Mega Millions Guide
Mega Millions rules, prize tiers, odds, and draw schedule.
Mega Millions at a Glance
Jackpot Odds
Ticket Cost
Draw Days
Starting Jackpot
How to Play Mega Millions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Select Main Numbers
Choose 5 numbers from 1 to 70. You can select your own numbers or use Quick Pick for random selection.
Select Mega Ball
Choose 1 Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. This number is separate from your main numbers.
Choose Payout Option
Decide between annuity (30 payments) or cash option (lump sum) if you win the jackpot.
Purchase Ticket
Pay $2.00 per play at authorized retailers or online (where available).
Game Rules
Number Selection: 5 main numbers (1-70) + 1 Mega Ball (1-25)
Draw Schedule: Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM ET
Ticket Cost: $2.00 per play
Jackpot Cap: No maximum limit
Claim Period: Varies by state (check local lottery rules)
Prize Structure
| Match | Prize | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 5 + Mega Ball | Jackpot | 1 in 302,575,350 |
| 5 numbers | $1,000,000 | 1 in 12,607,306 |
| 4 + Mega Ball | $10,000 | 1 in 931,001 |
| 4 numbers | $500 | 1 in 38,792 |
| 3 + Mega Ball | $200 | 1 in 14,547 |
| 3 numbers | $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 |
What the Math Actually Says
The Mathematical Reality
Equal Probability: Every combination of 5 numbers plus a Mega Ball has exactly the same chance of winning - 1 in 302,575,350. No combination is luckier than another.
No Patterns: Past draws have no effect on future ones. Each draw is completely independent.
Random Selection: Mega Millions uses certified random number generators that meet strict regulatory standards.
Practical Tips
Play within your budget: Lottery tickets are entertainment spending, not an investment strategy.
Check your numbers: Always verify your ticket against the draw results - not a third-party site.
Sign your ticket: Sign the back immediately after purchase. It's the only proof of ownership you have.
Claim on time: Claim periods vary by state. Check your state's rules and don't let a winning ticket expire.
Mega Millions Tools
Three tools to help you play smarter.
Number Generator
Generate random Mega Millions numbers using a cryptographically secure algorithm.
Generate NumbersTax Calculator
See what a Mega Millions prize looks like after federal and state taxes.
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