The Mega Millions jackpot has jumped to an estimated $453 million for Friday’s drawing after no ticket matched all six numbers in Tuesday night’s draw, leaving the massive prize unclaimed. The draw’s results were eagerly awaited by hopeful participants, but as it stands, no one has struck the gold just yet.
Tuesday’s winning numbers, revealed at 11 p.m. ET, were 2, 5, 8, 28, and 69. The gold Megaball came up as 14, with the Megaplier at 2X. Despite the anticipation, the jackpot continues to grow, rolling over and accumulating into a staggering sum for the next draw.
Should a fortuitous player clinch the $453 million on the next draw, they could opt for an immediate cash payout of approximately $211.3 million after taxes. Such a win would undoubtedly be life-changing, bringing to mind the phenomenal $1.13 billion win in New Jersey this March—the first Mega Millions jackpot of the year.
While Tuesday’s draw didn’t produce any jackpot winners, it wasn’t without its other successes. A player in California matched five numbers to win the second-tier prize, and another in Louisiana matched five numbers plus the Megaplier, enhancing their win significantly. These wins, though less headline-grabbing, still represent significant paydays for the lucky ticket holders.
The Mega Millions website continues to be a resource for those seeking to verify past winning numbers and check on new updates. As the draw date approaches, ticket sales are expected to spike, with more hopefuls looking to get a shot at the lofty prize.
For those looking to participate, purchasing a ticket is straightforward. Tickets can be bought at numerous retail locations including local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery shops. In a growing number of states, tickets can also be purchased online, adding convenience for digital natives who prefer online transactions.
To play Mega Millions, participants must select six numbers.
. Five of these will be white balls numbered between 1 and 70, and one gold Mega Ball between 1 and 25 must also be chosen. If strategizing feels daunting, players can opt for a “Quick Pick” or an “Easy Pick,” where a computer randomly generates their numbers.
An additional $1 Megaplier option is available to amplify non-grand prize winnings by two, three, four, or even five times. The Megaplier is drawn prior to the main Mega Millions numbers on both Tuesday and Friday, adding another layer of excitement and potential winnings.
The convenience of buying tickets in person is complemented by digital options via the Jackpocket app, which is affiliated with the USA TODAY Network as its official digital lottery courier. Through the app, users can pick lottery games, select numbers, place orders, and even check tickets and collect winnings using their phone or home computer.
Jackpocket’s services are available in various U.S. states and territories including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. However, regulations dictate that participants must meet specific age requirements—being at least 18 years old, with exceptions in Arizona (21+) and Nebraska (19+).
Despite the thrill of potentially massive winnings, it is important for participants to gamble responsibly. Jackpocket’s platform provides access to support services for those who might encounter gambling-related issues. In New York, for example, individuals can reach out via text to HOPENY at 467369 or call the hotline. Similar resources are available in other states, ensuring that help is accessible when needed.
With the excitement building towards Friday’s draw, millions are poised to take their chance at the growing Mega Millions jackpot. Whether you’re buying a ticket at your local corner store or digitally through an app, the possibility of a life-changing windfall keeps the dream alive for many hopefuls. As always, all eyes will be on the numbers revealed, and the hopes of many will hinge on those six crucial digits.
