No tickets sold for the staggering $1 billion Mega Millions jackpot matched the six numbers drawn: 11, 14, 38, 45, 46, and the Mega Ball 3. As a result, the next estimated grand prize has soared to an astounding $1.15 billion, with a cash option of $516.1 million, making it potentially the fifth-largest Mega Millions jackpot in history if someone wins. The next drawing is scheduled for Friday night.
The anticipated jackpot had grown from an estimated $970 million to $1 billion as ticket sales surged on Christmas Eve. If someone had claimed the $1 billion prize, it would have ranked as the seventh-largest Mega Millions jackpot ever. Previously, a Florida player won the largest jackpot of $1.602 billion in August 2023.
Interestingly, the Mega Millions jackpot has gone unclaimed since it hit $810 million in Texas on September 10, following a Friday drawing that failed to yield a winner. Historically, December has seen 13 Mega Millions jackpots won since the game’s inception in 2002, yet this year is notable for having the fewest jackpots, with only three winners.
Participants have the choice of receiving their winnings either through a 30-year annuity or in a more immediate cash lump sum, though many prefer the latter for its convenience. Mega Millions tickets are available for purchase across 45 states, along with Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, priced at $2 per play, with drawings held every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. EST.
As excitement builds, it’s also essential for players to remain vigilant against lottery scams. The Federal Trade Commission warns that scammers may contact individuals claiming they’ve won a prize, often requiring payment to release winnings. Mega Millions reassures players that they would never proactively reach out to anyone about winning.
In the coming year, Mega Millions will implement a ticket price increase to $5 per play starting in April. This change is expected to lead to larger jackpots and improved winning odds, reflecting a trend toward even bigger prizes. Joshua Johnston, the lead director of the Mega Millions Consortium, expressed optimism about the excitement this change will bring to current and new players alike.
Overall, while the current Mega Millions jackpot remains elusive, the potential for monumental prizes continues to captivate the imagination of players everywhere, promising thrilling opportunities for future drawings.
Summary: The Mega Millions jackpot remains unclaimed after the Christmas Eve drawing, now set at an estimated $1.15 billion for the next drawing. Players are reminded of the odds of winning and the importance of being aware of lottery scams, as changes, including a ticket price increase to $5, will take effect in April, signaling potential for larger jackpots ahead.