doing business under an assumed name, that is registered as an unincorporated association with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth. Members are required to sign the contract and submit Personal Data Sheets. (Members are defined as persons having ownership interest in a limited liability company.)
e.CORPORATION - a business enterprise organized as a corporate entity, doing business under an assumed name, that is registered with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth.
“Closely Held Corporation” means a corporation where a majority (more than 50 percent) of the outstanding voting stock is owned by ten or fewer persons. Any person authorized and empowered to execute contracts and bind the corporation to its terms and obligations may sign the contract. A Personal Data Sheet is required for each owner/shareholder, except that any individual owning less than 10 percent may be listed on a separate sheet of paper and is required only to provide name, Social Security number and percent of ownership.
f.To properly comply with the reporting requirements for the Internal Revenue Service, the Lottery must change the Retailer number assigned to you when you change your business structure. The Lottery defines a change in business structure as anytime your Taxpayer Identification Number, Corporate Number or business type (sole proprietor, partnership or corporation) changes.
When your Retailer number is changed, we must financially close out the old Retailer number. This will result in all activated books having to be settled and paid for, regardless of the length of
time they have been activated or the percentage of validations that have occurred within each book. Once a book has been activated we are unable to reassign the book, which is why payment is required.
You will then be assigned a new Retailer number and all confirmed books will be reassigned to this new number.
9.Please note that the accompanying Retailer license application requires that you indicate if your business is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you have any questions about compliance, please contact the State ADA Coordinator, at
If you have any questions, call RETAILER SERVICES (517)
Send completed documents to: Michigan Lottery
Attn: Retailer Services
P.O. Box 30023
Lansing, MI 48909
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909
retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS -
1.A person must be 18 years of age or older to buy or sell Lottery tickets.
2.Retailers must display their Lottery license or a copy of their Lottery license in a conspicuous place.
3.Retailers may sell tickets only on the premises indicated on the license. Only instant tickets issued to a specific location can be sold at that location. Retailers may not exchange books of instant tickets with other Retailers or stores.
4.All Retailers are expected to redeem winning tickets with a value up to and including $600. Winning tickets must be validated through the validation system(s) for the Retailer to receive credit.
5.Write your Retailer number on the back of all winning tickets that you redeem and deface the validation number. Destroy redeemed tickets after balancing.
6.Retailers are expected to make full use of all promotional material provided by the Lottery and to prominently post winning numbers/symbols and jackpot amounts as soon as possible.
7.Retailers are expected to participate in Lottery signage programs and to display approved sign(s) provided by the Lottery.
8.Traditional Retailers are required to offer for sale instant tickets.
9.Lottery tickets cannot be sold for more than their established price. They can be sold for less than their established price as a special promotion if the Retailer desires. Retailers who sell tickets to other Retailers for resale are in violation of the Lottery Act & Rules.
10.Retailers cannot offer to give any money or other thing of value to the holder of a Lottery ticket
or share for winning the Lottery, other than the prize if payment of the prize by the Retailer is authorized by the Commissioner. Retailers who offer bonuses to Lottery winning tickets holders are in violation of the Lottery Act & Rules.
11.Retailers cannot purchase a winning ticket or tickets from an original purchaser or from a subsequent purchaser.
12.Retailers are prohibited from participating as a Retailer for other Lotteries.
13.The sale of a valid Lottery ticket is final and a Retailer shall not accept ticket returns.
14.Lottery may prohibit a person authorized by the Retailer from participating in a Lottery activity i.e. selling tickets or redeeming tickets.
15.A Retailer, upon issuance of a license, will receive 6% commission on each ticket sold at the terminal, 5% sales commission on all cashless transactions on cashless fitted equipment and a 2% commission on any prize paid. Retailers may also receive bonus commissions as stated in Lottery directives. For more information on bonus commissions visit the Lottery website.
16.Retailers are expected to maintain current and accurate records of all operations in conjunction with sales in conformity with Rules, instructions, and directives of the Lottery. The Retailer is required to make the records available to Lottery representatives upon request.
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Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
17.The Retailer shall exercise due diligence in the operation of any installed equipment and shall immediately call
18.A Retailer does not have a property interest in the license granted by the Lottery or in the online Lottery terminal.
19.The Retailer will act in a fiduciary capacity with respect to all tickets accepted from Lottery or its authorized distributors until payment has been made.
