The Powerball starting jackpot amount will be changing from $40 million to $20 million, the Multi-State Lottery Association announced last week. The minimum rollover increase will drop also, to $2 million per drawing. That will be down from the $10 million rollover increase that the draw game currently enjoys.
Changes to the Powerball jackpot will go into effect after the next jackpot hits.
Gregory Mineo, Powerball Product Group Chairman and Maine Lottery Director, said of the decision:
“Powerball players in many U.S. lottery jurisdictions are under shelter-in-place orders or recommendations from their governors or mayors, which have affected normal consumer behaviors. Just like other enterprises around the world that are making adjustments, we are making proactive changes to continue to offer the world’s premier lottery product.”
The jackpot for the drawing on Wednesday, April 1 is up to $170 million ($136.8 million cash option). That is no April Fools’ joke. When the Grand Prize is won, it will start over at $20 million.
Some retailers closed, but tickets still available online in PA
Statewide closures of non-essential businesses in PA affect many lottery retailers. The order, per Gov. Tom Wolf, is in effect until further notice.
With fewer in-person locations open for purchasing draw tickets, the online option remains convenient. In Pennsylvania, draw tickets became available online in January.
Those within PA borders can buy their $2 draw tickets at the PA online lottery site. If you sign up through our links here, you can also receive a free $20 plus a 100% deposit match bonus up to $250.
Recent Powerball winners including one in PA
Winning numbers on Saturday, March 28 were 7 – 40 – 48 – 55 – 66 with a powerball of 11. The multiplier was 2x.
There was one Match 5 winner for $1 million in New York. Nine tickets matched four white balls and the powerball. Seven of them won $50,000 and two cashed for $100,000 with the $1 power play in effect.
One of the $50,000 winners was in PA.
Winning Powerball numbers for Wednesday, April 1
Tickets are sold in 45 states plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Drawings take place every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET. In PA, you can purchase tickets up to one hour before drawing time. Check back here for winning numbers following the drawing on April 1.
Winning numbers: 33 – 35 – 45 – 48 – 60 Powerball 16
Power play (multiplier): 2X
It is a tough economic time for many, and the majority of live entertainment options are currently on hiatus. It appears the lottery will not be closing its virtual doors, however.
“We would like to offer support to our loyal players during this unprecedented time,” said Mineo. “We are committed to being America’s favorite jackpot game.”
