Information about Mega Millions
The real odds of every prize tier, how to read the number statistics, practical tips, how to claim a prize and pay taxes on it, where the money goes, how to spot scams and how to play responsibly.
Mega Millions odds: your chances in every prize tier
1 in 290,472,336 for the jackpot and about 1 in 23 for any prize. Where those numbers come from, the odds of all nine tiers and how the multiplier fits in.
Mega Millions statistics: how to read them
Frequencies, hot and cold numbers and most drawn Mega Balls: what the statistics tell you, what they don't, and the traps that make patterns seem real.
Mega Millions tips: how to play smart
No tip changes the odds, but these help you spend what you planned, avoid sharing a prize, never miss a win and steer clear of scams.
How to claim a Mega Millions prize
Where to cash each prize, how long you have, what to bring, how federal and state taxes work, and what to decide if you win the jackpot.
Where Mega Millions money goes: how states benefit
Half of every dollar goes back in prizes. The rest pays retailers and running costs and funds education, seniors, veterans, parks and more, depending on the state.
Lottery scams: how to spot and avoid fraud
Fake prize calls, bogus checks, special drawings on social media and upfront fees: how Mega Millions scams work, the red flags and what to do if you're targeted.
Responsible play: how to enjoy Mega Millions safely
Playing for fun and staying in control: tips for setting limits, the signs of a gambling problem and where to find free, confidential help.
Play with the facts in front of you
The odds of matching all five white balls and the Mega Ball are 1 in 290,472,336 per play: the 12,103,014 ways to choose five numbers from 70, times the 24 Mega Balls. Winning any prize is much more likely, 1 in 23.07, because matching the Mega Ball alone already pays.
No system, statistic or "hot" number changes those odds: every drawing is independent, which is why the statistics help you understand the game, not predict it. What you can control is everything else: how much you spend, where you buy, how you spot a scam and what you do if you win. Here you'll find the odds of every tier, practical tips, how to claim a prize, how to avoid scams and where the money goes.
If playing ever stops being fun, responsible play explains the warning signs and where to find free, confidential help. You must be at least 18 to play in most states, and 21 in some.