20.Retailers are responsible for all tickets consigned to them. If tickets are stolen, then the Retailer shall report the theft to the Lottery and to local or state police authorities. The Retailer shall pay for the stolen tickets on the settlement date. The Retailer shall subsequently file a statement swearing to or affirming, under the penalty of perjury, the facts of the case. The Retailer shall furnish to Lottery a copy of the police report covering the theft. Following an investigation by Lottery and police authorities, Lottery may issue a refund to the Retailer. Refunds may only be issued if losses to Lottery have been mitigated by Retailer’s actions in reporting the tickets stolen and the Retailer’s appropriate accounting of tickets stolen.
21.The Retailer shall be responsible for the physical security of the Lottery equipment. Damage to the equipment/satellite communication lines attributable to the Retailer’s negligence will result in an assessment to the Retailer for the cost of equipment repair or replacement.
22.Retailers agree to hold Lottery and the State of Michigan harmless from any liability arising in connection with the sales or redemption of Lottery products.
23.If you plan to sell your business and the buyer wants to continue Lottery sales, a change of ownership must be approved by the Lottery. The buyer should submit an application approximately 45 days prior to closing. Contact Retailer Services for details (517)
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909
retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER
- WEEKLY SETTLEMENT REQUIREMENTS -
1.Retailers must not be delinquent in settling accounts with the Lottery.
2.Retailers are required to maintain a separate bank account for Lottery use only in a financial institution that is a member of The National Automated Clearing House Association. The Lottery must be authorized to initiate electronic funds transfers (EFT) to or from the account.
3.Cash only must be deposited in this account, do not include checks in your deposit.
4.The sales week is Tuesday through Monday. Your invoice is available Tuesday of each week. Bank deposits must be made by 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday to assure available funds for EFT withdrawal.
5.A Retailer’s selling privileges may be suspended upon determination that the Retailer is delinquent for any settlement. Retailers are considered delinquent when sufficient good, available funds are
not available in the financial institution account at the time the Lottery attempts to electronically withdraw the Retailer’s settlement.
6.Retailers are expected to promptly “make good” a delinquency by remitting a cashier’s or certified check to the Lottery for the full amount of the delinquency plus any delinquency fee. A fee may be assessed for each delinquency in accordance with the fee schedule currently in effect.
7.A Retailer who fails to “make good” a delinquency shall be subject to license revocation. A retailer may also be subject to collection proceedings for failure to “make good” on a deliquency. Collection proceedings may be initiated by the Lottery or by a designated
8.A Retailer who exceeds the established number of delinquencies within six consecutive months shall be subject to license revocation or be required to post a cash bond to continue as a licensed Retailer.
Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909
retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER
- PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS -
1.The Retailer shall immediately notify Retailer Services of any lapse in
2.The Retailer’s license may be revoked if the Retailer has an unapproved lapse in operation that exceeds 30 calendar days.
3.Under Lottery Rules, the Retailer must pay the fees established by Lottery. These fees include the following:
a.Application Processing Fee - $150 A nonrefundable application fee is due at the time of application.
b.Investigation Fee - $700 This fee may be assessed to the Retailer when an investigation is conducted resulting in disciplinary action.
c.Satellite Communication Equipment Installation Fee - $550 This fee is for the installation of communication service for an
d.Delinquency Fee - $200 This fee may be assessed by the Lottery each time a Retailer is delinquent.
e.Annual License Renewal Fee - $200 This fee will be waived for those Retailers who are not on probation for violation of the Lottery Act or its Rules at the time of renewal.
4.Retailers will be given written notice when fees are changed by Lottery.
5.All Retailers may be subject to a terminal minimum sales performance evaluation every quarter. Failure to meet the minimum sales performance may result in license revocation. The minimum
sales performance amount is set by the Lottery and is subject to change, but will not exceed a $4,000.00 weekly average.
6.Failure to meet the performance requirements or the contract terms and conditions may result in disciplinary action depending on the nature and severity of the violation. When the severity of a violation warrants equipment removal and/or license revocation, the Retailer may request a conference with the Commissioner or the Commissioner’s designee. At this informal conference, the alleged violation will be reviewed with the Retailer. The Retailer will have the opportunity to refute the alleged violation or to explain the reasons for the violation. The Retailer will be notified in writing of the Commissioner’s decision. The Commissioner’s decision is final.
