A California man named Jerry is claiming he hasn’t yet received his hefty $44,000,000 lottery prize, months after hitting the Powerball jackpot. His journey from excitement to frustration is one that’s becoming all too familiar.
Jerry, a resident of Orange County, regularly tries his luck with the lottery. He plays several games such as Fantasy 5, Powerball, and Super Lotto. As he mentioned to ABC7, “I play all the games.” So, when August 19 arrived, Jerry did what he often does – he walked to his local store in Ralphs and bought his tickets, using numbers that have been his favorites.
The unexpected twist came when all five of Jerry’s numbers, including his chosen Powerball number 10, matched those drawn in the lottery. A moment he never truly believed would happen, he said, “It was exciting in a really subtle way because you don’t anticipate ever hitting all six.” The realization of such long odds – odds he’s known by heart – was overwhelming. “Six numbers on the Powerball, the odds are you’ll die or be struck by lightning before you win,” he reflected.
While the winning moment was thrilling, Jerry has found himself gripped in a prolonged and impatient wait for his prize. Weeks have passed, and he claims not a cent has hit his account.
Describing the process as “horrible,” Jerry emphasized the lack of clarity he faced. “They won’t tell you by this date you’ll get the funds. They leave it open-ended so you’re sitting, waiting daily.” It’s a waiting game he didn’t expect, leaving him hopeful each day might finally bring forth a resolution.
Carolyn Becker, who serves as the Deputy Director of Public Affairs and Communications for the California State Lottery, has shown understanding of Jerry’s predicament.
She pointed out that while payments can happen within four weeks, this is rare. She also shared that the aim is for cases to close within six to eight weeks, acknowledging that sometimes it simply takes longer.
With Jerry’s situation stretching beyond the typical timeline, the California State Lottery hasn’t offered a specific comment, yet reinforces that all claims have to clear a series of checks.
These processes involve a thorough investigation by their own law enforcement team and cross-checking to see if the winner owes any dues to the state, like taxes or child support.
Becker elaborated on the volume of claims saying, “California Lottery processes 10,000-plus claims a month. We want to manage the expectations of our winners.” It’s a reminder of the mammoth task the lottery body handles monthly, balancing promptness with diligence.
Despite the wait and uncertainty, Jerry remains hopeful. The practical side of him is ready to start enjoying the windfall, once it finally arrives. He, like many, looks forward to what doors this win can open and how it might change his and his family’s lives.
With determination, Jerry approaches each day with the thought that today might be different – today might just be the day his luck pays off, not just on paper, but in real life.
