From small wins to life-changing jackpots, here's your step-by-step how-to guide to claiming any Powerball prize.
So, you've checked your Powerball numbers and hooray! You’ve won. Now what?
Every prize has a process to follow. Whether it’s a $10 boost to your daily coffee budget or a life-altering jackpot, here's what you'll need to do next based on the size of your win.
Let’s begin with small wins. If you've matched just a few of the Powerball numbers (i.e., only the Powerball number itself, or two or three of the regular numbers), then your prize will likely be smaller. But hey, a win is a win.
If you bought your ticket in-store, just bring your winning ticket into any authorized Powerball retailer, and they’ll give you cash for your prize right away (up to a couple of hundred dollars, depending on your region).
If you played online, the winnings from your online purchase may be deposited directly into your online account. Check your email and review your online ticket history for further confirmation.
Pro tip: Keep that winning ticket safe, even for small wins. If you lose it, trying to prove you owned it can be tricky.
If you matched four or five of the Powerball numbers, it likely means a bigger prize. But there are some additional hoops you'll need to jump through to cash in your ticket.
For prizes greater than the maximum amount an authorized retailer can give you (this varies by region), you’ll likely need to visit a prize center or submit a claim by mail. You may be requested to complete a claim form and provide identification, so have your ticket, a valid photo ID, and your signature ready.
Pro Tip: Don't delay. Prize claims generally expire after one year, depending on the location of your ticket purchase.
Matched all six of the Powerball numbers? Congratulations, you've joined the Powerball elite, a very exclusive group of people. But before you crack open a bottle of champagne or head into work to give your boss a resignation speech, there are a few things to take care of first.
Sign your ticket right away. Doing this provides proof that you own it, and also serves as protection should you ever lose it (or if someone steals it).
Breathe. Seriously. Before you rush off to collect your winnings, take a deep breath and talk to a financial planner or an attorney who can help you navigate taxes, lump sum vs. annuity choices, and privacy options.
Contact the lottery office directly. Most major prize winners will be required to personally appear at a regional office to confirm their identity, complete paperwork, and accept their prize.
Pro Tip: In many places, large prizes become public record. If you’d prefer to maintain your anonymity, inquire about claiming funds under a trust or a legal entity. Rules vary by location.
Avoid these key pitfalls when you’re ready to collect your Powerball prize.
Collecting your Powerball prize, regardless of its size, should be a fun experience, not an overwhelming one. Knowing what to anticipate helps keep your winning moment stress-free.