After weeks of speculation, a group of anonymous Illinois players has come forward to claim a $349 million Mega Millions jackpot from the March 25 drawing. The Illinois Lottery confirmed the prize had finally been claimed on Wednesday, ending more than a month of anticipation.
The lucky ticket was purchased at a Casey’s General Store in Cortland, about 65 miles west of Chicago. The store earned a $500,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. The group, calling themselves “Blessed,” matched all six winning numbers — 1, 5, 17, 39, 62, and Mega Ball 8 — and added the Megaplier option, which increased their winnings.
“We’re absolutely ecstatic and feel incredibly blessed,” the winners said in a statement. “We plan to use this money to do good. This prize will truly be the gift that keeps on giving.”
Though the prize was $349 million, the winners had to give up over $100 million in taxes. Federal law requires 24% to be withheld immediately — nearly $83.8 million — and Illinois adds a 4.95% state tax, costing another $17.3 million. After deductions, nearly one-third of their winnings disappeared.
Despite the loss, the jackpot generated $24 million in ticket sales, contributing more than $9 million to Illinois’ Common School Fund, which supports public education.
This marks the fourth Mega Millions jackpot won in Illinois in four years. Other notable wins include a $1.34 billion prize in 2022 and a $552 million iLottery win in 2023. Meanwhile, a $112 million winning ticket remains unclaimed — and time is running out.
