The anticipation is mounting as the Mega Millions jackpot for the upcoming Tuesday drawing has skyrocketed to an estimated $489 million. This surge comes after Friday’s drawing did not produce a jackpot winner, causing the prize pool to roll over and grow.
The winning numbers from Friday’s drawing were drawn at 11 p.m. ET, and they are as follows: 46, 54, 56, 67, 70, with a Mega Ball number of 16. The Megaplier was 3X. This draw attracted immense interest, with many players hoping to clinch the substantial jackpot, yet the top prize remained out of reach.
Had someone won the $453 million jackpot in Friday’s drawing, they could have opted for a lump-sum payment, which, after taxes, would amount to $209.8 million. This no-jackpot outcome was reminiscent of the sizable February win, where a New Jersey player secured the first Mega Millions jackpot of 2023, valued at a staggering $1.13 billion.
Despite no jackpot winner, Friday’s draw was still a lucky day for some. Two fortunate individuals from California matched all five white ball numbers and walked away with $1 million each. Additionally, a Texas player, who also matched all five white balls and opted for the Megaplier, tripled their winnings, taking home $3 million.
As the jackpot climbs ever higher, Mega Millions enthusiasts are advised to get their tickets in order. Lottery tickets can be purchased at numerous locations including convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, and some airport terminals. Additionally, in select states, players can buy tickets online, making it more accessible to join in the excitement.
For those unfamiliar with the process or the game rules, participating in Mega Millions involves choosing six numbers. Players select five numbers ranging from 1 to 70, which are white balls, and one additional number, known as the Mega Ball, between 1 and 25.
. For individuals feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, the Quick Pick or Easy Pick options are available, where a computer will randomly generate the numbers.
Adding to the allure, players have the option to include the Megaplier for an additional $1. This feature can significantly boost non-jackpot prizes, multiplying them by two, three, four, or even five times. The Megaplier number is chosen before the official Mega Millions numbers during the Tuesday and Friday draws. There are a total of 15 Megaplier balls, each contributing to the varying multipliers.
For further convenience, especially for tech-savvy players, the Jackpocket app provides a streamlined digital experience. In numerous states and territories—including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and others—players can use the app to select their lottery game and numbers, place their order, view their ticket, and claim their winnings, all from their mobile device or home computer.
It is critical to note that Jackpocket acts as the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Though Gannett may earn revenue through audience referrals to Jackpocket services, the platform remains an independent entity, not directly affiliated with any state lotteries. Potential users must be mindful of age restrictions, with the minimum age for playing set at 18 in most regions, 21 in Arizona, and 19 in Nebraska.
The excitement surrounding the impending Tuesday draw continues to build, and many are eager to see if this will be the night someone finally claims the colossal $489 million jackpot. With the growing prize pool, players nationwide are given another chance to dream big and potentially change their lives forever.
For those experiencing gambling issues, help is available. Various hotlines and support services, including 1-877-8-HOPE-NY (NY), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR), and 1-800-GAMBLER (others), provide assistance and support.
As the Mega Millions fever sweeps the nation, the countdown to Tuesday’s drawing has begun. Enthusiasts and hopefuls across the country cling to their tickets, each one a passport to unimaginable wealth. Will this draw deliver a new multi-millionaire, or will the jackpot roll over once more? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for the next wave of winning numbers.
