Powerball(R) Jackpot Increased to $425 Million; Third Largest Jackpot in Powerball History

PHOENIX, AZ--(Marketwired - Aug 6, 2013) - The Powerball jackpot has been increased from $400 million to $425 million for the draw on Wednesday, Aug. 7. This is the third largest jackpot in Powerball history. The cash option would be $244.7 million, before taxes.

The jackpots are established based on a forecast of ticket sales. In this case, the ticket sales have outpaced the forecast, resulting in the increase of the estimated jackpot amount.

Since the jackpot started rolling on June 26, there have been more than $3.26 million in prizes awarded in Arizona alone. This includes two second prize $1 million winning tickets and 13 $10,000 winning tickets.

"This is truly an exciting time for the Arizona Lottery, since the Powerball jackpot is offering the third largest jackpot in the game's history," said Karen Bach, director of budget, products and communications for the Arizona Lottery. "We could be looking at another record-breaking jackpot if it continues to roll."

The increase in Powerball sales and wins in Arizona means more money being returned to important state programs. Arizona Lottery dollars are allocated to fund a wide variety of public projects and programs throughout Arizona that fall under four main pillars: education, health & public welfare, economic & business development and the environment.

Tickets for Wednesday's Powerball draw can be purchased at any Arizona Lottery retailer until 6:59 p.m. Wednesday evening. Players can check their tickets by visiting ArizonaLottery.com.

Players must be 21 years or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Winners have 180 days from the drawing date to claim their prize at an Arizona Lottery office or by mail. Overall odds vary by game. All sales are final. In accordance with the ADA, these materials may be made available in an alternative format. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.NEXT STEP (1-800-639-8783). Please Play Responsibly™.

About the Arizona Lottery
The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets -- over $3 million per week -- fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out more than $5 billion in prizes to players, over $2.8 billion in net profit to the state and almost $591 million in commissions to retailers.