$1.537 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot
October 23, 2018 — South Carolina
A single winning ticket was sold at a KC Mart in Simpsonville, South Carolina. The winner waited nearly five months before claiming the prize through a trust, remaining anonymous under South Carolina law. At the time, it was the largest jackpot ever won on a single ticket in US lottery history. The cash value was $877.8 million, which after federal and state taxes came to roughly $588 million. The store received a $50,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
What Happened Next
Payout choice: The winner chose the lump sum cash option of $877.8 Million, which after federal taxes (37% top bracket) and applicable state taxes results in a significantly reduced — but still life-changing — take-home amount.
Privacy: The winner chose to remain anonymous, claiming through a trust or LLC. Financial advisors generally recommend this approach to protect winners from solicitation, scams, and personal safety risks.
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