The Mega Millions lottery drawing on Saturday, December 12, 2025, featured an estimated jackpot of $70 million, with a cash option of $32 million available to winners. The previous jackpot was claimed by a lucky player in New Jersey, who won $90 million on December 2.
As participants eagerly anticipated the results, many were reminded that the Powerball jackpot had soared to an astonishing $1 billion for the same evening’s drawing, presenting an enticing cash option of $461.3 million.
The winning numbers for the Mega Millions drawing on December 12 were 10, 50, 55, 58, 59, with a Megaball of 5. As excitement builds around these drawings, many people are looking for ways to increase their odds of winning.
Drawings for Mega Millions occur every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. ET. As of April 8, 2025, several changes in the game structure included an increase in the ticket price to $5 and adjustments to the number of balls selected. Players now choose five numbers from a range of 1 to 70, along with one Mega Ball from 1 to 24. Quick Pick options are available for players who prefer a randomly generated selection.
The minimum prize for matching just the Mega Ball is $10, while the payout jumps to a minimum of $2 million for those who match all five white balls, excluding California.
Eligibility to play Mega Millions extends beyond U.S. citizens and residents, allowing those in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to participate. However, Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah do not offer the game. Tickets can be purchased at various locations, including gas stations and grocery stores, or online via platforms like Jackpocket, which is available in several states.
Potential players should keep in mind the deadlines for purchasing tickets, which vary by state and can span from 15 minutes to two hours before the drawing takes place. For instance, in New Jersey, the deadline through Jackpocket is set for 9:15 p.m. for the 11 p.m. drawing.
Though the allure of winning can be tempting, the odds for snagging the Mega Millions jackpot stand at an impressive 290,472,336-to-1. For those feeling particularly unlucky, there are a surprising number of less probable events than winning the lottery.
Participants also have the option to choose between two payout methods if they win the jackpot: the annuity option, which is paid over time, or the lump-sum cash option. Some states, including New Jersey, allow winners to remain anonymous, providing an additional layer of privacy for those who choose to take home a life-changing sum.
In recent history, the largest jackpots within the Mega Millions and Powerball lotteries have been remarkable, with the Mega Millions reaching a staggering $1.602 billion in August 2023. Players continue to chase these life-changing prizes, and with every drawing, the excitement and anticipation grow, drawing millions into the realm of dreams and ambition.
