Powerball $1.25 Billion Jackpot Hits Sixth-Largest Prize in History

A massive Powerball jackpot has finally been won. The prize reached a staggering $1.25 billion after 43 consecutive drawings without a top winner.

The winning numbers for the Wednesday, December 17, 2025 drawing were 25, 33, 53, 62, 66, and Powerball 17. This historic prize now ranks as the sixth-largest in the game’s entire history.

Historic Jackpot Ends Lengthy Winning Drought

The $1.25 billion jackpot marks a major lottery milestone. It resulted from an exceptionally long 43-drawing streak without a grand prize winner.

This drought is tied for the second-longest jackpot run in Powerball history. According to Reuters, such extended periods without a winner directly cause prize pools to balloon into the billions.

Only five other Powerball jackpots have ever been larger. The current record is a $2.04 billion prize won in California back in November 2022.

This win provides a dramatic end to a months-long buildup. Players across the country are now checking their tickets for life-changing numbers.

Prize Breakdown and Winner Details Emerge

Matching all five white balls and the red Powerball wins the full jackpot. The cash lump sum option for this prize is approximately $572.1 million.

Players who matched only the five white balls won a $1 million prize. The Power Play multiplier drawn was 4X, boosting many secondary prizes.

Official confirmation of a winning ticket location is still pending. Lottery officials typically announce these details within a few days of the drawing.

Winners have 180 days to come forward and claim their prize. They must choose between the annuity paid over 29 years or the immediate cash lump sum.

Financial and Tax Implications for the New Billionaire

The winner faces an immediate and significant tax burden. Federal withholding on the cash option is roughly 24 percent.

That withholding would reduce the $572.1 million cash payout by about $137 million upfront. State taxes would then apply on top of that initial reduction.

Financial experts universally advise winners to assemble a professional team. This team should include a lawyer, a financial advisor, and a tax accountant.

Many recommend the annuity option for long-term financial security. The annuity provides an immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5% each year.

The $1.25 billion Powerball jackpot stands as a testament to the game’s growing prize ceilings. It cements Powerball’s status as a creator of instant financial history.

Info at your fingertips

What were the winning Powerball numbers?

The winning numbers for the December 17 drawing are 25, 33, 53, 62, 66, and Powerball 17. Players needed to match all six to win the grand prize.

What is the cash value of the $1.25 billion jackpot?

The cash lump sum option is approximately $572.1 million. The winner chooses this or an annuity paid over 30 years.

How long did the jackpot roll over for?

The jackpot rolled over for 43 consecutive drawings. This is tied for the second-longest winless streak in the game’s history.

Where was the winning ticket sold?

The location of the winning ticket has not been officially announced yet. State lottery officials will confirm this information soon.

What are the taxes on a Powerball jackpot?

Federal taxes take about 24% immediately from the cash option. State taxes also apply, varying significantly depending on where the ticket was purchased and where the winner lives.