Powerball Jackpot Is Fourth-Largest In History

How Much Is the Powerball Jackpot?

Wednesday’s draw offered a jackpot of $562 million, which was up from the original estimate of $550 million after high ticket sales, but nobody matched the full winning line. The main numbers drawn were 10, 14, 50, 53 and 63, with Powerball 2.

The top prize is now set to jump well beyond $600 million, making it one of the biggest amounts ever to be seen on any lottery in the world. The estimated Powerball jackpot is currently $625 million, but it could be worth even more if ticket sales are high enough.

The record of $1.58 billion is still some way off, but the next two on the list of the largest Powerball jackpot winners are now well within reach.Two ticket holders shared $687 million in October of last year, while Mavis Wanczyk landed $758 million in August 2017

The level of participation is only expected to increase until the jackpot is finally won, and even Powerball fans from states such as Alabama that do not sell tickets have crossed borders to take part.

Powerball officials have not been surprised by the way the big jackpot has connected with the public’s imagination, but have also emphasized the importance of knowing your limits as you go in search of the top prize.

“A lot like the flowers in the southwest, this $625 million Powerball jackpot is a spectacular super bloom,” said David Barden, Powerball Product Group Chairman and New Mexico Lottery CEO. “It does not happen often – and when it does, everyone wants to be a part of it.”

Barden added: “It is fun to dream how this jackpot could change lives. As Powerball players across the nation embrace the excitement, please remember to play responsibly and only play what you can afford. It only takes one ticket to win.”

What Happens When You Win the Powerball Jackpot?

If you are lucky enough to win the jackpot this weekend, you must come forward within the claim period set out by the state in which you bought your ticket. It is not possible to redeem winnings from a different jurisdiction and you will not be entitled to your money if you miss the deadline.

Depending on where you played, you may have the option to stay anonymous or claim your winnings through a trust. If not, your name will be made public. You must also decide whether to take the jackpot as an annuity or go for a cash lump sum, which for Saturday night will be worth around $380 million.

Your prize will be taxed, of course, but the amount that will be withheld on top of the 37 percent federal rate depends on where you purchased your entry. You should seek expert financial advice if you win, allowing you to start enjoying life as a multimillionaire from the best possible platform.

Even if you miss out on the jackpot, there are eight other ways to pick up prizes in every draw. Four players matched five main numbers without the Powerball on Wednesday to win $1 million each. Another two Match 5 winners, both from South Carolina, received $2 million each after adding the Power Play option.

There are sure to be more big prizes given away on Saturday night, but will the jackpot be won for the first time this year? Keep an eye on the Numbers page straight after the drawing takes place to find out.