Powerball Jackpot Soars To $1 Billion – Largest This Year (Photo) - 08/12/26

Salem, Ore. – For the first time this year, Powerball players have a chance to win a $1 billion jackpot. Wednesday’s drawing climbed to $1 billion, ranking as the eighth largest Powerball jackpot ever. 

Since the current jackpot run began on May 3, Oregon has seen 421,519 winners and more than $2,328,700 million in total Powerball game winnings. 

"Anytime the jackpot is this large, it adds extra excitement and attracts new players who don't typically purchase lottery games," said Oregon Lottery's Product Manager Tina Erickson.  

In 2024, Cheng “Charlie” Saephan shared a Powerball jackpot worth $1.3 billion with his wife and a friend. The prize was life changing for Saephan and by far the biggest prize ever won in Oregon. Previously, the largest Powerball prize won in Oregon was a $340 million jackpot in 2005. The biggest Powerball ever won in history was a $2.04 billion jackpot in 2022 by a player in California.

Oregon Lottery retailers that sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, a retail location that sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus. 

Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you always sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim your prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of the drawing to claim their prize. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling games on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.