The anticipation hit the roof as the Powerball jackpot soared to a whopping $78 million for the Wednesday drawing, following a series of draws without a jackpot claimant. The allure of the hefty jackpot has lottery enthusiasts buzzing, dreaming of what could be if they hold the winning ticket for the April 17 draw.
Scheduled for 11 p.m. ET, the winning numbers will determine if there's a lucky winner out there or if the jackpot will climb even higher. For those opting for the lump-sum payout, the take-home amount is a cool $36.5 million post-taxes, making it a life-changing event.
As we await the reveal, here's how you can get in on the action for a chance to win big with Powerball:
To snag a Powerball ticket, which costs just $2, your local convenience store, gas station, or grocery store is the place to visit. In select states, the digital age allows for online ticket purchases, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Picking your numbers is where the fun begins. You'll choose five white balls (ranging from 1 to 69) and one red Powerball (ranging from 1 to 26). If you're feeling lucky but want to leave it to fate, the "Quick Pick" option lets a computer select your numbers.
Don't forget about the Power Play option for an additional $1, which boosts non-jackpot prize winnings by 2X to 10X. Drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday night. If no one clinches the jackpot, it grows, making the next drawing even more exciting.
In-person ticket purchases can be made at various locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airports even offer lottery tickets for those on the go.
For a digital experience, Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, facilitates online purchases in several U.S. states and territories. This app not only allows you to select your numbers but also places your order, showcases your ticket, and helps you collect winnings, all from the comfort of your phone or computer.
As the Powerball jackpot continues to climb, the dream of becoming a millionaire overnight becomes increasingly tantalizing. Whether you're a seasoned lottery player or deciding to throw your hat in the ring for the first time, this drawing could be the one that changes everything. Stay tuned for the winning numbers and see if fortune favors you this time around.
