The unexpected side effects of winning the lottery: 12 issues winners wish they'd known about first
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Almost everyone has indulged in the daydream of suddenly becoming wealthy. The idea of no longer worrying about bills or work is tantalizing.
Yet, when the dream becomes a reality through something like a lottery win, especially when the amount is in the hundreds of millions, everything changes.
The blessing of sudden wealth can sometimes turn into a curse if not managed properly. Here are some unexpected problems with winning the lottery. Spoiler - most people do No.9:
1. Protect Your Golden Income
It might sound basic, but signing that winning ticket is essential. It's your proof of ownership. Consider this - you've just won, and amidst the excitement, you misplaced the ticket. If someone else finds it, unsigned, they could potentially claim your windfall.
So always keep it safe and sound. Put it in a secure lockbox, ensuring that no one can claim your prize if the ticket is lost or stolen.
2. Stay Private
When we experience something mindblowing, our first instinct is to share the news. But this is one piece of news you might want to keep close. Revealing your newfound wealth might attract not just well-wishers, but also those with ulterior motives. Suddenly, distant relatives or forgotten friends might seek favors or handouts.
In 2018, a New Hampshire woman won a $560 million Powerball jackpot. She went to court to retain her anonymity, fearing unwanted attention and threats, and won the right to keep her identity private.
3. Payout Options – The Big Choice
Is a massive sum handed to you the best choice in the long run? Receiving amounts over time - known as an annuity - might offer better financial stability. Consult with financial experts who recommend taking this annuity option, receiving the lottery winnings in instalments over 30 years, rather than a lump sum.
This choice means a steady income stream and long-term financial stability. In a famous case from the 1980s, William "Bud" Post won $16.2 million in the Pennsylvania lottery but quickly spent all his money. If he had opted for annuities, he might not have faced bankruptcy later.
4. Trust in Expertise, Not Just Instinct
You might be fantastic at managing your monthly budget, but handling millions is a different ballgame. And though your close friends might offer well-intentioned advice, it's essential to rely on financial professionals. They'll guide you through investments and ensure your wealth grows.
Jack Whittaker, who won a $315 million Powerball jackpot in 2002, faced legal and personal issues, partly due to poor financial decisions. Proper financial guidance might have made his journey smoother.
5. Wipe the Slate Clean
Before making any grand purchases, fix any outstanding debts you might have. Whether it's mortgages, loans, or credit card dues, ensure you start your wealthy life with zero debt. Use part of your winnings first to pay off your existing mortgage, loans, and credit card debts, ensuring you start your new life debt-free.
Many lottery winners do this, like the Missouri couple Mark and Cindy Hill who won $293.7 million in Powerball in 2012, promptly paid off their debts and then set up educational scholarships with part of their winnings.
6. Live Lavishly but Wisely
Suddenly, you can afford everything you've ever dreamed of, and it's tempting to indulge. While there's no harm in enjoying your wealth, unchecked splurging can quickly deplete it. Taking dozens of friends on an all-expenses-paid world trip sounds thrilling, but its cost can be staggering. While you enjoy some well-deserved luxuries, you need a budget to prevent excessive spending.
Plan an extravagant vacation but set a reasonable budget to avoid overspending. In contrast to spendthrift winners, Curtis Sharp, who won $5 million in 1982, spent his winnings recklessly and eventually went broke.
7. Gift Thoughtfully
Treating loved ones is natural. You might want to buy homes, cars, or lavish gifts for them. But balance is key. Over-generosity can strain your finances and potentially spoil those you're trying to help. You decide to help your loved ones financially, but you strike a balance by providing support without going overboard.
Tom Crist, a Canadian jackpot winner of $40 million in 2013, generously donated his entire winnings to charity. However, as a billionaire, he was already financially stable and his children's futures were secure before doing so.
8. Budgeting is Still Essential
The word 'budget' might seem out of place for a millionaire, but it's critical. Overspending is a common pitfall. Keep funds for different needs to make sure your wealth lasts and serves you well.
Michael Carroll, the so-called "Lotto Lout" from the UK, won £9.7 million in 2002 but spent his fortune recklessly, leading him to be broke within a few years.
9. Invest with Care
With wealth comes investment pitches, especially from friends and family. While some might be genuine, many won't work. It's essential to check every opportunity carefully and not get swayed by emotional appeals. You’ll get a lot of investment opportunities from friends and family, but you carefully check out each one first.
Gerald Muswagon, who won $10 million in 1998 in Canada, made unwise investments like this, including a failed logging business, leading him to financial ruin.
10. Give, But Don't Forget Yourself
Supporting charities or causes close to your heart is noble. But gifting away all your wealth can mess up your future. Strike a balance between philanthropy and personal financial security while you donate to charities and causes you care about.
Allen and Violet Large, an elderly Canadian couple, won $11.2 million in 2010 and donated 98% of their winnings to charity and family, ensuring they kept just enough for their own retirement.
11. Celebrities Aren't Great Financial Examples
Hollywood might make it look easy, but trying to emulate the lifestyles of celebrities can be financially fatal. Even stars like Nicolas Cage, Wesley Snipes, MC Hammer, and Evander Holyfield faced financial troubles after massive success.
Celebrities' extravagant lifestyles don't necessarily reflect responsible financial management. Avoid the pitfalls faced by stars like these by making sensible financial decisions.
12. Money Doesn't Shield Against Problems
Being wealthy might afford you a strong legal team, but it doesn't grant immunity. Engaging in unlawful or reckless behavior can still lead to jail. Being wealthy doesn't free you from legal consequences. Make sure to follow the law and make responsible choices to avoid legal troubles.
A windfall, like a lottery win, can be an amazing journey. It promises comfort, luxury, and security.
But without careful planning, guidance, and some restraint, the dream can swiftly turn sour quickly.
The key is to enjoy the riches while staying grounded, giving you a prosperous and trouble-free life.
