What is PERM 5 in Lotto Betting?
PERM 5 (short for “Permutation 5”) is a type of combination or system bet in lottery games. Unlike a single straight bet, where you choose exactly one set of numbers, a PERM 5 bet allows you to select more numbers than the standard draw and generate all possible 5-number combinations from them.
- It’s commonly used in lotteries where 5 numbers are drawn from a larger pool, e.g., Pick 5 from 1–50.
- By using PERM 5, you increase your chances of winning smaller prizes because you are effectively placing multiple combinations in a single bet.
Think of it as “covering all possibilities of 5-number selections from my chosen numbers.”
How PERM 5 Works: Step by Step
- Choose more than 5 numbers.
For example, you choose 7 numbers: 3, 8, 12, 19, 22, 34, 45. - Generate all 5-number combinations from these 7 numbers.
Using combinatorial math, the number of combinations is calculated as:Number of combinations=(57)=5!⋅(7−5)!7!=21So your single PERM 5 bet actually consists of 21 separate 5-number tickets. - Place the bet.
You pay for each combination separately. If the cost per combination is $1, the total cost will be 21 × $1 = $21. - Win if your combination matches drawn numbers.
- If 5 of your numbers are drawn, you win the jackpot.
- If 4 or 3 numbers match (depending on the lottery rules), you win secondary prizes multiple times, once for each matching combination.
Example of PERM 5 in Lotto
Let’s say the lottery draws 5 numbers from 1–50.
- You select 6 numbers: 2, 5, 12, 19, 26, 33.
- All 5-number combinations are:
- 2, 5, 12, 19, 26
- 2, 5, 12, 19, 33
- 2, 5, 12, 26, 33
- 2, 5, 19, 26, 33
- 2, 12, 19, 26, 33
- 5, 12, 19, 26, 33
So your PERM 5 bet has 6 tickets. If the drawn numbers are 5, 12, 19, 26, 33, you win because one of your combinations exactly matches the drawn numbers.
Advantages of PERM 5
- Better chances of winning smaller prizes because multiple combinations cover more number sets.
- Flexibility: You can choose more numbers than the standard draw without manually buying each combination.
- Systematic approach: Reduces randomness compared to straight bets.
Disadvantages / Considerations
- Higher cost: More combinations mean you pay more. Using 8 or 9 numbers can quickly get expensive.
- Not a guaranteed jackpot: You still need all 5 numbers in a combination to match for the main prize.
- Complexity: Managing and keeping track of multiple combinations can be confusing for beginners.
Betting Tips for PERM 5
- Limit your numbers: 6–8 numbers are usually manageable. Beyond that, the bet cost grows exponentially.
- Track patterns carefully: Use past draw stats to avoid repeating numbers that rarely appear.
- Mix high and low numbers: Spread selections across the number pool to increase coverage.
- Combine with other systems: Some bettors mix PERM 5 with straight bets or PERM 4 for risk management.
- Budget wisely: Always calculate total combinations and cost before placing the bet.
Quick Cheat Sheet
| Numbers Selected | Combinations Generated | Approximate Cost (if $1/ticket) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | $6 |
| 7 | 21 | $21 |
| 8 | 56 | $56 |
| 9 | 126 | $126 |
In short, PERM 5 is a smart way to cover multiple combinations with fewer manual bets, increasing your chance of winning secondary prizes, though at a higher cost.

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