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Powerball Jackpot Soars to $1.23 Billion
The Powerball jackpot has reached an astounding $1.23 billion, making it the fourth-largest in the game’s history. The cash value of this jackpot stands at $595.1 million before the next drawing, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 6. This massive prize has generated significant excitement among lottery enthusiasts across the country.
Recent Powerball Winners and Historical Context
The last time someone won the Powerball jackpot was on January 1, when a player from Michigan took home $842 million. The largest Powerball jackpot ever recorded was $2.04 billion, won by a single ticket holder in California in November 2022. More recently, a New Jersey player won the Mega Millions lottery on March 26, securing a $1.13 billion prize by matching all six numbers.
Powerball Drawing Schedule and Recent Numbers
Powerball drawings occur three times a week: every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET. The most recent drawing on April 3 featured the following numbers: 11, 38, 41, 62, and 65, with a red Powerball of 15 and a Power Play multiplier of x3. Although there were no jackpot winners or $2 million Match5 + Power Play winners, several players did win $1 million by matching five numbers.
Understanding the Power Play Feature
For an additional $1 per play, players can opt for the Power Play feature, which multiplies non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, five, or even ten times. Notably, the Match5 prize with Power Play is always worth $2 million, regardless of the multiplier.
How to Play Powerball
Playing Powerball is straightforward and costs $2 per play. Participants select five numbers from a pool of one to sixty-nine for the white balls and one number from one to twenty-six for the red Powerball. Players can either choose their own numbers or let the lottery terminal randomly pick them. The odds of winning the jackpot are approximately one in 292.2 million, while the odds of winning the lowest prize ($4 for matching one red Powerball) are one in 38.32. Overall, the odds of winning any prize are one in 24.87.
Largest Ever Jackpots
The top five largest jackpots in Powerball history are significant milestones. While specific amounts are not provided in the text, these historical wins have left a lasting impact on the lottery community. The excitement surrounding these massive prizes continues to draw in players hoping to become the next big winner.
Where to Buy Powerball Tickets
Powerball tickets can be purchased in person at various locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores, and some airport terminals. Additionally, players can buy tickets online through the Jackpocket app, which is available in several U.S. states and territories, including Arizona, Arkansas, and Colorado.
Features of the Jackpocket App
The Jackpocket app offers several convenient features for lottery players. Users can select their lottery game and numbers, place orders, view their tickets, and collect winnings via their phone or home computer. This app provides a seamless and user-friendly experience for those who prefer to play the lottery online.
Responsible Gambling Information
For those who may need support with gambling-related issues, various resources are available. Contact details for gambling problem support lines are provided for regions such as New York (HopeNY), Massachusetts (800-327-5050), Oregon (877-MYLIMIT), and Puerto Rico (800-981-0023). A general support line (800-GAMBLER) is also available for assistance.
Upcoming Mega Millions Jackpots
The Mega Millions lottery also offers substantial jackpots. For example, the jackpot for November 10 was estimated at $223 million, with a cash option of $100.8 million. Although no one won the jackpot, the next drawing on Tuesday will feature a jackpot of $245 million with a cash option of $110 million. Recent Mega Millions wins include a $360 million prize won by a ticket in Texas on October 6 and a $1.13 billion prize won by a New Jersey player on March 26.
How to Play Mega Millions
Playing Mega Millions is similar to Powerball. Tickets cost $2 each, and players select five numbers from one to seventy for the white balls and one number from one to twenty-five for the gold Mega Ball. The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately one in 302.5 million.
Claiming Lottery Prizes
Lottery prizes must be claimed within specific timeframes. For example, in Florida, prizes must be claimed within six months (180 days) from the date of the drawing. Single-payment cash options must be claimed within the first 60 days after the draw date. Scratch-off tickets and Fast Play game prizes must be claimed within 60 days of the official end-of-game date.
Handling Unclaimed Prize Money
Unclaimed prize funds are typically distributed according to state laws. In Florida, for instance, 80% of unclaimed prize funds are transferred to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, while the remaining funds are returned to future prize pools. This ensures that unclaimed prizes still benefit the community and future lottery players.
Odds of Winning and Anonymity for Winners
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are approximately one in 292.2 million, while the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are about one in 302.5 million. Some states allow lottery winners to remain anonymous, while others require public disclosure of the winner’s name and hometown. In Florida, for example, winners of prizes over $250,000 can remain anonymous for up to 90 days.
Conclusion
The excitement surrounding upcoming and future big lottery jackpots in the USA continues to grow. With massive prizes like the $1.23 billion Powerball jackpot and the $245 million Mega Millions jackpot, players across the country are eagerly awaiting their chance to win. Whether purchasing tickets in person or online through the Jackpocket app, lottery enthusiasts have numerous opportunities to participate in these thrilling games. As always, it’s essential to play responsibly and seek support if needed.
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