I won $1 million playing a brand new lottery game but immediately had to give back $350,000 once I picked up my prize | XY04MJ2 | 2024-04-27 17:08:01
I won $1 million playing a brand new lottery game but immediately had to give back $350,000 once I picked up my prize | XY04MJ2 | 2024-04-27 17:08:01
A MASSACHUSETTS man was set to take home a million-dollar prize after winning a new instant ticket game.
But when it came time to claim the money, luck turned for the East Coast lottery winner.
Michael Stephens was the second winner of the $1 million prize for the new JAWS instant ticket game.
The Dighton, Massachusetts resident told the lottery he used to be a deep-sea fisherman — fitting for a game dedicated to the iconic film at sea.
Stephens bought the winning ticket from Olde Village Corner Store at 2756 County Street in Somerset.
The store received a $10,000 bonus for the sale of his ticket.
But things took a turn when he went to claim the prize on Monday, April 22 at Mass Lottery headquarters in Dorchester.
Stephens chose to receive his prize in the form of a one-time payment.
This put his win at $650,000 before taxes, according to the Massachusetts lottery.
Stephens gave the $350,000 when he took the lump sum option, giving him 40-50% of the jackpot for immediate use or investment.
Meanwhile, lottery winners who opt for an annuity receive annual payments and more money over time, per consumer-focused website, Annuity.
Despite the loss, Stephens still plans to use the winnings wisely, taking time to travel with his wife and share the winnings with his family.
<!-- End of Brightcove Player --> JAWS INSTANT TICKET
Launched on March 26, the JAWS Instant Ticket is available at Massachusetts Lottery retailers across the state.
The key number match style game contains six "Winning Numbers" and 15 "Your Numbers."
If one or more of "Your Numbers" match the "Winning Numbers," the player wins that amount.
A singular Bonus Spot also gives players the chance to instantly win $100.
Winners can see up to $1 million or participate in Second Chance Drawings.
<p class="article__content--intro"> Millions dream of winning the lottery and finding fame and fortune. These are the biggest winners in US lottery history. </p> </div> </div> "This year marks the 50th anniversary of Massachusetts introducing the industry's first instant ticket, and next summer will mark the 50th anniversary of the theatrical release of JAWS," said Mark William Bracken, executive director of the Massachusetts Lottery.
"What better way to celebrate these milestones than by giving our players the opportunity to win a once-in-a-lifetime experience where the iconic summer blockbuster was filmed," he said.
If you don't strike it rich winning the million, you could be one of 30 winners awarded a Jaws-inspired trip for two to Martha's Vineyard in the summer of 2025.
So far, six lucky players have won the Jaws-inspired trip, while four additional drawings — for a total of 24 more trips — remain.
Those who make it to Martha's Vineyard are required to participate in a Jaws-themed Game Show which gives everyone a fair shot at winning a $1 million prize.
Others will have the opportunity to win prizes ranging from $500 to $10,000.
The lottery game's overall prize payout is 80.2% and the odds of winning a prize are 1 in 3.43.
Read about a player who was just moments away from losing a $30,000 lottery prize.
Plus, a New York woman stopped by a gas station and ended up winning $1 million on a scratch-off ticket.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry, or depressed
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling online.
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