$78 Million Texas Lottery Prize Still Unclaimed — Check Your Tickets Now

Jacob Greene
Published Aug 27, 2026

$78 Million Texas Lottery Prize Still Unclaimed — Check Your Tickets Now

A massive $78 million Lotto Texas jackpot is still sitting unclaimed and lottery officials are urging players to double-check their tickets before the money disappears for good.

The winning ticket for the November 15 drawing matched all six numbers: 7, 17, 23, 28, 39, 48. It was purchased at Gordon’s Bait & Tackle in Brownsville, near the Texas–Mexico border.

But weeks later, no one has come forward, and the countdown is officially on.
 

Deadline: May 14, 2026

The prize holder has 180 days from the draw date to claim their jackpot.

If no one steps forward by May 14, 2026, the entire $78 million will expire and be redirected into state-funded programs, including:

Once the deadline passes, the money is gone forever.
 

What the Winner Must Do

Because the prize is over $5 million, the winner must make an appointment and claim the jackpot in person at: Texas Lottery Headquarters, Austin TX

Officials advise any potential winner to:

  • Sign the ticket immediately

  • Keep it stored safely

  • Seek financial and legal advice

  • Contact the Texas Lottery to schedule a claim appointment
     

Lump Sum vs. Annuity: The Big Decision

If the winner shows up, they must choose between two payout options:

Lump Sum (Cash Option)

  • One-time payout

  • The cash value: $43.6 million before taxes

  • After federal withholding + additional federal taxes, take-home would be roughly $27.47 million

Annuity Payments

  • One immediate payment

  • Followed by annual payments over 30 years

  • Total payout equals the full $78 million

  • Predictable income but exposed to future tax changes

Most winners take the lump sum, but either choice delivers life-changing money.

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