A Florida lottery player has won a $625,000 jackpot but has yet to come forward, according to state lottery officials.
The winning Jackpot Triple Play ticket matched all six numbers—9, 14, 21, 23, 32, and 34—drawn on April 29. It was purchased at a Publix supermarket in Clermont, about 25 miles west of downtown Orlando.
While the prize is substantial, the winner will lose a large portion to taxes as soon as they claim it. Because the amount exceeds $5,000, the IRS requires the Florida Lottery to withhold 24% for federal taxes. That means over $150,000 will be deducted immediately.
To help the winner claim their prize safely, lottery officials have outlined a simple three-step process:
- Sign the ticket immediately – This ensures that if the ticket is lost or stolen, no one else can claim the prize.
- Keep the ticket in a safe place – Lost tickets cannot be replaced or tracked by the lottery.
- Claim the prize within 180 days – After that, the ticket will expire.
Winners can claim their prize in person at any Florida Lottery District Office, either by walk-in or appointment. They can also mail their signed ticket and required documents, including a claim form and valid identification, to the lottery headquarters.
Prizes are paid either as a lump sum or in annual annuity payments. While both options are available, many winners choose the lump sum to invest or use the money immediately.The Florida Lottery continues to urge all players to check their tickets.
