Can You Use a Credit Card to Buy a Ticket? State law prohibits using a credit card to purchase lottery tickets or to take part in any gambling activity. So even if you’re standing in line with just plastic in your wallet, you won’t be able to swipe a credit card for that Powerball ticket. Why the Credit Card Ban ExistsThere’s a good reason Montana doesn’t allow credit cards for lottery purchases. It’s a way to keep gambling purchases in check and prevent people from digging themselves into a financial hole.