Georgia Man Strikes Gold: $8 Million Lottery Win!

Saul Chavez Duran, a resident of Maysville, Georgia, experienced the thrill of a lifetime after purchasing a $50 scratch-off ticket and winning the top prize of $8 million! Duran, who works in North Carolina, bought his winning ‘$8 Million Money Maker’ ticket at D-Mart on N.C. 16 North in Denver.

The Big Decision: Annuity vs. Lump Sum

Upon claiming his prize at lottery headquarters on Friday, Duran faced a significant decision. He had the option of receiving his winnings as an annuity of $400,000 per year for 20 years, or a one-time lump sum payment. After careful consideration, Duran opted for the lump sum of $4.8 million. Following state and federal tax withholdings, he took home an impressive $3,456,494.

About the ‘$8 Million Money Maker’ Game

The ‘$8 Million Money Maker’ game launched in December 2024 and features five top prizes of $8 million and ten prizes of $100,000. As of today, two $8 million prizes and four $100,000 prizes are still waiting to be claimed! This presents a fantastic opportunity for other players to try their luck.

The North Carolina Education Lottery contributes significantly to the state’s education funding. You can learn more about how lottery proceeds benefit education at the official North Carolina Lottery website. Playing the lottery isn’t just about the chance to win; it’s also about supporting a good cause.

Playing Responsibly

Remember, the lottery should be viewed as entertainment. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, resources are available. The National Council on Problem Gambling offers support and assistance: https://www.ncpgambling.org/. Must be 18 to play. Odds of winning vary by game.

Disclaimer: Jackpot values are estimated. See game pages for more detail. Official winning numbers are certified by the Multi-State Lottery Association and/or the NCEL.