Players across the United States and Canada watched the latest Mega Millions drawing to see whether a single ticket matched all six numbers. The winning combination determined a new top prize winner and shifted the spotlight toward ticket claim rules and regional distribution.
Below is a detailed snapshot of the May 2024 Mega Millions draw, ticket purchase details, prize breakdown, and winner information to help you understand how the jackpot is awarded and claimed.
| Draw Date | Jackpot (annuity) | Cash Option | Winning Numbers | Mega Ball |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 17, 2024 | $610 million | $364 million | 12 - 28 - 33 - 39 - 66 | 19 |
| Winner Location | California (1 winner) | Lump sum received | Matched all 5 + Mega | Single ticket |
| Retailer | Monsters Pizza & Deli, Victorville, CA | Claim deadline | 180 days from draw | Cash option elected |
How Mega Millions Drawings Work
Number Selection Process
Mega Millions uses two separate ball machines during live televised drawings. Five white balls are drawn from a set of 1 to 70, and one gold Mega Ball is drawn from a set of 1 to 25.
Matching Requirements for Prizes
Prize tiers are determined by how many numbers you match and whether the Mega Ball is included. Matching all five numbers plus the Mega Ball wins the jackpot, while other combinations win secondary prizes ranging from a few dollars to several million.
Winner Details and Prize Options
Single Jackpot Winner in California
The May 17, 2024 jackpot was won by one ticket sold at Monsters Pizza & Deli in Victorville, California. The winner chose the cash option, receiving $364 million before taxes and claiming the full amount in a lump sum.
Annuity versus Cash Payout
Winners can choose between 30 graduated annual payments or a one-time cash payout. The advertised annuity value reflects the total of all future payments, while the cash option provides immediate liquidity at a reduced amount.
Ticket Sales, Odds, and Purchase Rules
Where to Buy Tickets
Mega Millions tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each ticket costs $2, with an additional $3 Megaplier option that multiplifies non-jackpot prizes.
Odds and Play Limits
The overall odds of winning any prize are about 1 in 24, while the odds of winning the jackpot are approximately 1 in 302 million. Players may choose quick pick numbers or enter their own combinations up to the draw deadline.
Key Takeaways for Playing Mega Millions
- Jackpot odds are about 1 in 302 million, but secondary prizes start at $2.
- Always check the retailer location and store your ticket safely.
- Verify official draw dates and claim periods for your state.
- Consider tax implications and financial planning before choosing cash or annuity.
- Play responsibly and treat tickets as entertainment, not an investment.
FAQ
Reader questions
How was the winner of the May 2024 Mega Millions jackpot determined?
The winning numbers were drawn live on television, and the match was confirmed through the California Lottery system. The single ticket matched all five white numbers plus the Mega Ball.
Where was the winning ticket purchased?
The winning ticket was bought at Monsters Pizza & Deli in Victorville, California.
What option did the winner choose for the prize?
The winner elected the cash option, receiving $364 million before taxes as a lump sum payment.
What is the claim deadline for the winner?
In California, the claim period is 180 days from the draw date, after which unclaimed prizes may be redirected to state programs.