The Powerball jackpot now stands at an estimated $217 million for the drawing on Saturday, April 4, 2026, following a rollover from the previous contest. No ticket matched all six numbers in the Wednesday, April 1, drawing, where the prize reached $195 million. This buildup draws players across 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, offering a cash option of about $97.4 million to the next winner.
Wednesday Drawing Yields No Top Winners
The April 1 drawing featured white balls 4, 10, 11, 52, and 64, with red Powerball 24 and a 3X Power Play multiplier. Lottery officials confirmed no jackpot winners, nor any for the $2 million Match 5 plus Power Play or $1 million Match 5 prizes. Such rollovers occur whenever top prizes go unclaimed, funneling funds into the next pool and steadily inflating the amount until a match emerges.
Open to All: Eligibility and How to Play
U.S. citizenship or residency proves unnecessary for Powerball participation; visitors to participating jurisdictions need only meet the typical 18-year-old minimum age to buy tickets at licensed retailers like convenience stores, gas stations, or supermarkets. Tickets cost $2 per play, with an optional $1 Power Play to boost non-jackpot prizes by 2X to 10X. Players select five white balls from 1-69 and one red Powerball from 1-26, or opt for Quick Pick randomization; a jackpot requires matching all in any order.
Cash Option Versus Annuity and Tax Realities
Winners face choices between the annuity—30 graduated payments totaling $217 million over 29 years, rising about 5 percent annually—and the immediate $97.4 million lump sum, which most select for flexibility. Federal withholding claims 24 percent upfront, with potential additional taxes by bracket; state levies apply in most areas except California, Florida, and Texas. Non-residents encounter varying rules, underscoring the need to consult local regulations.
Drawings Continue Three Nights Weekly
Powerball holds drawings Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. Eastern Time, with online sales available in select states via official platforms. Should April 4 produce no jackpot winner, the prize escalates further for Monday, April 6, perpetuating the cycle that captivates participants nationwide.
