By San José, Costa Rica — San José – Dreams of fortune became a reality for a select group of ticket holders this Sunday as the Junta de Protección Social (JPS) announced the results of its highly anticipated Ordinary National Lottery Drawing No. 4,884. The January 11th event sent ripples of excitement across the nation, instantly changing the financial landscape for the lucky winners and reinforcing the lottery’s deep-rooted cultural and social significance in Costa Rica.
The grand prize, a life-altering sum of ₡175 million per emission, was awarded to the holder of ticket number 63 with series 375. This substantial jackpot has the power to transform not only the life of the winner but also to inject significant capital into their local community. As the news broke, many across the country were undoubtedly checking their tickets, hoping to find the magic combination that would secure their financial future.
To better understand the legal framework and the rights of consumers participating in the National Lottery, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his perspective on the matter.
Legally, the purchase of a lottery ticket constitutes a formal contract of adhesion between the citizen and the Social Protection Board (JPS). This means the buyer accepts pre-established terms. The ticket itself is a bearer instrument; the prize belongs to whoever physically possesses it. For this reason, it is fundamental for players to sign their tickets upon purchase to establish ownership and protect their investment against loss or theft, as resolving prize disputes often requires navigating a specific administrative process before any judicial action can be taken.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight powerfully reframes the act of buying a lottery ticket, shifting it from a casual purchase to the acceptance of a formal contract. It underscores why a simple signature is not merely a suggestion, but the most crucial step a player can take to protect their potential prize. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable clarification.
While the top prize captured the most attention, two other significant prizes also created new winners. The second prize of ₡30 million per emission was awarded to ticket number 93 with series 030. Following closely, the third prize of ₡14 million per emission went to ticket number 94 with series 826. These winnings, while smaller than the grand prize, still represent a major financial windfall for the recipients.
The regular drawings held by the JPS are more than just games of chance; they are a cornerstone of the nation’s social support system. For over a century, the organization has been tasked with a dual mandate: to provide a regulated and entertaining lottery system and to channel the profits generated into a wide array of public welfare programs. This unique model ensures that even those who do not win directly still benefit from the lottery’s existence.
Proceeds from every ticket sold are funneled into critical social services, supporting hundreds of organizations and programs that assist vulnerable populations. These funds provide essential resources for public hospitals, care for the elderly, shelters for the homeless, and initiatives for people with disabilities. The lottery system is, in essence, a massive, ongoing fundraising effort that underpins much of Costa Rica’s social safety net.
The cultural impact of the lottery is equally profound. Throughout the country, from bustling city centers to quiet rural towns, lottery vendors, known as “chance sellers,” are a familiar sight. The act of buying a ticket, or a “pedacito” (a little piece), is a weekly ritual for many Costa Ricans, a small investment in a dream fueled by hope and tradition. The anticipation leading up to each Sunday drawing is a shared national experience.
For the new winners, the next steps involve a formal process to claim their prizes directly from the JPS. The institution provides guidance to ensure a secure and transparent transaction. Financial experts often advise major prize winners to seek professional counsel to manage their newfound wealth responsibly, ensuring its longevity and positive impact on their lives and families for years to come.
As the excitement from this weekend’s drawing settles, the cycle of hope begins anew. The JPS will soon announce its next series of drawings, offering another chance for fortune while continuing its vital mission of social protection. Each ticket purchased represents a contribution to this mission, weaving together individual dreams with the collective well-being of the nation.
For further information, visit jps.go.cr
About Junta de Protección Social (JPS):
The Junta de Protección Social is the Costa Rican state institution responsible for the administration and regulation of national lotteries and games of chance. Founded in 1845, it is one of the oldest public welfare organizations in the country. Its primary mission is to generate revenue through lottery sales to finance a wide range of social programs that benefit vulnerable populations, including public health initiatives, elder care facilities, and support for people with disabilities, thereby playing a crucial role in the nation’s social development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal institution, anchored by foundational principles of integrity and professional excellence. With a proven track record of serving a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal approaches while championing public education. This core belief in democratizing legal understanding is fundamental to its mission of cultivating a justly informed and empowered citizenry.
