The Florida Mega Millions lottery draw takes place twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Tickets can be purchased in Florida up until 10:00 PM on draw nights. Here is a quick rundown of when you can play Mega Millions in Florida:
When to Play Mega Millions in Florida
- Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM Eastern Time
- You can buy Mega Millions tickets in Florida until 10:00 PM on Tuesday and Friday evenings
- Tickets can be purchased at any Florida Lottery retailer, including gas stations, grocery stores, and convenience stores
- You can also purchase tickets online via the Florida Lottery website or mobile app
- The cut-off for online ticket sales is 9:50 PM Eastern Time on draw nights
So in summary, if you want to play Mega Millions in Florida, simply purchase your ticket before 10:00 PM on Tuesday or Friday evenings. The draws will take place at 11:00 PM ET those nights. This schedule gives Florida residents two chances each week to win the Mega Millions jackpot and other prize levels.
Mega Millions Draw Schedule in Florida
Here is a more detailed look at the Mega Millions draw schedule in Florida:
| Day | Draw Time | Ticket Purchase Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:00 PM ET | 10:00 PM ET |
| Friday | 11:00 PM ET | 10:00 PM ET |
As you can see, it’s the same schedule every Tuesday and Friday – buy your ticket before 10:00 PM ET and then the drawing takes place at 11:00 PM ET. This is an easy schedule to remember if you want to play Mega Millions in Florida on a regular basis.
Buying Mega Millions Tickets in Florida
There are a few different ways you can purchase Mega Millions tickets in Florida:
At a Retailer
The most common way to buy Mega Millions tickets is in person at a Florida Lottery retailer. There are over 13,000 authorized retailers scattered across the state. Look for the bright Lottery logo to easily identify these locations. Retailers include:
- Gas stations
- Convenience stores
- Grocery stores
- Liquor stores
- Pharmacies
- Restaurants and bars
- Tobacco shops
Simply walk up to the counter and ask for your Mega Millions ticket. You can choose your own numbers or do a Quick Pick for randomly generated numbers. Tickets start at $2 each. Be sure to get your ticket before the 10:00 PM cutoff on Tuesday and Friday nights!
Online
You can conveniently purchase Mega Millions tickets online via the Florida Lottery website or mobile app. This is a great option if you’d rather not visit a retailer in person. To play online, you must:
- Create an account with the Florida Lottery
- Be a Florida resident and at least 18 years old
- Deposit funds to use for ticket purchases
- Select your Mega Millions ticket numbers or do a Quick Pick
The purchase cutoff for online sales is 9:50 PM ET on the night of the drawing. This gives you an extra 10 minutes compared to buying at a retail location. But make sure to buy before 9:50 PM to ensure your ticket is included in that night’s draw.
Subscription
You can also set up a subscription to automatically purchase Mega Millions tickets for future draws. This is convenient if you don’t want to worry about buying tickets every week. Here’s how a subscription works:
- Set up your Florida Lottery online account
- Choose a Mega Millions subscription and select your numbers
- Pick how many weeks/draws you want to play
- Add funds to your wallet for the ticket purchases
- The lottery will deduct funds and purchase your tickets each draw
With a subscription, you’ll never miss a Mega Millions opportunity in Florida. Just remember to keep enough funds in your online account to cover the ticket purchases.
Mega Millions Ticket Prices in Florida
Mega Millions tickets cost the following amounts in Florida:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Basic Mega Millions | $2 per play |
| Megaplier | Add $1 per play |
| Just the Jackpot | $3 per play |
The basic Mega Millions play is $2. For an extra $1, you can add the Megaplier option which increases non-jackpot prizes. Just the Jackpot tickets cost $3 each and give you two chances to win only the jackpot (no other prizes).
Most players stick with the basic $2 Mega Millions ticket. But the Megaplier and Just the Jackpot options provide some extra play opportunities. Tickets are $2 each, no matter how many number combinations you choose to play on it.
Where Does the Florida Mega Millions Money Go?
In Florida, Mega Millions ticket sales provide funds for important state education initiatives. Here’s a breakdown of where the money goes:
- 64% goes towards the prize pool (cash prizes for winners)
- 24% goes to the state Educational Enhancement Trust Fund
- 12% goes towards retailer commissions and operational expenses
That Educational Enhancement Trust Fund receives nearly a quarter of all Florida Lottery proceeds. Those funds are then used to support public education programs in Florida. So by playing Mega Millions in Florida, you are contributing to valuable educational initiatives across the state.
