Frequently Asked Questions
Essential information on US lottery drawings, payouts, odds, and independent verification.
When are Powerball drawings held?
Powerball drawings take place three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights at 10:59 PM Eastern Time (ET). The physical drawing is hosted live in Tallahassee, Florida.
When are Mega Millions drawings held?
Mega Millions drawings occur twice a week on Tuesday and Friday nights at 11:00 PM Eastern Time (ET). Drawings are conducted live at WSB-TV studios in Atlanta, Georgia.
What is the difference between Power Play and Megaplier?
Power Play is the optional multiplier for Powerball ($1 extra per play), multiplying non-jackpot prizes up to 10x (and doubling Match 5 to $2 million). Megaplier is the Mega Millions multiplier ($1 extra), which can multiply non-jackpot prizes up to 5x, potentially turning Match 5 into $5 million.
How is a lottery jackpot calculated?
Jackpots are funded by 50% of overall ticket sales revenue. The advertised figure is the 30-year graduated annuity value. If a winner selects the cash lump sum, they receive the immediate cash present value of the prize fund (typically around 45% - 50% of the annuity figure).
Are US lottery drawings truly random?
Yes. Official drawings utilize certified mechanical gravity-pick lottery machines and audited rubber/latex ball sets verified before and after each broadcast by independent accounting firms (such as BDO USA). Every number combination has an equal mathematical probability on every draw.
Can lottery tickets be purchased on this website?
No. USA Lottery Results is purely an informational and journalistic website. We do not sell tickets, accept payments, or take bets. Tickets can only be purchased from licensed lottery retailers in authorized jurisdictions.
Where should I verify winning tickets?
Always confirm physical lottery tickets by scanning them at an authorized state lottery retail terminal or by contacting your state lottery jurisdiction headquarters directly.
What is the minimum age to play the lottery in the US?
In most US states, the minimum age to purchase lottery tickets is 18 years old. However, in Nebraska the legal age is 19, and in Arizona, Iowa, and Louisiana, players must be at least 21 years old.