A MEGA Millions player has hit the $344 million jackpot but could end up losing half of their prize when they decide to come forward.
The gambler, who bought the ticket in Illinois, matched all six numbers on the popular game, becoming the second jackpot winner of the year.
And, it comes before a raft of changes come into effect from April 5.
The ticket was sold at a store in Cortland and the player came up trumps on the draw that took place on March 25, per Mega Millions officials.
But, the winner will face a conundrum. They can either receive their prize as a lump sum, or opt for the annuity.
The jackpot prize has a cash value of $159.1 million.
But, deductions wouldn’t stop there.
In Illinois, players must pay a rate of 4.95% on their lottery winnings to the state.
And gamblers who win more than $5,000 must pay 24% to the federal government.
In Illinois, Mega Millions players have one year to claim their prize, according to the state’s lottery.
But, if the player wants to receive their winnings as a lump sum, then the amount must be claimed 60 days after the draw.
If they don’t come forward in time, then they will only be able to go down the annuity route.
This would mean that the prize would be divided into payments paid out over three decades.
The last time a Mega Millions player won the jackpot was in Arizona on January 17.
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