Powerball jackpot rises to $1.6 billion, largest in U.S. history
The US Powerball jackpot was estimated at $1.6 billion, cementing its status as the largest lottery prize in US history.
At least for now, a $1.7 billion jackpot is planned.
The fourth-largest jackpot in Powerball history is still being wagered on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, after no tickets matched the six numbers drawn in the Dec. 22 drawing.
The estimated cash value of the award is $781.3 million, payable as a one-time cash lump sum or annuity payments over 29 years. In any case, if you win the prizes, the players will have a fun holiday.
According to Powerball, the jackpot has been won “once on Christmas Eve (2011) and four times on Christmas Day (1996, 2002, 2010, 2013).”
“Just like the holiday season, Powerball is a game that inspires people to dream big and hope for a brighter future,” Matt Strahan, Powerball Product Group Chairman and Iowa Lottery CEO, said ahead of the drawing.
“We hope this jackpot growth sparks excitement, joy, and, most importantly, goodwill for everyone. A portion of every ticket helps support programs and services that benefit local communities,” he added.
Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming Powerball drawing.
When is the next Powerball drawing?
The next drawing will take place on Christmas Eve, December 24th, just after 11pm ET.
How to play Powerball
How to play Powerball is easy:
- Buy a $2 ticket anywhere tickets are sold.
- Think about which six numbers you would choose.
- For Powerball, select five “white” numbers from 1 to 69 and one “red” number from 1 to 26.
Players can also add “Power Play,” a $1 feature that increases the winnings on all non-jackpot prizes. “Power Play” multipliers can increase your winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or 10x.
If you’re not so lucky, or just want to let your computer do the work for you, there’s a “Quick Pick” option available. All numbers selected in the “Quick Pick” option are computer generated.
To win the jackpot, players must match all five white balls and the red Powerball in any order. The draw takes place every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday night. If no one wins the jackpot, the prize continues to increase.
Where to buy lottery tickets
Most gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores sell lottery tickets. Some airport terminals may also sell tickets.
You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the USA TODAY Network’s official digital lottery courier, in the following U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington, DC, and West Virginia.
The Jackpocket app allows you to choose your lottery games and numbers, place your order, check your tickets, and claim your winnings, all using your phone or home computer.
Jackpocket is the official digital lottery carrier of USA TODAY Network. USA Today Co., Inc may earn revenue from viewer referrals to the Jackpocket Service. Must be 18 years or older, 21 years or older in Arizona, 19 years or older in Nebraska. 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 Over the entire period.
Contributor: Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA TODAY
