The excitement is palpable as the Powerball jackpot has soared to an astonishing $1.8 billion for tonight’s drawing, making it the second-largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history. With an estimated cash value of $826.4 million, this massive prize has captured the attention of millions across the country, all dreaming of what they could do with such a life-changing sum. The drawing is set to take place at 10:59 p.m. ET at the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee and will be live-streamed on Powerball.com.
A Historic Jackpot Run
Tonight’s drawing marks the 42nd consecutive drawing since the last jackpot was won on May 31, 2025, in California, tying the game’s record for the longest streak without a winner. This prolonged run has fueled the jackpot’s meteoric rise, with ticket sales surging as the prize climbs higher. The previous record for consecutive drawings without a winner was set on April 6, 2024, when a $1.326 billion jackpot was claimed in Oregon.
“Excitement is building as players look forward to tonight’s drawing for this historic jackpot,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “We encourage everyone to play responsibly and take pride in knowing that every $2 ticket also helps support good causes in their community.”
How to Play Powerball
For those new to Powerball, playing is simple but thrilling. For $2 per ticket, players select five numbers from 1 to 69 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 26 for the red Powerball. Alternatively, players can opt for a Quick Pick, where the lottery terminal randomly generates the numbers. For an additional $1 per play, the Power Play option can multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, 5, or even 10 times (the 10X multiplier is available when the jackpot is $150 million or less).
Powerball tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET, with ticket sales typically closing a few hours before the draw, depending on the state.
What Happens If You Win?
If someone matches all six numbers tonight, they’ll face a life-altering decision: take the annuitized prize of $1.8 billion, paid out in one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5% each year, or opt for the lump sum of approximately $826.4 million. Both options are subject to federal and, in some cases, state taxes, which could significantly reduce the final payout. For example, the IRS requires a mandatory 24% withholding on prizes over $5,000, and winners in the top 37% federal tax bracket could owe even more.
In states like California, Florida, and Texas, winners face no state taxes on lottery prizes, potentially taking home around $1.1 billion over 30 years or $521 million as a lump sum after federal taxes. However, in high-tax states like New York, the after-tax payout could be closer to $939 million for the annuity or less for the cash option.
The Odds and Other Prizes
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are a daunting 1 in 292.2 million, but the game offers nine ways to win, with the overall odds of winning any prize at 1 in 24.9. Matching just the red Powerball wins $4, while matching all five white balls (without the Powerball) secures a $1 million prize—or $2 million with the Power Play option. This jackpot run has already produced 101 tickets worth $1 million or more and over 1,000 tickets worth $50,000 or more nationwide.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Since its inception in 1992, Powerball has generated over $36 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries, such as education, veterans’ services, and community programs. More than half of every ticket’s proceeds stay in the jurisdiction where it was sold, making every play a contribution to local communities.
Tips for Players
Check Your Tickets: Even if you don’t win the jackpot, smaller prizes can be significant. Use theinse to check your numbers, or visit a retailer to scan your ticket.
Claiming Prizes: Winners have 180 days to claim non-jackpot prizes and up to one year for the jackpot. Prizes must be claimed in the state where the ticket was purchased.
Play Responsibly: As the jackpot grows, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Set a budget and stick to it, as the odds of winning the grand prize are slim.
Could Tonight Be the Night?
As the nation buzzes with anticipation, ticket buyers are dreaming big. From paying off debts to buying dream homes or giving back to their communities, the possibilities are endless for the lucky winner. If no one wins tonight, the jackpot could surpass the all-time record of $2.04 billion, set in November 2022.
Tune in tonight at 10:59 p.m. ET to see if history is made, and don’t forget to sign your ticket and check it carefully after the draw. Whether you’re a regular player or joining the frenzy for this historic jackpot, good luck—and play responsibly!
