Mega Millions Drawing Results: December 29, 2024
Key Takeaways:
- Winning Numbers: The Mega Millions drawing on December 29, 2024, yielded the numbers 3, 7, 37, 49, 55, with a Mega Ball of 6.
- Jackpot Winner: A single ticket sold at Sunshine Food and Gas in Cottonwood, California, matched all numbers, securing a $1.22 billion jackpot—the fifth-largest in Mega Millions history.
- Prize Options: The winner can choose between a lump-sum payment of approximately $549.7 million or an annuitized prize of $1.22 billion paid over 29 years.
Mega Millions Drawing Results: December 29, 2024
Winning Numbers and Jackpot Details
The Mega Millions drawing held on December 29, 2024, produced the following winning numbers:
- Main Numbers: 3, 7, 37, 49, 55
- Mega Ball: 6
This draw featured a substantial jackpot of $1.22 billion, ranking as the fifth-largest in the game’s history.
Jackpot-Winning Ticket Sold in California
A single ticket matching all six numbers was sold at Sunshine Food and Gas, a Circle K gas station located in Cottonwood, California. The store, owned by Jaspal Singh’s family for two decades, will receive a retailer incentive from the California Lottery for selling the winning ticket.
Prize Claim Options for the Winner
The fortunate ticket holder has two options for claiming the prize:
- Annuity Option: The full jackpot amount of $1.22 billion, distributed in annual payments over 29 years.
- Cash Option: A one-time lump-sum payment estimated at $549.7 million.
As of now, the winner has yet to come forward and claim the prize.
Additional Winners and Prizes
In addition to the jackpot winner, several other significant prizes were awarded:
- $1 Million Prizes: Five tickets matched the five main numbers, each earning a $1 million prize. These tickets were sold in Arizona, Missouri, Texas, and California.
- Smaller Prizes: Numerous players secured smaller prizes by matching fewer numbers, contributing to the widespread excitement surrounding this draw.
Upcoming Mega Millions Draw
Following the jackpot win, the Mega Millions jackpot resets to its starting value. The next drawing is scheduled for December 31, 2024, with an initial jackpot of $20 million. Players are encouraged to participate and check their numbers promptly after the draw.
Unclaimed Prizes and Deadlines
Lottery officials urge players to check their tickets regularly, as unclaimed prizes are subject to expiration. For instance, a $50,000 Powerball prize purchased in Minneapolis is set to expire on January 3, 2025. Timely claims ensure winners receive their rightful earnings.
Conclusion
The Mega Millions drawing on December 29, 2024, has created a new multimillionaire, with the winning ticket sold in Cottonwood, California. As the winner contemplates their prize options, the broader community celebrates this historic win. Players nationwide are reminded to check their tickets and stay informed about upcoming draws for future opportunities.
