Mega Millions Offers Free Tickets Amid Game Changes

NEW YORK (WABC) — In a bid to draw more players amid recent changes, Mega Millions is offering a promotional deal for new customers on the online lottery site Jackpot.com. From now until the end of April, individuals who join the platform and purchase a Mega Millions ticket will receive a second ticket at no additional charge, effectively doubling their chances of winning.

This offer comes as the Mega Millions game has seen its ticket price increase from $2 to $5, a significant change as it marks only the second price increase in the game’s 23-year history. Additionally, lottery officials have decided to remove one gold “Mega Ball” from the draw, enhancing the odds for players from 1 in 24 to 1 in 23 for winning any prize.

The Mega Millions game, which is available across 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, is also adjusting its offerings by eliminating a few add-ons, including the “Megaplier,” a $1 feature that boosts non-jackpot payouts but is not available in all states. Furthermore, the $3 “Just the Jackpot” ticket, which allowed players two chances to win the jackpot but excluded lower-tier prizes, will also be discontinued.

Recent statistics show the top Mega Millions jackpots in history, led by a record-high $1.602 billion ticket sold in Florida on August 8, 2023. Other significant wins in the past include $1.537 billion in South Carolina in October 2018 and $1.348 billion in Maine in January 2023.

Lottery players are encouraged to take part in the current promotions. With many opportunities for substantial wins, including a current jackpot of $54 million for the upcoming Powerball drawing, the excitement surrounding lottery games continues to grow.

The next Mega Millions drawing is set for Tuesday and Friday nights at 11:00 p.m., while Powerball drawings occur every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. Both games now boast increased player engagement due to promotional opportunities and the enticing potential for life-changing payouts.