When you think about how much money you could win by winning the lottery, you probably picture jackpots of millions of dollars. While this is certainly true, it is also true that lottery jackpots can also ruin lives. A cautionary tale of lottery jackpots is the story of Jack Whittaker, who won a $314 million Powerball jackpot in 2002. He was a construction worker from West Virginia known for his outsize personality and cowboy hats. His story is a cautionary tale of how the lottery can ruin lives. But, the fact is, he enjoyed giving out handouts. He gave his money to churches, diner waitresses, family, and strangers. He even donated money to a strip club.

In 1996, Jeffrey Dampier, a former lawyer, won $20 million in the Illinois lottery. He invested it in his popcorn business, but then was cut off by his wife, Victoria Jackson, who wanted the entire sum. This is why it is so important to keep your financial records and to avoid paying alimony.

If you’re lucky enough to win the lottery, you should claim your prize within a week of the announcement. This will ensure that you have enough time to plan and make the necessary arrangements. Typically, lottery winners have up to 12 months to claim their prize, but it’s wise to check with the issuing authority to ensure that your prize can be claimed sooner.