An Illinois lottery player claimed the first Mega Millions jackpot of 2026, taking home a $536 million prize after matching all six numbers, lottery officials confirmed.
The winning numbers — 16, 21, 30, 35, 65 and the Mega Ball 7 — were drawn on Tuesday night.
FILE – A customer plays Mega Millions lottery at the Downtown Miami Souvenirs store on December 26, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
“One of the founding members of Mega Millions, Illinois has won or shared in 17 jackpot wins over the years,” the Mega Millions Lottery noted in a news release.
The lucky ticket, which was purchased in Illinois, was the only jackpot winner for the drawing. The winner, who was not publicly identified, can choose between receiving the full annuitized prize or a one-time lump sum, estimated at about $245.6 million before taxes.
In addition to the jackpot prize, smaller tier prizes were also awarded in the drawing, including millions won in 13 other states.
The jackpot win marks a significant moment in Mega Millions history, as it is only the second time that the first jackpot won in a given year wasn’t until March. In 2024, a March 26 jackpot of $1.128 billion was taken by a New Jersey player.
“That was the first of just four jackpots won in 2024 — the fewest in any single year since the game began in 2002,” according to the release.
The Mega Millions jackpot will reset to its starting value of $50 million and start climbing again, with the next drawing scheduled for Friday night.
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As with all lottery play, winners are encouraged to consult financial and tax professionals when claiming large prizes.
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