Complete Mega Millions prize breakdown: all 9 winning categories, estimated payouts, how the jackpot grows, and what to do if you win.
Mega Millions has 9 prize levels. All prizes except the jackpot are fixed amounts. The jackpot starts at a minimum of $20 million and grows each drawing until someone wins it.
| Prize Level | Match Required | Odds (1 in...) | Prize Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackpot | 5 white + Mega Ball | 302,575,350 | Jackpot (starts at $20M) |
| 2nd Prize | 5 white (no Mega Ball) | 12,607,306 | $1,000,000 |
| 3rd Prize | 4 white + Mega Ball | 931,001 | $10,000 |
| 4th Prize | 4 white (no Mega Ball) | 38,792 | $500 |
| 5th Prize | 3 white + Mega Ball | 14,547 | $200 |
| 6th Prize | 3 white (no Mega Ball) | 606 | $10 |
| 7th Prize | 2 white + Mega Ball | 693 | $10 |
| 8th Prize | 1 white + Mega Ball | 89 | $4 |
| 9th Prize | Mega Ball only | 37 | $2 |
The Mega Millions jackpot begins at $20 million and rolls over each drawing when no ticket matches all 6 numbers. Over time, this rollover mechanism has produced some of the largest lottery prizes in history, including the record $1.602 billion jackpot in 2023.
Jackpot winners can choose between two payout options:
All Mega Millions prizes over $600 must be claimed at a lottery office. Prizes over $5,000 are subject to 24% federal tax withholding. Additional state taxes vary: some states (Florida, California, Texas) don't tax lottery winnings, while others can take an additional 5-10%.
For an extra $1 per play, the Megaplier option multiplies any non-jackpot prize by 2x, 3x, 4x, or 5x. The 2nd prize of $1,000,000 becomes $2,000,000 with any Megaplier. The minimum prize of $2 becomes $4–$10 with Megaplier active.
The process for claiming a Mega Millions prize depends on the prize amount and your state:
Tickets have a validity period that varies by state (typically between 90 days and 1 year from the draw date). Always sign the back of your ticket immediately to protect your claim.
The jackpot is split equally among all winning tickets. If two tickets match all 6 numbers, each receives 50% of the jackpot. This is why choosing less popular number combinations — while it doesn't affect your odds — can result in a larger share if you win.
Yes, winners can choose the cash option (lump sum) or annuity. The cash value is approximately 60% of the advertised jackpot. Secondary prizes ($4 through $1,000,000) are always paid as a lump sum.
Claim periods vary by state, ranging from 90 days to 1 year from the draw date. Check your specific state lottery's website for exact rules. Unclaimed prizes are returned to the states for public benefit programs.
Yes, there is no citizenship or residency requirement to play or win Mega Millions. However, non-US winners may face additional withholding taxes (typically 30% for non-resident aliens under US tax law) and should consult a tax professional before claiming large prizes.