Mega Millions Prepares for Historic Overhaul with Higher Ticket Prices and Bigger Prizes
The final drawing under the old rules takes place today, with new features, improved odds, and a $50 million starting jackpot debuting on April 8, 2025.
- Mega Millions tickets will increase from $2 to $5 starting April 8, marking only the second price hike in the lottery's history.
- The revamped game will improve jackpot odds to 1 in 290,472,336 and increase the starting jackpot from $20 million to $50 million.
- Non-jackpot prizes will significantly rise, ranging from $10 to $10 million, with a built-in 'Multiplier' feature boosting winnings by up to 10 times.
- The 'Just the Jackpot' feature will be retired as part of the overhaul, simplifying ticket options for players.
- Tax considerations remain complex for winners, with federal taxes starting at 24% and potential changes to tax laws looming in 2026.
USA TODAY 
Baltimore Sun 