Los Angeles, December 19, 2025
The Powerball jackpot has reached an estimated $1.5 billion for the upcoming drawing, the fifth-largest prize in the game’s history. This increase follows the December 17 drawing, which left no jackpot winner, extending the losing streak to 44 consecutive drawings. Players can choose between an annuitized prize paid over 30 years or a lump sum cash option of around $686.5 million before taxes. The next drawing will take place on Saturday, December 20, at 10:59 p.m. ET.
Los Angeles, CA – Powerball Jackpot Reaches $1.5 Billion
The Powerball jackpot has surged to an estimated $1.5 billion for Saturday night’s drawing, marking the fifth-largest prize in the game’s history and the seventh-highest among all U.S. lottery jackpots. This remarkable increase follows the December 17 drawing, where no ticket matched all six numbers, leading to the current jackpot. The winning numbers for that draw were 25, 33, 53, 62, 66, with a Powerball of 17. The Power Play multiplier was 4X, which quadrupled prizes for those players who opted for the multiplier.
Prize Options and Tax Implications
Winners have an important decision to make: they can choose between an annuitized prize of $1.5 billion, paid out over 30 years, or a lump sum cash option of approximately $686.5 million before taxes. After federal withholding, the cash prize could be reduced to about $521.7 million. Depending on the state in which the winner resides, additional state taxes may be applicable, further impacting their final payout.
Recent Drawings and Prize Distribution
The December 17 drawing marked the 44th consecutive drawing without a jackpot winner, setting a record for the longest such streak in Powerball history. While the grand prize eluded everyone, several players secured significant secondary prizes. Notably, eight tickets matched all five white balls to win $1 million each. Two of these tickets, sold in Arizona and Massachusetts, doubled their prizes to $2 million by adding the Power Play option.
How to Play and Odds of Winning
To participate in Powerball, players select five white ball numbers (1 to 69) and one red Powerball number (1 to 26). The overall odds of winning any prize stand at 1 in 24.9, while the odds of hitting the jackpot are significantly steeper at 1 in 292.2 million. Tickets are available for $2 per play in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, fostering an inclusive participation from across the nation.
Upcoming Drawing Details
The next Powerball drawing is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, at 10:59 p.m. ET. Drawings are broadcast live from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Florida, and can also be live-streamed on the Powerball website.
Background on Powerball
Since its inception in 1992, Powerball has provided players with the chance to win life-changing sums of money through multi-state lottery games. The game has produced record-breaking prize amounts, with the largest being a staggering $2.04 billion jackpot won in California on November 7, 2022. Proceeds from ticket sales contribute to various public programs and services in participating states, illustrating how local contributions can foster community growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current Powerball jackpot amount?
The Powerball jackpot has surged to an estimated $1.5 billion for Saturday night’s drawing, marking the fifth-largest prize in the game’s history and the seventh-highest among all U.S. lottery jackpots.
How can I play Powerball?
To participate in Powerball, players select five white ball numbers (1 to 69) and one red Powerball number (1 to 26). Tickets are available for $2 per play in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
When is the next Powerball drawing?
The next Powerball drawing is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, at 10:59 p.m. ET. Drawings are broadcast live from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Florida, and can also be live-streamed on Powerball.com.
What are the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot?
The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 24.9.
How are Powerball prizes paid out?
Winners can choose between an annuitized prize paid over 30 years or a lump sum cash option. The cash option is approximately $686.5 million before taxes, which would be reduced to about $521.7 million after federal withholding. State taxes may further affect the final payout.
Key Features of the Powerball Jackpot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Jackpot | $1.5 billion |
| Cash Option | Approximately $686.5 million before taxes |
| Next Drawing | Saturday, December 20, at 10:59 p.m. ET |
| Odds of Winning Jackpot | 1 in 292.2 million |
| Ticket Price | $2 per play |
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Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
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