The Mega Millions jackpot rose to $261 million ahead of the Tuesday, Sept. 22 drawing, with a cash value of $110.5 million.
If someone wins Tuesday's jackpot, they’ll have two options: take home a one-time, lump-sum cash payment or receive an immediate payment followed by annual checks, each 5% larger than the previous year.
The last time someone won the Mega Millions jackpot was on July 28 when a Florida player took home a staggering $800 million with a cash value of $344.2 million. State lottery officials say the winning ticket was sold at a Wawa in Bradenton, Florida.
With Tuesday’s Mega Millions drawing only hours away, here is what you need to know.
What are the winning Mega Millions numbers for 9/22/2026?
USA TODAY will post the winning numbers for Tuesday’s Mega Millions lottery after the drawing
at 11 p.m. ET
When is the next Mega Millions drawing?
The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at 11 p.m. ET.
How to play the Mega Millions
Mega Millions tickets are sold at convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, and other lottery retailers. Some states also allow online purchases.
Players choose five white-ball numbers from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball number from 1 to 24. Don't want to pick your own? Ask for a Quick Pick, and the numbers are generated for you.
Mega Millions tickets now include a built-in multiplier that boosts non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, five, or 10 times. Previously, players paid extra to add the Megaplier option.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mega Millions jackpot reaches $261M for Sept. 22 drawing. What to know
