The Powerball drawing has increased to an estimated $850 million jackpot for tonight, according to officials with the Virginia Lottery.
The last Powerball jackpot was won on May 31.
In the last week, as word has spread about the growing jackpot, ticket sales have doubled, according to Matt Strawn, Powerball product group chair and Iowa Lottery CEO.
If there is a winner in tonight’s drawing, the will have the choice between an annuitized prize estimated at $850 million or a lump sum payment estimated at $383.7 million. Both prize options are before taxes.
If the winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5 percent each year.
Powerball tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than have of all proceeds from sales remain in the state where the ticket is sold.
The Powerball drawing is broadcast live at 10:59 p.m. at Powerball.com
Earlier this month, a Virginian claimed a $348 million Mega Millions jackpot win. The ticket was bought in Northumberland County on the Northern Neck peninsula. According to lottery officials, the winner said they wanted to buy a zero-radius riding lawn mower.
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Crystal Graham
