### Mega Millions Jackpot at $229 Million; Georgia Player Wins $478.2 Million Powerball

The excitement is palpable as the Mega Millions lottery jackpot has surged to an estimated $229 million, with a cash option of $107.5 million. This follows the recent Powerball windfall, where a player in Georgia clinched a staggering $478.2 million.

The winning numbers for the Mega Millions drawing on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, were 23, 26, 35, 41, 43, and the Megaball number was 7. For those eager to try their luck, the next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Tuesday at 11 p.m.

Playing Mega Millions costs $2 per ticket, with an optional Megaplier for an additional $1. The Megaplier can multiply non-jackpot prizes by up to five times their original amount. Players can choose five numbers from 1 to 70 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 25 for the Mega Ball. Alternatively, players can opt for a Quick Pick to have their numbers randomly generated.

The Mega Millions game is widespread, available in 45 states, as well as the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The states where Mega Millions is not available include Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah. Tickets can be bought at various locations like gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airport terminals also offer them. Additionally, tickets can be purchased online in select states through the Jackpocket app.

For players wondering about their chances, the odds of hitting the Mega Millions jackpot stand at 302,575,350 to 1, while matching all five white balls offers odds of 12,607,306 to 1. The cash option, which is lower than the advertised annuity jackpot, provides a lump sum payout immediately.

In terms of anonymity, certain states, including New Jersey, allow winners to remain anonymous, a policy introduced under a law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy. However, in other states, the winner’s name and hometown are public records.

The deadline for purchasing a Mega Millions ticket varies by state, generally falling between 15 minutes to an hour before the drawing. Some third-party lottery apps have even earlier cut-off times. For example, the Jackpocket app in New Jersey stops accepting orders at 9:15 p.m. for the 11 p.m. ET drawing.

As the jackpot grows, so does the anticipation—and despite the daunting odds, many players continue to dream and play, hoping that the next drawing could be their lucky day.