The Powerball jackpot continues to grow, reaching an estimated $1 billion ahead of the next drawing Wednesday night.
The current jackpot is the seventh largest U.S. lottery jackpot and third largest Powerball jackpot ever, according to lottery officials. It is second only to the $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot won in 2022 and the $1.586 billion Powerball jackpot, which was won in 2016.
While there are regular Powerball players, a giant jackpot seems to get new players flocking to retailers to buy tickets – and they may not know what to say or how to play. We’re here to help.
Here’s everything to know before stopping by your local store to buy a ticket.
How do you ask the cashier for a Powerball ticket?
Buying a Powerball ticket can be a simple process if you know what you’re doing.
To buy a ticket in-person, you can either ask for a “Quick Pick”, where a computer will generate numbers randomly, or you can pick the numbers yourself. The cashier will also ask about “power play.” For an extra dollar, you may choose to “power play,” which multiplies all non-grand prize winnings by a factor of 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10.
For “Quick Pick,” say this: “I’d like a quick pick Powerball ticket.” Then tell the cashier whether you want the multiplier or “power play.”
To pick your own numbers, say this: “I’d like a Powerball ticket and I will pick my numbers.”
With this option, you will fill out a playslip with your selections. Slips may also be up for grabs on the store floor, so you could fill it out before approaching the cashier. You will need to pick six Powerball numbers total: Five numbers between 1-69 and the Powerball number, which is one number between 1-26. Hand your slip to the cashier and you will receive a printout of those numbers. Again, you can choose to “power play” or not.
Need help choosing numbers? These are the most commonly drawn numbers.
How much are Powerball tickets?
Powerball tickets are $2 per play.
The “power play” is an additional $1 per play, and can multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 times.
There are 23 states where it’s allowed to buy lottery tickets with a credit card, according to NerdWallet. The other 22 states that offer the lottery can vary in what they accept for payment, from only cash to debit cards, gift cards and more. If you’re unsure, check the rules for your specific state or territory.
How do you play Powerball? A beginner’s guide to Powerball rules and potential prizes.
Where can you buy tickets?
The Powerball is played in 45 states and in Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Only Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah do not sell Powerball tickets.
Tickets can be purchased in-person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.
Some states offer the option to purchase Powerball tickets online through their lottery websites: Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Residents of Washington, D.C. can also purchase Powerball tickets online.
How late can you buy a Powerball ticket tonight?
Depending on the selling jurisdiction, sales for Powerball tickets may cut off one to two hours before the drawing. Drawings are held at 10:59 p.m. ET every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
How do you find out if you won?
First, remember to watch the Powerball drawing live, which is broadcast from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. Some local stations will air the drawings live, so check your local listings.
You can also stream it live on Powerball’s website or watch clips on their YouTube channel.
If you aren’t able to watch a drawing, you can always check your numbers on the Powerball’s website. Enter the date range of your drawing and your numbers to see if there was a match. The Powerball will only show numbers that have won a prize.
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