Key Facts About Florida Mega Millions
Here are some key facts to remember about playing Mega Millions in Florida:
- Drawings held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM ET
- Tickets can be purchased until 10:00 PM on draw nights
- Buy tickets at over 13,000 retailers or online
- Basic tickets are $2 each, $3 with Megaplier
- Prize pools start at $40 million and roll over if no winner
- 24% of proceeds go to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund
Follow this easy Mega Millions system in Florida and you’ll always know when you can play, how to buy tickets, and information on how Florida Lottery proceeds support education across the state.
Biggest Florida Mega Millions Jackpots
There have been some massive Mega Millions jackpots won by Florida players over the years. Here are the biggest Florida winners to date:
$451 million – Port Richey – January 2018
This remains the largest Florida Mega Millions prize to date. The lone winning ticket was purchased at a 7-Eleven in Port Richey. The winner chose the lump sum option, collecting $281.2 million in cash.
$189 million – Orlando – September 2017
This jackpot was claimed by an Orlando man who purchased his Quick Pick ticket from a Publix. His cash option payment was $115.3 million.
$106.5 million – Lakeland – September 2020
This big winner was claimed by a trust on behalf of an anonymous player. The ticket was purchased in Lakeland. The cash option was $91.7 million.
$72.9 million – Pensacola – June 2013
At the time, this was the second largest Mega Millions prize in Florida. It was claimed by a couple from Pensacola who took the $50.2 million cash payment.
As you can see, Florida has produced some truly massive Mega Millions winners over the years. Who knows – you could be next if you play on the right Tuesday or Friday night!
Notable Mega Millions Wins at Other Prize Levels
Mega Millions isn’t just about winning the jackpot. There are nine different prize levels that payout substantial cash rewards. Here are some of the biggest wins in Florida at levels other than the jackpot:
$10 million – Lakeland – March 2019
A Lakeland woman matched all five white balls to win $10 million. This is the game’s second prize tier.
$3 million – Miami – October 2016
A Miami postal worker hit a $3 million prize by matching four white balls plus the Mega Ball. This is Mega Millions’ third prize level.
$2 million – Fort Lauderdale – July 2019
A Fort Lauderdale man won $2 million by matching four white balls but not the Mega Ball. It’s Mega Millions’ fourth prize tier.
$1 million – Plantation – March 2017
A South Florida man picked up a $1 million prize by matching all five white balls (but not the Mega Ball). This is Mega Millions’ fifth prize tier.
As you can see, even if you don’t win the jackpot, there are plenty of ways to win substantial prizes playing Mega Millions in Florida. Matching just some of the winning numbers can earn you millions!
Winners Must Claim Prizes in Florida
If you are lucky enough to win a Mega Millions prize in Florida, you must claim the money here in the state:
- Jackpots and top prizes must be claimed at Florida Lottery headquarters in Tallahassee
- Smaller prizes can be claimed at any authorized Florida Lottery retailer
- You have 180 days from the draw date to claim your prize
- Be sure to sign the back of your winning ticket and keep it very safe
- You’ll need to complete tax paperwork to receive your official prize payment
It’s exciting if you win a Mega Millions prize in Florida. Just make sure to claim your winnings properly here in the state within the 180 day deadline. Otherwise, you’ll lose your prize money.
Five Tips for Winning Florida Mega Millions
Looking to increase your chances of winning a Mega Millions prize in Florida? Here are five handy tips:
1. Buy multiple tickets
The more number combinations you play, the better your odds. Just buying a single ticket gives you a 1 in 302 million shot at the jackpot. But buy 10 tickets, and your odds improve 10 times to 1 in 30 million!
2. Join a pool or syndicate
Pooling money with other lottery players lets you buy more tickets and numbers. Being part of a 10-person lottery pool will again drastically increase your chance to win.
3. Mix up your numbers
Don’t use birthday or anniversary dates. And avoid consecutive numbers or patterns. Mixing things up boosts your coverage across the number field.
4. Use Quick Pick
Letting the computer randomly generate your Mega Millions numbers spreads things out evenly. It gives you just as good a shot as choosing your own numbers.
5. Keep playing consistently
Persistence pays off in Mega Millions. The more you play, the better your chances. So play every Tuesday and Friday night on a steady basis.
Use these tips to maximize your Mega Millions winnings potential in Florida. The jackpot could be yours if you follow this smart play strategy!
Why Mega Millions is So Popular in Florida
Mega Millions has grown very popular in the state of Florida. There are a few key reasons for its widespread appeal:
- Huge jackpots that keep rolling over, sometimes reaching over $500 million
- National excitement when jackpots hit record levels
- Dream of winning enough money to retire and live luxuriously
- Entertainment value even if you don’t win
- Chance to support education funding in Florida
- Mega Millions is played coast-to-coast, so you can play while traveling too
For just $2, Mega Millions offers the ultimate dream of instant riches. The opportunity to win hundreds of millions gets people across Florida playing twice a week. And the rollover factor means jackpots often hit staggering amounts before somebody finally wins.
