The Mega Millions Jackpot Is Now $521 Million. Here's How to Buy Tickets Before Tonight's Drawing

The Mega Millions jackpot has swelled to $521 million after almost 25 drawings without a big winner.

It's just the fourth time in the Mega Millions history that the jackpot has topped $500 million, and it would be the fourth-largest payout of all time. (The largest, won in 2012, was a staggering $656 million.) Want your shot at the impressive prize? Here's everything you need to know about tonight's jackpot drawing including the cut-off time and how to buy tickets.

When is the next Mega Millions drawing?

Mega Millions drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday night. The drawing for the $521 million prize will take place on Friday, March 30, at 11 p.m. E.T.

How do I win the Mega Millions jackpot?

Mega Millions players select six numbers in all: five different numbers from 1 to 70, and one number from 1 to 25. If all six of your selections match the winning number, you take home the jackpot — a feat that you have just a 1 in roughly 303 million chance of achieving, according to Mega Millions.

How can I buy Mega Millions tickets?

Mega Millions tickets cost $2 and are sold at retailers in every U.S. state (plus Washington, D.C.) except Nevada, Utah, Alaska, Mississippi and Alabama. (You can see purchase locations in your state here.) You can also buy tickets online if you live in Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina and North Dakota. Subscriptions are available in New Hampshire, New York and Virginia.

Cut-off times vary by state, so make sure you check with your state lottery website to buy one before the drawing.