Mega Millions Next Drawing: What You Need to Know
What Is the Mega Millions?
The Mega Millions is a multi-state lottery system with drawings held twice a week. The jackpot starts at $40 million and can grow to staggering amounts. As of 2021, the largest jackpot ever won was an astonishing $1.537 billion. In order to win the jackpot, players must match all five main numbers and the Mega Ball. If no one wins the jackpot, the top prize rolls over to the next draw, meaning the jackpot can grow and grow.
When Is the Next Drawing?
The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Wednesday, 2023. Drawings are held every Tuesday and Friday night at 11 p.m. ET in Atlanta, Georgia. Although tickets can be purchased up until 10:45 p.m. ET on the day of the drawing, it is best to purchase tickets in advance to avoid missing out. Players must be 18 years of age to participate.
How Do I Play?
To play the Mega Millions, you must select five numbers between 1 and 70 and one number between 1 and 25. You can choose your own numbers or opt for a Quick Pick ticket that picks your numbers for you. For an extra fee, you can also add the Megaplier option, which multiplies non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, or five times.
What Are the Odds of Winning?
The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302,575,350. The odds of winning any prize are 1 in 24. The overall odds of winning a prize are slightly better than the odds of winning the Powerball lottery. That's because the Mega Millions has more number combinations, making it easier to match some of the numbers and win a prize.
What Are the Prizes?
The Mega Millions offers nine different prize tiers, ranging from a $2 prize for matching the Mega Ball only, to the jackpot, which is won by matching all five main numbers and the Mega Ball. Prizes increase by the number of players who purchase tickets, with the jackpot prize usually growing to enormous amounts. The jackpot is paid either in a lump sum or in 30 annual payments.
How Much Does It Cost to Play?
The cost of a Mega Millions ticket varies from state to state, but tickets generally cost $2 for one line. The Megaplier option costs an additional $1 per line.
Where Can I Buy Tickets?
Tickets for the Mega Millions lottery can be purchased at authorized retailers in participating states. You can also purchase tickets online from the official Mega Millions website or from a third-party lottery app. You must be located in the state where you bought your ticket in order to claim any winnings.
What Should I Do If I Win?
Once you have won a prize, you must sign the back of your ticket and contact the lottery office in the state where you purchased the ticket. Depending on the prize amount, you may have to fill out a claim form and present the ticket in person to the lottery office. You should always check with the lottery office in your state to find out the specific details of claiming your prize.