Press Releases

Starting Sunday, January 15, 2012, exciting changes are coming to Powerball! The new Powerball will be bigger & better with more chances to become a millionaire!

When do these changes go into effect?

Retailers will begin selling tickets for the redesigned Powerball game on Sunday, January 15,2012 with the first drawing set for Wednesday, January 18, 2012.

Will players still be able to add the Power Play feature?

Yes. Players can add the Power Play feature for an additional $1 per play and win an even bigger second prize of $2 million cash. However, there will no longer be a multiplier number drawn. See new prize chart.

Why is there no cash option or annuity listed on the Powerball tickets?

Players no longer will need to make a decision between annuity and cash option on their jackpot prize at the time of purchase.  Powerball jackpot winners will have 60 days from the date that they claim their prize to select cash option or annuity.

Why is there no cash option or annuity listed on the Powerball tickets?

Players no longer will need to make a decision between annuity and cash option on their jackpot prize at the time of purchase.  Powerball jackpot winners will have 60 days from the date that they claim their prize to select cash option or annuity.

How will the odds of winning change?

The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot will improve from 1 in 195 million to 1 in 175 million, and the overall odds of winning any prize will increase from 1 in 35.11 to 1 in 31.85.

Why is the price of Powerball being raised from $1 per play to $2 per play?

The price change offers players a new option in multi-state jackpot games with more chances to become millionaires, bigger starting jackpots, and better odds of winning. Players will still have the option to purchase Mega Millions tickets for $1 per play.