What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?

The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately 1 in 290 million. You must match all 5 main numbers (1–70) and the Mega Ball (1–24).

When is Mega Millions drawn?

Mega Millions draws take place every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).

What is the Mega Ball in Mega Millions?

The Mega Ball is a single number drawn from a separate pool of 1 to 24. You must match it independently from the 5 main numbers. It is required for the jackpot and several other prize tiers.

Mega Millions How to Play & Prize Rules

Q: How much does a Mega Millions ticket cost?

A Mega Millions ticket costs $5 per play. A Multiplier (2×, 3×, 4×, 5×, or 10×) is automatically included with every ticket at no extra charge.

🇺🇸 USA

Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Game Overview

CountryUnited States

OperatorMulti-State Lottery Association

Draw DaysTuesday & Friday

Draw Time11:00 PM Eastern Time

Ticket Price$5 per play (Multiplier included)

Mega Millions is one of the two biggest lottery games in the United States, available in 45 states plus Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Players choose 5 numbers from 1 to 70, plus 1 Mega Ball from 1 to 24 (separate drum). There are 9 prize tiers — you can win a prize even by matching just the Mega Ball alone. The starting jackpot is $50 million and grows until won. Tickets cost $5 and include an automatic Multiplier (2×–10×) on all non-jackpot prizes.

Prize Tiers: Winning Conditions & Odds

Tier	Winning Condition	Odds
Jackpot	Match 5 main + Mega Ball	1/290,472,336
2nd	Match 5 main numbers	1/12,629,232
3rd	Match 4 main + Mega Ball	1/893,761
4th	Match 4 main numbers	1/38,859
5th	Match 3 main + Mega Ball	1/13,965
6th	Match 3 main numbers	1/607
7th	Match 2 main + Mega Ball	1/665
8th	Match 1 main + Mega Ball	1/86
9th	Mega Ball only (0 main)	1/35

Exclude Numbers & Combination Check

Main Numbers · 1–70

Mega Ball · 1–24

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How to Buy

Mega Millions tickets cost $5 per play. A Multiplier (2×, 3×, 4×, 5×, or 10×) is automatically included with every ticket.

RetailAvailable at lottery retailers across 45 US states plus Washington D.C. and U.S. Virgin Islands. Alaska, Alabama, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah do not participate.

OnlineAvailable through official state lottery websites and apps in participating states. Availability varies by state. Must be 18+ (19+ in some states).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mega Ball drawn from the same drum as the main numbers?▾

No. The 5 main numbers are drawn from a drum containing 70 balls (1–70). The Mega Ball is drawn from a completely separate drum containing 25 balls (1–25). This is why the Mega Ball can be the same number as one of the 5 main numbers drawn.

Are Mega Millions prizes paid as lump sum or annuity?▾

Winners choose between a lump-sum cash option (approximately 60% of the advertised jackpot) or an annuity paid over 29 years in 30 graduated payments. The advertised jackpot always refers to the annuity value.

Are Mega Millions winnings taxed?▾

Yes. Federal taxes of 37% apply to winnings above certain thresholds. Additional state taxes apply depending on where you purchased the ticket and where you live. Non-US residents may face different withholding rates.

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