The Mega Millions lottery, renowned for its life-changing jackpots, has once again captured the nation’s attention. On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, players across the United States eagerly awaited the drawing of a staggering $420 million jackpot. This article delves into the details of the draw, the winning numbers, prize breakdowns, and essential information for participants.
Winning Numbers for November 19, 2024
The winning numbers for the Mega Millions draw on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, were:
- White Balls: 5, 35, 50, 51, 59
- Mega Ball: 8
- Megaplier: 4x
These numbers were drawn at 11:00 PM Eastern Time, as per the standard schedule for Mega Millions drawings.
Prize Breakdown
Mega Millions offers nine prize tiers, ranging from matching just the Mega Ball to matching all five white balls plus the Mega Ball for the jackpot. The prize structure for the November 19 draw is as follows:
| Match | Prize Amount | Odds of Winning |
|---|---|---|
| 5 White Balls + Mega Ball | Jackpot | 1 in 302,575,350 |
| 5 White Balls | $1,000,000 | 1 in 12,607,306 |
| 4 White Balls + Mega Ball | $10,000 | 1 in 931,001 |
| 4 White Balls | $500 | 1 in 38,792 |
| 3 White Balls + Mega Ball | $200 | 1 in 14,547 |
| 3 White Balls | $10 | 1 in 606 |
| 2 White Balls + Mega Ball | $10 | 1 in 693 |
| 1 White Ball + Mega Ball | $4 | 1 in 89 |
| Mega Ball Only | $2 | 1 in 37 |
The overall odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 24.
Jackpot Details
The advertised jackpot for this draw was $420 million, with a cash option of $191.7 million. Winners have the choice between an annuity, which provides 30 graduated payments over 29 years, or a lump-sum cash payment. It’s important to note that both options are subject to federal and, in some cases, state taxes.
Recent Jackpot History
The Mega Millions jackpot has been rolling over since the last grand prize win on September 10, 2024, when a single ticket in Texas won $800 million. Since then, the jackpot has grown steadily, culminating in the $420 million prize for the November 19 draw.
How to Play Mega Millions
Participating in Mega Millions is straightforward:
- Purchase a Ticket: Each ticket costs $2. Players can add the Megaplier for an additional $1, which can multiply non-jackpot prizes by up to five times.
- Select Numbers: Choose five numbers from 1 to 70 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 25 for the Mega Ball. Alternatively, opt for a Quick Pick to have numbers randomly selected.
- Check Results: Drawings occur every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 PM ET.
Mega Millions tickets are available in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The states not offering Mega Millions are Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah.
Claiming Prizes
Winners must claim their prizes within a specified period, which varies by jurisdiction. For instance, in Florida, prizes must be claimed within 180 days from the date of the drawing. It’s advisable to consult the lottery authority in the state where the ticket was purchased for specific claim deadlines and procedures.
Tax Implications
Lottery winnings are subject to federal taxes, with a mandatory withholding rate of 24% for U.S. citizens or residents. Depending on the winner’s total income, additional federal taxes may apply. State taxes vary; some states do not tax lottery winnings, while others have rates exceeding 10%. For example, New York imposes a state tax of 10.9% on lottery prizes.
Responsible Gaming
While the allure of a massive jackpot is enticing, it’s crucial to play responsibly. Set a budget for lottery play and avoid spending more than you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, resources are available to provide support and assistance.
FAQs
What are the winning numbers for the November 19, 2024, Mega Millions draw?
The winning numbers are 5, 35, 50, 51, 59, with a Mega Ball of 8 and a Megaplier of 4x.
What is the cash option for the $420 million jackpot?
The cash option is approximately $191.7 million before taxes.
How do I claim a Mega Millions prize?
Prizes can be claimed at authorized lottery retailers or lottery offices, depending on the prize amount. Check with your state’s lottery authority for specific claim procedures and deadlines.
Are lottery winnings taxable?
Yes, lottery winnings are subject to federal taxes and, in many cases, state taxes. The rates vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Can I remain anonymous if I win the jackpot?
Anonymity laws vary by state. Some states allow winners to remain anonymous, while others require the disclosure of the winner’s identity.
