The winner of the $1.6 billion Mega Millions jackpot remains anonymous.

The champion chose to get a $742 million prize in a single payment, as per a Florida Lottery announcement. After federal taxes around $500 million will be the final amount.

Florida doesnt tax lottery winnings. Since 2002 Mega Millions has given out five prizes surpassing $1 billion once each in 2018, 2021, 2022 and twice in 2023, according to Usamega calculations.

 

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It's true that the winner of the $1.6 billion Mega Millions jackpot has chosen to receive a lump sum payment of $742 million, as stated by the Florida Lottery. However, it's worth noting that the final amount after federal taxes will be approximately $500 million.

In terms of taxes, you rightly mentioned that Florida does not tax lottery winnings. This means that the winner will not have to pay state taxes on their prize money. This policy has been in place in Florida since 2002, making it an attractive state for lottery winners.

Additionally, your statement about Mega Millions giving out five prizes surpassing $1 billion is correct. According to Usamega calculations, there have been five prizes exceeding $1 billion in Mega Millions history. This happened once in 2018, once in 2021, once in 2022, and twice in 2023.

Overall, the winner's decision to take the lump sum payment and the absence of state taxes in Florida will undoubtedly have a significant impact on their final winnings.