(Reuters) – The Mega Millions jackpot grew to an estimated $1.55 billion on Tuesday after none of the millions of Americans who took part in the multi-state lottery last week held the winning ticket in Friday’s drawing.
If a lucky ticket is found during Tuesday’s drawing, the winner can choose between receiving $1.55 billion in 29 annual payments, or a cash sum of approximately $752.2 million, according to the Mega Millions website.
Mega Millions said in a press release that the exact amounts will not be known until the draw.
In Friday’s draw, nine players matched all five white balls needed to win the second division prize, which is worth at least $1 million each.
Two players win $2 million each for playing the Megaplier option, which increases a player’s chance of winning all prizes except the jackpot.
Another player won the Mega Millions jackpot in New York in April, with $20 million.
The Mega Millions lottery draws take place every Tuesday and Friday, at 11pm EST (0300GMT on Wednesdays and Saturdays).
Coverage by Rachel Nostrant. Editing by Jean Harvey
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