First time playing the Mega Millions? Here's exactly how to ask the cashier for a ticket.
As the Mega Millions jackpot continues to grow, so does the interest in taking chances at a lottery now worth over $1 billion.
Sitting at an estimated $1.05 billion ahead of Tuesday night's drawing, the Mega Millions is tied for the fourth-largest jackpot in the lottery's history, according to officials. The largest Mega Millions jackpot ever was $1.537 billion, and was won by a single ticket in South Carolina in 2018.
While there are regular Mega Millions players, a giant jackpot seems to have 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.
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How do you ask the cashier for a Mega Millions ticket?
Buying a Mega Millions 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" or an "Easy Pick," where a computer will generate numbers randomly, or you can pick the numbers yourself. The cashier will also ask about the "Megaplier." For an extra dollar, you may choose to add the "Megaplier," which multiplies all non-grand prize winnings by a factor of 2, 3, 4 or 5.
For "Quick Pick," say this: "I'd like a quick pick Mega Millions ticket." Then tell the cashier whether you want the multiplier or "Megaplier."
To pick your own numbers, say this: "I'd like a Mega Millions 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 Mega Millions numbers total: Five numbers between 1-70 (the white balls) and the gold Mega Ball number, which is one number between 1-25. Hand your slip to the cashier and you will receive a printout of those numbers. Again, you can choose to add the "Megaplier" or not.
There are nine total ways to win a prize, from $2 (matching just the gold ball) to the jackpot (matching all numbers).
Some states have a special offer available called "Just the Jackpot." For $3, players receive two plays and can try for the jackpot only. Just the Jackpot tickets are not eligible for other prize levels, according to Mega Millions officials.
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