Illinois Resident Wins $560 Million Mega Millions Jackpot
A single ticket holder from Illinois has won the $560 million Mega Millions jackpot in the drawing held on June 4, 2024. The winning numbers were 19, 37, 40, 63, and 69, with the Mega Ball number being 17. This is the second time this year that the Mega Millions jackpot has been won, with the previous win occurring in March when a player in New Jersey won $1.13 billion.
The lucky Illinois player has the option to take a lump-sum payment of $264 million after taxes. This win marks the ninth largest jackpot in the history of the Mega Millions game. The winning ticket was purchased at a local convenience store, and the identity of the winner has not yet been revealed.
Additional Mega Millions Winners
In addition to the grand prize winner, there were also two Match 5 winners who each won $1 million. One of these tickets was sold in California, and the other was sold in Maryland. These winners matched all five white ball numbers but did not match the Mega Ball.
The Mega Millions game is played in 45 states, plus Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tickets cost $2 per play, and players can add the Megaplier for an additional $1 to increase non-jackpot winnings by two, three, four, or five times. The next Mega Millions drawing will be held on Friday, with an estimated jackpot of $20 million and a cash option of $9.4 million.
Arizona Lottery Winners
The Arizona Lottery also had some big winners recently. The Pick 3 and Fantasy 5 results for June 6, 2024, were announced, and several players walked away with significant prizes. The Pick 3 winning numbers were 4, 7, and 9. The Fantasy 5 winning numbers were 3, 12, 18, 24, and 30.
One lucky player matched all five numbers in the Fantasy 5 drawing, winning the top prize of $150,000. Several other players matched four out of five numbers, winning smaller prizes. The Arizona Lottery encourages players to check their tickets and claim their prizes promptly.
How to Play Mega Millions and Arizona Lottery
For those interested in playing the Mega Millions, tickets can be purchased at local convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, and online in some states. Players need to pick six numbers: five white balls ranging from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball number between 1 and 25. For those who prefer not to choose their own numbers, they can ask for a “Quick Pick” or “Easy Pick,” where the computer randomly generates the numbers.
In the Arizona Lottery, players can participate in various games, including Pick 3 and Fantasy 5. Pick 3 involves selecting three numbers between 0 and 9, while Fantasy 5 requires players to choose five numbers between 1 and 41. Tickets for these games can be purchased at authorized retailers throughout the state.
Claiming Lottery Prizes
Winners of the Mega Millions and Arizona Lottery have specific procedures to follow when claiming their prizes. For Mega Millions, winners must sign the back of their ticket and contact their state’s lottery office to claim their prize. It is recommended that winners consult with a financial advisor before claiming large prizes to ensure they make the best decisions for their financial future.
In Arizona, lottery prizes up to $599 can be claimed at any authorized retailer. Prizes between $600 and $199,999 can be claimed by mail or at a lottery office. For prizes over $200,000, winners must visit a lottery office in person. Winners have 180 days from the date of the drawing to claim their prize.
Responsible Gambling
Both the Mega Millions and Arizona Lottery emphasize the importance of responsible gambling. Players must be of legal age to participate, which is 18 years or older in most states. The lotteries provide resources for those who may have a gambling problem, including helplines and support services.
For example, players in New York can call or text 1-877-8-HOPE-NY for assistance, while those in Massachusetts can contact 1-800-327-5050. Other states have similar resources available to help individuals who may be struggling with gambling addiction.
Upcoming Lottery Drawings
The next Mega Millions drawing will take place on Friday, with an estimated jackpot of $20 million. The Powerball jackpot is also growing, with the next drawing scheduled for Wednesday night. The current Powerball jackpot is estimated at $185 million, with a cash option of $86 million.
Players are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to avoid missing out on these exciting opportunities. Whether playing Mega Millions, Powerball, or the Arizona Lottery, there are plenty of chances to win big and change your life forever.
Conclusion
The recent lottery wins in Illinois and Arizona have brought joy and excitement to many players. With jackpots reaching impressive amounts, the allure of winning big continues to draw in participants from across the country. As always, it is important to play responsibly and seek help if gambling becomes a problem. Congratulations to all the recent winners, and good luck to those participating in upcoming drawings.