7.It is each owner/shareholder’s responsibility to report to the Lottery any changes in his or her personal or business situation that would adversely affect Lottery’s integrity and/or its operations. This includes but is not limited to: any change of ownership, changes in a home address, phone number, etc; misdemeanor or felony convictions; liquor, food stamp, or tobacco violations; tax defaults or liens; personal or business bankruptcies; or any pending lawsuits against an owner/shareholder
or the business.
8. Each owner/shareholder authorizes the release of all information regarding his or her personal/business credit and criminal history to the Lottery. Each owner/shareholder understands it is his or her responsibility to report any changes in a personal or business situation. Each owner/shareholder accepts that any violation of the Lottery Act, Rules, contract, directives, instructions, or communications (including this communication) may be cause for revocation of any Lottery license.
To report any changes, contact Lottery at: Michigan Lottery, Retailer Services, P.O. Box 30023,
Lansing, MI 48909; or by fax at (517)
Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909
retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER
- OPERATIONAL RULES -
PULL TAB GAMES
The following business types are eligible to sell
Retailers are prohibited from selling Pull Tab tickets for a price other than the price printed on the ticket.
Pull Tab tickets may be sold from vending machines specifically designed to dispense Pull Tab tickets, by waitstaff, from “fishbowl” type containers, or through special promotional packaging provided by the Lottery. The cost to purchase or lease the vending machine(s) is the responsibility of the Retailer unless the game is sold in special promotional packaging provided by the Lottery.
Retailers receive a 6% commission on each Pull Tab ticket sold and a 2% commission on any prize paid, unless otherwise stated in the Lottery contract.
Retailers are prohibited from selling Pull Tab tickets to a visibly intoxicated person.
Retailers may not end sales of a game until all tickets from the deal are sold or unless a game has expired.
Retailers may redeem winning tickets of $600 or less. Prizes of $601 and above must be claimed at a Lottery claim center or Lottery office.
Retailers must pay the full amount of all prizes redeemed from valid winning Pull Tab tickets.
A winning prize must be claimed prior to the expiration date listed on the Pull Tab ticket.
Retailers may not manipulate the Pull Tab game in order to prevent prizes from being awarded.
Retailer employees and owners may purchase, play and redeem Pull Tab tickets.
Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909 retailers.michiganlottery.com
NONPROFIT LICENSEES ONLY
- REQUIREMENTS -
The requirements listed below pertain to the licensing of nonprofit organizations.
PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Retailer Contract/Application must be signed by the three principal officers (i.e. president, vice president, treasurer, secretary) of the organization.
Each of the principal officers must complete and sign a Personal Data Sheet authorizing the Lottery to perform a personal criminal and credit check.
The Lottery reserves the right to deny or revoke a license based on the criminal and/or credit history of any principal officer.
Lottery references to owners/ownership means any and all of the principal officers and/or Lottery chairpersons.
Principal officers must be at least 18 years old.
Any change in principal officers must be reported to the Lottery by completing a new Retailer Contract/ Application and Personal Data Sheet.
LOTTERY CHAIRPERSON
Each location must designate a Lottery chairperson who will be the Lottery contact and responsible for all Lottery activities. This includes making the Lottery deposits on Tuesday before 2:00 p.m., stocking supplies, and other necessary activities.
The Lottery chairperson, if different from the principal officers, must sign the Retailer Contract/Application. He/she must also complete and sign a Personal Data Sheet authorizing the Lottery to perform a personal criminal and credit check.
The Lottery reserves the right to deny or revoke a license based on the criminal and/or credit history of the Lottery chairperson.
The designated Lottery chairperson must be indicated on the Retailer Contract/Application.
The Lottery chairperson must be at least 18 years old.
Any change in the Lottery chairperson must be reported to the Lottery by completing a new Retailer Contract/Application and Personal Data Sheet.
OWNERSHIP OF BUILDING
A copy of the lease, deed, rental agreement or other proof must be provided to show the organization’s legal right to occupy the building/premises.
LOTTERY ACT & RULES
The principal officers and Lottery chairperson, by signing the Retailer Contract/Application and Personal Data Sheet, agree to comply with the Lottery Act and Rules, or the requirements, instructions and directives of the Commissioner or Bureau.
The organization must comply with any Michigan Liquor Control Commission Rules or statutes. Specifically, organizations must adhere to prohibitions that no alcohol is sold to anyone who is not a bona fide member or guest of the club (as defined by statute).
