The Mega Millions lottery drew winning numbers for its massive $1.58 billion jackpot on Tuesday, August 8th, 2023. The winning ticket was sold in Florida.
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The winning numbers were 13, 19, 20, 32, 33, with a Megaplier of 14. This jackpot marks the largest prize in Mega Millions history and one of the biggest lottery jackpots ever in the United States.
The Extremely Rare Odds of Winning
The odds of matching all six Mega Millions numbers are incredibly slim – just 1 in 302.6 million. This makes winning the jackpot highly unlikely, but millions of people still try their luck.
How the Jackpot Climbed So High
The jackpot rolled over 31 times before finally being won. The continuous lack of a winner allowed the grand prize to reach unprecedented levels. The previous Mega Millions record was a $1.537 billion jackpot won in South Carolina in 2018.
More Than Just the Jackpot Up for Grabs
While the grand prize attracts the most attention, there are eight other prize tiers in Mega Millions. Matching five numbers without the Mega Ball wins $1 million. Hitting four numbers plus the Mega Ball pays out $10,000. Even matching just the Mega Ball results in a $2 prize.
How to Play Mega Millions
Players pick five numbers from 1-70 for the white balls, and one number from 1-25 for the Mega Ball. Tickets cost $2 per play. For an extra $1 per ticket, the Megaplier can boost non-jackpot winnings. Drawings are held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11 p.m. ET.
Advice for Winners
Experts recommend lottery winners assemble a team of legal and financial advisors before claiming their prize. It’s important for winners to plan carefully and consider whether to take the annuity or lump sum payment. Lottery winners may also try to keep a low profile to maintain their privacy and safety.
While the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are incredibly low, someone eventually does hit the lucky numbers. A single Florida ticket holder now can claim the record $1.58 billion top prize. The next drawing on Friday will start a new jackpot at an estimated $20 million.
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