As jackpots soared in 2025, Powerball players had questions. Here’s a look back at the most common FAQs about tickets, odds, payouts, and prizes.
If 2025 taught Powerball players anything, it’s that curiosity spikes right along with the jackpots.
Last year delivered eye-popping prize amounts, nonstop headlines, and plenty of “wait, how does this actually work?” moments.
As we look back on Powerball in 2025, these were the questions players asked most often. Whether you were buying your first ticket or double-checking the fine print before a draw, these ten FAQs captured exactly what people wanted to know during one of Powerball’s most talked-about years.
1. How Do I Buy a Powerball Ticket?
Powerball tickets can only be purchased in states where Powerball is offered, and at authorized retail outlets. Many participating states offer online purchase options using an official state Powerball website or cellphone app.
2. Do I Need to be a US Citizen to Play Powerball, and Is There an Age Limit?
You aren’t required to be a US citizen or a permanent resident to play Powerball. If you are visiting a state that participates in Powerball, and you meet the legal age requirement of 18 years of age, you can purchase tickets.
3. When Are the Drawings Held, and Is There a Purchase Cutoff?
You can tune in to drawings every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday right at 10:59 PM Eastern time. The results will also be published on official Powerball websites and posted at authorized retail outlets. Most states observe a cutoff time leading up to the drawing, but these times can vary from state to state, so check with your local Powerball to find out the exact cutoff time.
4. What are the Odds of Winning?
The chances of you winning a big Powerball jackpot are a staggering 1 in 292,201,338, and the odds of you winning any Powerball prize, even $1, are about 1 in 24.87.
5. How Do I Claim My Prize Money, and How Long Do I Have to Do So?
If your win is less than $600, you may claim it at any authorized Powerball retail outlet, so long as it’s in the same state. Larger prizes typically require the ticket holder to appear in person at a State or regional office to collect their winnings. The time limit to collect your prize can vary, but it is usually between 90 days and one year from the date the numbers were drawn.
6. What’s the Difference Between Lump Sum and Annuity Payout?
Most states offer two payout options for Powerball jackpots: lump sum or annuity. A cash lump-sum payout is a single payout of the jackpot prize's cash value. An annuity payout is an annual payment plan, usually over 30 years. When jackpot amounts are advertised, it’s important to remember that this amount is an estimate. Final ticket sales must be tallied, and the actual amount is then paid out.
7. If I Lose My Ticket, Can I Still Claim My Prize?
Most states require winners to present their tickets to claim a monetary prize. Some states may require proof of purchase to provide ownership, and may award the prize based on that. It’s recommended that once you realize you have a winning ticket, you protect it as you would cash money.
8. Can I Keep my Identity Anonymous If I’m a Winner?
Some states require winners to reveal their identities and consent to their likenesses being posted publicly. Some jurisdictions allow you to remain anonymous or send a representative in your place to collect the winnings.
9. How Can I Recognize Powerball Scams and Protect Myself?
Powerball offices will never contact winners by unsolicited email, social media pages, or telephone demanding information or money for you to claim your prize. It’s vital that you not engage with these people and do not give them any information or money. You can confirm with your state’s commission whether the communication is valid.
10. Does Having a Lower Jackpot Make It Easier to Win?
Many players believe their odds of winning improve with the size of the jackpot, but this is simply not the case. The probability of you winning always remains the same.
Now that you’ve learned some of the top FAQ’s, grab your own Powerball ticket today!