Mega Millions jackpot grows to $244M for Sept. 18 drawing

The Mega Millions jackpot rose to $244 million ahead of the Sept. 18 drawing, with a cash value of $103.5 million.

If someone were to win on Friday, they’d have two options: take 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 was on July 28 when a Florida player took home a staggering $800 million jackpot with a cash value of $344.2 million. According to Florida lottery officials, the winning ticket was sold at a Wawa in Bradenton, Florida.

With Friday’s Mega Millions drawing only hours away, here is what you need to know.

USA TODAY will post the winning numbers for Friday’s Mega Millions lottery after the drawing at 11 p.m. ET

The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 11 p.m. ET.

To play the Mega Millions, you have to buy a ticket. You can do this at several locations, including your local convenience store, gas station, or even grocery store.

In some states, Mega Millions tickets can be purchased online.

Once you have your ticket, you need to pick six numbers. Five…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/money/