A mystery lottery winner in Vermont has yet to claim a life-changing $1 million prize, prompting officials to issue an urgent call for the ticket holder to step forward.
The winning Powerball ticket, purchased at Glover’s Family Market and Deli, matched five white ball numbers from the February 22, 2025, drawing but missed out on the red Powerball—just shy of securing a $219 million jackpot.
Winning Numbers and Where to Check
The winning numbers for the draw were 7, 18, 22, 50, 65, and the Powerball 15. Vermont Lottery officials are urging anyone who bought a ticket at the store to double-check their numbers, as the prize remains unclaimed.
Why Some Winners Take Time to Come Forward
According to Akshay Khanna, CEO of Jackpot.com, many lottery winners delay claiming their prize simply because they don’t realize they’ve won. Others may be taking time to consult financial advisors or attorneys before making their next move.
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“Winners often want to strategize before claiming their money,” said Khanna. “They may set up trusts or legal structures for financial planning, tax benefits, and privacy reasons.”
Time Is Running Out
While the winner still has time, they must act before February 22, 2026, or the $1 million prize will be forfeited and redirected to the Vermont Education Fund.
Three Critical Steps to Claim the Prize
To officially claim the winnings, the ticket holder must follow three key steps:
- Sign the ticket – This secures ownership and prevents anyone else from claiming it.
- Submit a claim form – If the prize is over $5,000, winners must either mail it in or visit the Vermont Lottery headquarters in Berlin in person.
- Choose a payout option – The winner must decide between a one-time lump sum or annuity payments over time.
Payout Considerations and Taxes
The $1 million prize will be subject to federal and state taxes. A 24% federal tax and Vermont’s 6% state tax will immediately reduce the winnings by about $300,000, leaving the winner with approximately $700,000.
While annuity payments offer long-term financial security, most winners opt for the lump sum, which provides more immediate investment opportunities.
Unclaimed Prizes in Other States
Vermont isn’t the only state with a mystery lottery winner.
- A $433,000 prize in South Carolina remains unclaimed.
- In Arizona, a $50,000 Powerball ticket purchased at a grocery store has yet to be claimed.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
For those who enjoy playing the lottery, responsible gambling is key. Players should:
✔️ Set limits on time and money spent
✔️ Only gamble with funds they can afford to lose
✔️ Avoid chasing losses
✔️ Refrain from gambling when feeling upset or stressed
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available through the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or www.ncpgambling.org/chat.
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