The Mega Millions lottery jackpot for the drawing on January 16, 2026, is an impressive estimated $230 million, with a cash option of $105.1 million, as reported on the Mega Millions website. This follows a previous win when a player from New Jersey took home a $90 million jackpot on December 2.
In addition to Mega Millions, the Powerball lottery is also attracting attention with a jackpot currently at $179 million and a cash option of $81.5 million.
Unfortunately, there was no jackpot winner in the January 16 drawing, leading the Mega Millions jackpot to grow to an estimated $250 million, with a cash option of $113.5 million, for the next drawing on January 19, 2026. However, two tickets sold in North Carolina and Texas successfully matched the five white balls with a 2x multiplier, making their owners $2 million richer.
The next Mega Millions drawing will take place on January 19 at 11 p.m. ET. The ticket price is currently set at $5, which includes a multiplier that can increase potential winnings up to ten times (excluding the jackpot). Players select five numbers from 1 to 70 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 24 for the Mega Ball. Quick Pick options are available for those who prefer a random selection.
To participate, residents from 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands can purchase tickets at various locations, including gas stations and grocery stores, or via the official digital lottery courier app, Jackpocket, in select states.
With Mega Millions, the odds of winning the jackpot stand at 1 in 290,472,336, highlighting the challenging nature of hitting the big prize. For players looking for additional information, such as deadlines for ticket purchases or opting for anonymity as a jackpot winner, resources are available through state lottery websites.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming drawings, many hopeful players dream of what they could do with their potential winnings, reminding us of the thrill and anticipation that lotteries bring to millions.
Jackpocket, which assists players with purchasing tickets online, is affiliated with the USA TODAY Network, continuing to provide seamless access to lottery games across the nation.