Mega Millions Announces Major Overhaul: $5 Tickets and Higher Jackpots Coming in April

By Marcus Bennett

April 24, 2025 at 01:17 AM

Mega Millions is implementing significant changes starting April 8, making it potentially more rewarding for players. Here's everything you need to know about the new format:

Key Changes at a Glance:

  • Ticket price increases from $2 to $5
  • Starting jackpot rises to $50 million (from $20 million)
  • Built-in multiplier included with every ticket
  • Better overall odds: 1 in 23 (previously 1 in 24)
  • Improved jackpot odds: 1 in 290.4 million (from 1 in 302.5 million)

New Prize Structure:

  • Non-jackpot prizes range from $10 to $10 million
  • Built-in multiplier can boost prizes by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or 10x
  • "Just the Jackpot" feature discontinued

Important Dates:

  • Final drawing under old rules: April 4
  • First drawing with new format: April 8 at 11 p.m. ET

How to Play:

  • Pick five numbers (1-70)
  • Choose one Mega Ball number (1-24)
  • Quick Pick option available for computer-generated numbers

Where to Buy Tickets:

  • Gas stations
  • Convenience stores
  • Grocery stores
  • Select airports and transit hubs
  • Jackpocket app (in eligible states)

All tickets purchased before April 8 will be honored under the old prize structure. While the price per play has increased, the enhanced prize structure and better odds make this the most potentially rewarding version of Mega Millions to date.

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