SC lottery players passed on $1.5B jackpot yesterday, but Monday’s $1.6B drawing just changed everything for your final chance

South Carolina lottery players who hoped to win the $1.5 billion Powerball jackpot on Saturday night came up empty, but there’s a massive reason to stay in the game. The December 20 drawing produced no grand prize winner, which means Monday’s $1.6 billion jackpot is now the fourth-largest prize in Powerball history—and the odds just shifted in players’ favor.

Saturday’s Powerball Numbers and South Carolina’s Secondary Winners

The winning numbers for December 20 were 4, 5, 28, 52, 69 with Powerball 20. The Power Play multiplier was 3x. While no South Carolina player matched all six numbers for the grand prize, the Palmetto State lottery still produced winners in secondary prize tiers. Eight total tickets across the nation matched the first five numbers without the Powerball, qualifying for $1 million each.

South Carolina continues to demonstrate strong lottery participation, with regular winners in both mid-tier and smaller prize categories. The state’s lottery players purchased tickets at various retailers, with some claiming $50,000 prizes and higher amounts in recent December drawings. Multiple stores across Columbia and other SC cities sold winning tickets worth thousands of dollars, reinforcing the Palmetto State’s position as an active Powerball market.

What Changed: How Monday’s Drawing Differs Completely

Monday’s December 23 Powerball drawing marks a significant shift in the game. With no jackpot won on Saturday, the annuity amount jumped to $1.6 billion, making it one of the most valuable prizes in Powerball’s existence. Players opting for the lump sum cash option would receive approximately $735.3 million—still a life-changing amount before taxes.

The prize growth mechanism means each ticket purchased for Monday’s drawing costs the same $2, but players are competing for significantly higher stakes than Saturday’s game. Lottery analysts point out that these elevated jackpots typically generate increased ticket sales, with players spending more money in hopes of becoming millionaires. The draw takes place at 10:59 PM EST on Monday evening, giving players all day Sunday to purchase their tickets.

South Carolina Players’ Reaction to Rising Stakes

Lottery observers in South Carolina report heightened excitement as the jackpot climbs beyond $1.5 billion. When Powerball prizes reach this level, participation typically doubles or triples compared to average weeks. Retail locations across the state—from Charleston to Greenville to Columbia—have noted increased foot traffic and ticket purchases. Players recognize that jackpots of this magnitude only appear once or twice per years, making Monday’s drawing extraordinary.

The South Carolina Education Lottery benefits from increased game participation, with a portion of ticket sales supporting public education programs throughout the state. Winners have the option to remain anonymous or come forward publicly, though the five-figure and six-figure winners from recent weeks have sometimes become media stories highlighting lucky SC communities.

How to Play and Claim the Prize If You Win Monday

Players have until 9:59 PM ET Monday to purchase tickets for the December 23 drawing. Powerball tickets cost $2 per play, with optional Power Play multipliers available for an additional dollar per ticket. The multi-state game allows South Carolina residents to play alongside participants from 45 other states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

If a winner emerges Monday night, they’ll face important decisions. Annuity winners receive payments over 29 years, while cash option winners collect their prize immediately but accept a lower overall amount. South Carolina allows winners to claim prizes at the SC Education Lottery office, with major jackpots processed through certified payment systems. Winners should sign the back of their ticket and consult financial advisors before claiming.

Why Monday’s $1.6 Billion Drawing Represents Your Best Chance

The probability of winning Powerball’s jackpot remains one in 292.2 million—the odds don’t improve just because the prize grows larger. However, Monday’s drawing represents your best opportunity in months to compete for this historic amount. Historical data shows that jackpots exceeding $1.5 billion have only been won three times before in Powerball’s entire history, making this week essentially once-in-a-generation atmosphere.

South Carolina players should remember that secondary prize tiers—matching fewer numbers—offer better odds and still provide significant payouts. Matching four numbers plus Powerball wins $100, while matching three numbers plus Powerball wins $7. Even modest winners can reinvest in more tickets for Monday, though lottery experts advise responsible play and never spending more than you can afford to lose.

Annabelle Ink

Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.