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Powerball and Mega Millions are two of the most popular lottery 미국복권 games in the United States. They offer huge jackpots, and millions of people play them every week. You may have wondered when these drawings happen and how often you should buy tickets.
Knowing when the drawings are held is important so you do not miss your chance to play. In this guide, you will learn how often Powerball and Mega Millions drawings take place, how the drawing process works, and helpful tips to keep track of the results.
What Is Powerball?
Powerball is a well-known lottery game that has been around since 1992. It is played in 45 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball is famous for its record-breaking jackpots, which have gone over $2 billion.
In Powerball, players pick five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26. If your numbers match the numbers drawn, you win. The more numbers you match, the bigger your prize.
What Is Mega Millions?
Mega Millions is another popular lottery game. It started in 1996 and is played in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Mega Millions jackpots can also reach over $1 billion.
To play Mega Millions, you choose five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Just like Powerball, the more numbers you match, the higher your prize.
How Often Are Powerball Drawings?
Powerball drawings happen three times a week on these days:
- Monday night
- Wednesday night
- Saturday night
The drawings take place at 10:59 PM Eastern Time (ET).
Tickets must be bought before the sales cutoff time, which is usually 1 to 2 hours before the drawing, depending on your state. If you buy a ticket after the cutoff, it will be valid for the next drawing.
How Often Are Mega Millions Drawings?
Mega Millions drawings happen two times a week on these days:
- Tuesday night
- Friday night
The drawings take place at 11:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).
Just like Powerball, tickets must be bought before the cutoff time in your state.
Can You Play Both Games at the Same Time?
Yes, you can play both Powerball and Mega Millions. Many people like to play both games during the week to give themselves more chances to win. Since the drawings are on different nights, it is easy to remember:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday are Powerball nights.
- Tuesday and Friday are Mega Millions nights.
This means you could play five nights a week if you play both games.
How Do the Drawings Work?
The Powerball and Mega Millions drawings are held using special machines. These machines randomly select the winning numbers. The process is carefully checked to make sure it is fair and honest.
Where Are the Drawings Held?
Powerball drawings happen in Tallahassee, Florida.
Mega Millions drawings happen in Atlanta, Georgia.
The drawings are live, and people can watch them on TV or online through official lottery websites.
How Can You Check the Winning Numbers?
It is important to check your numbers after each drawing so you do not miss out on a prize. Here are some ways to find the results:
- Watch the live drawing on TV.
- Visit the official Powerball or Mega Millions website.
- Use the official lottery app for your state.
- Check with the store where you bought your ticket.
- Look in local newspapers or online news websites.
Many people like to set reminders on their phones so they do not forget to check after each drawing.
What Happens If You Win?
If you win a prize, even if it is small, you should claim it quickly. Smaller prizes can usually be claimed at the store where you bought the ticket.
For bigger prizes, like the jackpot, you will need to visit your state’s lottery office. There, you will fill out forms, show your winning ticket, and provide identification.
How Long Do You Have to Claim Your Prize?
The time you have to claim your prize depends on the state where you bought your ticket. Most states give you between 90 days and one year to claim your prize.
If you wait too long, you may lose your prize, so it is a good idea to check your tickets soon after each drawing.
How Can You Keep Track of Drawings?
With so many drawings each week, it can be easy to forget. Here are some tips to stay on top of your tickets:
- Mark the drawing nights on your calendar.
- Set alarms or reminders on your phone.
- Use a lottery app to track your numbers and remind you when to check.
- Keep your tickets in a safe place where you will remember to check them.
Are the Odds Better If You Play Every Drawing?
Playing more often gives you more chances to win, but it does not change the odds for each ticket. The odds stay the same whether you play one ticket or many.
For Powerball, the odds of winning the jackpot are about 1 in 292 million.
For Mega Millions, the odds are about 1 in 302 million.
Even though the odds are very low, many people play for the fun and excitement of the game.
Final Thoughts
Powerball and Mega Millions drawings happen several times a week. Powerball draws three nights a week, and Mega Millions draws two nights a week. Knowing the drawing schedule helps you keep track of your tickets and gives you more chances to play.
Remember, playing the lottery should always be fun. It is important to play responsibly and stay within your budget. While the dream of winning big is exciting, the best part is enjoying the game with family and friends.
By understanding when the drawings happen and staying organized, you will never miss your chance to check your numbers and see if you are a winner.