Live Lottery Mega Millions: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you ready to dive into the world of live lottery Mega Millions? This article will take you through everything you need to know about this thrilling lottery game, from its history to how to play, and the odds of winning. So, let’s get started!
History of Mega Millions
Mega Millions is one of the most popular lottery games in the United States, with a rich history that dates back to 1996. The game was created as a collaboration between two states, Georgia and Maryland, and has since grown to include 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Over the years, Mega Millions has seen several changes, including the addition of the Mega Ball, which has increased the chances of winning the jackpot. The game has also seen its share of big winners, with the largest jackpot ever won being $1.537 billion in 2018.
How to Play Mega Millions
Playing Mega Millions is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Select five numbers from 1 to 70.
- Select one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25.
- Buy your ticket and wait for the draw.
It’s important to note that you can choose your own numbers or let the lottery terminal pick them for you. Additionally, you can purchase a Quick Pick ticket, which will randomly select your numbers for you.
The Jackpot and Odds of Winning
The Mega Millions jackpot starts at $20 million and grows with each draw until someone wins. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 302.5 million, making it one of the hardest lotteries to win in the world.
However, there are other ways to win in Mega Millions. If you match just two of the five white balls and the Mega Ball, you can win a prize of $10. If you match three white balls, you can win $100, and so on.
| Number of Matching Balls | Prize Amount |
|---|---|
| 5 + Mega Ball | $1,000,000 |
| 4 + Mega Ball | $10,000 |
| 3 + Mega Ball | $100 |
| 2 + Mega Ball | $10 |
| 1 + Mega Ball | $4 |
| 5 (without Mega Ball) | $1,000 |
| 4 (without Mega Ball) | $100 |
| 3 (without Mega Ball) | $10 |
| 2 (without Mega Ball) | $4 |
| 1 (without Mega Ball) | $2 |
Where to Play Mega Millions
Mega Millions is available in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can purchase your ticket at any authorized retailer in these locations. Additionally, you can play online through official lottery websites in some states.
Draws and Jackpot Cutoff Times
Mega Millions draws take place on Tuesday and Friday evenings at 11:00 PM Eastern Time. The cutoff time for purchasing tickets is 10:00 PM Eastern Time on the day of the draw.
How to Claim Your Prize
When you win a prize in Mega Millions, you have up to one year from the date of the draw to claim your prize. The process for claiming your prize varies depending on the amount and the state where you purchased your ticket.
For smaller prizes, you can usually claim your prize at any authorized retailer. For larger prizes, you may need to visit the lottery office in your state
