Winning the Mega Millions jackpot is a thrilling prospect that can change your life. But it's important to understand the tax implications of such a large lottery windfall.
So, we'll talk lottery taxes, since a lucky person just won a $1.22 billion jackpot. Here's what you need to know.
Mega Millions $1.15 billion jackpot
As the final days of 2024 approach, the Mega Millions lottery has captured national attention with its jaw-dropping $1.22 billion jackpot.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Despite the astronomical odds of 1 in 302,575,350, this massive jackpot, claimed by a single ticket, is one of the largest in the game's history.
Here's how to play.
Mega Millions winner
You must match five numbers from the drawing and the gold mega ball to win the Mega Millions jackpot.
The winning numbers from the last drawing can be confirmed on the Mega Millions website. If no one matches all six numbers, the jackpot amount increases.
Even when a single ticket wins the Mega Millions jackpot, check your tickets anyway because there are other big prize winners in each drawing.
How to play?
- Purchase a Ticket: Each ticket costs $2. You can buy tickets at local lottery retailers or through online platforms in participating states. Be sure to purchase your ticket before the cutoff time, typically 10:45 PM on drawing nights.
- Choose Your Numbers: You can select your numbers or a “ Quick Pick,” where the system randomly generates numbers. (A standard ticket requires you to pick five white balls from a set numbered 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball from a set numbered 1 to 25.)
- Add Megaplier (Optional): For an additional $1, you can add the Megaplier option, which multiplies non-jackpot prizes.
Mega Millions drawing days
Mega Millions drawings happen twice weekly: Tuesdays and Fridays at 11 PM ET.
Ticket sales close at 10:45 PM on drawing nights, so get your tickets early!
You can watch the drawings live or check results on the official Mega Millions website or through lottery retailers.
Mega Millions after tax: How Much the winner takes home
When you win a Mega Millions jackpot, the federal government takes a big chunk of your winnings:
Immediate Withholding: The IRS automatically withholds 24% of your winnings for federal taxes right away.
Higher Tax Rate: Since lottery winnings are considered ordinary income, they can push you into the highest federal tax bracket. This means you could ultimately owe up to 37% in federal taxes when you file your annual federal return.
States that tax lottery winnings
State taxes on lottery winnings vary widely across the United States. Some states, like California and Florida, don't tax lottery winnings. This means you get to keep more of your prize.
On the other hand, states like New York can take a substantial cut, with rates reaching as high as 10.9%. Pennsylvania has a lower rate at 3.07%, but it still adds to your overall tax burden.
Before claiming your prize, check your state’s tax laws or consult a tax attorney to help determine your tax liability.
Mega Millions payout
When claiming your Mega Millions prize, you have two primary payout options, each with different tax consequences:
Lump Sum Payment: Most winners choose this option because it provides immediate access to a large sum. However, remember that this amount is less than the advertised jackpot due to taxes being deducted upfront.
Annuity Payments: This option spreads your winnings over 30 years, with each payment increasing annually. While this may seem appealing for long-term financial planning, you'll be subject to taxes on each installment.
Regardless of your choice, be prepared for the top 37% federal income tax rate on your total winnings.
Can you avoid lottery taxes?
While taxes on lottery winnings are unavoidable, there are some strategies to consider.
Consult a Professional: A qualified tax professional or financial advisor can help minimize your tax liability.
Think About Charitable Contributions: Donating a portion of your winnings to charity can reduce your taxable income while allowing you to give back to the community.
Invest Wisely: Using part of your winnings for investments can help grow your wealth over time and potentially offset some of the tax burden.
Mega Millions jackpot: Bottom line
It’s good to remember that even after taxes are considered, winning the Mega Millions jackpot can still result in a life-altering amount.
The odds of winning are slim — about 1 in 302 million—but someone has to win eventually, right?
Related Content
-
The 'Concerning Trends' in Retirement NowAmericans are less satisfied with their life in retirement and cite inflation and higher healthcare costs as just two of the problems they're facing.
-
What Trump Has Done With Social Security So FarSince President Trump was sworn into office on January 20, he has proposed or initiated changes impacting how Social Security functions, including closing offices and offering buyouts. Here's a roundup.
-
Tax-Deductible Home Improvements for Retirement in 2025Retirement Taxes Your aging-in-place plan could benefit from the medical expense tax deduction. But watch out for capital gains and property taxes.
-
Don’t Make These Five Mistakes on Your Tax ReturnTax Filing The IRS warns taxpayers to watch out for these common errors as they prepare to file.
-
You Don’t Want to Retire in Portugal: Here Are Three Tax Reasons WhyRetirement Taxes With the NHR benefit retiring and pension taxes increasing, you might rethink your retirement plans in Portugal.
-
Why Abolishing Florida Property Taxes is ProblematicProperty Taxes A bold proposal that aims to eliminate property taxes in the Sunshine State has roused concerns from economists, and rightly so.
-
First-Time Filing Taxes? Key Tax Tips to Know for 2025Tax Filing Preparing your IRS taxes for the first time may seem daunting, but here are some return preparation and filing tips to start.
-
Mail Theft Crisis: Why Your IRS Tax Refund Is At RiskTax Refunds Millions of dollars in tax refunds were stolen in the mail last year. Here's what you should know.
-
Ten IRS Audit Red Flags for Retirees in 2025Retirement Taxes Retirees who think they can escape the IRS audit machine should think again.
-
States with Emergency and Energy Sales Tax Holidays in 2025Sales Taxes Save on appliances with a state emergency preparedness or energy-efficient tax-free weekend in February.
