The Mega Millions jackpot for Tuesday’s drawing has surged to an estimated $489 million after no one claimed the top prize in the latest draw, held last Friday. The winning numbers for this eagerly awaited lottery were drawn at approximately 11 p.m. ET, but the elusive jackpot continues to grow, generating heightened anticipation among players nationwide.
For those who may have missed the latest draw, the winning numbers for Friday, May 24, were: 46, 54, 56, 67, 70, with the Mega Ball being 16. Additionally, the Megaplier for this draw was 3X. While these numbers did not result in a jackpot winner, they represent the chance for millions of hopefuls to continue dreaming big.
If there had been a lucky winner on Friday, they would have been faced with a choice: take the full $453 million jackpot paid out over time, or opt for a lump sum payment of $209.8 million after taxes. This massive sum underscores the life-changing potential of a Mega Millions win.
In recent history, the Mega Millions has seen monumental payouts. Notably, in March, a fortunate player from New Jersey secured the first Mega Millions jackpot of 2023, pocketing a staggering $1.13 billion. Such colossal winnings continue to draw participants, each hoping to defy the odds.
In Friday’s draw, although the jackpot remained unclaimed, there were significant lesser wins. Two players from California matched all the correct white ball numbers for the Match 5 category, each earning a $1 million payday. Additionally, a player from Texas also matched the numbers for the Match 5 but boosted their reward to $3 million courtesy of the Megaplier.
Interest in the next drawing is expected to reach fever pitch. Mega Millions enthusiasts are once more encouraged to get their tickets ready and try their luck in Tuesday’s draw. Tickets can be acquired from a variety of outlets, with many convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores serving as popular points of purchase.
. In several states, tickets can also be bought online, making it even more accessible for eager participants.
The game mechanics are relatively straightforward yet intricate enough to keep players engaged. Participants must select six numbers: five white balls ranging from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball between 1 and 25. For those uncertain about their number choices, the “Quick Pick” or “Easy Pick” options are available, where the computer will randomly generate the numbers for you, enhancing the convenience factor.
Players have an additional option to elevate their winnings by investing an extra $1 in the “Megaplier.” This feature can multiply non-grand prize amounts by two, three, four, or even five times, depending on which Megaplier number is drawn before the Mega Millions numbers on draw nights (Tuesdays and Fridays). There are 15 Megaplier balls in total, each adding an extra layer of excitement to the game.
For anyone pondering where and how to purchase these promising tickets, they are available at local gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, with some airport terminals also vending them. For those who prefer a digital approach, the Jackpocket app offers a seamless online lottery experience. Available in several U.S. states and territories—including 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 allows you to select your game and numbers, view your ticket, and even claim your winnings, all through your phone or computer.
Jackpocket serves as the official digital lottery courier for the USA TODAY Network, providing a reliable medium for lottery enthusiasts. Note that Gannett, the parent company of USA TODAY, may receive revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. The app is user-friendly, but potential users should be aware of state-specific age restrictions, needing to be 18+, 21+ in Arizona, and 19+ in Nebraska. Those struggling with gambling-related issues can reach out to various helplines, such as 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) in New York, among others.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming Mega Millions drawing, players across the country remain hopeful. With the jackpot ballooning to a substantial $489 million, next Tuesday’s draw promises to be another night of suspense and potential life-changing fortune. Stay tuned, and may fortune smile upon the hopeful ticket holders!
