If you've ever thought, if you were to win the Powerball, about claiming hypothetical winnings in secrecy, you wouldn't exactly be able to do so in Louisiana.
Some states may let winners claim jackpots anonymously, however, this isn't the case in Louisiana.
If you were to win the Powerball in Louisiana, unfortunately, your identity would be revealed to the public.
Powerball jackpot is nearing $1 billion. How do winners claim Powerball money?
The next drawing for the Powerball is Wednesday, Aug. 27, with an estimated jackpot of $815 million and a cash value of $367.9 million.
Winners claim a Powerball or lottery prize in Louisiana according to the prize amount, with the largest jackpots requiring a visit to the Lottery headquarters in Baton Rouge.
As soon as individuals realize they have a winning ticket, it's recommended that the back of the ticket is signed immediately and kept in a safe place. For any win, individuals must claim prize money within 180 days of the drawing.
In Louisiana, winners cannot claim a Powerball jackpot or lottery winnings completely anonymously, as state law requires the Louisiana Lottery to release the winner's name, city, prize amount and game to the public.
How do Powerball and lottery winners keep identities private?
Powerball and lottery prize claim records are considered public information, although, while identities will be public, there are some options to increase privacy.
Before claiming prizes, a lawyer can be hired to create a trust or LLC that can claim the prize on an individual's behalf. Names will still be accessible through public records requests, but this adds a layer of separation between names and jackpot announcements.
Winners can also decline publicity events, as the Louisiana Lottery can use your information for publicity, yet winners are not required to participate in media events or public appearances.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: How much is Powerball jackpot? Can Louisiana winners claim anonymously?
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