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US Mega Millions jackpot hits $1.6 billion after no winners
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If someone picks the winning six numbers, they can either claim the jackpot in 30 payments over 30 years -- the so-called annuity option -- or take a reduced amount in a lump sum. (Shutterstock/File)
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cores of American lottery players were disappointed they hadn't become an overnight billionaire Saturday -- but they'll get another chance to scoop the jackpot, with $1.6 billion up for grabs in a few days.
The prize for Friday's Mega Millions contest had soared to $1 billion, prompting long lines at gas stations and 7-11s across the country, the federal capital Washington and the US Virgin Islands where the lottery is held.
But, although there were 15 second-tier winning tickets of at least $1 million across nine states, nobody won the jackpot -- putting the prize for Tuesday's draw at a record $1.6 billion.
The previous largest single jackpot of $758.7 million was won last year by Mavis Wanczyk, a 53-year-old mother of two from Massachusetts.
In 2016, a $1.58 billion Powerball prize was split three ways by ticket holders from California, Florida and Tennessee. Each took home $528.8 million.
The game, which was created in 2002, has seen changes over the years that have reduced the chances of winning, meaning bigger and bigger jackpots.
Read also: Australian wins lottery twice in a week
If someone picks the winning six numbers, they can either claim the jackpot in 30 payments over 30 years -- the so-called annuity option -- or take a reduced amount in a lump sum.
On Tuesday, that would mean a total of nearly $905 million -- before taxes, according to the Mega Millions website.
US lottery winnings are taxable at the federal level, unlike in many other countries, while some states also impose local taxes.
