Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $474M for September 26, 2025 Draw

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached a projected $474 million for the next drawing on Friday, September 26, 2025. This incredible amount gives players a once-in-a-lifetime chance to win, including a cash lump sum option (before taxes) of about $219.4 million. The drawing will take place at 11:00 PM Eastern Time (8:30 AM IST) and will be streamed live on the Mega Millions official website, so players can see the results as they are announced.

How to Play Mega Millions

Playing Mega Millions is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps:

• Select Your Numbers: Choose five numbers from 1 to 70 and a Mega Ball number from 1 to 24.
• Purchase Your Ticket: Tickets are $5 each and include the Megaplier option.
• Pick a Quick Pick: If you don't want to pick your own numbers, you can let the system generate numbers randomly.
• Select the Megaplier Option: If selected, Megaplier will give you the option to multiply any non-jackpot winnings by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, or 10X.
• Submit Your Ticket: As long as you purchase your ticket by the cutoff time prior to the drawing, you are covered.
• Check Winning Numbers: Tune into the drawing or verify results and winning numbers on official sites.

Understanding the Odds of Mega Millions

The chance of winning the Mega Millions jackpot is extremely low, with odds of 1 in 292 million. However, even though the jackpots are unlikely, the game has several prize categories, allowing players to win on a smaller scale, and it still feels like players are having a chance to win with a prize award of roughly 1 in 23 overall.

Recent Mega Millions Winning Numbers

In the drawing on Tuesday, September 22, 2025, the winning numbers were:

• 13, 24, 41, 42, 70 and
• Mega Ball is 18.

No player had an all payoff, therefore the jackpot remains at $474 million+. Please please take a moment and check tickets before. You may want to verify the official result.

Mega Millions Prize Options: Annuity vs. Lump Sum

Winners of the Mega Millions jackpot have two main payment options:

• Annuity: The lace is awarded in 30 annual payments and increases 5% each year of payout.
• Lump Sum: A one-time payout where the cash out option value is currently estimated at $219.4 million before taxes.

While most winners will choose the lump sum option (instant access to funds), annuity payment options should be chosen if the winner prefers to keep schooling long term.

Where to Watch the Mega Millions Drawing

The Mega Millions drawing is broadcast live at 11:00 PM eastern time, and you can watch it: 

• Online: Through the official website of Mega Millions. 
• Television: Local television stations that carry other lotteries and lottery drawings. 

Where to Buy Mega Millions Tickets

You can buy Mega Millions tickets using several different methods: 

• Authorized Retailers: These are typically convenience stores, supermarkets, and gas stations where Mega Millions is played in participating U.S. states. 
• Official State Lottery Websites: Some states offer legal online platforms that allow residents to purchase tickets. 
• Lottery Subscription Services: Some states give you the option to subscribe to a service that automatically enters you into multiple draws while you are away. 
• Safety tip: To help protect yourself from scams, always buy your Mega Millions tickets from an official and authorized retailer. 
• Ticket Storage: Remember to keep your ticket safe, because you will need it to claim any winnings. 

Why Mega Millions Lottery Remains Popular Among Players

One reason Mega Millions is one of the top lotteries in the United States is the combination of gigantic jackpots in millions of dollars and the simple way to play. The chance to win a life-changing amount of money, combined with regularly scheduled drawings, creates a thrill across the nation. Lottery news coverage as well as social media causes the growing popularity as players exchange their own predictions, previous drawings and bet selections.