Playing Mega Millions can be fun and exciting, and the best way to keep it that way is to stay in control. Responsible play means making informed decisions, setting limits and never risking more than you can afford to lose.
What responsible play means
Responsible play is choosing to play for entertainment while being aware of the risks. It means managing your time and money, knowing that winning is never guaranteed and making sure the game doesn't get in the way of your life, your work or your relationships.
What a responsible player does
- Plays for fun, not out of financial need.
- Knows the odds and treats the lottery as a game of chance.
- Sets limits on the time and money spent playing.
- Never borrows money to buy tickets.
- Doesn't let the game get in the way of work, family or health.
Tips for playing responsibly
- Decide on a weekly or monthly budget and stick to it, whatever the size of the jackpot.
- Only use money you can spare, never money for rent, bills or other essentials.
- Don't try to win back what you've spent: losses are part of the game.
- Don't play when you're upset, stressed or going through a hard time.
- Take breaks, and step back if playing starts to feel stressful or compulsive.
- Know the odds before you play. They're in Mega Millions odds.
Only for adults
You must be at least 18 to buy a Mega Millions ticket in most states, 19 in Nebraska and 21 in Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana and Mississippi. Lottery tickets make a fun gift for adults, but they're not for children.
If you play online, use the tools
Online lottery accounts include responsible gaming tools: you can usually set spending limits, take a break or exclude yourself for a while. Look for them in your account settings or in the responsible gaming section of your state lottery's website.
Signs of a gambling problem
Gambling becomes a problem when it starts to harm your life. Warning signs include:
- Thinking about gambling all the time or planning your next bet.
- Needing to spend more and more to feel the same excitement.
- Trying to cut back or stop, without success.
- Gambling to escape worry, stress or sadness.
- Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble.
- Borrowing money or selling things to keep gambling.
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, at work or at school.
Help and support
If you think you or someone close to you may have a gambling problem, reach out. Problem gambling is a health condition, not a sign of weakness, and help works. These services are free and confidential:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), 24 hours a day, or chat online at ncpgambling.org. It connects you with help and treatment where you live.
- Gamblers Anonymous: support groups in person and online, at gamblersanonymous.org.
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357), for treatment referrals and information.
- Your state's problem gambling program, usually listed on your state lottery's website.
If you're in crisis or thinking about hurting yourself, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If someone close to you is struggling
Talk to them calmly and without judging, and let them know help is available. Avoid lending them money to cover gambling debts. Family and friends can get support too: Gam-Anon runs groups for the families and friends of people with a gambling problem.
Play smart, play safe
Responsible play keeps Mega Millions a fun, safe activity. Enjoy the excitement of every drawing, play within your limits and remember that the goal is entertainment, not making money.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get help for a gambling problem?
Call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), or chat online at ncpgambling.org. It's free, confidential and open 24/7.
Is 1-800-GAMBLER still the national helpline?
The national helpline is now 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738): the National Council on Problem Gambling adopted it in January 2026, and its previous number, 1-800-522-4700, still works. 1-800-GAMBLER is run by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey and is still used in some states. All of these lines are free and confidential.
How old do you have to be to play Mega Millions?
18 in most states, 19 in Nebraska and 21 in Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana and Mississippi.
Can I limit how much I spend if I play online?
Yes. Online lottery accounts let you set spending limits, take a break or exclude yourself. Look for the responsible gaming options in your account or on your state lottery's website.
Last reviewed: . Independent information: official results are published by the lottery that runs the game.