Multi-state lottery game Mega Millions grows to $530 million
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More than half a billion dollars is on the line in the July 19 Mega Millions jackpot.
After three months of rolling with no jackpot winners, the Tuesday jackpot is estimated to be $530 million, with a cash option of $304.7 million.
If the jackpot is won, it would be the eighth largest on record in the 20-year history of the multi-state Mega Millions game. The largest Mega Millions jackpot ever won was in 2018 in South Carolina with a $1.537 billion jackpot. In April, when the jackpot was last won, the prize total was $20 million — a small fraction of what tonight's jackpot is.
A Mega Millions press release states July is historically a hot month for the game.
"If won at $530 million on July 19, the jackpot would be the eighth largest on record, below other big July prizes of $536 million awarded in Indiana on July 8, 2016, and $543 million won in California on July 24, 2018," the release read. "The record Mega Millions jackpot is $1.537 billion, won in South Carolina on October 23, 2018."
The top Mega Millions jackpots to date:
- $1.537 billion, won in South Carolina on Oct. 23, 2018
- $1.050 billion, won in Michigan on Jan. 22, 2021
- $656 million, won in Illinois, Kansas and Maryland on March 30, 2012
- $648 million, won in California and Georgia on Dec. 17, 2013
- $543 million, won in California on July 24, 2018
- $536 million, won in Indiana on July 8, 2016
- $533 million, won in New Jersey on March 30, 2018
- $522 million, won in California June 7, 2019
- $516 million, won in Pennsylvania May 21, 2021
- $480 million up for grabs Friday night
What to do if you win:
There are several steps someone should do if they win the lottery before heading to claim their prize. According to Forbes, the first step should be signing the back of the lotto ticket.
"Make sure that you sign your winning lottery ticket," the Forbes article reads. "It’s not as simple as picking the winning numbers. Why? You may lose your ticket between the time you bought the ticket, and there is no record that you purchased the winning ticket. A lottery ticket is considered a bearer instrument, which means that whoever signs the ticket can claim the lottery prize. So, don’t become the subject of a made-for-TV movie and forget to sign your winning lottery ticket."
Unfortunately, because of the next step, it might be necessary to wait before signing that ticket, and instead lock it away somewhere safe until you talk to an expert.
Also, make sure you remain anonymous, if possible.
While some states allow you to protect your identity, others do not. So it is important to research and determine what the law is, and if anonymity is allowed for a prize of that caliber. In some states, it is possible to claim the winnings through a limited liability company or a trust, which could provide further anonymity. The best way to evaluate this is to hire a lawyer or financial planner.
After determining the best way to claim the winnings, the winner (or winners) will need to decide if they will claim the lump-sum cash payment or the annual payments.
With the Mega Millions, while the jackpot is estimated at $530 million, the lump-sum amount is much less. Meanwhile, an alternative is choosing the annual payment option, which spreads out the winnings and "nets" you the full jackpot amount. However, most experts suggest choosing the lump-sum option and investing your winnings, which ultimately should generate a larger return.
Next, if you haven't already, it is important to hire a reputable financial advisor. According to Forbes, hiring an advisor can help protect your newfound assets.
"With your lottery jackpot winnings, one of the best ways to protect against financial loss is to hire a team that can help preserve and grow your newfound wealth," the Forbes article reads. "A reputable team of experts can help you manage your investments, help guide your philanthropic interests, and help you achieve other financial life goals. Make sure you vet anyone you hire, as you’re likely to be approached by hordes of advisers looking to guide you. Most importantly, make sure you sign your own checks so that you know fully where your money is going."
Finally, after securing your future, it is a good idea to pay off your past, by settling up your debts. While it might be advantageous to use your money to earn higher returns on your investments, who really wants to deal with old debts and try to remember to make those payments?
The National Council on Problem Gambling operates the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network (1-800-522-4700). The network is a single national access point to local resources for those seeking help for a gambling problem. The network consists of 28 call centers that provide resources and referrals for all 50 states, Canada and the US Virgin Islands. Help is available 24/7 and is 100% confidential.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline Network also includes text and chat services. These features enable those who are gambling online or on their mobile phone to access help the same way they play. One call, text, or chat will get you to problem gambling help anywhere in the U.S. 24/7/365.
Help is also available via an online peer support forum at www.gamtalk.org.
