The Mega Millions jackpot for Friday’s drawing has ballooned to an estimated $453 million after a fruitless Tuesday night, when no ticket managed to match all six numbers. The official drawing took place at 11 p.m. ET, and here’s a rundown of the winning numbers and other critical details.
If someone does clinch the grand prize on Friday’s drawing, the fortunate individual could opt for an estimated one-time, lump-sum payment of $211.3 million, pre-tax. This colossal jackpot follows New Jersey’s March triumph, where a player snagged the first Mega Millions jackpot of the year, an astounding $1.13 billion.
Reviewing the results from Tuesday, May 21, the numbers were: 2, 5, 8, 28, and 69, with the Megaball numbered 14 and a Megaplier of 2X.
The Mega Millions lottery invites players from across numerous states to try their luck twice weekly. While no one hit the jackpot this past Tuesday, fortune found its way to some through smaller rewards. California saw a Match 5 winner, while Louisiana celebrated a Match 5 + Megaplier victor, thanks to the multiplying factor that enhances non-jackpot winnings.
For those keen on keeping tabs on previous winners, the Mega Millions website offers a comprehensive list. People desiring to participate can purchase tickets at local convenience stores, gas stations, or grocery stores. Additionally, in several states, tickets are available online.
Here’s a quick primer for those new to Mega Millions: to play, you need to choose six numbers—five white balls between 1 and 70, and one gold Mega Ball from 1 to 25. If you find selecting numbers daunting or believe in quick luck, you can opt for a “Quick Pick” or “Easy Pick,” where a computer randomly generates the numbers for you.
To sweeten the deal, players can add the “Megaplier” for just $1. This option multiplies non-jackpot winnings by two, three, four, or five times, and is drawn before the main Mega Millions numbers on both Tuesdays and Fridays.
.
In total, there are 15 Megaplier balls, enhancing the chances of boosting your prize. For those who prefer buying tickets at brick-and-mortar locations, gas stations, convenience stores, and some grocery stores are options, and in select areas, you might find them at airport terminals as well.
Alternatively, tickets can be procured online via Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier service for the USA TODAY Network. Jackpocket operates 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. The convenience of the Jackpocket app allows users to select their game, input their numbers, place orders, view their tickets, and even claim their winnings—all from their smartphones or home computers.
However, it’s critical to be aware that Jackpocket is not affiliated with any state lottery but serves as a handy intermediary, providing a seamless user experience. Remember, players must be at least 18 years old, 21+ in Arizona, and 19+ in Nebraska to participate.
As the anticipation for Friday’s drawing builds, many people are eyeing the grand prize. Whether through traditional means or digital platforms, the allure of Mega Millions continues to captivate hopeful participants. Here’s wishing everyone the best of luck as they pursue the American dream of a Mega Millions win, setting sights on what could be a transformative $453 million jackpot.
For those who might find themselves dealing with gambling issues, resources are always available to provide help and support. Hotlines such as 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) in New York, 1-800-327-5050 in Massachusetts, and 1-877-MYLIMIT in Oregon are readily accessible. Additionally, Jackpocket’s terms and conditions are available for a complete rundown of the service’s operations and stipulations.
So, what will you do? Will you test your luck and hope to join the ranks of Mega Millions winners, taking home millions that could change your life forever? The opportunity awaits at the next drawing. Good luck!
