The Powerball lottery game is currently offered in 45 states, DC, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands and administered by the Multi-State Lottery Association. Many aspects of the game remain consistent across these jurisdictions; however, tax requirements and how money from ticket sales differ slightly between jurisdictions; this article explores these nuances that could impact players.

Noting the rules and prizes vary between states is key when playing Powerball; given its multiple jurisdictions and no set prize amounts. Instead, winnings are determined by how many white and red Powerballs match on one ticket; winnings also determine how long winners have until they must claim their prize (anything between 90 days to one year).

Pennsylvania is well known for producing major Powerball winners since introducing it as a lottery game in 2002, including Lerynne West from Redfield who claimed half a $687 million jackpot prize in 2018. Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know law requires lottery officials to reveal details about large winners like Lerynne’s prize; however, winners can opt to remain anonymous by using trusts such as Emerald Legacy Trust which won $457 Million back in March 2018.

California is another pioneer of Powerball, launching it early and hosting one of its inaugural jackpots of $2.04 billion back in November 2022. California boasts a high participation rate, as well as offering Power Play multiplier for non-jackpot prizes; furthermore, prize amounts in California operate under a pari-mutuel system which means their prize pool may change depending on ticket sales and winners.

Mississippi is one of the leading Powerball states, boasting some of its biggest winners like Gloria MacKenzie from Zephyrhills who took home a record $590 Million prize in 2013. David Kaltschmidt and Maureen Smith also boast winning records at Mississippi casinos; these three individuals allowed winners to remain anonymous and do not pay additional state income tax on top of what would otherwise be due under federal income law.

Washington state lottery jackpots have also seen enormous successes; for example, Becky Bell from Auburn won an amazing $754 million in February 2023! Since its establishment in 1982, Washington’s lottery has raised more than $4 billion to support various programs from education to economic development, as well as stadium debt payments for CenturyLink Field stadium debt payments. It is unique among states in providing over 40% of lottery revenue directly back into its general fund while the remaining 50% split between operating costs and retailer commissions.