PowerBall has become one of the country's most popular South African lottery games since 2009, thanks to its record-breaking jackpots and range of prize categories.
It was inspired by the US Powerball and gives players multiple opportunities to win through its nine prize divisions and player-friendly game format. This gives you a chance to win while enjoying better overall odds due to a smaller number pool.
Makes sense? See how it works below.
How SA PowerBall Works
To play SA PowerBall, players must select:
Players can choose their numbers manually or use the Quick Pick option, which generates random selections through the National Lottery system.
PowerBall draws take place every Tuesday and Friday evening, with ticket sales closing approximately 30 minutes before the draw.
You can also use our quick pick by generating your lucky numbers or use our dream guide for choosing your numbers.
Prize Divisions
PowerBall offers nine prize categories, allowing players to win even if they do not match all the winning numbers.
Prize 1: 5 + PowerBall
Prize 2: 5
Prize 3: 4 + PowerBall
Prize 4: 4
Prize 5: 3 + PowerBall
Prize 6: 3
Prize 7: 2 + PowerBall
Prize 8: 1 + PowerBall
Prize 9: 0 + PowerBall
The jackpot is won by matching all 5 main numbers plus the PowerBall, making a total of 6 matching numbers.
Some Updates to the Game
PowerBall has evolved over time to improve player experiences and winning opportunities:
In November 2015, the main number pool increased from 45 to 50, and new prize categories were introduced, including the 0 + PowerBall division, which rewards players who match only the PowerBall.
In June 2026, the number of PowerBalls was reduced from 20 to 16, improving the odds of matching the PowerBall number.
Jackpot Rollovers
The jackpot is funded from lottery sales and may roll over if no player matches all the winning numbers. Each rollover increases the jackpot for the next draw, often leading to much bigger prize pools.
When a guaranteed jackpot is offered, players receive at least the advertised amount. If rollover funds cause the estimated jackpot to exceed the guaranteed amount, the higher value applies.
Record Jackpots
PowerBall has produced some of the largest lottery prizes in South African history.
The game's record jackpot reached R232.1 million in February 2019, while subsequent draws have continued to generate record-breaking prize pools.
Claiming Prizes
Winning tickets must be claimed within 365 days of the draw date. Prize claims are generally processed as follows:
- Smaller prizes can be claimed at authorised lottery retailers.
- Mid-range prizes are claimed through approved payment channels
- Large prizes must be claimed directly through the National Lottery operator
Unclaimed prize money is partially transferred to the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF), which supports charitable and community development initiatives across South Africa.
Fairness and Regulation
All PowerBall draws are conducted live under strict regulatory oversight and in the presence of independent auditors. The game is regulated by the National Lotteries Commission to ensure transparency, integrity and fairness.
National Lottery Operator
As of 1 June 2026, Sizekhaya Holdings is the official operator of the South African National Lottery, replacing ITHUBA after approximately 11 years as operator. South Africa's National Lottery has been operated by ITHUBA Holdings since 2015, which has overseen the growth of PowerBall and the introduction of larger jackpots and enhanced prize structures.
Revenue generated through lottery sales contributes to national good-cause funding programmes that support social development projects throughout the country.
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