The Mega Millions jackpot has climbed to an estimated $1 billion ahead of Friday night’s drawing, making it one of the largest lottery prizes in U.S. history. The cash option for the lump-sum payout stands at approximately $516.8 million before taxes.
The jackpot has been growing since it was last won in late September, with no ticket matching all six numbers drawn in the weeks since. Players across the country have been snapping up tickets at gas stations, convenience stores, and online platforms in hopes of claiming the massive prize.
Lottery officials reminded players that the odds of winning the jackpot remain astronomically low — approximately 1 in 302 million. Despite those odds, sales tend to surge dramatically as jackpots grow into the hundreds of millions of dollars.
If a winner is announced, they would face significant federal and state tax withholdings on their prize. Financial advisers typically recommend that lottery winners seek legal and financial counsel before claiming any large prize.
The Mega Millions drawing takes place every Tuesday and Friday night at 11 p.m. ET. Tickets cost $2 per play.
Source: SVT Nyheter