A routine trip to a gas station turned into a life-changing moment for a Kentucky man who has now been confirmed as the winner of the largest Powerball jackpot in the state’s history.
James Farthing was revealed as the lucky ticket holder of the $167.3 million prize, surpassing the state’s previous record of $128.6 million set in December 2009. The win, described as “unprecedented” by lottery officials, has drawn widespread attention.
Farthing, a regular lottery player, purchased his winning ticket at a gas station in Georgetown. “I come in here all the time,” he said. “I’m always buying [lottery tickets] ’cause I’m like, ‘Somebody’s gotta win.'”
His mother, Linda Grizzle, was the first to alert him to the news. She heard from the gas station clerk, Mitch Bowling, who sold the winning ticket. “I called and texted it to him,” she said. Mitch added, “I’ve sold big winners before, but nothing like this. This is unprecedented.”
Kentucky Lottery President and CEO Mary Harville celebrated the win, calling it “a historic moment for the Kentucky Lottery, our retailers, and more importantly, our players.”
Though the prize is massive, Farthing now faces a decision that could significantly impact how much of it he actually receives.
According to the Lexington Herald-Leader, the IRS withholds 24% of lottery winnings upfront. If Farthing opts for the lump sum, he will immediately forfeit $40.15 million in federal taxes, leaving him with roughly $127.15 million.
In Kentucky, state taxes on lottery winnings were reduced from 5% to 4.45% in 2023. These would apply regardless of whether Farthing chooses the lump sum or an annuity spread over 30 years, with annual payments increasing by 5%.
While the lump sum offers immediate access to the majority of his prize, the annuity provides a steady income over time. Farthing has yet to confirm which payment option he will choose.
Before claiming the money, he must officially verify his ticket in Louisville.
