Mega Millions jackpot: climbed from $467 million to $489 million after no winner emerged in Tuesday's drawing, and hit $511 million for the June 30 drawing. The winning numbers for the June 26 drawing were **5-13-30-33-52** with Mega Ball **6**.
Powerball jackpot: sits at **$327 million** (estimated $348 million), with the next drawing on Saturday, June 27.
Cash option vs. annuity: Mega Millions winners can choose between a lump sum of **~$220.9 million** (later $231 million) or 30 annual payments. Most winners opt for the cash option.
Why this matters: After federal withholding (24%) and the top marginal tax rate (37%), a cash-prize winner could see their winnings drop from ~$220.9 million to approximately **$139.2 million** — a loss of over $80 million to taxes.
State taxes vary significantly: Winners in New York face an additional 10.9% tax on lottery winnings, while residents of Texas, Florida, and California pay no state tax on lottery prizes.
Odds: Mega Millions jackpot odds are **1 in 302,575,350** (or ~1 in 290.4 million per some calculations), slightly better than Powerball's 1 in 292.2 million.
Winning a massive lottery jackpot sounds life-changing, but the real take-home amount tells a different story. Here's how the math works for the Mega Millions $489 million prize:
| Deduction | Amount | Remaining |
|---|---|---|
| Gross cash prize | $220,900,000 | $220,900,000 |
| Federal withholding (24%) | -$53,016,000 | $167,884,000 |
| Federal marginal rate (up to 37%) | -$28,688,000 (additional) | ~$139,196,000 |
| State tax (if applicable, e.g., NY 10.9%) | -$24,078,100 | ~$115,117,900 |
Historical Context: The biggest lottery prize of 2026 so far was a $533 million Mega Millions jackpot won in Illinois in March. The biggest Powerball prize in 2026 was $250.8 million, claimed by an Arkansas player.
June 23 Mega Millions drawing: (Tuesday): Numbers 48, 51, 60, 63, 66, Mega Ball 20 — No winner.
June 26 Mega Millions drawing: (Friday): Numbers 5, 13, 30, 33, 52, Mega Ball 6 — No winner reported.
June 24 Powerball drawing: Numbers 13, 14, 16, 21, 38, Powerball 14, Power Play 2x.
Despite the massive jackpots, thousands of smaller prizes are still being won. In North Carolina alone, Friday's Mega Millions drawing produced over 7,900 winning tickets, and Monday's Powerball drawing saw over 13,400 winning tickets.
Mega Millions: Pick 5 numbers from 1–70 and 1 Mega Ball from 1–25. Tickets cost **$5**. Drawings are Tuesdays and Fridays.
Powerball: Similar format with drawings on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Available in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Casual players: Those buying a ticket or two for fun.
Serious lottery participants: Those who play regularly and may not realize how much taxes reduce the headline number.
Residents of high-tax states: New York winners face a heavy burden compared to those in Florida or Texas.
What were the winning Mega Millions numbers for June 26, 2026?
The winning numbers were 5, 13, 30, 33, 52 and the Mega Ball was 6.
How much would a Mega Millions winner actually take home after taxes?
If choosing the cash option (~$220.9 million), the winner would receive roughly $139.2 million after federal taxes. State taxes could reduce that further — for example, a New York winner would take home approximately $115 million.
What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?
The odds are approximately 1 in 302.6 million (or 1 in 290.4 million depending on the source).
Can I buy Mega Millions tickets online?
Yes, in some states. For example, North Carolina offers online ticket purchases through its official lottery website and mobile app. Availability varies by state.
What happens if no one wins the Mega Millions jackpot?
The jackpot rolls over to the next drawing and continues to grow. The estimated jackpot for the next Mega Millions drawing on June 30 is $511 million.
Understand the tax reality: The advertised jackpot is never what you take home. Always calculate federal and state taxes before making financial plans.
Consider the lump sum carefully: While most winners choose the cash option, the annuity provides guaranteed payments over 30 years, each 5% higher than the last — which could offer better long-term value.
Check your state's tax rules: If you live in a state with no income tax (Texas, Florida, California), you'll keep significantly more of your winnings compared to states like New York.
Play responsibly: With odds above 1 in 290 million, treat lottery tickets as entertainment, not an investment strategy.
If you win: Remain anonymous if possible, consult a tax professional immediately, and avoid making any quick financial decisions.
With nearly $800 million up for grabs across Mega Millions and Powerball, the excitement is palpable. But do you think the jackpot amounts are getting too large for their own good? Would you choose the annuity or the cash lump sum if you won?
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