Mega Millions Jackpot Has Reached Nearly $1 Billion & Grisps Whole Nation
The Mega Millions jackpot has reached an astronomical nearly $1 Billion (est. $977 million) for Friday night’s drawing after no winning tickets emerged from Tuesday’s selection. Excitement is electric as players across the country dream of becoming instant millionaires.
While nobody snagged the grand prize, four lucky individuals in California, Texas, Virginia, and Florida each walked away with a cool $1 million prize for matching five numbers. The winning numbers on Tuesday were 24, 46, 49, 62, and 66, with the Mega Ball coming in at 7.
This isn’t just another lottery surge. $1 Billion worth of jackpot marks only the sixth time in Mega Millions history that the jackpot has reached such a staggering height. Only five jackpots have ever surpassed the billion-dollar mark, all awarded by Mega Millions!
While the allure of a life-changing windfall is undeniable, it’s important to remember the odds are stacked against you. Mega Millions players have a minuscule 1 in 302.6 million chance of winning the jackpot. However, that doesn’t stop dreamers from taking a chance!
Mega Millions winners have two options for claiming their prize: a series of increasing payments over 29 years (annuity) or a lump sum amount (cash option). The payout specifics can vary by state, and experts often recommend the annuity option, as it provides long-term financial security.
Here’s a peek at the biggest U.S. Mega Millions lottery prizes ever awarded:
- Mega Millions: $1.602 billion (Florida, August 15, 2023)
- Mega Millions: $1.537 billion (South Carolina, October 23, 2018)
- Mega Millions: $1.348 billion (Maine, January 13, 2023)
- Mega Millions: $1.337 billion (Illinois, July 29, 2022)
- Mega Millions: $1.05 billion (Michigan, January 22, 2021)
- (Estimated) Mega Millions: $977 million
Reference: For the latest info on lottery payouts and federal tax implications visit www.irs.gov.
