The U.S. arm of TheLotter has confirmed it will suspend its lottery courier operations in New York, marking another withdrawal from a regulated East Coast market as the company reshapes its national strategy. The move follows a similar decision announced two months earlier to exit New Jersey and leaves the firm operating in only three U.S. states.

The company stated that the New York suspension forms part of a longer-term effort to simplify its business footprint and direct resources toward markets where it already operates. TheLotter currently plans to continue offering lottery courier services in Arizona, Minnesota, and Oregon, while preparing for future launches in additional states.

New York exit follows recent market entry

TheLotter entered the New York market in June 2024 after receiving approval from the New York State Gaming Commission, becoming the fourth licensed lottery courier in the state. New York requires such services to hold a license, placing it among a small group of states with clear regulatory frameworks for lottery couriers.

Despite securing approval and launching service, the company said it has decided to step back less than two years later. Jessica Griggs, Head of Marketing for TheLotter US, described the decision as challenging but necessary. “While we are proud to have served players in New York, this strategic shift enables us to focus on markets where we can grow more efficiently and deliver the best possible experience,” Griggs said. “By concentrating our efforts, we’re positioning ourselves for sustainable expansion across the country.”

TheLotter has formally notified regulators of its intention to cease operations. Its New York platform will stop accepting orders on Jan. 29, 2026. Any existing ticket orders, Multi-Draw packages, or subscription-based draws scheduled after that date will be canceled, with customers receiving full refunds.

Player refunds and account timelines

Registered New York users have already received notices outlining the changes. The company said players may withdraw any remaining account balances until April 29, 2026. Customers who do not complete withdrawals by that deadline will still be able to seek assistance by contacting customer support, according to TheLotter.

The courier service operates by purchasing lottery tickets from retail partners on behalf of players and charging a commission for each transaction. While the model has gained traction in some jurisdictions, it has also faced increasing regulatory pressure across the U.S.

Broader pressures on lottery couriers

The New York departure arrives shortly after TheLotter confirmed in November that it would also leave New Jersey, where its registered U.S. office is located. Together, the exits significantly reduce the company’s presence in regulated East Coast markets.

Barry Golombek, General Manager of TheLotter US, previously pointed to mounting challenges facing the courier sector. He cited “significant headwinds” affecting operations, including Texas’ decision to ban lottery couriers outright in spring 2025. “Texas accounted for a substantial portion of our revenue, and that loss prompted us to reevaluate our approach to the U.S. market,” Golombek said.

Only a handful of states currently regulate and license lottery couriers. Arizona moved to regulate the activity last April, while other jurisdictions remain uncertain. Some states, including Connecticut, have discussed potential bans. In July, the World Lottery Association released a policy paper recommending regulatory oversight of couriers, including restrictions such as limits on bulk ticket purchases.

TheLotter’s recent history reflects this uncertain landscape. The company announced plans in July 2024 to expand into Florida but halted those efforts shortly afterward. In December of that year, the Florida Lottery shut down the service, classifying it as an unauthorized platform.

Focus shifts to remaining states and platform updates

Despite the withdrawals, TheLotter said it remains optimistic about its future in the U.S. The company recently launched a redesigned website intended to support growth and improve the user experience. According to TheLotter, players have responded positively to the update.

The new platform includes faster performance, a more responsive design, a simplified ticket purchasing process, an updated interface, and enhancements to users’ personal account areas. The website is already live for customers in Minnesota, Arizona, and Oregon, where the company plans to strengthen its market presence as it reassesses its broader expansion plans.