How to Play Mega Millions

Playing Mega Millions in 4 steps

1. Get a playslip at any licensed lottery retailer in a participating state (or through your state lottery's official app where iLottery is offered).
2. Pick 5 numbers from 1–70 plus a Mega Ball from 1–24 — or ask for a Quick Pick and let the terminal choose randomly (try our free Quick Pick generator first).
3. Pay $5 per play (multiplier included). No separate add-on: since April 2025 every ticket carries a built-in multiplier (2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X, randomly assigned at purchase) that is automatically applied to any non-jackpot prize.
4. Keep your ticket safe and check it after the drawing — Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 PM ET. Sales cut off shortly before draw time (typically 1–2 hours; varies by state).

If you win

Sign the back of the ticket immediately. Small prizes are paid at any retailer; larger prizes are claimed at lottery offices, and jackpots at your state lottery's headquarters. You'll choose between a 30-payment annuity and a lump-sum cash option — see the FAQ for how that works. Claim deadlines range from 90 days to a year depending on the state.

Checking results

Winning numbers appear on our Mega Millions results page within minutes of each drawing, with the full prize breakdown per draw and jackpot history.