The Mega Millions jackpot soared to $542 million—becoming the biggest lottery prize of the year so far—after no tickets matched all six numbers drawn on Tuesday night, although the eventual winner will take home a much smaller payout after taxes and deductions.
The Mega Millions jackpot prize rose to $542 million after Tuesday's draw.
The six numbers drawn on Tuesday night were 26, 41, 50, 53, 62, and Mega Ball 12.
If a winner emerges in the next draw, they will have a choice between splitting the $542 million prize over 30 annual installments or taking a lump sum cash payout of $242 million—the preferred option for most winners.
If the winner chooses the cash payout, their winnings will first drop to around $183.9 million after a mandatory 24% federal withholding is applied.