Authority: Act 239, 1972 as amended. |
MICHIGAN LOTTERY
RETAILER SERVICES
101 E. HILLSDALE, BOX 30023 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909 Retailers.michiganlottery.com
MICHIGAN LOTTERY RETAILER
- PROBLEM GAMBLING INFORMATION -
- RETAIN THIS PAGE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE -
The Michigan Lottery is dedicated to ensuring our players are provided with a fun and safe form of entertainment. As part of this effort, $1 million is provided each year to help fund statewide education and treatment programs for problem gaming, as well as the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline.
Problem gambling may affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender or financial status. Once it is detected, problem gambling may be treated successfully. The first step is determining if you have a problem or are headed toward a problem.
WARNING SIGNS OF PROBLEM GAMBLING |
|
• Missing work or sacrificing time with your |
• Selling or pawning property to get money |
family to gamble |
for gambling |
• Gambling is causing problems with your |
• Spending money on gambling that should |
family |
have gone to pay your bills |
• Lying about the time spent gambling or the |
• Gambling more to recover your losses |
money you’ve lost |
• Committing a crime or considering |
• Being unable to stop or control your betting |
committing a crime to pay for gambling |
• Borrowing money to gamble |
• Feelings of hopelessness, depression, or |
• Gambling to get money to solve financial |
suicide |
problems • |
|
CONFIDENTIAL HELP AND SUPPORT
FREE, 24/7 Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline • Call:
The Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline provides FREE, confidential,
For additional problem gambling information and resources, please contact the Michigan Lottery’s Responsible Gaming Manager at (517)
Problem Gambling Training
Problem gambling training available at: retailers.michiganlottery.com
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Revision Date | The Michigan Lottery Retailer Application was last revised in October 2019. |
| Application Fee | A nonrefundable application fee of $150 is required at the time of application submission. |
| Annual Renewal Fee | The annual license renewal fee is $200, but it may be waived for Retailers not on probation. |
| Age Requirement | Applicants must be at least 18 years old to buy or sell Lottery tickets. |
| Credit History | Applicants with acceptable credit histories and no disqualifying criminal records may be licensed. |
| Electronic Funds Transfer | Retailers must maintain a designated bank account for electronic funds transfers related to Lottery sales. |
| Business Type Definitions | The application requires applicants to identify their business type, such as proprietorship or corporation. |
| ADA Compliance | Applicants must indicate compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on their application. |
| Commission Structure | Retailers earn a 6% commission on ticket sales, along with additional commissions on cashless transactions and prizes. |
| Authority | This application is governed by Act 239 of 1972, as amended. |
Michigan Lottery: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Michigan Lottery Retailer Application form is a crucial step for businesses interested in selling lottery products. Ensure that all required information is accurately provided to avoid delays in the application process. Following these steps will help you fill out the form correctly.
- Begin by downloading the Michigan Lottery Retailer Application from the official website or obtain a physical copy from the Michigan Lottery office.
- Read through the application requirements carefully to understand what is needed for your specific business type.
- Fill in your business name and address in the designated sections of the form.
- Indicate your business type by selecting from the options provided: Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Company, or Corporation.
- Provide the necessary personal data, including names and Social Security numbers for all owners or partners, as required by your business type.
- Complete the EFT Authorization Form if you plan to set up electronic funds transfers. Include a void check or a letter from your bank if the account is not yet established.
- Pay the nonrefundable application fee of $150. You can do this by check made out to the State of Michigan or through the online payment portal.
- Review the application for accuracy and completeness, ensuring all required signatures are included.
- Submit the completed application along with any additional documents to the Michigan Lottery at the address provided on the form.
Once your application is submitted, the Lottery will review it and notify you of the approval status. Be prepared to provide any further information or documentation if requested during the review process.
Your Questions, Answered
What are the basic requirements to apply for a Michigan Lottery retailer license?
To apply for a Michigan Lottery retailer license, you must be at least 18 years old and have an acceptable credit history. You should not have a criminal record that could impact the integrity of the Lottery. Additionally, you must submit a completed application along with a nonrefundable application fee of $150. The Lottery may also require you to provide a bond as part of the licensing process.
What is the application fee and how can it be paid?
The application fee for a Michigan Lottery retailer license is $150. This fee is nonrefundable and can be paid by check made out to the State of Michigan or online through the Michigan Lottery's payment portal. Ensure that you submit the fee along with your application to avoid delays in processing.
What happens if my application is denied?
