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THE winner of a $1 million lottery ticket remains a mystery.
Purchased in Creve Coeur, Missouri, the Mega Millions ticket was from the October 25, 2024 drawing.
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The ticket was bought from a convenience store named Alta Convenience on New Ballas Road.
Lottery officials urge players to check the following numbers: 23, 26, 35, 41, and 43, with Mega Ball 7.
Just note that the mystery ticket holder has until April 23, 2025, to claim their prize.
To claim, head to the Claim Prizes tab on the Lottery website.
GAME TIME
Mega Millions cost $2 per ticket and players can pick six numbers from two separate pools of numbers.
Each player can choose five different numbers from one to 70, which are the white balls.
Then, they can pick one number from one to 25, the gold Mega Ball.
However, players may also select Easy Pick/Quick Pick.
You win the jackpot by matching all six winning numbers in the drawing.
CLAIM YOUR PRIZE
Officials urge winners to sign the back of their ticket using an ink pen.
This will identify you as the Owner of that ticket for all legal purposes related to prize payment.
Once signed, ownership of a ticket cannot be changed or transferred.
Next, those looking to send in their form and ticket must include specific documents.
Lottery officials also need to see your signature signed on the back of your actual winning ticket as no copies will be accepted.
In addition to the completed claim form, you’ll need a copy of a valid ID and proof of Social Security number.
Valid Id’s include:
- State-Issued Driver’s License
- Voter’s Registration Identification Card
- State-Issued Identification Card
- Military Identification Card
- Passport
- Alien Registration Receipt Card
Just note that your Social Security number must be on a computer-generated document with your name and all nine digits displayed, like a Social Security card, pay stub or tax forms.
Keep in mind there are inherent risks involved in playing the lottery, and you should only buy a ticket if you can afford to do so.
Plus, if you or someone you know has signs of gambling addiction, call the National Gambling Hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
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.
