Check out the luckiest states in the lottery
USA TODAY’s Fernando Cervantes takes a look at the states with the most Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots.
The Mega Millions jackpot remains unclaimed until 2026 and has grown to a staggering $533 million as of Monday, March 9th.
Even if the odds of winning the grand prize are only about 1 in 290.5 million, this inflated number certainly increases the incentive to buy a ticket.
If you’re concerned about the odds, you can go to your local corner, gas station, or grocery store and play the lottery. If it’s your first time tossing a $5 bill into a ring, the process may seem like some kind of impromptu math lesson. Don’t worry. For better or worse, this game of chance requires minimal calculations.
Here’s what you need to know when playing the Mega Millions lottery.
How old do I have to be to buy Mega Millions tickets?
You must be old enough to legally gamble in your state.
In most states, you must be 18 years of age or older to purchase lottery tickets. However, the following states require you to be a little older to buy or redeem lottery tickets:
- arizona: 21 years old, according to the Arizona Lottery.
- louisiana: 21 years old, according to the Louisiana Lottery.
- nebraska: 19 years old, according to the Nebraska Lottery.
Check your state’s rules to see if you are eligible to play the lottery.
Where can I buy Mega Millions tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations, depending on your location. They may also be sold at some airport terminals. Depending on your state, you may be able to purchase tickets online.
How to choose Mega Millions tickets
To win Mega Millions, you need to select a total of six numbers and hope that the number drawn matches the number you selected. Players can choose numbers from two separate number pools.
Five of the numbers come from white balls with numbers ranging from 1 to 70, and the last number comes from a golden mega ball with numbers ranging from 1 to 25.
When purchasing tickets, you can choose your own numbers or ask the cashier to do a “quick pick” or “easy pick,” where a computer randomly generates a number for you.
How much do Mega Millions tickets cost?
Mega Millions tickets cost $5 per play.
As of April 2025, new Mega Millions tickets include built-in multipliers that increase non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10x.
Previously, in some states, multipliers known as megapliers were available for an additional fee. Similarly, the “Just the Jackpot” feature available in some states has been discontinued.
How to check winning Mega Millions numbers
After purchasing a ticket, you will have to wait for the next draw. Mega Millions drawings take place on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:59pm EST.
The Mega Millions picture will be broadcast live on local television stations, including affiliates of major networks such as ABC and CBS. Channels vary by state, so check your local listings to see where you can watch live.
Online, you can watch live on the official Mega Millions website or on the Mega Millions YouTube channel, which posts live streams and recordings of past draws. Numbers from previous drawings are also available on the Mega Millions website.
When is the next Mega Millions drawing? What is the jackpot?
The next Mega Millions drawing will be held on Tuesday, March 10th at 10:59 PM ET. As of Monday, March 9th, the jackpot was $533 million.
What happens if no one wins the Mega Millions jackpot on Tuesday?
If no one wins the Mega Millions jackpot on Tuesday, the jackpot will be raised again and anyone interested in playing will have to buy a new lottery ticket on Friday.
GHaving a 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).
