The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to an estimated $944 million, as lottery enthusiasts across the United States gear up for the much-anticipated drawing on Christmas Eve. This remarkable prize marks the seventh-largest jackpot ever recorded in the history of Mega Millions, following another drawing on Friday night without any winners. The winning numbers from the December 20 drawing were 2, 20, 51, 56, 67, and Mega Ball 19, as reported by NBC.
With the excitement building for the December 24 drawing slated for 11:00 p.m. Eastern, players find themselves dreaming of what it would be like to wake up with nearly $1 billion ready for claim on Christmas morning. The fact remains, though, the odds of winning this monumental prize are considerably sparse, standing at 1 in 302 million.
This year has already been notable for lottery players, especially with the biggest winner claiming $1.6 billion earlier this year, and now the stakes are even higher as Christmas approaches. According to Forbes, the jackpot winner can choose between either receiving their winnings as 30 annual installments or opting for the one-time lump sum, estimated at around $429.4 million before taxes.
But, let’s be realistic: after federal tax withholdings, the actual amount available could drop significantly. For example, with the mandatory 24% tax, the cash option would reduce down to approximately $326.3 million, and depending on state taxes, this can vary even more, with high-tax states like New York potentially taking around 10.9% off the top.
The excitement surrounding the Christmas Eve drawing isn't entirely new. Historically, only one Mega Millions jackpot has been won on this festive date – back in 2002, the $68 million prize went unclaimed. Since the lottery’s inception, 13 jackpots have seen winners during December. This season could mark another memorable milestone if someone walks away from the drawing having matched all five white balls plus the elusive Mega Ball.
Details surrounding the current jackpot reveal there are also smaller prizes granted for matching fewer numbers. Over 2 million non-jackpot-winning tickets were drawn on December 20, with five players winning $1 million each by matching all five white balls. These tickets were sold across states including Indiana, Arkansas, Illinois, and Pennsylvania.
Many players will be purchasing those $2 tickets, and for those who want to boost their potential non-jackpot winnings, adding the Megaplier for another dollar can increase opportunities. With the jackpot climbing close to the billion-dollar mark, the ticket-buying frenzy is frenzied as families prepare for holidays including traditional get-togethers with dreams of what to do with their newfound wealth.
While engaging with the holiday spirit, players express hope and anticipation, which highlights what plays out much every December. The excitement and community surrounding the Mega Millions not only brings hope to individuals seeking life-changing amounts of money but also fosters conversation and collective energy shared among neighbors and friends alike.
Potential winners will certainly be drawn to what could very well be the largest ever Mega Millions jackpot won during December if someone strikes lucky. Who wouldn’t want the ultimate holiday gift? With Christmas just around the corner, many are crossing their fingers and playing the odds, hoping for luck to shine their way on this productive and joyful occasion.
What remains to be seen is whether anyone will hit the jackpot this Christmas Eve drawing. Many are waiting with bated breath, eager for the numbers to be drawn. Will someone leave with not just holiday cheer, but also with newfound wealth? Only hours stand between anticipation and potential fortune on December 24, so get your tickets ready, and may the odds be ever in your favor!
