A non-profit group out of Denver says that as many as 70% of people who win a big jackpot, lose that money within several years. You not only have to do financial planning, but experts say you have to plan emotionally as well.
It was a very exciting time at the Gulf Gas Station in Susquehanna Township Wednesday. People were buying up Powerball tickets, hoping they'd be the ones to win $550 million.
The number one thing people say they'll do if they win, take care of family.
Colleen Nash, was buying her powerball tickets, and she says her family is her first priority if she wins. "When I win, I'm going to take care of the grandchildren, take care of my son, daughter-in-law and of course parents and i would probably donate some to a charitable organization and then get lost."
"Call in sick. For the rest of your life? For the rest of my life. Yes, take care of my mom, my son and take a long vacation." That's what Michelle Spriggs would do if she hits big.
Before you do anything with your winnings, here's some advice from people who won it big. First, stick to a budget. Invest wisely, and learn to say no. Also you should be prepared to lose friends, while riding an emotional roller coaster of joy, anxiety, guilt and distrust.
Doug Humphrey bought his ticket, but isn't too excited about actually winning.
Ewa: 550 million, what do you do with it all?
Doug: Give it away.
Ewa: All of it?
Doug: Most of it. I just think it would complicate life.
And there are many tales of lottery winners, who wind up in financial ruin. But if you plan properly, experts say, you can win big in life, after you win the lotto.
Whether you win the lotto or receive a family inheritance, experts say plan for your psychological needs as well as your financial strategy.
___________________________________________________________________The Powerball jackpot is now $550 million, and that has many people running into stores to buy tickets in hopes of becoming a millionaire Wednesday night.
Lottery officials say $550 million is a game record.
If you win, after taxes you'd get $360.2 million, before taxes. Only one U.S Lottery jackpot has been larger and that was the $656 million Mega-Millions jackpot in March.
At a Gulf, in Susquehanna Township, many people, like Colleen Nash, were buying their powerball tickets. "When I win, I'm going to take care of the grandchildren, take care of my son, daughter-in-law and of course parents and i would probably donate some to a charitable organization and then get lost."
You have until 9:59 Wednesday night to buy your tickets.
Powerball officials say they now believe there's a 75% chance that someone will win tonight.