A lucky New Jersey Mega Millions player is holding an unclaimed $1.128 billion jackpot ticket, making them the winner of the first big prize of the year. The winning ticket was drawn on March 26 after 31 consecutive drawings without a winner. The white ball numbers were 7, 11, 22, 29, and 38, with the gold Mega Ball being 4.
If the winner chooses the cash option, they could take home $536.6 million. The ticket was purchased at ShopRite Liquor #781 in Neptune Township, New Jersey.
Congratulations from Mega Millions Leadership
Gretchen Corbin, President and CEO of Georgia’s Lottery and lead director of the Mega Millions Consortium, congratulated the New Jersey Lottery for selling the winning ticket. She praised the winner and emphasized the positive impact lottery sales have on raising funds for good causes.
What Happens if the Mega Millions Jackpot is Unclaimed?
If no one claims the jackpot, the prize money will be returned to the participating states. Each state will use its share of the unclaimed prize for different purposes, often benefiting public programs. In New Jersey, lottery sales contribute to retirement funds for public employees such as teachers, police officers, and firefighters.
Upcoming Mega Millions Drawing
The next Mega Millions drawing will be held on Friday, Sept. 27, with an estimated jackpot of $77 million. If someone wins, they could walk away with $38.2 million in cash.
Top 10 Mega Millions Jackpots
Here are the top Mega Millions jackpots as of Sept. 26:
- $1.602 billion – Aug. 8, 2023 (Florida)
- $1.537 billion – Oct. 23, 2018 (South Carolina)
- $1.348 billion – Jan. 13, 2023 (Maine)
- $1.337 billion – July 29, 2022 (Illinois)
- $1.128 billion – March 26, 2024 (New Jersey)
- $1.050 billion – Jan. 22, 2021 (Michigan)
- $810 million – Sept. 10, 2024 (Texas)
- $656 million – March 30, 2012 (Illinois, Kansas, Maryland)
- $648 million – Dec. 17, 2013 (California, Georgia)
- $552 million – June 4, 2024 (Illinois)
How to Play Mega Millions
To play Mega Millions, you need to pick six numbers: five white balls ranging from 1 to 70, and one gold Mega Ball between 1 and 25. You can choose your numbers or opt for a “Quick Pick,” where the numbers are randomly generated for you. For an additional $1, players can add the “Megaplier,” which multiplies non-jackpot winnings by up to five times.
Where to Buy Mega Millions Tickets
Tickets are available at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores across the country. In some states, you can also buy tickets online. Mega Millions drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday, so don’t miss your chance to play!
This massive unclaimed jackpot is still waiting for its lucky owner. If you’re the holder of the winning ticket, make sure to claim your prize before it’s too late!