Unclaimed Mega Millions Prize Set to Expire June 9

As of today, no one has stepped forward to claim a $40,000 Louisiana Lottery Mega Millions prize won on Dec. 11, 2012. The winning ticket was purchased at Uptown Mart on Prytania Street in New Orleans and is set to expire June 9, 2013.

The winning ticket matched four of the five whiteball numbers drawn and the yellow Mega Ball number to win $10,000. The player added the $1 Megaplier option to the ticket. The Megaplier for the Dec. 11 drawing was 4, multiplying the prize by four to win $40,000. The winning numbers for the Dec. 11 drawing were 39 – 44 – 51 – 52 – 54 and the Mega Ball number was 13.

The holder of the winning ticket has until 5 p.m. on the date of expiration to claim the prize, subject to the Lottery's hours of operation. Winnings are subject to applicable federal and state tax withholdings.  Mega Millions prizes greater than $600 may be claimed at any of the Lottery's five regional offices located throughout the state or at Lottery headquarters in Baton Rouge.

"We look forward to the winner coming forward to claim this prize.  In the meantime, the individual should treat the ticket as cash," said Lottery President Rose Hudson.  "It is also a good idea to sign the back of the ticket for security purposes."

Winners of the Lottery's draw-style games must claim their prize within 180 days of the drawing.  After prizes have passed their redemption deadlines, they are deposited into the Lottery's unclaimed prize fund, which is returned to players in the form of increased payouts on scratch-off games and player promotions.

Ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age.  The Lottery encourages responsible play and urges anyone or friends of anyone with a gambling problem to call toll free 1-877-770-7867 for help.