The Powerball jackpot 950 million is now the sixth-largest in lottery history. Discover the winning numbers, payout options, jackpot history, and what’s at stake for Saturday’s massive drawing.
Powerball Jackpot 950 Million: What You Need to Know
The Powerball jackpot 950 million has captured America’s attention once again as no winner was declared in Wednesday’s drawing. The prize, now the sixth-largest jackpot in Powerball history, has grown to an astonishing level, creating a wave of excitement among lottery players across the nation.
This article breaks down the latest winning numbers, how the jackpot reached this record size, the difference between annuity and lump sum payments, past jackpot winners, and frequently asked questions for those hoping to strike it rich.
The Winning Numbers in Wednesday’s Drawing
The winning numbers for Wednesday, August 27, 2025, were:
9, 12, 22, 41, 61, and the red Powerball 25.
Although no one matched all six numbers to claim the Powerball jackpot 950 million, six tickets did manage to win $1 million or more by matching all five white balls.
How the Powerball Jackpot Reached 950 Million
There hasn’t been a jackpot winner since May 31, 2025, when a California player claimed a $204.5 million prize. Since then, over three months of consecutive rollovers have pushed the jackpot into historic territory.
- 56 tickets have won $1 million or more.
- 558 tickets have won at least $50,000.
- The annuity option for Saturday’s jackpot will total $950 million.
- The cash option stands at $428.9 million before taxes.
According to Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and CEO of the Iowa Lottery:
“America has signaled loud and clear – it’s ready to play for a massive Powerball jackpot.”
Prize Options: Lump Sum vs. Annuity
If a player wins the Powerball jackpot 950 million, they will face a life-changing decision between a lump sum or annuity payout.
| Prize Option | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lump Sum | $428.9 million (before taxes) | One-time payment, reduced by federal & state taxes. |
| Annuity | $950 million (before taxes) | One immediate payment followed by 29 annual installments, increasing 5% yearly. |
Financial experts often recommend considering the annuity to preserve wealth long-term, though many winners choose the lump sum for immediate access to their winnings.
Powerball Jackpot History: Where $950 Million Ranks
The Powerball jackpot 950 million is already among the top prizes in U.S. lottery history. Below is a look at the largest jackpots recorded:
| Rank | Prize | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.04 Billion | Nov 2022 | California |
| 2 | $1.765 Billion | Oct 2023 | California |
| 3 | $1.586 Billion | Jan 2016 | CA, FL, TN |
| 4 | $1.326 Billion | Apr 2024 | Oregon |
| 5 | $1.08 Billion | Jul 2023 | California |
| 6 | $950 Million | Aug 2025 | Pending |
The jackpot’s meteoric rise reflects the nationwide popularity of Powerball, which has been operating since 1992 and has generated over $36 billion for public causes, including education, infrastructure, and community projects.
Where to Play Powerball
Tickets for the Powerball jackpot 950 million cost $2 per play and are available in:
- 45 states
- District of Columbia
- Puerto Rico
- U.S. Virgin Islands
Proceeds remain within the jurisdiction where tickets are sold, supporting local programs.
Odds of Winning the Jackpot
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot $950 million remain daunting:
- 1 in 292.2 million chance of winning the jackpot.
- 1 in 11.7 million chance of winning $1 million.
- Overall odds of winning any prize: 1 in 24.9.
These numbers highlight why jackpots often climb so high, as weeks can pass without a winner.
Famous Powerball Winners
Past winners of historic jackpots include:
- Mavis Wanczyk (Massachusetts, 2017) – Claimed $758.7 million.
- Three winners (CA, FL, TN, 2016) – Split $1.586 billion.
- California Winner (2022) – $2.04 billion, the largest single lottery prize in history.
If Saturday produces a winner, they will join this exclusive club of Powerball legends.
America’s Lottery Fever
The Powerball jackpot $950 million is not just about the money—it’s about the nationwide excitement it generates. From local convenience stores to lottery kiosks, ticket sales surge whenever the jackpot crosses the billion-dollar threshold.
For many, it’s not just a game of chance but a ticket to dream about financial freedom, early retirement, or funding generational wealth.
FAQs on the Powerball Jackpot 950 Million
1. What are the winning numbers for the latest Powerball drawing?
The numbers for Wednesday’s draw were 9, 12, 22, 41, 61, and Powerball 25.
2. How much is the Powerball jackpot right now?
The Powerball jackpot 950 million is the current prize pool heading into Saturday’s drawing.
3. What is the lump sum payout for the $950 million jackpot?
The cash option stands at $428.9 million before taxes.
4. How many people have won smaller prizes during this streak?
Since May, 56 tickets have won $1 million or more, and 558 tickets have won $50,000 or more.
5. Where can you buy Powerball tickets?
Tickets are sold in 45 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
6. What are the odds of winning the jackpot?
Players face 1 in 292.2 million odds of hitting the jackpot.
7. When is the next Powerball drawing?
The next draw will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
8. How does the annuity payout work?
The annuity consists of 30 payments over 29 years, with annual increases of 5%.
9. What is the largest Powerball jackpot ever won?
The record is $2.04 billion, won in California in November 2022.
10. How does Powerball support public causes?
Since 1992, Powerball has raised over $36 billion for education and other community programs.
Final Thoughts
The Powerball jackpot 950 million represents more than just a chance at financial freedom—it’s a cultural event that brings millions of Americans together in shared anticipation. Whether you’re buying a single ticket or participating in an office pool, the allure of becoming an overnight billionaire continues to fuel the nation’s lottery craze.
While the odds may be slim, the dream is alive. Saturday’s drawing could crown the next record-breaking winner—or push the jackpot even closer to the $1 billion milestone.