Lucky Lottery Winner, Where Art Thou?

Photo via 1010Wins

If you're in Queens, start watching the sidewalk for stray lottery tickets! The Daily News reports that the person who purchased the winning Mega Millions ticket at the Shiz Convenience Store on Hillside Avenue, has yet to come forward and cash in the $133 million golden ticket. The paper notes that there was only one ticket that matched all six numbers in last night's drawing, and the winner had the computer pick the numbers. This Friday the jackpot is down to $12 million—have you been playing more during the recent economic downturn in an effort to bail yourself out?

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By Jen Carlson in News on July 8, 2009 2:37 PM

Comments [rss]

jaycjay

From what I've read, it's pretty common for big winners to wait at least a few days before claiming the prize. Hire a lawyer, formulate a plans as to what you're going to do, and do it when you're ready to deal with what will be an intense few days at least -- and of course a changed life (with its ups and downs) from then on. There's really no hurry.

JenChungsBaby

Playing the lottery more to bail yourself out of financial trouble is like drinking more whiskey to stop being an alcoholic.

If I won something like that I wouldn't come forward right away either. I'd consult with lawyers, accountants, private security, etc, before claiming the prize, and I'd try to do it in such a way as to attract as little attention as possible. No press conferences for me.

Tar_Baby

Is the winner obligated to disclose his/her identity to the public?

jibbly

http://www.rotten.com/library/culture/lottery-winners/

I don't know if it's legit advice, but sure sounds like a plan.

pigeon

So I guess, statistically, there won't be a jackpot winning ticket from Queens for a while? Blerg. There goes my bailout plan. Actually, I think it makes more sense to play this Friday now because fewer people will be playing (after having been disappointed by losing the $133 million).

kswissreject

Actually, Mega Millions doesn't pit you against the other players - you want more of them, to drive the jackpot up. You're playing against the ball-selector machine; having fewer players doesn't mean more of a chance for you to win.