As a state-sanctioned enterprise, the lottery is designed to be profitable. Retailers earn a small commission on each ticket sold, and this can add up to significant earnings over the course of a year. But the real money comes in the form of advertising and publicity. The frenzy that surrounds a big jackpot can be enough to attract new players and sustain the business for years.

This profitability is the reason that states rely on the lottery to help fund their social safety nets. In the nineteen sixties, as the population exploded and inflation soared, state governments began to find that it was impossible to balance their budgets without raising taxes or cutting services. Neither option would have been popular with voters, so legislators turned to the lottery for help.

Lottery winners also have the option of choosing between a lump sum payment and an annuity payout. The lump sum will give them immediate cash, but an annuity will pay them a larger total over a number of years. More than 90% of winners choose the lump sum option, according to CNBC.

Regardless of whether you choose to invest your winnings or spend them, make sure to consult with a qualified financial professional before making any decisions. They can help you determine how much you should set aside for retirement, taking into account factors like inflation and the members of your family that you support. Use our free tool to be matched with an advisor who can serve your needs.