Officials increased the size of Friday night’s Mega Million jackpot to an estimated $1.35 billion, making it the fourth largest lottery prize in US history.
There have been 30 consecutive draws since the last time someone hit the game’s jackpot on April 18th. The prize has steadily grown to a tie with a Mega Millions jackpot won in January.
The jackpot is so hard to win because of the 1 in 302.6 million chance of matching the numbers on five white balls and a single mega ball. The odds are better to win smaller prizes, which start at $2. Deadline to purchase tickets for Friday’s draw is 7:45 PM
The $1.35 billion prize is for a sole winner paid through an annuity for 30 years. Those who opt for a lump sum payout would receive an estimated $659.5 million.
Much of that profit would go to federal taxes, and many states also tax lottery payouts.
Mega Millions is played in 45 states, Washington, DC and the US Virgin Islands.
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