If your application for a retailer license is denied, you will receive official notification from the Lottery. The reasons for denial may vary, but typically include failure to meet the required standards such as credit history or criminal record issues. You may appeal the decision, but it is advisable to address any deficiencies before reapplying.
What are the ongoing responsibilities of a Michigan Lottery retailer?
As a Michigan Lottery retailer, you are required to maintain a separate bank account for Lottery transactions and ensure that sufficient funds are available for electronic funds transfers. You must also display your Lottery license prominently, redeem winning tickets up to $600, and ensure compliance with all Lottery rules and regulations. Additionally, you are responsible for keeping accurate records and may need to provide these records upon request from Lottery representatives.
What are the requirements for renewing my retailer license?
The annual renewal fee for a Michigan Lottery retailer license is $200. However, this fee may be waived if you are not on probation for any violations of the Lottery Act or its rules at the time of renewal. It is important to submit your renewal application on time to avoid any lapses in your license.
Can a retailer sell Lottery tickets from multiple locations?
What should I do if my Lottery equipment malfunctions?
In the event of a malfunction with your Lottery equipment, you must immediately call the Lottery's support line at 1-800-592-4040 and select option #1. Do not attempt to repair the equipment yourself unless instructed by a Lottery representative. If the malfunction is due to noncompliance with Lottery guidelines, you may be held responsible for any repair costs.
Common mistakes
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Incomplete Personal Data Sheets: Many applicants forget to fully complete the Personal Data Sheets required for the application. Omitting necessary information can delay processing or result in rejection.
-
Incorrect Payment Method: Some applicants mistakenly submit the application fee using an incorrect payment method. Ensure that the fee is paid by check or through the specified online portal to avoid complications.
-
Failure to Disclose Criminal Records: It is crucial to disclose any criminal records on the Personal Data Sheets. Not doing so can lead to serious consequences, including denial of the application or revocation of the license.
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Neglecting EFT Authorization: Applicants often overlook the need to submit a completed Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Form. Without this form, Lottery products will not be available for sale.
-
Ignoring Business Type Requirements: Misunderstanding the definitions of different business types can lead to incorrect applications. Each business structure has specific requirements that must be met to ensure compliance.
Documents used along the form
When applying to become a Michigan Lottery retailer, several additional forms and documents may be necessary to ensure compliance with state regulations. Below is a list of commonly used documents that accompany the Michigan Lottery form. Each serves a specific purpose in the application process or ongoing operations.
- Personal Data Sheet: This form collects personal information about the applicant, including their background and any criminal history. It must be completed and submitted for the application to be processed.
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Form: This document authorizes the Lottery to initiate electronic transfers to and from the retailer's designated bank account. It is essential for managing weekly settlements from ticket sales.
- Business Structure Documentation: Depending on the type of business entity (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation), specific documentation proving the business's legal status may be required. This ensures compliance with state regulations.
- Tax Identification Number (TIN) Documentation: Retailers must provide their TIN, which is necessary for tax reporting purposes. This number is essential for the Lottery to properly track and report retailer activities.
- Proof of Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Retailers must confirm their compliance with ADA regulations. This may involve submitting documentation or a statement regarding accessibility features at their retail location.
- Bond Documentation: In some cases, the Lottery may require retailers to obtain a bond as a condition of licensure. This bond serves as a financial guarantee that the retailer will adhere to Lottery rules and regulations.
- Application Fee Payment Confirmation: A nonrefundable application fee is required upon submission of the application. Proof of payment, whether by check or online transaction, must accompany the application.
- Electrical Circuit Certification: If required, a certification from a qualified electrician confirming the installation of a dedicated electrical circuit for Lottery equipment may need to be submitted before equipment installation.
These documents collectively support the application process and ensure that retailers meet all necessary legal requirements. Proper preparation and submission of these forms can facilitate a smoother licensing experience with the Michigan Lottery.
Similar forms
The Michigan Lottery Retailer Application form shares similarities with several other important documents that govern business operations and regulatory compliance. Below is a list of nine documents that are comparable, highlighting how they relate to the Michigan Lottery form.
- Business License Application: Like the Michigan Lottery form, this document requires detailed information about the business structure and ownership, ensuring compliance with local regulations before granting permission to operate.
- Sales Tax Permit Application: Both documents necessitate the disclosure of ownership and business type, and they ensure that the entity is registered to collect sales tax, which is crucial for legal compliance in sales operations.
