Unclaimed Mega Millions Jackpot
A massive $1.13 billion Mega Millions lottery ticket remains unclaimed in New Jersey. The winning ticket was sold at a ShopRite in Monmouth County for the March 26 drawing. Despite the passage of six months, the winner has yet to step forward. The cash value of this ticket is estimated at $537.5 million. Under New Jersey law, winners have one year to claim their prize, giving the ticket holder until March 26, 2025, to come forward. The winning numbers were 07, 11, 22, 29, and 38, with the Gold Mega Ball number 04. The New Jersey Lottery encourages winners to contact them promptly to begin the claim process.
Jersey Cash 5 Jackpot Winner
In a recent draw, a New Jersey lottery player won a staggering $2,439,721 with a Jersey Cash 5 ticket. This winning ticket was sold at Wilson Avenue Deli in Port Monmouth on October 3. The winning numbers were 06, 10, 14, 18, and 29, with XTRA: 05 and Bullseye: 18. The deli will receive a $2,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. Jersey Cash 5 is a daily lottery game where players pick five numbers between 1 and 45. Players can add the Xtra option to increase non-jackpot prizes by up to five times, and the Bullseye offers another chance to win.
Powerball and Mega Millions Wins
Last week, eight lottery players in New Jersey won $10,000 or more by playing Powerball, Mega Millions, and other New Jersey Lottery games. Three Powerball tickets for the October 2 drawing each won $50,000. These tickets were purchased at a 7-Eleven in Wrightstown, Burlington County, an Acme in Midland Park, Bergen County, and another 7-Eleven in Landing, Morris County. Additionally, two Mega Millions tickets for the October 1 drawing each won $20,000. These tickets were sold at Jackpocket in Hewitt, Passaic County, and ShopRite of Garden State Pavilion in Cherry Hill, Camden County.
Scratch-Off Ticket Success
A lucky player from Bergen County won $200,000 on a $5 scratch-off ticket. The winning ticket was part of the “Full of 500’s” scratch-off game and was purchased at JB Liquors on Ridge Road in North Arlington. The New Jersey Lottery announced the win on social media, congratulating the winner and prompting others to consider what they would do with such a prize. The “Full of 500’s” game began in July and offers prizes ranging from $10 to $500, with four top prizes of $200,000. Two out of the four top prize tickets are still available according to the New Jersey Lottery’s website.
Advice for Lottery Winners
Winning a large lottery prize can be life-changing, but it also comes with challenges. Experts recommend that winners take time before claiming their prize to manage newfound wealth and avoid impulsive spending. New Jersey law allows lottery winners to remain anonymous indefinitely, but they must disclose their winnings to the IRS for prizes over $600. State and federal taxes are withheld from large lottery winnings in New Jersey. Winners can choose between a reduced lump sum or staggered payments via annuities over three decades. Annuity payments offer time for financial planning but are taxable and not adjusted for inflation.
Professional Guidance for Winners
Experts suggest seeking professional legal, financial, and tax advice when managing significant windfalls. Kevin O’Leary from Shark Tank advises taking the lump sum after taxes and investing in stable stocks for passive income. Some experts recommend annuities for those with compulsive spending habits or potential family claims on winnings. Regardless of the choice, careful planning is essential to ensure that the winnings provide long-term financial security.
Conclusion
The recent lottery wins in New Jersey highlight the excitement and potential life-changing impact of these games. From unclaimed jackpots to significant scratch-off wins, the New Jersey Lottery continues to create opportunities for residents to dream big. As winners come forward, they are encouraged to seek professional advice to make the most of their newfound wealth. With several large prizes still unclaimed, the anticipation continues to build for the next big winner in the Garden State.
