Mega Millions Jackpot Boosted to $350 Million on Brisk Sales

MIDDLETOWN, Pa., Aug. 8, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Driven by strong ticket sales, the Mega Millions® jackpot for tonight's drawing was increased today to a $350 million annuity value or a $218.3 million cash prize. The jackpot initially rolled to a $346 million annuity value after last Friday's drawing.

Notably, the Powerball® jackpot for Wednesday, August 9, stands at a $307 million annuity value or a $192.3 million cash prize.

"With a combined total of $657 million in jackpots up for grabs, we want to remind players to always play responsibly," said Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko. "One way to do so is to pool ticket purchases with your family, friends or colleagues."

In Pennsylvania, tickets for both games are sold until 9:59 p.m. on drawing nights.

Pennsylvania has sold two jackpot-winning Mega Millions tickets since joining the game in 2010, and 17 Powerball jackpot winning tickets since joining that game 15 years ago. Pennsylvania's largest Mega Millions jackpot was an $86.7 million cash-value prize claimed by a Pittsburgh couple in 2014. The state's largest Powerball prize was a $110.2 million cash-value jackpot claimed by a New Jersey couple in 2004.

Powerball and Mega Millions are played in 44 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball costs $2 to play; Mega Millions costs $1. Visit palottery.com for instructions on how to play.

About Us: The Pennsylvania Lottery remains the only state lottery to direct all proceeds to programs that benefit older residents. Since ticket sales began in 1972, it has contributed nearly $28 billion to fund property tax and rent rebates, transportation, care services, prescription assistance, and local services including senior centers and meals. 

Players must be 18 or older. Please play responsibly. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for help with a compulsive gambling problem.

Visit palottery.com for winning numbers, rules, chances of winning, and to join the VIP Players Club for second chances to win. Install our official mobile app, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @PALottery.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lottery Media Relations, 717-702-8008

SOURCE Pennsylvania Lottery