When is the next Mega Millions drawing? $579 million now up for grabs
There aren't too many people in this world who would say no to $1 million, let alone over $500 million. As time passes by, and the Mega Millions jackpot remains unclaimed, one lucky person may have the chance to become a mega-millionaire overnight.
The Mega Million jackpot rose from $541 million to $579 million, which is an estimated $276.6 million lump-sum payment after taxes, according to the lottery.
The next drawing will happen Friday night, at 11 p.m. ET, so anyone who is interested in a chance at winning that massive jackpot should make sure they have their tickets before then.
Over half a billion dollars
The jackpot is the tenth largest ever, the lotto stated in a press release.
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All the jackpots won in 2024 were ranked in the top 10 highest jackpots ever, with the highest win being $1.13 billion, with an estimated take home value of $536.6 million.
The ticket was purchased at a ShopRite Liquor in New Jersey.
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When is the next Mega Millions drawing?
The winning numbers for the $579 million jackpot will be drawn Friday, Dec. 6 at 11 p.m. ET.
How to play the Mega Millions
In order to buy a ticket, you'll have to visit your local convenience store, gas station or grocery store − and in a handful of states, you can purchase tickets online.
To play, you will need to pick six numbers. Five numbers will be white balls ranging from 1 to 70. The gold Mega Ball is one number between 1 and 25.
If you believe the odds are against you, ask for a "Quick Pick" or an "Easy Pick," and the computer will randomly generate the numbers for you.
Players can add the "Megaplier" for $1, which can increase non-grand prize winnings by two, three, four or five times. The Megaplier is drawn before the Mega Millions numbers on Tuesday and Friday.
There are 15 Megapiler balls in all:
- 2X, five balls
- 3X, six balls
- 4X, three balls
- 5X, one ball
Where can you buy lottery tickets?
Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.
You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.
Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any State Lottery. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected] and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.