Powerball, the multi-state lottery game known for its huge jackpots, can be found in all but six states as well as D.C. and Puerto Rico and is administered by the Multi-State Lottery Association. Players draw five white ball numbers between one and 69 and then select a single red Powerball number between 1 to 26 via terminal (often called quick pick or easy pick), before following suit by matching at least three white balls with red Powerball numbers to win big jackpots! When matching at least three white balls plus Powerball wins big!
Each regular Powerball ticket costs $2 and the Power Play option can be added for $1 more to the cost. Each drawing, the randomly-selected Power Play number can multiply non-jackpot prizes two, three, four, five or 10 times! Starting at $40 Million the jackpot will continue growing by $10 Million every time it goes unwon. Licensed retailers sell Powerball tickets.
Basic Powerball tickets are only valid for the next drawing. To participate again, purchase another ticket and mark your numbers again. Alternatively, Quick Pick or Multi-Draw options can extend your participation for multiple drawings; simply mark the boxes on your playslip accordingly or request one at the lottery kiosk or self-service machine.
Before every drawing, a lottery machine dispenses all white balls into one drum and one red Powerball into a separate one. Five white ball numbers are then selected at random from among them if any match the number that comes out of Powerball drum – prizes vary based on how many matching numbers were correctly predicted – five being worth major prizes while less predictions lead to smaller awards.
Once again, five white balls and the red Powerball are drawn from another drum and displayed on screen, and any correct numbers chosen by players are printed and given directly to them as receipts; small prizes may be claimed at the location where their ticket was purchased while larger ones require official verification and can often be claimed at one of several lottery district offices in their district.
As part of your prize winnings, you have two payment options for receiving it: either as a lump sum or an annuity with payments spread out annually. Your decision depends entirely on your financial circumstances – some might prefer receiving their prize as an outright lump sum while others may find annuity payments more convenient. Either way, make your choice before the expiration deadline (typically around 90 days post drawing), which varies between states but usually falls around three months post drawing. If unsure, consult the lottery office representative.