California vaccine lottery: 5 things to know about the prizes

The first of three drawings for cash prizes to Californians who have received the COVID-19 vaccine will take place Friday, June 4. Here are five things to know about the Vax for the Win program:

How much money is it? On June 4 and again on June 11, 15 people will be picked to receive $50,000 each. On June 15, 10 people will win $1.5 million each. The prizes are taxable.

Who’s eligible? People 12 and over residing in California who have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination. Incarcerated people are not eligible. There’s no need to register for the drawing. Winners must complete the vaccination series to claim a prize.

Really? Kids are in the same prize pool? Prize money for minors will be held for them until they turn 18.

How will winners be notified? Program organizers will use the phone number on the vaccination file to contact each winner. If they can’t reach the person within 96 hours, they may move on to an alternative winner.

Will winners’ names be made public? Not unless they consent to it.

For more details about the program — including $50 gift cards for those who started their vaccinations on May 27 or later — see the California Department of Public Health website.