As the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots approach record territory, North Carolinians have a chance to win almost $1 billion.

The Mega Millions jackpot for Tuesday is $654 million annuity worth $372.6 million cash. This is the second largest Mega Millions jackpot on record. The Powerball jackpot for Wednesday is $345 million or $199 million cash. This is the 17th largest Powerball jackpot.

“Tuesday’s Mega Millions jackpot is the 4th largest in U.S. jackpot history,” said Mark Michalko, executive director of the N.C. Education Lottery. “Someone will eventually win this jackpot, and we would love it if the winner was from North Carolina.”

What to do if you win

Your first reaction will be to celebrate, but if you do snag the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Sign and secure your ticket: If you win, you must sign the back of your original ticket immediately to establish your ownership. Make sure you keep it in a safe place until you decide to claim your prize.
• Get professional advice: It’s a good idea to contact financial and legal advisers to make sure you have a sound plan.
• Take your time: You have 180 days to claim your winnings, which will give you time to figure out what to do with the money and how it will change your life.

The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302.5 million. The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

So far, four North Carolinians have won the Powerball jackpot, with wins ranging from $74.5 to $188 million, and two people have won the Mega Millions jackpot, taking home prizes of $12 million and $57 million.

There are nine ways to win playing each game, so don’t forget to check your tickets.

Ticket sales from jackpot games such as Mega Millions and Powerball make it possible for the lottery to raise more than $650 million a year for education. For details on how lottery funds have made a difference in all of North Carolina’s 100 counties, click on the “Impact” section of the lottery’s website.