Understanding Powerball and Draw Times
Powerball is one of America's most popular lottery games, available in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings occur every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 PM Eastern Time. For detailed game information, visit the official Powerball website.
State-by-State Purchase Deadlines
Eastern Time Zone
Most Eastern states stop selling tickets 59 minutes before the drawing (10:00 PM ET). Notable exceptions include:
| State | Cutoff Time |
|---|---|
| Maine | 9:50 PM |
| Vermont | 9:50 PM |
| New Hampshire | 9:50 PM |
| Connecticut | 9:45 PM |
| Michigan | 9:45 PM |
| New York | 9:45 PM |
Central Time Zone
Most Central states end sales at 9:00 PM CT (10:00 PM ET), including:
- Texas
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Tennessee
Some states have slightly earlier deadlines:
- Iowa: 8:59 PM
- Wisconsin: 8:59 PM
- North Dakota: 8:58 PM
Mountain Time Zone
- Colorado: 7:30 PM
- Idaho: 7:55 PM
- Montana: 7:30 PM
- New Mexico: 8:00 PM
- Wyoming: 7:00 PM
Pacific Time Zone
West Coast states typically stop selling at 7:00 PM PT, including:
- California
- Oregon
- Washington
Non-Participating States
Note: The following states do not participate in Powerball:
- Alaska
- Nevada
- Utah
- Mississippi
Online Purchase Options
For states that allow online ticket purchases through services like Jackpocket, deadlines may be earlier to ensure proper processing. Check your local lottery website for specific online purchase cutoff times.
Tips for Buying Tickets
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the deadline
- Have your numbers ready if playing specific combinations
- Bring proper payment method
- Keep your ticket in a safe place
- Sign tickets immediately after purchase
Where to Check Results
After the drawing, verify your numbers through:
- Official Powerball website
- State lottery websites
- Local news stations
- Lottery retailer terminals
Playing Responsibly
Remember these important guidelines:
- Set a budget for lottery purchases
- Only play with disposable income
- Never borrow money to play
- Keep tickets secure
Technical Requirements for Retailers
- Active lottery terminal
- Current lottery license
- Real-time connection to central system
- Thermal printer for tickets
- Valid operating hours
Disclaimer: Lottery games are a form of gambling and should be played responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek help from organizations such as the National Council on Problem Gambling.