A BIG WIN
The latest numbers from the prize draw held on Tuesday, December 10, have left one lucky person with a life-changing windfall – a $5 million jackpot that remains unclaimed. Florida officials are urging players to check their tickets as the deadline to claim the prize approaches.
Unclaimed Winnings
The winning lottery ticket was purchased at a grocery store in Florida, but the lucky winner has yet to come forward to claim their prize. Players have one year from the date of the draw to claim their prize, which means the deadline is December 10, 2025. If the prize is not claimed by then, the $5 million jackpot will be returned to the state.
The winning numbers were 12, 14, 26, 48, 52, with the Mega Ball being 21 and the Megaplier being 5. Matching the game’s Megaplier means that the winning $1 million prize increased to a whopping $5 million for one lucky player in Florida.
In fact, there weren’t just one person who was lucky enough to get a win. Four people matched all five numbers without the Megaplier, so they each walk away with $1 million.
WAYS TO PLAY
To play Mega Millions, you pick five numbers from 1-70 and a Mega Ball from 1-25. An additional option to input a Megaplier from 2-5 for extra winnings is also available.
Lottery Winnings: Lump Sum or Annuity?
Players who win big on lottery tickets typically have a choice to make: lump sum or annuity? The two payout methods can impact how much money you get from your prize.
Annuities pay out slowly in increments, often over 30 years. Lump sums pay all at once but in a smaller amount, as taxes are withheld in one go. That means 24% of your prize goes to Uncle Sam right away. Many states tax winnings as well.
Annuities can provide winners time to set up the financial infrastructure required to take in a life-changing amount of money, but lump sums have the benefit of being taxed only once. Inflation is also worth considering when making a choice, as payouts do not adjust with the value of a dollar. That means that you’ll likely be getting less valuable money towards the end of an annuity.
Each state and game pays out prizes differently, so it’s best to check with your state’s lottery to confirm payment policies. A financial advisor can also help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. Experts have varying opinions on whether to take the lump sum or take the annuity.
Gamble Responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling online.
Conclusion
The Mega Millions lottery has a long history of making winners out of its players. With the option to play twice a week, every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 pm ET, you have plenty of chances to join the ranks of the fortunate. Remember to check your tickets regularly and take control of your finances. Whether you choose to take a lump sum or annuity, the prize is a life-changing amount that could change your life forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I’ve won a prize?
You can check your winning numbers on the official Mega Millions website or by contacting your local lottery retailer.
2. What do I do if I’ve won a prize?
If you’ve won a prize, you’ll need to visit a lottery claim center or submit your claim via mail, and bring along additional documentation.
3. Can I remain anonymous after winning a prize?
Some states allow winners to remain anonymous, while others require the winner’s name and personal information to be made public. Check with your state’s lottery to see their policies on anonymity.
4. How do I know how much taxes I’ll need to pay on my winnings?
Your state’s lottery will advise you on the taxes owed on your prize. Be sure to consult with a financial advisor to understand how taxes will impact your prize.
5. Can I donate my prize to charity?
Yes, you can donate all or part of your prize to a registered charity. Check with your state’s lottery to see their policies on charitable donations.
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