Someone out there is sitting on a massive $78 million Lotto Texas jackpot — and lottery officials are practically begging folks to double-check their tickets. The winning numbers were drawn back on November 15, but the winner still hasn’t stepped forward. And the clock is ticking: the prize officially expires on May 14, 2026.
What makes this even more exciting?
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The ticket matched all six numbers: 7, 17, 23, 28, 39, 48
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It was sold at Gordon’s Bait & Tackle in Brownsville, right near the Mexico border
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The jackpot rolled for a whopping 116 drawings before someone finally hit it
If the winner never shows up, that eye-popping $78 million won’t just sit around. It’ll be redirected to Texas state programs like the Foundation School Fund, the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, and other approved initiatives.
What the Winner Must Do
If the mystery winner does turn up (and hopefully soon), they’ll need to schedule an appointment and claim the prize in person at the Texas Lottery headquarters in Austin — that’s required for any prize over $5 million.
Courtney Arbour, executive director of TDLR (the agency that oversees the Texas Lottery), said officials are excited to meet the winner and reassured players that Texas games are safe and well-managed. She also shared some smart tips:
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Sign your ticket immediately
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Store it somewhere safe
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Get financial and legal advice
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Call the Texas Lottery to book your appointment
Lump Sum or Annuity?
Once the winner arrives in Austin, the big decision begins.
Option 1: Lump Sum
Take the cash all at once.
But here’s the breakdown:
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Cash value: $43.6 million before taxes
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24% federal withholding: about $10.46 million
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Additional taxes when filing: around $5.66 million
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Estimated final take-home: about $27.47 million
Still life-changing, no matter how you slice it.
Option 2: Annuity
Receive annual payments over many years.
Some people like the long-term stability, while others worry about possible future tax changes. It’s a personal choice — and a very lucky problem to have.
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