The Powerball winning numbers, which will be announced tonight, could make someone ridiculously rich. The numbers are set to be announced at 11:00 p.m. Eastern time and someone could win the jackpot, which is currently at a record $550 million.
UPDATE: The Winning Numbers are 5-23-16-22-29 and Powerball number 6
Hype over the Powerball grew when the jackpot was at $425 million after the drawing last Wednesday. No one won and the jackpot has been growing since. It's now at a record $550 million, which is the highest it's ever been for the Powerball.
Only one U.S. lottery jackpot has ever been larger. On March 30, 2012, the Mega Million jackpot was $656 million. The payout was a $471 million cash prize.
This current jackpot has been running since Oct. 6. There have been 15 drawings but no jackpot winners as of yet. Now everyone seems to have the Powerball fever as millions of people hope to have their dreams come true.
While everyone who bought a ticket has high hopes, the odds of winning are extremely low. There is only a one in 175 million chance in hitting the jackpot.
To win, the five numbers that are drawn and the bonus powerball number must all match those on a ticket. One set of number costs $2.
Even though the jackpot is at $550 million, the winner won't be getting that amount. The cash payout is still pretty amazing in every state though. The cash prize from the $550 million jackpot is $360,200,000. However, after taxes and fees, it is even lower in various states.For instance, it would only be $231 million in New Jersey. However in states like Tennessee, Washington, Texas, South Dakota, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, and Florida, the payout would by $270,150,000 because these states don't take out state tax on lottery prizes.
Anyone who wants to play the Powerball has until 9:59 p.m. on Wednesday evening. A Powerball ticket starts at $2 for five numbers between one and 59, plus a bonus number from one to 35. Players can pick their own numbers or they may choose computer-generated quick pick numbers.
The Powerball is opened to those 18 and older in 42 US States, Washington D.C. and the US Virgin Islands.
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