Mega Millions Jackpot Soars to $862 Million

Written by Jackpot Staff

December 18, 2024

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached $862 million after no players matched all six numbers from the last drawing on December 17. The next drawing will be held tonight on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 11 p.m. ET. As one of the biggest potential prizes in December history, someone could be in store for a very happy holiday this year. If no one wins the jackpot, the next drawing to be held on Christmas Eve could come with a record-breaking prize.

Winning Numbers from December 17, 2024

Winning numbers from the last drawing: 56, 66, 67, 68, 69 and the Mega Ball 18.

While no one won the jackpot, there were several tickets that matched 5 winning numbers including two in California and one each in Louisiana and Oklahmona. Additionally, one lucky North Carolina ticket matched 5 numbers plus the Megaplier. If you live in any of these states, be sure to check your tickets to see if you’re a winner and claim your prize.

What You Need to Know Before Tonight’s Drawing

Tonight's estimated jackpot prize is $862 million with a cash option of $382.2 million. To play, you must purchase a ticket through an authorized retailer whether in-person or online. Players can choose the quick pick option or select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one number from 1 to 25 (the Mega Ball). Tickets are $2 per play and it costs an additional $1 to add the Megaplier which can increase non-jackpot prize winnings by 2, 3, 4 or 5 times.

Mega Millions is open to players in 45 U.S. states plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The cut off time to purchase tickets varies by state and across time zones, so be sure to review the rules for your location.

Players in select states can order official Mega Millions tickets online right here from Jackpot.com. See if tickets are available for online purchase in your state.

Changes Coming to Mega Millions in 2025

While no one can truly predict the lottery, this may be the last major Mega Millions prize before planned changes to the game take effect in April of 2025. While these changes will include slightly higher ticket prices, they will improve game play and winning potential.

Key Updates to the Game

• Improved odds for winning the jackpot
• Faster-growing jackpots and larger starting amounts
• Built-in multipliers that can enhance non-jackpot prizes by up to 10 times
• Elimination of break-even prizes, ensuring winnings exceed the cost of a ticket

New Ticket Prices

As these changes take effect, ticket prices will increase to $5 per play from their current $2. This will be the first price increase for Mega Millions tickets since 2017, but with exciting changes planned for the game, frequent and casual players alike are sure to reap the benefits.