The Mega Millions jackpot for Friday’s drawing has reached an impressive $306 million after no one claimed the jackpot prize in the previous drawing on Tuesday. The anticipation is building as the winning numbers are scheduled to be drawn just after 11 p.m. ET on Friday, and the results will be shared shortly thereafter.
If a lucky player wins in Friday’s drawing, they stand to walk away with an estimated cash value of $144.4 million in a lump-sum payment. This sizable sum is sure to change the life of whoever holds the winning ticket.
So far this year, there have been two Mega Millions jackpot winners. In March, a player from New Jersey hit the jackpot, taking home a staggering $1.13 billion. Just last month, another fortunate player in Illinois won $552 million. These massive wins add to the excitement and hope for players participating in the current drawing.
The winning numbers for the Friday, July 26, 2024, Mega Millions drawing were 2, 14, 33, 58, and 65, with the gold Mega Ball being 3. Additionally, the Megaplier for this draw was 3X, potentially increasing non-jackpot winnings for those who opted for this feature.
Winning lottery numbers for the Mega Millions are sponsored by Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. As the official digital courier, Jackpocket allows players to buy tickets online in several states and provides a convenient way to participate in the lottery.
As soon as information about any winners of Friday’s jackpot drawing becomes available, it will be displayed. Those interested in viewing past winners and checking historical data can visit the Mega Millions website for comprehensive details.
To play the Mega Millions, participants need to purchase a ticket from local convenience stores, gas stations, or grocery stores. In a few states, tickets can also be bought online. Players must select six numbers: five white balls ranging from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball from 1 to 25. For those who prefer not to choose their own numbers, the “Quick Pick” or “Easy Pick” options allow the computer to randomly generate the numbers.
Players can also add the “Megaplier” for an extra $1, which can multiply non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, or five times, depending on the Megaplier number drawn. This feature adds an exciting twist to the game, offering the possibility of significantly boosting winnings even if the jackpot isn’t won.
Tickets can be purchased in person at various retail locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Additionally, some airport terminals may sell lottery tickets, providing travelers with a chance to participate. For those in states where online ticket sales are permitted, Jackpocket offers a convenient solution. This app allows users to pick their lottery game and numbers, place their order, see their ticket, and collect winnings using their phone or computer.
Jackpocket operates in several U.S. states and territories, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. It is important to note that while Jackpocket provides a digital solution, it is not affiliated with any state lottery and emphasizes responsible gambling.
For those who choose to play, it is crucial to gamble responsibly. If anyone is experiencing a gambling problem, they can seek help through various hotlines. For example, New York residents can call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369). Massachusetts residents can call 1-800-327-5050, Oregon residents can contact 1-877-MYLIMIT, Puerto Rico residents can call 1-800-981-0023, and all others can call 1-800-GAMBLER.
As the excitement builds for Friday’s Mega Millions drawing, players across the country are eagerly awaiting the results, hoping to become the next big winner. For more information and updates, players can visit the Mega Millions website. This article was originally published on USA TODAY, providing comprehensive coverage of the event and details for those participating in the lottery.