The Future of Mega Millions in Florida
Mega Millions has seen a surge in popularity over the last decade. And it will likely only continue growing its fanbase in Florida in the future. Reasons for ongoing growth include:
- Increasing jackpot sizes due to more players
- Rising ticket sales as the Florida population increases
- Enhancements to the game to make it more exciting
- New ways to play like online sales and lottery subscriptions
- Strong marketing campaigns in Florida to promote Mega Millions
Mega Millions has found its formula for success. And it aligns perfectly with what Florida lottery players look for in a game – huge jackpots, a fun playing experience, and convenience. Expect Mega Millions mania in Florida to continue for many years to come.
How to Stay Up to Date on Florida Mega Millions
Want to stay in the loop on the latest Florida Mega Millions news? Here are some great ways to stay informed:
- Visit the Florida Lottery website and check results after each drawing
- Follow the Florida Lottery Facebook and Twitter pages
- Sign up for email notifications about jackpot alerts, winners, and game changes
- Watch local Florida TV news stations for lottery coverage
- Look for Mega Millions info on lottery terminal displays
- Talk to your local lottery retailer about big jackpots
By leveraging some of these options, you’ll never be out of the know when it comes to Florida Mega Millions. Monitor those jackpots and be ready to buy your tickets for the next exciting drawing!
Fun Facts About Florida Mega Millions
Playing Mega Millions in Florida is always entertaining. Here are some more fun facts about the game in the state:
- The overall odds of winning any Mega Millions prize are 1 in 24
- Florida joined the Mega Millions game in May 2013
- There have been over 2,100 tickets in Florida that have won $10,000 or more playing Mega Millions
- The Megaplier option has created over 20 millionaires in Florida
- Mega Millions has awarded over $1.5 billion in prizes in Florida since 2013
- The largest Mega Millions jackpot won in Florida without the Megaplier was $451 million
- The record U.S. Mega Millions jackpot of $1.53 billion in 2018 was won by a player in South Carolina
- Mega Millions drawings are held at WSB-TV studios in Atlanta, Georgia
- Players have a 1 in 24 chance of winning a Mega Millions prize in Florida
- You have a better chance of being struck by lightning (1 in 500,000) than winning the Mega Millions jackpot
Mega Millions delivers loads of entertainment value and excitement to Florida lottery players. And it can bring life-changing riches to those lucky ticket holders whose numbers get chosen in the next draw!
Mega Millions Versus Powerball in Florida
Florida lottery players have two huge national jackpot games to choose from – Mega Millions and Powerball. How do the two compare in Florida?
- Mega Millions jackpots start at $20 million, Powerball at $40 million
- Mega Millions has worse odds at 1 in 302 million to Powerball’s 1 in 292 million
- Mega Millions has nine prize levels, Powerball has nine
- Mega Millions tickets cost $2, Powerball cost $2
- The Megaplier add-on is $1 extra, Power Play is $1 extra
- Mega Millions has sold more $1 million+ winning tickets in Florida
The two games are fairly similar in terms of game structure and ticket price. Mega Millions tends to see its jackpots grow slightly larger. But Powerball still produces many huge Florida winners too. Both deliver life-changing jackpots and are great options for players!
Giant Jackpots Attract Huge Interest in Florida
One phenomenon around Mega Millions in Florida is that ticket sales absolutely surge when the jackpot grows to epic proportions. Florida lottery fever hits a fever pitch when Mega Millions crests the $500+ million mark. Reasons for the frenzy include:
- Dreaming of becoming an instant multi-millionaire
- Trying to escape the rat race of work
- Hoping to afford luxuries like mansions, yachts, and travel
- Overcoming financial struggles and worries
- Helping friends and family by sharing the prize
- Chance to retire early and relax
Mega Millions jackpot chases in Florida lead to long lines at retailers, with players buying tickets in bulk for the chance at a fortune. It just takes one lucky ticket to win results like the state’s biggest ever $451 million Mega Millions prize. Even a fraction of that jackpot is enough to transform someone’s life.
How Winning Mega Millions Can Change Your Life
Landing a big Mega Millions prize in Florida can completely change your life. Imagine how your life could transform with these jackpot wins:
$500 million
- Pay off all debts (mortgage, loans, credit cards)
- Quit your job and retire early
- Travel the world in luxury
- Buy a huge mansion with amenities like a home theater
- Own multiple vehicles like sports cars and RVs
- Spoil your friends and family by sharing the wealth
$200 million
- Buy a dream home in Florida or elsewhere you desire
- Set aside college funds for your kids
- Donate generously to charities you care about
- Open your own business without worrying about finances
- Take amazing vacations whenever you want
$50 million
- Pay off your mortgage and all other big debts
- Make needed home upgrades like a pool and home theater
- Drive luxury cars like a BMW or Mercedes-Benz
- Shop for high-end designer clothing and accessories
- Eat at top restaurants in Florida whenever you want
Even a fraction of a huge Mega Millions jackpot is enough to let you live your dreams. Playing the game can completely pay off if you match those lucky numbers!
