A Wawa station in Bradenton, located on Florida's west coast, has become the talk of the town after selling the winning ticket for the $800 million Mega Millions jackpot. This exciting news was confirmed by Telemundo 51.
The draw took place this past Tuesday, yet the lucky winner has yet to step forward and claim their life-changing prize.
The winning ticket was purchased at the convenience store and gas station situated at 14510 State Road 70 E, in Manatee County.
The Winning Numbers and Historic Jackpot
The numbers that made history were 34, 48, 49, 59, and 70, with a Mega Ball of 12.
According to an official statement from Mega Millions, "One fortunate ticket holder in the Sunshine State is set to enjoy an unforgettable summer with a massive Mega Millions jackpot!"
This $800 million prize stands as the largest lottery win of 2026 and the tenth biggest in Mega Millions history, a lottery held every Tuesday and Friday across 45 states.
Breaking a Streak and Understanding the Prize
The recent draw concluded a streak of 38 consecutive drawings without a jackpot winner, going back to March 17, 2026. Within this period, nearly 10.9 million tickets won smaller prizes totaling over $273 million.
The winner faces a significant decision within the next 60 days: opt for the full $800 million spread across 30 annual payments, or take a lump sum cash option estimated at $344.2 million before taxes.
If the lump sum is chosen, a mandatory federal withholding tax of 24% would reduce the amount to around $261.6 million. Applying the maximum federal tax rate of 37%, the final net sum could be approximately $165.6 million.
Tax Benefits and Claiming the Prize
There's a crucial advantage for the winner: Florida is one of only eight states that do not levy state taxes on lottery winnings, ensuring the highest possible payout.
Should the winner not decide on the lump sum within the 60-day window, the prize will automatically be paid out in 30 annual installments. They have a total of 180 days from the draw date to claim the prize, and due to the prize exceeding $1 million, the claim must be filed at the Florida Lottery's headquarters in Tallahassee.
Can the Winner Remain Anonymous?
Florida law provides temporary anonymity for winners. As reported by Telemundo 51, "For prizes exceeding $250,000, the winner's identity remains confidential for 90 days after the prize is claimed."
Once this period ends, the winner's name becomes public record. However, winners can claim their prize through a trust or LLC, revealing only the trustee's or attorney's name. This temporary anonymity law in Florida is effective until October 2, 2027.
Florida's History of Mega Millions Success
Florida is no stranger to Mega Millions milestones. Since joining the game in 2013, the state has claimed or shared six major jackpots.
Florida holds the record for the largest lottery win ever: a $1.602 billion prize won on August 8, 2023, with a ticket sold in Neptune Beach, claimed by Saltines Holdings, LLC in September that year.
In addition to the grand winner in Florida, two second-tier tickets also had a noteworthy night: one in New York won $3 million with a 3x multiplier, and another in Illinois took home $5 million with a 5x multiplier, both matching the five white numbers without the Mega Ball.
The next Mega Millions draw is set for Friday, August 1, at 11 p.m. ET, with the jackpot reset to $50 million and a cash option of $21.5 million.
Understanding Mega Millions and Tax Implications
How much does the Mega Millions jackpot winner receive after taxes?
If the winner chooses the lump sum payment, they would receive approximately $165.6 million after federal taxes are applied.
Can a Mega Millions winner remain anonymous in Florida?
Yes, Florida law allows the winner's identity to remain confidential for 90 days after claiming the prize. However, they can also claim through a trust or LLC for additional anonymity.
What are the options for claiming a Mega Millions jackpot?
Winners can choose between 30 annual payments of the full jackpot amount or a one-time lump sum payment, which is significantly reduced due to taxes.