The Mega Millions jackpot has climbed to a staggering $1.15 billion for Friday's drawing, marking the fifth-largest prize in the game's history and the ninth-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever.
The massive prize comes after Tuesday's drawing saw no ticket match all six numbers (11-14-38-45-46 and Megaball 3).
For those dreaming of instant wealth, the cash option stands at $516.1 million after taxes. The jackpot has been growing since September 10, when a lucky Texas player claimed an $810 million prize.
Gone are the days of waiting in line at the convenience store. Players in eligible states can now secure their tickets through authorized digital platforms:
Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier, offers a streamlined ticket-buying experience through its mobile app and website. New users can claim a free $2 ticket with their first purchase. The service is available in multiple states, including New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Ohio.
Similarly, Jackpot provides a user-friendly platform for purchasing official lottery tickets online, also offering new users a complimentary $2 ticket upon signing up.
While Tuesday's drawing didn't produce a jackpot winner, four tickets matched the five white balls to win substantial prizes:
Three tickets worth $1 million each in Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Wyoming
One California ticket worth $1,774,447 (California prizes vary based on sales)
Drawing Time: Friday, December 27, at 11 p.m. ET
Ticket Cost: $2 per play ($3 with Megaplier option)
Ticket Sales Deadline: Varies by state and platform (check local listings)
Available in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands
Winners should note that prize amounts are subject to federal and state taxes. While eight states don't tax lottery winnings (California, Florida, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming), others may take up to 10.9% in state taxes.
Players select five numbers from 1-70 and one Mega Ball number from 1-25. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 302,575,350, but there are nine ways to win prizes, starting at $2.
To purchase tickets online through Jackpocket or Jackpot, simply download their respective apps or visit their websites. Both platforms offer secure transactions and automatic win notifications. Remember to purchase tickets before your state's sales deadline for Friday's drawing.
Play responsibly, and remember that it only takes one ticket to win.