Initial Steps to Take if You Win Mega Millions in Florida
If you win a Mega Millions jackpot or other top prize in Florida, here are some initial steps to take:
- Remain calm and avoid sharing the news publicly right away
- Sign the back of your winning ticket and keep it very safe
- Consult an attorney experienced with large lottery wins
- Have the attorney assist you with claiming the prize anonymously via a trust if desired
- Seek financial advice to prudently manage your windfall
- Pay off any large debts you may have
- Start thinking through your dreams and how you can achieve them
Proper planning from the start can help ensure your lottery fortune sets you up for life. Keep quiet, get professional help, and have a thoughtful plan before publicly announcing your big Mega Millions win.
Why Lottery Winners End Up Broke
It seems unimaginable – but some people who win huge lottery jackpots eventually end up broke. Reasons this can happen include:
- Being too public with their win and getting bombarded with requests
- Being pressured by friends and family to share large amounts of the prize
- Going on wild spending sprees buying costly items like yachts, jewelry, etc.
- Making very poor investment decisions
- Overspending on improvements and renovation to homes
- Developing expensive habits like gambling, drugs, etc.
Winning a fortune can be overwhelming. Without the right help and personal discipline, the money can disappear faster than you may expect. Make sure you are committed to responsible management of your winnings.
Maintaining Financial Security After a Big Win
To maintain long-term financial security after a Mega Millions jackpot or other big lottery prize, experts recommend:
- Being very discreet about your win and avoiding publicity
- Consulting qualified financial advisors to manage the money
- Paying off all debts and loans first
- Starting a trust to help remain anonymous
- Only helping friends and family to a limited degree
- Living below your means and avoiding excessive splurges
- Investing wisely with long-term security in mind
With restraint and wise management, your lottery millions can last for the rest of your life. Avoid big mistakes like overspending and you can make the money endure.
Mega Millions Can Make Your Dreams Come True in Florida
Winning Mega Millions in Florida is a chance to make your biggest dreams come true. Imagine what you could do with a $100+ million jackpot:
- Build your dream home customized exactly how you want
- Travel to exotic destinations all over the world in luxury
- Drive exotic sports cars in exciting colors like red or yellow
- Indulge in delicious cuisine at top restaurants whenever you want
- Buy designer fashion and jewelry to look your best
- See your favorite concerts, shows, and sporting events in VIP style
- Own rental property investments to provide residual income
The possibilities are endless when you have Mega Millions money in the bank. It’s the ultimate chance to wake up and realize all your dreams have come true thanks to those lucky numbers.
Mega Millions Can Also Do Good for the World
Beyond creating an amazing lifestyle, winning Mega Millions can also enable you to do great things for other people and the world at large. Imagine having the ability to:
- Donate millions to charities you care deeply about
- Fund medical research to find cures for diseases
- Pay for kids who can’t afford to go to college
- Support global humanitarian relief efforts
- Finance conservation projects to protect the environment
- Start your own foundation to help others in need
With huge lottery riches, you can have an enormous positive impact. The money allows you to follow your passions and truly make a difference.
Playing Mega Millions Helps Fund Florida Schools
When you play Mega Millions in Florida, the money goes toward a great cause – education. Here’s a recap:
- 24% of Mega Millions sales go to Florida’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund
- That fund provides financial assistance to public education in Florida
- Over $1 billion in lottery funding has gone to education since 1988
- Money helps school construction, scholarships, technology, and more
Beyond just offering big jackpot dreams, your Mega Millions play helps students across Florida. This makes Mega Millions tickets in Florida an easy purchase you can feel great about.
Conclusion
Florida’s Mega Millions gives you two exciting chances each week to win a fortune. Drawings take place at 11:00 PM ET every Tuesday and Friday. Tickets can be purchased until 10:00 PM on draw nights. Mega Millions often rolls over to mind-blowing jackpots over $400 million. Even smaller prizes can be life-changing, from $1 million to $10 million. Buying tickets is easy at authorized Florida Lottery retailers or via online sales and subscriptions. Mega Millions fever takes over the state when giant jackpots are on the line. The game has made many Floridians instant millionaires and provides funding for important education initiatives. For fun, ease of play, and chances at riches, Mega Millions is the go-to lottery option for players across the Sunshine State.