Next Powerball Drawing: Date and Jackpot Details
The next Powerball drawing is scheduled for Monday, June 17, 2024, at approximately 10:59 p.m. ET. The estimated jackpot for this drawing has risen to a substantial $44 million, with a cash value of $21.2 million. This increase comes after no one matched all six numbers in the previous drawing held on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The winning numbers for that night were 4, 36, 48, 54, 56, and the Powerball was 2. The Power Play multiplier was 3X.
How to Play Powerball
Playing Powerball is straightforward. Each ticket costs $2, and players must select five numbers from a pool of 1 to 69 for the white balls. Additionally, they must choose one number from a pool of 1 to 26 for the red Powerball. Players can either pick their own numbers or let the lottery terminal randomly select them. For an extra $1 per play, players can add the Power Play option, which multiplies non-jackpot winnings by up to 10 times when the jackpot is $150 million or less.
Powerball Prize Structure and Odds
There are nine ways to win in Powerball, ranging from matching just the Powerball to winning the grand prize by matching all five white balls plus the Powerball. The odds of winning the grand prize are approximately 1 in 292,201,338. The odds of winning the lowest prize, which is $4 for matching just the Powerball, are about 1 in 38.32. Overall, the odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 24.87 based on a $2 play.
Next Mega Millions Drawing: Date and Jackpot Details
The next Mega Millions drawing is set for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at around 10:00 p.m. CT. The estimated jackpot for this drawing is $61 million, with a cash option of $29.3 million. This follows the previous drawing on Friday, June 14, 2024, where no one matched all six numbers. The winning numbers for that night were 1, 25, 26, 31, 65, and the Mega Ball was 2. The Megaplier was 3X.
How to Play Mega Millions
To play Mega Millions, each ticket costs $2. Players must select five numbers from a pool of 1 to 70 for the white balls and one number from a pool of 1 to 25 for the Mega Ball. Similar to Powerball, players can choose their own numbers or opt for a random selection by the lottery terminal. For an additional $1 per play, players can add the Megaplier option, which multiplies non-jackpot winnings by up to 5 times.
Mega Millions Prize Structure and Odds
Mega Millions also offers nine ways to win, from matching just the Mega Ball to winning the grand prize by matching all five white balls plus the Mega Ball. The odds of winning the grand prize are approximately 1 in 302,575,350. The odds of winning the lowest prize, which is $2 for matching just the Mega Ball, are about 1 in 37. Overall, the odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 24.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets for both Powerball and Mega Millions can be purchased at any lottery retailer. In some states, tickets can also be bought online. For example, in Pennsylvania, tickets can be purchased through the official state lottery website. Similarly, New Jersey offers online ticket sales through its state lottery website. Players can use the Lottery Places app to locate their nearest sales point.
Tips for Securing Your Lottery Ticket
If you win the jackpot, it is crucial to secure your ticket and take necessary precautions. Sign the back of your ticket immediately and store it in a safe place. Consult with a financial advisor and a lawyer before claiming your prize to ensure you make informed decisions about your newfound wealth.
Historical Data and Top Jackpots
For those interested in historical data and top jackpots, both Powerball and Mega Millions websites offer comprehensive lists. The largest lottery jackpot ever won in the U.S. was a Powerball prize worth $2 billion on November 7, 2022, by a ticket-holder in California. Despite the headlines generated by Mega Millions drawings, only six jackpots have exceeded the $1 billion mark in its history. The biggest Mega Millions jackpot was $1.58 billion on August 8, becoming the largest since its inception.
Cost of Playing and Additional Features
Each play for both Powerball and Mega Millions costs $2. Players can activate additional features like Power Play and Megaplier for an extra $1 per ticket. These features add multipliers to non-jackpot prizes, increasing the potential winnings. For instance, the Power Play feature can multiply winnings by up to 10 times when the jackpot is $150 million or less.
Upcoming Drawings and Ticket Purchase Deadlines
The next Powerball drawing is on Monday, June 17, 2024, and the next Mega Millions drawing is on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. In Delaware, Powerball tickets can be purchased until 9:45 p.m. ET on the day of the drawing. In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, tickets can be bought until 9:59 p.m. ET. Mega Millions tickets can be purchased until 10:00 p.m. CT on the day of the drawing.
Conclusion
With the next Powerball and Mega Millions drawings just around the corner, now is the perfect time to try your luck. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer, understanding the rules, prize structures, and odds can enhance your lottery experience. Remember to play responsibly and secure your ticket if you win. Good luck!
