Notable Idaho Lottery Wins
Idaho has produced multiple significant lottery winners since 1989. The state's participation in Powerball (since 1996) and Mega Millions has given players access to some of the largest jackpots ever offered. Several Idaho players have claimed prizes exceeding $100 million in multi-state games.
Powerball and Mega Millions Winners
Idaho's biggest lottery wins have come from the multi-state games. As a long-standing Powerball state, Idaho has had decades of chances at massive jackpots. In 2005, an Idaho woman from Post Falls won half of a $365.2 million Powerball jackpot — the largest prize in Idaho lottery history at the time. For strategy resources, see our Powerball Guide and Mega Millions Guide.
Idaho Cash Winners
Idaho Cash produces winners of its rolling jackpot on a regular basis due to its more favorable odds compared to multi-state games. With jackpot odds of roughly 1 in 1,221,759, the game creates a steady stream of five- and six-figure winners across the Gem State. The jackpot starts at $20,000 and can grow substantially between wins.
Revenue Impact: Schools and Buildings
When you play any Idaho Lottery game, your ticket purchase supports two causes: 62.5% of dividends fund Idaho public schools and 37.5% go to the Permanent Building Fund for state infrastructure. Since 1990, over $1.27 billion has been returned to these beneficiaries — funding classrooms, school programs, and public buildings across Idaho.
Claiming Prizes in Idaho
Idaho lottery prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing date. Prizes up to $599 can be claimed at any licensed lottery retailer. Prizes of $600 or more require a claim form and can be submitted at the Idaho Lottery headquarters in Boise or at the regional office in Idaho Falls. Prizes can also be claimed by mail.
Taxes on Idaho Lottery Winnings
Idaho has a 5.3% state tax on lottery winnings. Federal withholding of 24% applies to prizes over $5,000, bringing the combined withholding to 29.3% for larger prizes. Use our Jackpot Tax Calculator to model the difference between lump sum and annuity for any prize amount.