News writer
Retirement life just got a bit sweeter for an Oregon man. A retiree in Milwaukie hit it big in Oregon's Game Megabucks, as he turned in a winning ticket worth $8.4 million.
While the winning numbers were drawn on January 24, 2024, David Schultze, 68, told the Oregon Lottery that he didn't know he was sitting on millions until he checked his ticket on Friday, February 23, 2024.
Schultze said he spent the entire weekend in shock, and then he claimed his prize on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Oregon Lottery's Wilsonville office.
A winner who doesn't play much
When talking with the Oregon Lottery, Schultze said he doesn't play the lottery much. However, when he sees the jackpot is “getting up there,” he said he can't help but buy a ticket — just in case.
Not only was Schultze a big winner, but the store where he purchased the ticket, Fred Meyer in Gladstone, also won big. For selling the winning ticket, the store earned a $84,000 bonus.
After winning the $8.4 million jackpot, Schultze will be playing it safe. When asked about his plans for the winnings, he said he plans on investing most of it. He has no plans for any big splurges.
Oregon's Game Megabucks — how does it work?
If you aren't familiar with Oregon's Game Megabucks, the Oregon Lottery says it has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the country. The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 25.53.
The jackpot starts at $1 million and grows until someone wins. Tickets cost $1 per game, and drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 7:29 p.m. PT. It has been a staple in Oregon for more than 30 years.
To play, you get six numbers out of a set of 48. To win, your numbers must match all the drawn numbers for that drawing. When picking your numbers, you can either select your own numbers or choose Quick Pick, which will randomly generate your numbers for you.
Players can also add the Kicker multiplier for an extra $1 per $1 played on the game. With the Kicker, you can win 4x as much when you match four or five numbers, and you'll get a prize even when you match just three numbers.
You can also plan ahead and buy up to 26 consecutive drawings for just $25 at any lottery retailer or lottery vending machine. Just make sure you put away the Oregon's Game Megabucks tickets that you purchased for safekeeping. You don't want to lose them, in case you get a big winner like Schultze!
If you do happen to get a winning ticket, the Oregon Lottery recommends you sign the back of your ticket to make sure you can claim any prize. If you happen to hit one of the big jackpots, players should consult a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year to claim their winnings.
Enjoy playing the Oregon Lottery, and please remember to play responsibly.
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