How to play Mega Millions step by step: Rules, number selection and possible prizes

According to Marca, Mega Millions is one of the most popular and thrilling lottery games in the United States, offering life-changing prizes. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your strategy, this step-by-step guide will help you understand how to play, select your numbers, and explore the prizes on offer.

How to Play Mega Millions

Step 1: Purchase Your Tickets

To start playing Mega Millions, you need to buy a ticket. Each ticket costs $2.00 and can be purchased at gas stations, supermarkets, and other authorized retailers. In some locations, you can also buy tickets online through platforms like Jackpocket, where you can select your numbers and keep track of your ticket.

Step 2: Choose Your Numbers

Once you have your ticket, it’s time to choose your numbers. You’ll need to select six numbers in total:

• Five numbers from a pool of 1 to 70 (these are the white balls).
• One number from a pool of 1 to 25 (this is the golden Mega Ball).

If you prefer not to pick the numbers yourself, you can opt for a quick pick, where a random number generator will select a combination for you.

Step 3: Mega Millions Drawings

Mega Millions drawings take place twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM ET/8:00 PM PT. To win the jackpot, you must match all six winning numbers. If there’s no winner, the jackpot rolls over and increases for the next drawing.

Step 4: Additional Prizes

While the jackpot is the main attraction, there are nine different ways to win a prize. The jackpot amount varies based on ticket sales and is announced before each drawing. Other prizes range from $2 upwards, and the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 24, making it more likely to win smaller amounts.

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Megaplier and Just the Jackpot Options

• Megaplier: For an extra $1 per play, you can activate the Megaplier feature, which multiplies non-jackpot winnings by 2, 3, 4, or 5 times. A Megaplier number is drawn before each drawing, determining the multiplier for any prize other than the jackpot.
• Just the Jackpot: In certain states, players can opt for the Just the Jackpot option, allowing you to play exclusively for the jackpot. For $3, you can select two combinations for a chance to win the jackpot, but you won’t be eligible for any of the other prizes.

What to Do If You Win

If you’re lucky enough to win the Mega Millions jackpot, you’ll need to choose between two payment options:

• Annuity Option: This option provides an immediate payout followed by 29 annual payments, each increasing by 5% to help offset inflation.
• Cash Option: Alternatively, you can take a lump sum payment, which includes the entire jackpot amount paid in one payment. Be aware that taxes are deducted immediately, significantly reducing the total amount you receive.