Winning ticket for $1.22 billion lottery jackpot sold in California, Mega Millions says

In an exciting turn of events, a single winning ticket for the staggering $1.22 billion Mega Millions jackpot was sold in California, lottery officials announced. The winning numbers drawn on Tuesday, July 19, 2023, ended a long stretch without a jackpot winner, making this one of the largest lottery prizes in U.S. history.

The winning numbers were: 13, 19, 20, 32, 33, and the Mega Ball was 14. The lucky ticket matched all six numbers, securing the massive prize. The jackpot had been rolling over since April 18, 2023, when a ticket in New York won a $20 million prize. Since then, anticipation had been building as the prize climbed into the billion-dollar range.

The Winning Ticket: Sold in California

The California Lottery confirmed that the winning ticket was purchased at Las Palmitas Mini Market, a small convenience store located at 1205 Wall Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. The store will receive a $1 million bonus for selling the jackpot-winning ticket.

The identity of the winner remains unknown, as California law allows jackpot winners to remain anonymous if they choose. However, the winner must still come forward to claim their prize. Given the enormous sum, financial experts recommend that the winner consult legal and financial advisors before making any major decisions.

Breaking Down the $1.22 Billion Jackpot

The advertised $1.22billion\ast \ast representstheannuityoption,paidoutover\ast \ast 29years\ast \ast .However,mostwinnersoptforthe\ast \ast lump-sumcashpayout\ast \ast ,whichforthisjackpotwasapproximately\ast \ast$625 million before taxes.

Here’s how the annuity vs. cash option compares:

Annuity Option (29 Years)

• Total Payout: $1.22 billion
• Annual Payments: Roughly $42 million per year (before taxes)
• Advantage: Steady income over time, potentially reducing tax burden

Cash Option (Lump Sum)

• Estimated Payout: $625 million (before taxes)
• Federal Taxes: 24% initial withholding (plus potential additional taxes at tax time)
• State Taxes (CA): California does not tax lottery winnings, but other states might
• Advantage: Immediate access to funds for investments or large purchases

What Should the Winner Do Next?

Winning such a massive jackpot is life-changing, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. Financial advisors typically recommend the following steps:

1. Sign the Ticket & Keep It Secure
   • The ticket is the only proof of ownership. Sign it and store it in a safe place, such as a bank safety deposit box.
2. Remain Anonymous (If Possible)
   • Some states allow winners to claim prizes through a trust or LLC to protect their identity.
3. Consult Professionals
   • Hire a lawyer, financial advisor, and tax specialist to navigate the complexities of sudden wealth.
4. Decide on Lump Sum vs. Annuity
   • Weigh the pros and cons of each payout method based on financial goals.
5. Plan for the Future
   • Consider charitable donations, investments, and estate planning to ensure long-term financial security.

Biggest Lottery Jackpots in U.S. History

This $1.22 billion prize ranks among the largest lottery jackpots ever won in the United States. Here’s how it compares to other record-breaking wins:

1. $2.04 Billion (Powerball, Nov. 2022) – Won in California
2. $1.586 Billion (Powerball, Jan. 2016) – Shared by winners in CA, FL, TN
3. $1.537 Billion (Mega Millions, Oct. 2018) – Won in SC
4. $1.35 Billion (Mega Millions, Jan. 2023) – Won in ME
5. $1.22 Billion (Mega Millions, July 2023) – Won in CA

Impact on the California Lottery & Local Business

The sale of the winning ticket is a major win for Las Palmitas Mini Market, which will receive a $1 million retailer bonus. Lottery retailers earn commissions on ticket sales, but a jackpot-winning sale brings additional publicity and foot traffic.

California Lottery Director Alva Johnson congratulated the winner and the retailer, stating:

“This is an incredible moment for California Lottery players. We’re thrilled that one lucky ticket holder has won this life-changing prize and that a small business in Los Angeles will benefit as well.”

How Often Do Billion-Dollar Jackpots Happen?

Billion-dollar jackpots were once rare, but due to changes in lottery rules (higher ticket prices and tougher odds), they have become more frequent. Since 2016, there have been seven billion-dollar lottery prizes in the U.S.

Why Are Jackpots Growing Larger?

• Increased Ticket Sales: More players = bigger jackpots
• Higher Odds: Tougher winning odds mean more rollovers
• Multi-State Participation: Mega Millions and Powerball are played in 45+ states

What Happens If No One Claims the Prize?

While unlikely, if the winner fails to come forward within the claim period (typically 180 days to 1 year, depending on the state), the prize money is returned to the participating states. These funds are often redirected to education or other public programs.

Final Thoughts: A Life-Changing Moment

The sale of this $1.22 billion Mega Millions ticket in California marks another historic moment in U.S. lottery history. For the lucky winner, it’s the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with immense possibilities and important financial decisions.