Vermillion resident wins $4 million Lotto America jackpot; first South Dakota multistate winner since 2018
A South Dakota Lottery player in Vermillion claimed a $4 million Lotto America jackpot from the Aug. 6 drawing. This marks the state’s first multistate jackpot winner since 2018. The winner selected the cash option for the prize, receiving about $1.8 million in a one-time payment. The Freedom Valu Center that sold the winning ticket will receive a $10,000 retailer incentive.
Proceeds from lottery games, including Lotto America, are allocated to the state’s funds in a defined split: 70% goes to the general fund to support public schools, state universities and technical colleges, while 30% supports the Capital Construction Fund, which funds the Water and Environment Fund, the Ethanol Fuel Fund, and the State Highway Fund. In 2024, the lottery returned more than $183 million to the state.
The win underscores how participation in multistate games can produce life-changing results for players while also fueling state programs that support education and infrastructure. For Vermillion and surrounding communities, the retailer incentive and the accompanying media attention spotlight the economic ripple effect of lottery sales, alongside the ongoing benefits to public services funded by lottery proceeds.
Summary: A Vermillion player’s $4 million Lotto America win, taken as a cash option of about $1.8 million, exemplifies how lottery wins can deliver personal gains for players while contributing to South Dakota’s education and infrastructure funding through the lottery’s revenue shares.
Additional note: Winners should plan for taxes and consider consulting a financial advisor to navigate the payout and future planning.