The Powerball lottery recently featured a significant jackpot estimated at $820 million for the drawing held on December 6, 2025. This impressive amount includes a cash option of $378.2 million. The jackpot ranks as the eighth largest in Powerball history and is the sixteenth largest lottery prize in U.S. history.
Previous Powerball Winners
The last Powerball jackpot was won on September 6, 2025. Two players from Missouri and Texas shared a record-setting jackpot of $1.787 billion. This marked the second-largest Powerball winning amount.
Latest Winning Numbers
The winning numbers for the December 6 drawing were:
- 13
- 14
- 26
- 28
- 44
- Powerball: 7
The Powerplay multiplier for this drawing was 2x.
Mega Millions Update
In addition to Powerball, the Mega Millions jackpot stands at $60 million, offering a cash option of $27.4 million.
Playing Powerball
Powerball tickets cost $2 each. Players can choose five numbers ranging from 1 to 69 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 26 for the red Powerball. Players may also use the quick pick option to generate random numbers.
To increase potential winnings, players can add the Power Play option for an additional $1, enhancing non-jackpot prizes up to five times. However, a 10x Power Play option is available when the jackpot is below $150 million. Prize payouts vary significantly, starting from $4 for matching just the Powerball up to $1 million for matching all five white balls.
Buying Tickets and Drawing Details
Powerball tickets can be purchased at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores across 45 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Online ticket purchasing is available through Jackpocket in several states, allowing players to manage their lottery games and winnings through a mobile app.
Drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET and are available for viewing on the official lottery website. Local television stations may also broadcast the events.
Odds and Jackpot Options
Players should remain aware of the odds of winning. The chance of winning the Powerball jackpot is approximately 1 in 292.2 million, while the odds of matching all five white balls are 1 in 11.7 million.
Winners can choose between two payout options: a lump-sum cash payment or an annuity paid over time, offering lasting financial security.
Lottery Anonymity and Scams
Some states, including New Jersey, allow winners to remain anonymous under recent legislation. However, in others, such as Texas, a winner’s identity is public record.
Players should be cautious of scams claiming that lottery winners are giving away money. Always verify lottery-related claims and consult official lottery resources for accurate information.
Top Powerball Jackpots
The following list highlights the top ten Powerball jackpots ever awarded:
| Amount | Date | State |
|---|---|---|
| $2.04 billion | Nov. 7, 2022 | California |
| $1.787 billion | Sept. 6, 2025 | Missouri and Texas |
| $1.765 billion | Oct. 11, 2023 | California |
| $1.586 billion | Jan. 13, 2016 | California, Florida, Tennessee |
| $1.326 billion | April 6, 2024 | Oregon |
| $1.08 billion | July 19, 2023 | California |
| $842.4 million | Jan. 1, 2024 | Michigan |
| $820 million | Dec. 6, 2025 | N/A |
