From small fortunes to record-breaking payouts, lottery winners have hit it big across the country. Just days ago, an anonymous Virginia resident claimed the state's largest-ever lottery jackpot, a whopping $348 million. And on Monday, after no one hit the Powerball jackpot, the prize grew to a massive $1.3 billion. Still, if there's a winner at the next drawing on Wednesday, they won't walk away with the largest lottery payout of all time.
Some people actually choose the lottery annuity payment rather than taking a lower lump-sum payment. Some lottery winners give most of their winnings away or buy too many new things for themselves, friends, and family. Could you imagine winning $50 million or $100 million and then being broke? Many lists have been directed at newly rich lottery winners, but surprisingly, there are few warnings for lottery winners.
"I have received many messages from people who had managed to make plans for holidays, buying an apartment, or renovating before they realized that the amount was wrong," Sagstuen said. "To them I can only say: Sorry! But I understand that it is a small consolation."
Winning the lottery can create complexities in relationships, especially with family who feel entitled to a share of the winnings, as you're experiencing.
The first thing to do is to ensure the ticket is safe and secure. And that means keeping this news quiet, and making sure your boyfriend isn't talking either.