Mega Millions Hits $1 billion (Photo by Greg Ruffing/Getty Images)
The Mega Millions lottery jackpot has soared to $1.02 billion.
Here’s what you need to know.
Mega Millions: lottery
Are you ready to become a billionaire? After there was no winning ticket in Tuesday’s drawing to win $810 million, the Mega Millions lottery jackpot is now nearly $200 million higher. Here’s everything you need to know about the Mega Millions lottery jackpot in case you win:
Is this the largest lottery jackpot ever?
The $1.02 billion jackpot is the third largest in Mega Millions history. The largest Mega Millions jackpot was nearly $1.54 billion in 2018.
What were the winning numbers from the last Mega Millions drawing?
The winning numbers from Tuesday’s drawing were 7, 29, 60, 63, 66 and the Mega Ball was 15.
When is the next Mega Millions drawing?
The next Mega Millions drawing is this Friday, July 29 at 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
If you win Mega Millions, will you become a billionaire?
Currently, the Mega Millions jackpot is $1.02 billion. Technically, you won’t become a billionaire if you win and choose the lump-sun payment. Why? If you choose an upfront, lump-sum cash payment, the cash value of the lottery jackpot is $602.5 million (before taxes). If you choose annual payments, you will receive $1.02 billion in 30 payments over 29 years (before taxes).
How do you play Mega Millions?
Choose five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. You can also select Easy Pick / Quick Pick and the numbers will be selected automatically for you. You win when you match all six numbers. Each ticket costs $2, and there is no limit to the number of tickets you can purchase.
Where can I play Mega Millions?
Mega Millions is available in 45 states, Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?
The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot is approximately 1 in 302 million.
Can I remain anonymous if I win the lottery?
Consult a trust and estates attorney to determine if you can remain anonymous if you win the Mega Millions jackpot. Each state has its own rules regarding anonymity when accepting a lottery prize. For example, in states such as Delaware, Kansas, Maryland, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and others, you can remain anonymous when you claim a lottery prize. In the remaining states, including Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, winners must publicly disclose their name, city and prize amount.
Do you have to sign your lottery ticket?
Yes, if you win, you must sign the back of your lottery ticket. A lottery ticket is a bearer instrument, meaning whoever signs the lottery ticket can claim the prize. Consult with an attorney about how and when to sign the lottery ticket. For example, some lottery winners consider accepting their lottery jackpot through a legal entity such as a trust.
