Chicago, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Chicago has implemented significant changes to the Mega Millions lottery, increasing the starting jackpot to $50 million and doubling the ticket price to $5. The new rules also enhance prize structures, providing better odds and opportunities for players to win substantial amounts. These modifications aim to attract more players and make the game more exciting throughout the year.
Major Changes to Mega Millions Lottery Take Effect in Chicago, Increasing Jackpots and Altering Game Rules
Chicago, April 8, 2025 — The Mega Millions lottery game has announced significant rule changes to its gameplay, which went into effect today. These modifications aim to make winning easier, enhance jackpot growth, and provide more opportunities for players to win large prizes throughout the year.
Key Changes to Jackpot and Ticket Costs
One of the most notable adjustments is the increase in the starting jackpot. Previously set at $20 million, the new minimum begins at $50 million. This rise is intended to attract more players and build jackpots more quickly. Additionally, the cost for a single Mega Millions ticket has doubled from $2 to $5, with players now able to buy more chances to participate in each drawing.
Enhanced Prize Structure and Odds
The revised rules bring several changes to the prize tiers. The minimum prize for matching the gold Mega Ball now ranges between $10 and $50, an increase from the previous flat $2 payout. Moreover, players who match the five white balls (without the Mega Ball) can win between $2 million and $10 million, compared to the previous fixed $1 million prize, thanks to the adjusted prize structure.
To boost potential earnings, each ticket now includes a built-in prize multiplier that ranges from 2X to 10X for non-jackpot prizes, replacing the former optional Megaplier add-on, allowing players to multiply smaller wins automatically.
Improved Winning Chances and Game Format Changes
The odds of winning any prize have slightly improved, now standing at 1 in 23, compared to 1 in 24. This change is due to a revision in game format, where the number of Mega Balls was reduced from 25 to 24. As a result, the odds of winning the jackpot have also improved from 1 in 302,575,350 to 1 in 290,472,336, increasing the likelihood of hitting the ultimate prize.
Current Jackpot and Recent Winners
As of the latest drawing held on September 12, 2025, no one claimed the jackpot of $381 million. The amount has now grown to $400 million for the upcoming drawing scheduled later this week. The winning numbers from the September 12 drawing were 17, 18, 21, 42, 64, with Mega Ball 7. Players have the option of selecting a cash payout instead of an annuity; for this upcoming game, the cash option is valued at $185.8 million.
Recent Jackpot Winners and Upcoming Drawings
Earlier in 2025, several large jackpots were awarded, including a $348 million prize awarded in Virginia and a $112 million jackpot in Ohio. The Mega Millions drawings are held twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at various retail locations such as convenience stores and gas stations, and in some regions, online options are available. Players may use the “Quick Pick” option for randomly generated numbers or select their own combinations.
Summary of Changes and Future Outlook
The new rules aim to make the game more exciting, with faster jackpot growth, increased prize amounts, and slightly better odds of winning, including for smaller prizes. These adjustments are designed to engage more players and keep the game dynamic throughout the year. As jackpots continue to grow, participants are encouraged to stay informed on the latest draw results and ticket purchasing options.
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Additional Resources
- WKYC: Winning Mega Millions Numbers for $381 Million Jackpot
- USA Today: Mega Millions Winning Numbers September 12, 2025
- PJ Star: Mega Millions Numbers Tonight September 12, 2025
- Indy Star: Powerball Drawing Winning Numbers September 13, 2025
- Google Search: Mega Millions lottery
- Wikipedia: Mega Millions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mega Millions
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