California Woman Claims $1.2 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot, Opts for Lump Sum
A California woman has come forward to claim the staggering $1.2 billion Mega Millions jackpot from the December 27 drawing. Rosemary Casarotti, the sole winner of the life-altering prize, purchased the lucky ticket at a Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K in Cottonwood, California, a small town situated approximately 20 miles south of Redding.
California Lottery officials made the official announcement on Monday, confirming Casarotti’s win and her status as a temporary billionaire. While lottery representatives expressed their congratulations and gratitude, Casarotti herself has chosen to maintain a low profile, declining to participate in the public press conference.
"We offer Rosemary our heartfelt congratulations for her historic win and our gratitude for her part in supporting the California Lottery’s mission to provide extra money for public education in our state," said Harjinder Shergill Chima, California Lottery Director, in a formal news release.
Despite her desire for privacy, Casarotti did communicate with lottery officials, conveying her excitement and appreciation for the win. According to California Lottery spokesperson Carolyn Becker, Casarotti is "grateful" and "happy" to have won the substantial sum and to contribute to public education in California.
Instead of opting for the annuity option, which would have provided annual payments totaling approximately $1.26 billion over several decades, Casarotti elected to receive a one-time lump sum payment. This decision, a common choice among lottery winners, will result in a significantly smaller payout, totaling approximately $571 million before taxes.
The choice between the annuity and the lump sum is a complex one, with each option presenting its own advantages and disadvantages. The annuity provides a steady stream of income over an extended period, offering financial security and potentially minimizing the risk of mismanagement. However, it also means waiting for the full prize amount over many years.
The lump sum, on the other hand, provides immediate access to a large sum of money, allowing the winner to invest, pay off debts, or make significant purchases. However, it also carries the risk of overspending or making poor investment decisions, potentially jeopardizing long-term financial stability.
The lottery officials have not confirmed whether Casarotti is a long-time resident of California. Property records, however, indicate that an individual named Rosemary Casarotti resided in Shasta County, California, as recently as 2023, suggesting a connection to the local community.
The Circle K store where Casarotti purchased the winning ticket has also benefited from her good fortune. As the retailer that sold the jackpot-winning ticket, the store received a $1 million bonus.
Ishar Gill, the owner of the Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K, expressed his excitement and gratitude at the news conference. "It’s an amazing feeling to know that our store played a part in making Lottery history," Gill said. "Our customers are the heart of our business, and we’re grateful to be a part of such an amazing community."
Gill’s family has already received the $1 million payment, and he noted that ticket sales at the Cottonwood store have increased since the winning ticket was announced in December. The increased attention and business are a welcome boost for the local establishment.
The Mega Millions lottery continues to draw significant interest, with the next drawing scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, at 11 p.m. ET. The jackpot for that drawing is estimated at $277 million.
Mega Millions drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers up to 15 minutes before the drawing.
To play Mega Millions, participants select six numbers: five numbers ranging from 1 to 70, representing the white balls, and one number ranging from 1 to 25, representing the gold Mega Ball. For those who prefer a random selection, the "Easy Pick" or "Quick Pick" options allow the computer to generate a six-number sequence.
Players also have the option to add the "Megaplier" feature for an additional $1. The Megaplier can multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, or 5 times, depending on the Megaplier number drawn before each regular Mega Millions drawing.
Tickets are readily available at various locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also offer lottery ticket sales.
For added convenience, individuals in certain states can purchase Mega Millions tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Jackpocket is available in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.
The Jackpocket app allows users to select their lottery game and numbers, place their order, view their ticket, and collect their winnings, all from their phone or computer.
Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, and Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. However, it is important to note that lottery participation requires responsible gambling practices. Players must be at least 18 years old (21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE) and should be aware of the potential risks associated with gambling. Resources are available for those who may be struggling with a gambling problem, including helplines and support groups.
