Mega Millions jackpots is about to get a major upgrade. Starting April 8, the popular lottery game is overhauling everything from ticket prices to jackpot odds, making it one of the most significant changes since its launch.
If you play, or plan to, you need to know what’s changing and how it could affect your chances and winnings.
New Ticket Price: $5 Per Play
The most noticeable change? Tickets are jumping from $2 to $5 per play. This is only the second price increase in Mega Millions history, the last time was back in 2017. The increased cost comes with bigger starting jackpots and built-in features that were once paid add-ons.
Starting Jackpot Raised to $50 Million
Goodbye $20 million base prize. The new minimum jackpot is $50 million. That means even if you hit it after a reset, you’re looking at a much more eye-popping payout.
Built-in Multiplier for Bigger Non-Jackpot Wins
All tickets will now come with a built-in multiplier that can boost non-jackpot prizes by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or even 10x, at no extra cost. Previously, players in some states had to pay an additional dollar for the “Megaplier.”
Say Goodbye to ‘Just the Jackpot’
The feature that allowed you to only play for the jackpot (and no other prizes) will be discontinued as part of the new game format.
Better Odds Overall
The odds of winning something just got slightly better. Overall odds have improved from 1 in 24 to 1 in 23. Jackpot odds have also improved, from 1 in 302.5 million to 1 in 290.4 million.
New Prize Structure: Up to $10 Million Without Hitting the Jackpot
Non-jackpot prizes will range from $10 to $10 million. Previously, the top non-jackpot prize was $1 million.
Last Drawing of the Old Game: April 4
The current version of Mega Millions ends with a final drawing on Friday, April 4. If no one wins the jackpot that night, it rolls into the new game. Just remember: tickets purchased before April 8 will be honored under the old prize structure.
First Drawing of the New Game: April 8 at 11 p.m. ET
Mark your calendars. That Tuesday night is your first chance to try the revamped version.
How to Play
Pick five numbers between 1-70 and one gold Mega Ball number, now from 1-24 (down from 1-25). You can also opt for Quick Pick or Easy Pick to let the computer choose for you.
Where to Buy
Tickets can be purchased in-store at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores in participating states. Some airports and transit hubs also sell them. Digital players can use the Jackpocket app in eligible states like New York, New Jersey, Colorado, and more.
What This Means for You
You’re paying more, but you’re also playing for more. With a higher baseline jackpot, increased prize tiers, and a built-in multiplier, this could be the most rewarding version of Mega Millions jackpots yet.
Just remember: it all kicks off April 8. Don’t toss those old tickets yet, you might still have a winning one from the old game. And if you’re in it for the big bucks, this might be the best time to play.
For more details, visit MegaMillions.com.
