Mega Millions Jackpot Soars to $110 Million: Your Guide to Playing and Winning
The Mega Millions lottery is heating up, with the jackpot reaching a substantial $110 million ahead of the Tuesday, May 13, 2025 drawing. This surge in the prize pool comes after no ticket matched all six winning numbers in the Friday, May 9 drawing, fueling anticipation and excitement among lottery enthusiasts nationwide.
If a lucky player manages to match all six numbers on Tuesday night, they will have a choice to make: receive the full $110 million paid out over time, or opt for a one-time cash payment of $49.4 million. This cash option represents the present value of the jackpot, taking into account factors like interest rates and investment returns.
The drawing will take place just after 11 p.m. Eastern Time, and the winning numbers will be posted promptly after the announcement. Keep an eye on this page for the results and to see if your numbers have made you the next Mega Millions millionaire.
This year has already seen three Mega Millions jackpot winners, adding to the allure of the game and proving that anyone can win. The most recent jackpot was claimed on April 18 in Ohio, where a lucky ticket holder won $112 million. Before that, a player in Illinois won a staggering $344 million jackpot on March 25, and on January 17, someone else took home a $113 million jackpot.
The Mega Millions is a multi-state lottery game played across most of the United States. Its immense popularity stems from the potential for life-changing jackpots and the simple, straightforward gameplay.
How to Play Mega Millions
Participating in the Mega Millions is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
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Purchase a Ticket: You can buy Mega Millions tickets at a variety of locations, including your local convenience store, gas station, or grocery store. In some states, you can even purchase tickets online through authorized lottery couriers like Jackpocket.
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Pick Your Numbers: Once you have your ticket, you need to select six numbers. Five of these numbers will be white balls, and they must be between 1 and 70. The sixth number is the gold Mega Ball, and it must be between 1 and 24.
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Quick Pick Option: If you prefer to leave your fate to chance, you can opt for a "Quick Pick" or "Easy Pick" option. This allows the lottery computer to randomly generate your numbers for you. Many players choose this option for its convenience and unbiased selection.
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Multiplier Feature: Mega Millions tickets now include a built-in multiplier, which can significantly increase non-jackpot prizes. Before, players had to pay an extra dollar for the "Megaplier" option, but now it’s included for free. The multiplier can increase your winnings by two, three, four, five, or even 10 times, depending on the multiplier number drawn. There are 15 Megaplier balls in total, each representing a different multiplier value.
Where to Buy Mega Millions Tickets
Mega Millions tickets are widely available at various retail locations. You can purchase them in person at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets, providing last-minute opportunities for travelers.
For added convenience, you can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in several U.S. states and territories, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.
The Jackpocket app offers a seamless and user-friendly experience. You can pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, view your ticket, and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer. This option is particularly appealing for those who prefer to avoid in-person visits to retail locations.
Responsible Gaming
While the Mega Millions offers the potential for significant financial gains, it’s important to remember that it is still a form of gambling. It’s crucial to play responsibly and within your means. Set a budget for lottery ticket purchases and stick to it. Don’t chase losses or spend more than you can afford to lose.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available to help. Contact the National Council on Problem Gambling or visit their website for information and support.
Remember to enjoy the excitement and entertainment that the Mega Millions provides, but always prioritize responsible gaming practices.
Checking Your Numbers and Claiming Your Prize
Once the drawing has taken place, you can check your numbers against the winning numbers to see if you’ve won. The winning numbers will be posted on this page immediately after the drawing. You can also find the winning numbers on the Mega Millions website, at lottery retailers, and through various news outlets.
If you have a winning ticket, the process for claiming your prize will depend on the amount you’ve won and the rules of the state where you purchased the ticket. Small prizes can typically be claimed at any lottery retailer, while larger prizes may require you to visit a lottery claim center or mail in your ticket.
Be sure to sign the back of your ticket immediately and keep it in a safe place. Treat your lottery ticket like cash, as it is the only proof of your winnings.
Stay Tuned for the Winning Numbers
The winning numbers for the Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Mega Millions drawing will be posted here as soon as they are announced. Good luck, and may your numbers be the ones that change your life!
