No ticket matched all six numbers in Wednesday’s drawing, pushing Saturday’s (Oct. 24) estimated jackpot to $674 million. The drawing is at 10:59 p.m. Eastern time. inquirersuaragarut
The cash vs. annuity
The cash value is estimated at $283.9 million. The advertised figure is the annuity, paid in 30 graduated installments. Federal and state taxes reduce it further. suaragarutlouisianalottery
Why it’s so big
There have been 30 consecutive drawings without a jackpot winner since August 15, the highest estimated jackpot since July. (Another report counts 29, so I’d say “about 30.”) chadronradiochadronradio
The odds
The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million, and the overall chance of winning any prize is 1 in 24.9. inquirer
Close calls
Three tickets matched five numbers in the last drawing, including a $1 million ticket sold in New Jersey. inquirer
Mega Millions too
The Mega Millions jackpot was an estimated $433 million for Friday’s drawing. chadronradio
Playing responsibly
Nebraska’s lottery director reminds players to set spending and time limits. Only spend what you can afford to lose. chadronradio
Bottom line: A huge number, a very long shot, and a good reminder that the cash prize is a fraction of the headline.
