Despite the fact that the record-setting $1.35 billion Mega Millions jackpot was won in Maine, ticket sales leading up to the January 13th draw generated more than $70.6 million combined for New York’s public schools and lottery retailers.
The Mega Millions jackpot began rolling to its record amount in October 2022, resulting in 26 drawings held until it was won this month. In New York State, Mega Millions ticket sales totaled $172.4 million during the run. All of New York’s profits from the sales are constitutionally dedicated to New York’s K-12 public schools, totaling $60.3 million. Commissions on Mega Millions sales paid to retailers across the state totaled $10.3 million.
“As the numbers show, the New York Lottery provides entertainment for millions of responsible New Yorkers and delivers real money for public schools and small businesses across the state,” said New York State Gaming Commission Chairman Brian O’Dwyer. “The Gaming Commission remains committed to supporting the Lottery’s goal of generating revenue for schools and retailers.”
The January 13th prize was the third multi-state jackpot to climb beyond $1 billion in the last year. On November 7th, 2022, a $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot was won in California after 41 drawings. New York Lottery sales totaled $244.5 million, Aid to Education totaled $85.6 million and retailer commissions totaled $14.7 million. On July 29th, a $1.34 billion Mega Millions jackpot was won in Illinois after 30 drawings. New York Lottery sales totaled $126.6 million, Aid to Education totaled $44.3 million and retailer commissions totaled $7.6 million.
Multiple New Yorkers won prizes during the Mega Millions roll up between October and January 13: Twelve second prize winners totaling $12 million, one second prize Megaplier winner totaling $3 million, and lower tier prizes totaling more than $10.5 million.
The New York Lottery continues to be North America’s largest and most profitable lottery, contributing $3.6 billion in lottery aid to education for FY2021-2022 to help support education in New York State.
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