It took weeks for the three prizewinners in the 2012 giant $656 million USA Mega Millions game to step forward to claim their prizes.

So what would have happened if the jackpot went unclaimed? The Kansas winner had a year to claim - the Maryland and Illinois winners had 6 months.

The Mega Millions FAQ tells us if the prize is not claimed within the time limit, then the money goes back to the participating states:

If a jackpot prize is not claimed within the required time limit (which varies by state), each participating state in the Mega Millions game will get back all the money that state contributed to the unclaimed jackpot. Each state uses its unclaimed lottery prizes for different purposes. Contact the lottery where you play to find out how unclaimed prizes are used.

Tough for the winners!

Luckily the Maryland Lottery’s winning Mega Millions ticket was claimed. Stephen Martino, Director of the Maryland Lottery, announced at a press conference that the ticket was claimed by three very happy individuals.