Mega Millions is one of the largest multi-state lotteries in the United States. Established in 1996 as “The Big Game” and later rebranded, it has created some of the biggest lottery jackpots in history, including the record-breaking $1.602 billion prize in August 2023.
On this page, you’ll find key information about Mega Millions: how to play, recent winning numbers, prize breakdowns, and how to participate from outside the U.S.
How Does Mega Millions Work?
To play Mega Millions, choose 5 numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball from 1 to 25. There are 9 prize levels, and jackpots start at $20 million.
Mega Millions drawings take place
-Every Tuesday at 11:00 PM
–Every Friday at 11:00 PM
Drawings are held in Atlanta, Georgia. International players should account for local time differences.
Draw Schedule
Mega Millions drawings take place:
- Every Tuesday at 11:00 PM ET
- Every Friday at 11:00 PM ET
Drawings are held in Atlanta, Georgia. International players should account for local time differences.
Current Jackpot & Recent Results
Below you find the most recent estimated jackpot and latest winning numbers. Results are typically updated within a few hours after each official draw.
(Jackpot and result data provided via automated data sources.)
Prizes and Odds of Winning
Mega Millions offers nine prize tiers. Here is a clear breakdown:
| Match | Base Prize | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 5 + Mega Ball | Jackpot (min. $20 million) | 1 in 302,575,350 |
| 5 | $1,000,000 | 1 in 12,607,306 |
| 4 + Mega Ball | $10,000 | 1 in 931,001 |
| 4 | $500 | 1 in 38,792 |
| 3 + Mega Ball | $200 | 1 in 14,547 |
| 3 | $10 | 1 in 606 |
| 2 + Mega Ball | $10 | 1 in 693 |
| 1 + Mega Ball | $4 | 1 in 89 |
| Mega Ball only | $2 | 1 in 37 |
The overall chance of winning any prize is approximately 1 in 24.
Playing Mega Millions from Outside the U.S.
Mega Millions tickets are officially sold only within the United States. Some international players participate via third-party services that purchase tickets through licensed U.S. retailers on their behalf.
AmericanLottery365 does not sell tickets and does not endorse specific providers. Always verify whether participation through such services is legal in your country of residence.
Taxation and Claiming Prizes
Mega Millions winnings in 2026 are subject to U.S. federal taxes and may also be subject to state taxes, depending on where the ticket is purchased.
- Jackpots can be claimed as a lump-sum cash option or as an annuity paid over 30 years
- Smaller prizes are usually paid as a single payment
- International winners may also owe taxes in their home country
Consult a qualified tax professional for personal advice.
Biggest Mega Millions Jackpots
Mega Millions has produced some of the largest lottery prizes in history, including:
- $1.602 billion – August 2023
- Multiple jackpots exceeding $1 billion in recent years
A full historical overview is available on our jackpot history pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum Mega Millions jackpot?
The starting jackpot is $20 million.
Can winners remain anonymous?
This depends on the state where the ticket is purchased. Some states allow anonymity, others do not.
What is the minimum age to play?
Generally 18 years old, though some U.S. states require players to be 21.