UNION CITY – A fortunate Mega Millions winner in New Jersey has opted for a lump sum payout of $42 million rather than the total of $90 million spread over 30 years. The winning ticket was purchased at Garden State News on Bergenline Avenue in Union City on the evening of November 30.
Krish Patel, the owner of the convenience store where the ticket was sold, expressed his excitement, noting that selling the winning ticket is a boost to both him and his business. “I would say congratulations to the winner,” said Patel, a resident of New Jersey for 15 years. “We both got lucky.” For facilitating the ticket sale, the store has earned a commission of $30,000.
The winner’s decision to take the cash option means they will receive approximately $42 million before taxes, rather than opting for the annuity payouts of $90 million spread over three decades. James Carey, the executive director of the New Jersey Lottery, mentioned that such choices are common among jackpot winners.
New Jersey has established quite a reputation for producing lottery winners, with eight Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot-winning tickets sold since 2018. Notable past wins include a staggering $1.1 billion ticket sold in Neptune last year and a $200 million ticket sold in Camden.
In Hudson County alone, nine lottery participants won prizes ranging from $10,000 to $260,000 recently, with four tickets sold along Bergenline Avenue.
Winners often face major changes in their lives, and Carey recommends that they confide only in a select group of trusted friends and family members, secure the winning ticket in a safe location, and consult with legal and financial professionals before claiming their prizes.
The impact of such wins is felt throughout the local community. Maryuri Martinetti, a Union City Council member, celebrated the event, saying, “We are so happy lady luck decided to come to Union City. Union City is such a great community. I’m so proud to be a part of this day.”
This win serves as a reminder of the joy and changes that come with newfound wealth, not just for the recipient but also for the surrounding community.