How Can You Play Mega Millions Lottery Game? Mega Millions is one of the United States’ biggest multi-state lotteries, boasting jackpots reaching billions. Although winning is considerably lower compared to other major US lotteries, buying tickets if possible still may be worthwhile if possible. We will cover everything you need to know about playing the Mega Millions lottery game including ticket purchase procedures and rules for claiming prizes in this article.
Forty-five states and DC offer Mega Millions tickets at gas stations, convenience stores, and other retailers; ticket prices differ depending on which lottery website your state belongs to; residents in these states can also purchase Mega Millions tickets online.
For the jackpot, to win you must match five white balls and the gold Mega Ball number; odds of doing so are one in more than 300 million! Even if your numbers don’t line up exactly, smaller prizes could still be won; nine total ways exist in which people can win from two dollars (matching only the gold ball) up to the full jackpot prize amount.
Mega Millions winners can choose either cash or annuity as the form of prize distribution, but must select their preference before winning; there is no post-win change possible. Cash option is only available in New Jersey, Texas and Florida while annuity prize payments can be found throughout other states; all Mega Millions prizes won in cash or annuity are subject to income taxes.
How to Buy a Mega Millions Ticket
In order to purchase a Mega Millions ticket, it is necessary to have valid identification and be at least 18 years old. When purchasing at a retailer, bet slips will be provided and must be completed accordingly before being returned to cashier for printing out tickets.
Add the Megaplier option for only an additional $1 to increase any non-jackpot prize won up to fivefold! The Megaplier number will be randomly drawn along with white balls and the gold Mega Ball at the same time.
If you’re lucky enough to win the jackpot, make sure you collect it within the specified deadline – this varies between states but typically falls 90 days after the date of drawing. Otherwise, any unclaimed funds will go directly to charity.
When you are ready to claim your prize, take your winning ticket along with photo identification to where it was purchased. In general, you must be able to prove both that you are the winner and reside within your state; some states even require that winners sign claim forms before turning in their tickets!