PowerBall Jackpots Reach R145 Million for May 5 Draw

Key facts

• PowerBall and PowerBall Plus jackpots total R145 million.
• Draws scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
• Tickets available until 8:30 PM on draw days.
• PowerBall entries cost R5 per board.
• Winning numbers are announced shortly after 9 PM.
• Prizes under R250,000 are directly deposited into bank accounts for app players.

Immense Jackpots on Offer

South Africa's national lottery is set to make another millionaire with the PowerBall and PowerBall Plus draws scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026. A staggering R145 million in guaranteed jackpots is up for grabs, drawing significant attention from hopeful players across the nation. The draws, which occur just after 9 PM, represent a substantial opportunity for individuals to change their financial fortunes. The anticipation builds as players eagerly await the announcement of the winning numbers, hoping to match their chosen combinations. This significant prize pool underscores the enduring appeal of lottery games in providing dreams of instant wealth, with millions invested in tickets each draw cycle.

How to Play and Purchase Tickets

Playing PowerBall involves selecting five numbers between 1 and 50, along with a PowerBall number ranging from 1 to 20. Alternatively, players can opt for the 'Quick Pick' feature, which randomly generates all numbers. Tickets are available for purchase through selected banking applications, though specific terms and conditions apply. For those not using digital platforms, tickets can be bought at lottery outlets until 8:30 PM on draw days. Sales also continue on other days of the week, from 6 AM to 11:30 PM, excluding draw evenings. Each PowerBall entry costs R5 per board, inclusive of VAT. The National Lottery operator, Ithuba, manages the draws and prize disbursements.

Claiming Your Winnings

Winners who play via a banking app and win less than R250,000 can expect their prize money to be directly deposited into their bank accounts. They will receive an SMS from their bank containing a reference number and instructions for any necessary documentation. For larger prizes, or for those who purchased tickets through traditional outlets, specific procedures are in place for claiming winnings. It is crucial for players to sign the back of their ticket to prevent potential misuse or claims by others should it be lost. Players are advised to verify their numbers on the National Lottery website to ensure accuracy when checking their tickets. While efforts are made to ensure precision in reporting results, official verification remains paramount for all participants.

Draw Schedule and Additional Games

The PowerBall and PowerBall Plus draws take place every Tuesday and Friday evening, shortly after 9 PM. Lottery outlets cease ticket sales at 8:30 PM on these draw days. Beyond the main PowerBall draws, the national lottery also offers the Daily Lotto, a separate game with nightly draws occurring just after 9:30 PM. Tickets for the Daily Lotto are available daily until 8:30 PM. Historical winning numbers for both PowerBall and Lotto draws are accessible, allowing players to review past results and patterns.

Ensuring Accuracy and Responsible Play

While The Citizen strives for accuracy in reporting lottery results, the publication cannot assume responsibility for any errors in the PowerBall or PowerBall Plus numbers published. Players are strongly encouraged to cross-reference their tickets with the official results available on the National Lottery website, www.nationallottery.co.za. The website also serves as a comprehensive resource for terms and conditions, 'How to Play' guides, and further information regarding all lottery games offered. Players are reminded that lottery tickets can be purchased through selected banking apps, with adherence to applicable terms and conditions.

The bottom line

• Jackpots for PowerBall and PowerBall Plus on May 5, 2026, total R145 million.
• Tickets are sold until 8:30 PM on draw days, with PowerBall entries costing R5.
• Players can choose numbers manually or use the 'Quick Pick' option.
• Winnings under R250,000 are automatically deposited for players using banking apps.
• Official verification of winning numbers should always be done via the National Lottery website.
• The Daily Lotto offers a separate nightly draw.