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Cash Option or Annuity: Comparing Jackpot Payouts

How the two jackpot payout choices work, how they compare over time and the questions to answer before choosing.

Apollo AI Learn Team · · 6 min read

Big jackpot games usually let a winner choose between a cash option and an annuity. Here's how they differ.

The cash option

You receive one payment, smaller than the advertised jackpot. The advertised figure is based on the annuity.

The annuity

For Powerball and Mega Millions, the annuity is paid as 30 payments over 29 years, with each payment rising by 5% a year.

Questions to consider

  • Do I have a plan and professional advisors for a large sum?
  • How do taxes differ between receiving it now and over time?
  • Would steady yearly payments protect me from spending too fast?
  • What happens to remaining payments for my heirs?
Cash optionAnnuity
TimingOne payment30 yearly payments
Total amountLowerHigher over time
FlexibilityHighBuilt-in structure

General information only. Talk with a financial advisor and tax professional before deciding.

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