New York Lottery scratch-off Ticket turns player into instant millionaire with $5M prize
A New York Lottery player has won a massive $5 million scratch-off prize, instantly becoming a millionaire.
A lucky New York Lottery player has won a life-changing $5 million jackpot from a scratch-off ticket, instantly becoming a millionaire. The winning ticket was purchased through the "Set for Life" scratch-off game, which offers one of the biggest instant cash prizes available in the New York Lottery.
The winner has chosen to receive the prize as a lump sum payout, securing a multi-million-dollar fortune in one transaction. While the New York Lottery has confirmed the win, the identity of the lucky player has not been disclosed, in accordance with state privacy regulations regarding lottery winners.
$5 Million Prize Claimed as Lump-Sum Payment
Michelle Ward of Plattsburgh has claimed the top prize on the New York Lottery's Xtreme Money scratch-off game. The winning price was purchased at Kinney Drugs, located at 1588 Military Turnpike in Plattsburgh.
The winner opted for a one-time lump sum payment, instead of receiving the $5 million prize through annual installments. However, after state and federal tax withholdings, the final payout amounts to approximately $3.3 million.
The Set for Life scratch-off game is one of the most popular lottery options in New York, regularly producing instant millionaires. While some winners prefer the annuity option, which provides regular payments over time, others—like this recent winner—choose to collect their entire prize upfront.
New York Lottery officials confirmed the prize claim and reiterated that scratch-off games continue to be among the most sought-after lottery options in the state.
The popularity of scratch-off games in New York
The New York Lottery’s scratch-off tickets have long been a favorite among players, offering immediate winnings and high-value payouts. The Set for Life game, in particular, has attracted thousands of players with its multi-million-dollar top prizes.
Lottery officials encourage players to play responsibly, reminding them that while winning is exciting, the odds of hitting a jackpot remain extremely low. Despite this, success stories like this $5 million win continue to fuel excitement and keep participation in the New York Lottery strong.