North Carolina Man Wins $10 Million on $50 Scratch-Off Ticket, Says He ‘Couldn’t Control Myself’
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA — A North Carolina man’s spur-of-the-moment decision to buy a $50 scratch-off ticket turned into a life-changing moment after he won the top $10 million prize. The lucky winner, Jeremy Wilson, said he was “feeling lucky” that day — but even he couldn’t believe it when he realized what he’d just won.
A Call to His Mother and a Moment of Shock
Wilson told reporters that the first person he called after scratching off the winning ticket was his mother, who initially thought he was joking. “It was a crazy feeling,” Wilson said. “I couldn’t control myself.” His win marks the third $10 million top prize claimed in North Carolina this year from the $10 Million Spectacular game.
According to Yahoo Finance, the lottery launched the game in December 2023 and has now retired it after Wilson claimed the final grand prize. The North Carolina Education Lottery confirmed that Wilson’s win officially ends the series.
Choosing Between a Lump Sum and Annuity
Lottery winners in North Carolina have the option of receiving their prize in annual installments or as a lump-sum payment. Wilson could have taken $500,000 a year over 20 years, but instead chose a lump-sum payout of $6 million before taxes.
Financial experts note that the decision between lump-sum and annuity depends on personal factors like age, health, and financial discipline. A lump sum provides immediate access to funds for investments or major expenses but results in a higher one-time tax burden. An annuity, on the other hand, offers a steady income stream over time and reduces the temptation to overspend.
Plans for Family and Future Security
Wilson says he plans to use part of his winnings to take his mother on a special birthday trip — a promise he’s thrilled to fulfill — and will save the rest. Experts recommend that lottery winners work with financial professionals to help manage sudden wealth responsibly.
Wealth advisors often suggest establishing a clear budget, paying off debt, investing conservatively, and developing a long-term estate plan. Financial planning firm Kierman Law advises new winners to consult a trusted financial team that includes an attorney, certified public accountant, and investment adviser to ensure their winnings provide long-term security.
North Carolina’s Latest Millionaire Joins a Growing List
Wilson’s win comes as North Carolina continues to see an uptick in large lottery prizes across the state. The Education Lottery reports that scratch-off games contribute significantly to public education funding — making every big win a shared success story for the community.
Residents who try their luck are reminded to play responsibly, as lottery officials warn that high-value games often attract heavy interest once a top prize is claimed.
Jeremy Wilson’s $10 million win will not only change his life but also close out one of the state’s most talked-about scratch-off games in recent memory.
Have you or someone you know ever had a surprising lottery win? Share your story or reaction in the comments and follow SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for more North Carolina updates and community features.
