Anticipation is high as the next Mega Millions drawing approaches, with the prospect of the jackpot soaring to join the ranks of the largest payouts in the game’s storied history. Currently, the estimated jackpot hovers at a colossal $977 million, securing its place as the game’s sixth-largest prize thus far. But should Friday’s drawing conclude without a winner, that figure could breach the $1 billion threshold.
This grand prize has been gradually accumulating since December 2023, following the win where two tickets in California split the $394 million jackpot. To date, the record for the highest jackpot belongs to a ticket from Neptune Beach, Florida, which nabbed a staggering $1.602 billion in August 2023.
For those dreaming of becoming the next mega-millionaire, the upcoming draw is slated for Friday, March 22. The most recent numbers, drawn on Tuesday, March 19, were 24, 46, 49, 62, and 66, with a Mega Ball of 7 and a Megaplier of 2X. Despite no jackpot winner last Tuesday, there were fortunate Match 5 $1 million winners from California, Florida, Texas, and Virginia.
Jackpocket, honored as the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, sponsors the winning lottery numbers.
Mega Millions drawings occur bi-weekly, every Tuesday and Friday, at 11 p.m. Eastern Time. For those keen to participate, tickets are available at a price of $2 per play, with a myriad of possibilities to snag a prize ranging from the grand jackpot down to $2.
To play, participants select five numbers from a set of 1 to 70, and a single Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Opting for the Easy Pick or Quick Pick at the terminal allows for a random selection of these numbers. The jackpot is claimed by matching all six winning numbers in a drawing.
Players may amplify their winnings for non-jackpot prizes by adding the “Megaplier” feature for an additional $1 per play. Prior to each Mega Millions draw, the Megaplier is determined, involving 15 balls with five marked “2X,” three “4X,” and one “5X.”
Interestingly, most states allow the Megaplier feature, which has the power to multiply non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, or five times, potentially transforming smaller wins into considerable sums.
For lottery enthusiasts who prefer to purchase their tickets physically, they are readily available at gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores, and some airport terminals.
However, the digital age makes it even easier for hopefuls to get into the game. Thanks to the Jackpocket app, players in select U.S. states and territories can order tickets online. These territories include Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The app facilitates everything from selecting your lottery game and numbers to placing orders and cashing in winnings, all from the comfort of your phone or computer.
As the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, Jackpocket provides a bridge between traditional lottery systems and the modern convenience of technology. They make the dream of hitting the big time a reality reachable with just a few clicks. Yet, it’s essential to remember that participants must be of legal age, which can vary by location, and always play responsibly. Those facing issues with gambling can find support services through various helplines and organizations depending on their state or territory.
As the Mega Millions jackpot climbs, it’s not just the players who are buzzing with excitement – the entire nation is watching with bated breath. Who knows? Maybe this Friday will see the birth of a new billionaire, claiming their spot in the Mega Millions jackpot hall of fame.
