One lucky player in the Mega Millions lottery doesn't know it yet – but he's a millionaire.
Mega Millions officials shared that the $3 million winning ticket has yet to be claimed.
1
The winning Mega Millions lottery ticket comes from the November 8 drawing.
One very lucky winner took home gold (or millions) by matching the numbers: 25, 28, 42, 64, and 69. It was Mega Ball No. 19 and Mega Player No. 3.
Although it didn't match the Mega Ball, thanks to the optional Megaplier feature, the winner's prize tripled from $1 million to $3 million.
With the deadline to claim the prize set for May 7, 2025, time is ticking for the mystery person to come forward.
Read more lottery stories
The winning ticket was purchased at the Cumberland Farms convenience store located at 1978 West Street in Southington, Connecticut.
Connecticut Lottery officials are urging players to check their tickets, as an unclaimed jackpot remains a baffling mystery.
The winning ticket was sold at a popular neighborhood stop for coffee and snacks, and now — life-changing lottery tickets.
Lottery officials encourage all Mega Millions players to double-check any tickets purchased on or around November 8, 2024, to ensure they don't miss out on this amazing prize.
If the prize is not claimed by the May deadline, $3 million will be returned to the state and allocated to various lottery-funded programs.
To play Mega Millions, you will first have to choose five numbers from 1-70 and a Mega Ball from 1-25, and there is also an additional option to enter a Megaplier from 2-5 for additional winnings.
Mega Millions drawings take place twice a week, every Tuesday and Friday at 11 PM ET.
To win big, you'll likely need to visit the lottery claims center or mail in your claim.
It should be noted that prizes exceeding a certain threshold may require additional documentation.
Remember to sign the back of your ticket to prove ownership and avoid missing out on a life-changing prize.
Lottery winnings: lump sum or annuity?
Players who win large sums of money on lottery tickets usually have a choice: lump sum or annuity?
Both payment methods can affect the amount of money you get from your prize.
Annuities are paid out slowly in increments, often over 30 years.
Lump sums are paid all at once but in a smaller amount, as taxes are withheld in one lump sum. This means that 24% of your prize goes to Uncle Sam immediately. Many states tax gains as well.
Pensions can buy winners time to build the financial infrastructure needed to receive a life-changing sum of money, but lump sums have the advantage of being taxed only once.
Inflation is also worth taking into account when making a decision, as payments do not adjust to the value of the dollar. This means you'll likely have less money back at the end of the annuity.
Each state and game pays prizes differently, so it's best to check your state's lottery to confirm payout policies. A financial advisor can also help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Experts have varying opinions on whether you should take a lump sum or take an annuity.
For now, the clock is still ticking and the winner remains a mystery.
Could it be you? If you've played Mega Millions recently, it might be worth checking your ticket as you could become Connecticut's next millionaire.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Sets time and financial limits before playing
- Only gamble with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- He does not gamble if he is upset, angry, or depressed
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling connected.
