The excitement surrounding the Mega Millions jackpot is reaching a fever pitch! As of April 1, 2025, the jackpot has skyrocketed to $29 million, after no one hit the jackpot during Friday’s drawing. If you’re lucky enough to match all six winning numbers tonight, you could claim a one-time cash payout of $13.5 million. But how do you get your hands on that kind of money?
In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the Mega Millions game, how you can play, the latest winning numbers, and some key updates you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned veteran, this guide will help you maximise your chances of winning big.
Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $29 Million: What Does This Mean for You?
The Mega Millions jackpot has recently reached an eye-popping $29 million—and that number is expected to grow with each passing drawing until someone finally matches all six numbers. So, what’s behind this impressive jackpot surge?
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The Mega Millions jackpot is driven by the number of tickets sold and whether there is a winner. With every drawing, the prize pool increases if no one wins the grand prize.
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Players need to match five white balls in any order, plus the Mega Ball (which is a separate number drawn from a different pool) to win the jackpot.
So, if you’ve been thinking about buying a ticket, now is the perfect time. You could be the next big winner, joining the ranks of players who have scored life-changing amounts of money.
Winning Numbers for Tuesday, April 1, 2025
If you’re wondering whether you’re holding onto a winning ticket, the Mega Millions winning numbers for April 1, 2025, are:
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11, 12, 21, 29, 49
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Mega Ball: 3
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Megaplier: 2X
The Megaplier multiplies your non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, or even 5 times, depending on which Megaplier ball is drawn before the six main numbers. For tonight’s drawing, the 2X Megaplier was in play, meaning any prize you win (except the jackpot) is worth double.
How Does Mega Millions Work?
If you’re new to Mega Millions, here’s a quick refresher on how to play and what to expect:
1. Buy a Ticket
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You can purchase a Mega Millions ticket at most convenience stores, grocery stores, and even some airport terminals. Tickets are also available online through digital lottery services like Jackpocket (available in specific states).
2. Pick Your Numbers
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You’ll need to choose six numbers: five white balls (numbered from 1 to 70) and one Mega Ball (ranging from 1 to 25).
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Don’t feel like choosing? No problem! You can opt for a Quick Pick, where the system generates a random set of numbers for you.
3. Add the Megaplier (Optional)
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For an extra $1, you can add the Megaplier to your ticket. This option multiplies your winnings, except the jackpot, by 2, 3, 4, or 5 times.
4. Wait for the Drawing
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The Mega Millions drawing takes place every Tuesday and Friday night at 11 p.m. ET. If you’re in the right place at the right time, you could be looking at a massive payout.
Can You Win the Jackpot? What Are the Odds?
Let’s be real: winning the Mega Millions jackpot isn’t easy. The odds of winning the grand prize are approximately 1 in 302.6 million. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t play!
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The odds of winning smaller prizes are much better, and there are several prize tiers. You don’t have to win the jackpot to walk away with a hefty sum of money.
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Prizes range from $2 for matching the Mega Ball, to $1 million for matching five white balls (without the Mega Ball).
Mega Millions Prize Breakdown:
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Jackpot (5 + Mega Ball): Starts at $20 million and grows if not won.
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Match 5 (5 white balls): $1 million (more with Megaplier).
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Match 4 + Mega Ball: $10,000 (more with Megaplier).
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Match 4: $500.
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Match 3 + Mega Ball: $200.
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Match 3: $10.
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Match 2 + Mega Ball: $10.
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Match 1 + Mega Ball: $4.
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Mega Ball Only: $2.
While the jackpot is a massive draw, keep in mind that there are plenty of other ways to win, even if you’re not hitting the grand prize.
Where to Buy Mega Millions Tickets
You can purchase your Mega Millions tickets at a variety of locations, including:
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Gas stations
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Convenience stores
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Grocery stores
In some states, you can even buy tickets online via services like Jackpocket. This service allows you to pick your numbers, purchase a ticket, and even claim your winnings all from your smartphone or computer.
Here’s a quick look at the states where Jackpocket is available for digital ticket purchases:
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Arizona
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Arkansas
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Colorado
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Idaho
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Maine
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Massachusetts
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Minnesota
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Montana
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Nebraska
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New Hampshire
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New Jersey
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New York
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Ohio
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Oregon
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Puerto Rico
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Washington, D.C.
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West Virginia
Important Mega Millions Updates:
As of late, the Mega Millions game has undergone some significant changes, notably the increase in ticket prices. Starting in 2025, the cost to play Mega Millions has risen to $5 per ticket, more than doubling the previous price of $2. This change is expected to increase the jackpot amounts and overall prize pool, giving players even bigger prizes to dream about.
Conclusion: Could You Be the Next Mega Millions Winner?
The Mega Millions jackpot is now $29 million and could continue to grow with each drawing. Whether you’re playing for the first time or you’re a regular lottery enthusiast, there’s always a chance that tonight could be your lucky night.
Don’t forget to pick up your Mega Millions ticket before the drawing and maybe even consider adding the Megaplier for a chance to boost your non-jackpot winnings. Good luck!
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
Photo credit: Cleveland
