The Mega Millions lottery drawing on February 18, 2025, had players across the country eagerly waiting to see if they would become the next big jackpot winner. With millions of dollars at stake, the excitement was at an all-time high. If you bought a ticket for this drawing, you’re probably wondering whether anyone won the massive jackpot and what the winning numbers were.
Winning Numbers for February 18, 2025
The official winning numbers for the February 18, 2025, Mega Millions drawing were:
- White Balls: 1, 20, 25, 58, 61
- Mega Ball: 22
- Megaplier: 2x
These numbers determined who would walk away with a fortune—or at least a sizeable prize if they matched some of the numbers.
Did Anyone Win the Jackpot?
As of now, there has been no confirmed jackpot winner. If no one matched all six numbers, the jackpot will roll over to the next drawing, increasing in value.
Even if the grand prize remains unclaimed, multiple winners may have still secured significant payouts by matching five numbers or winning smaller-tier prizes.
Mega Millions Jackpot Details
For this drawing, the Mega Millions jackpot was estimated at $145 million, with a cash option of $65.9 million. This massive prize could change the life of any lucky winner overnight.
If no one claimed the grand prize, the jackpot will increase for the next drawing, potentially reaching new record highs.
How Mega Millions Works
Mega Millions is one of the most popular and widely played lottery games in the United States. It is available in 45 states, as well as the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Game Rules
- Players choose five white ball numbers from a pool of 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball from a separate pool of 1 to 25.
- To win the jackpot, a player must match all six numbers drawn.
- There are nine prize tiers, meaning that even if a player doesn’t hit the jackpot, they can still win substantial prizes.
- The Megaplier option, available for an extra $1 per ticket, can multiply non-jackpot winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, or 5x.
The game holds drawings twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM ET.
Mega Millions Prize Breakdown
Even if no one won the jackpot, other prizes were still available. Here’s how the winnings work:
| Match | Prize | Megaplier Effect (If Chosen) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Numbers + Mega Ball | Jackpot | No effect |
| 5 Numbers (No Mega Ball) | $1 Million | Up to $5 Million |
| 4 Numbers + Mega Ball | $10,000 | Up to $50,000 |
| 4 Numbers | $500 | Up to $2,500 |
| 3 Numbers + Mega Ball | $200 | Up to $1,000 |
| 3 Numbers | $10 | Up to $50 |
| 2 Numbers + Mega Ball | $10 | Up to $50 |
| 1 Number + Mega Ball | $4 | Up to $20 |
| Mega Ball Only | $2 | Up to $10 |
The Megaplier, which was 2x for this drawing, means that non-jackpot winnings were doubled for those who chose this option.
Where to Check If You Won
Players can check their tickets using the following methods:
- Lottery Retailers – Most authorized lottery retailers have scanning machines to verify tickets.
- Official Lottery Website – Many states have online platforms where players can enter their numbers.
- Mobile Lottery Apps – Some states provide mobile apps for easy ticket checking.
- Televised Announcements – The winning numbers are often displayed on major television networks.
- Lottery Customer Service – If in doubt, calling your state’s lottery office can confirm your results.
What to Do If You Win
Smaller Prizes (Under $600)
For winnings under $600, most players can simply visit an authorized lottery retailer and collect their prize immediately.
Larger Prizes ($600 and Above)
For larger prizes, winners must claim their prize at a lottery office, submit a claim by mail, or visit an official lottery headquarters. Some states require additional identification and forms.
Jackpot Winners
Jackpot winners face the biggest decision:
- Lump Sum Payout: Take the cash option, which is a reduced amount but given all at once.
- Annuity Option: Receive the full jackpot in 30 annual payments, increasing by 5% each year.
Lottery Winners and Taxes
Winners should remember that lottery prizes are subject to federal and state taxes:
- Federal Taxes: The IRS withholds 24% for prizes over $5,000, with an additional tax burden at filing time.
- State Taxes: Some states tax lottery winnings, while others (like Florida and Texas) do not.
Proper financial planning is essential to avoid surprises when tax season arrives.
The Next Mega Millions Drawing
If the jackpot was not won, the next Mega Millions drawing will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 11:00 PM ET.
The jackpot will roll over and continue to grow, attracting even more players hoping to strike it rich.
Final Thoughts
The Mega Millions drawing for February 18, 2025, brought excitement, but as of now, there is no confirmed jackpot winner. Even so, many players may have won smaller prizes.
If you played, be sure to check your numbers carefully—you might still be a winner! If not, the next drawing could be your lucky break.
