Mega Millions — Complete Guide
Mega Millions is a multi-jurisdictional US lottery game offered in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are held twice a week, with a starting jackpot of $50 million that rolls over until won.
The Rules
- Pick 5 numbers from 1–70 (white balls)
- Pick 1 Mega Ball number from 1–24 (gold ball)
- Match all 6 to win the jackpot
- Ticket: $5 (April 2025 redesign — includes a built-in multiplier on non-jackpot prizes; no separate Megaplier add-on required)
Drawing Schedule
Drawings: Tuesday, Friday at 11:00 PM ET. Sales close 15 minutes to 1 hour before each drawing depending on the state.
Overall Odds
Overall odds of winning any prize: 1 in 23. Jackpot odds: 1 in 290,472,336.
See the full prize-tier breakdown: Mega Millions Prize Odds →
Tools
- Mega Millions Number Generator — random pick respecting 5/70 + 1/24
- Prize Odds & Tiers — every match level, exact odds
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you play Mega Millions?
Pick 5 numbers from 1–70 (white balls) and 1 number from 1–25 (the gold Mega Ball). Match all 6 to win the jackpot. As of April 2025, tickets cost $5 each and include a built-in multiplier on non-jackpot prizes.
When are Mega Millions drawings held?
Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesday and Friday nights at 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Sales close 15 minutes to 1 hour before the drawing depending on the state.
What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?
The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336. The overall odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 23.
Lump sum or annuity — which is better for Mega Millions?
The lump sum cash option pays roughly 50–55% of the advertised annuity value but is paid immediately. The 30-year annuity pays the full advertised amount across 30 graduated annual payments. Most jackpot winners choose the lump sum for investment flexibility, but the choice depends on personal tax planning.
Source: https://www.megamillions.com · Authority: Mega Millions Consortium