Man wins $138 million Powerball Lottery, but loses it all for one unusual reason in the US
A player from Ohio failed to claim a $138 million Powerball prize, resulting in its expiration after 180 days. The unclaimed amount was redirected to educational funds.
An Ohio resident became the winner of a $138 million Powerball jackpot, but never claimed the prize. Consequently, the winnings expired and were allocated to state funds designated for education. The winning ticket was purchased on July 3, 2024, at a Walmart in Huber Heights, Ohio. The numbers drawn were 2, 26, 33, 55, 57, and Powerball 22, securing the total jackpot.
According to the Ohio Lottery, if the winner had chosen the cash option, they would have received $65.8 million. However, the failure to claim the prize within the stipulated 180-day period resulted in its expiration.
What happen to unclaimed Powerball prizes?
When a prize is unclaimed, the money is not entirely lost. In this case, the Ohio Lottery confirmed that the amount would be transferred to the state’s unclaimed prize fund. These funds are used to support educational programs and school improvements.
However, not all of the $138 million will be allocated. Approximately $1.9 million will be retained by the state of Ohio. Since 1974, the Ohio Lottery has contributed over $33 billion to state education, playing a significant role in community support.
How to play Powerball in the U.S. and ticket costs
Powerball is one of the most popular lotteries in the United States, available in 45 states as well as Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each ticket costs $2.00, with the option to add Power Play for an extra $1.00, which multiplies non-jackpot prizes.
Players select five numbers between 1 and 69 and an additional number between 1 and 26 for the red Powerball. Drawings are held three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Players can choose their numbers manually or opt for a quick pick.
Powerball tickets, some of the most popular lottery tickets in the USA
The importance of checking tickets after drawings
The Ohio player’s case underscores the critical importance of checking lottery tickets after each drawing. While winning the lottery is often seen as a dream come true, missing the deadline to claim the prize can quickly turn it into a lost opportunity.
Unclaimed Powerball prizes are not uncommon. Even the largest jackpot in Powerball history, exactly $2.04 billion, faced controversy. Edwin Castro, the 2022 winner from California, endured months of legal challenges before receiving his winnings.