The Mega Millions jackpot climbed to 182 million for Tuesday’s drawing after Friday’s drawing produced no grand-prize winner. If a ticket matches all six numbers on Tuesday, the cash option is 82.1 million before taxes.
This year has already seen four Mega Millions winners. The most recent came on June 27 in Virginia with a 348 million jackpot. Earlier this year, an Ohio player claimed 112 million on April 18, Illinois saw a 344 million prize on March 25, and a winner hit 113 million on January 17.
Winning numbers for the Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025 drawing are: 1, 8, 31, 56, 67, with Mega Ball 23.
How the game works
– To play, purchase a ticket at a local retailer such as a gas station, convenience store or grocery store. Some states also offer online options.
– Players pick six numbers: five white balls from 1 to 70 and a Mega Ball from 1 to 24.
– If you’d rather not pick your numbers, you can opt for Quick Pick, letting the computer generate random numbers for you.
– A built-in multiplier now applies to Mega Millions tickets, increasing non-jackpot prize amounts by 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 times. Previously, the Megaplier option added only when you paid an extra dollar.
Buying tickets
– Tickets are widely available in person at convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores, with some airport locations selling them as well.
– Online ticketing is offered in select states and territories through Jackpocket, the digital lottery courier for the USA TODAY Network. This includes states such as 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.
– Note: Jackpocket is not affiliated with any State Lottery. Requirements apply, including age restrictions and other terms. If you win, you’ll be subject to taxes and local regulations, so consider consulting a tax professional.
What to expect next
– Lottery officials will confirm any winners after the drawing. Past results can be found on the Mega Millions site.
– If you win the jackpot, you can choose a one-time cash payment (approximately 82.1 million before taxes for this drawing) or the annuity option. Taxes and withholdings will apply based on where you reside.
What this means
– The odds of winning the jackpot remain long, around 1 in 302.6 million, but the prize can transform a lucky winner’s life. With thousands of daily players nationwide, even a modest win can be life-changing in tangible ways.
Positive note
– While the odds are steep, the possibility of a life-changing payout continues to draw players, offering a moment of excitement and a chance, however slim, at substantial financial change. Stay hopeful, play responsibly, and keep an eye on the results as Tuesday’s drawing approaches. Fernando Cervantes Jr. remains the reporting contact for updates.