- Alcohol License Application: Similar to the Lottery application, this form requires a thorough background check on the owners, ensuring that individuals with criminal records do not operate businesses involving alcohol sales.
- Food Service License Application: This document, like the Lottery form, mandates adherence to health and safety regulations, requiring applicants to demonstrate that their business complies with local health codes.
- Professional Licensing Application: Just as the Lottery application requires specific qualifications and background checks, many professional licenses require proof of education and experience in the respective field.
- Contractor License Application: Both forms require proof of financial stability and insurance, ensuring that the applicant is capable of fulfilling contractual obligations responsibly.
- Nonprofit Organization Registration: Similar to the Lottery application, this document requires transparency about the organization’s structure and purpose, ensuring compliance with state regulations for nonprofits.
- Insurance Application: Like the Michigan Lottery form, insurance applications require detailed personal and business information, as well as financial disclosures to assess risk and eligibility for coverage.
- Employee Background Check Authorization: Both documents necessitate background checks, ensuring that individuals involved in the business meet ethical and legal standards before being allowed to operate or work in sensitive environments.
Understanding these similarities can help applicants navigate the requirements more effectively and ensure compliance across various regulatory frameworks.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Michigan Lottery form, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth application process. Here’s a helpful list of things to do and avoid:
- Do read the application requirements carefully before starting.
- Do provide accurate and complete information on all forms.
- Do submit the nonrefundable application fee of $150 promptly.
- Do disclose any criminal records as required on the personal data sheets.
- Do ensure that your business complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Don't invest money or enter binding agreements until you receive official approval.
- Don't forget to maintain a separate bank account for Lottery transactions.
- Don't provide false information or omit required details on your application.
- Don't sell Lottery tickets at a price higher than the established rate.
- Don't attempt to redeem winning tickets without validating them first.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application process is efficient and successful. Good luck!
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: You can start selling Lottery tickets immediately after submitting your application.
- Misconception 2: A clean criminal record guarantees your application will be approved.
- Misconception 3: The application fee is refundable if your application is denied.
- Misconception 4: You can share your Lottery license with other retailers.
- Misconception 5: All Lottery products can be sold at any location.
- Misconception 6: You don't need a separate bank account for Lottery transactions.
- Misconception 7: You can accept returns on Lottery tickets.
- Misconception 8: You can offer bonuses to customers who win Lottery tickets.
Many believe that submitting an application is enough to begin selling Lottery tickets. However, you must wait for official approval from the Lottery before you can start selling.
While having a clean criminal record is important, other factors, such as credit history and compliance with all requirements, will also influence the approval of your application.
The application fee of $150 is nonrefundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. It's crucial to ensure that you meet all requirements before applying.
Your Lottery license is specific to your business location. You cannot exchange or share it with other retailers or stores.
You can only sell Lottery products at the specific location listed on your license. Selling products at other locations is against the rules.
A dedicated bank account is required to manage Lottery sales. This account must allow for electronic funds transfers, which are essential for settling transactions.
All sales of Lottery tickets are final. Retailers cannot accept returns for any reason, including customer dissatisfaction.
Offering any additional incentives or bonuses to customers for winning tickets is prohibited. Retailers must adhere strictly to the Lottery Act and its rules.
Key takeaways
When filling out and using the Michigan Lottery form, it is essential to understand the requirements and responsibilities involved. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Do not invest prematurely: Wait for official notification from the Lottery before making any financial commitments related to your application.
- Credit history matters: Most applicants with acceptable credit and no significant criminal record can be licensed. Full disclosure of any criminal history is necessary.
- Checklist compliance: Ensure you complete all items listed in the applicant checklist before submitting your application.
- Application fee: A nonrefundable fee of $150 is required at the time of application, payable by check or online.
- Bank account requirements: Maintain a separate bank account for Lottery transactions, allowing for electronic funds transfers as specified by the Lottery.
- Annual renewal: The license renewal fee is $200, but it may be waived if you have no probation violations.
- Electrical setup: A dedicated electrical circuit is recommended for Lottery equipment, with specific requirements for installation.
- Business structure: Clearly define your business type (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation) and submit the necessary personal data sheets.
- ADA compliance: Indicate your business's compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act on the application.
- Record keeping: Keep accurate records of all operations and sales, and be prepared to provide them to Lottery representatives upon request.
Understanding these key points will help ensure a smoother application process and ongoing compliance with Michigan Lottery regulations.