Notable Maine Lottery Wins
Maine has produced significant lottery winners since 1974. The state's participation in Powerball (since 2004), Mega Millions, and the long-running Tri-State Megabucks Plus has given players access to prizes ranging from regional jackpots to multi-hundred-million-dollar national payouts.
Powerball and Mega Millions Winners
Maine's biggest lottery wins have come from multi-state games. In 2021, a group of friends from Maine claimed a $1.348 billion Mega Millions jackpot — one of the largest lottery prizes in U.S. history. The state has also seen multiple Powerball winners over its decades of participation. For strategy resources, see our Powerball Guide and Mega Millions Guide.
Megabucks Plus Winners
Megabucks Plus produces regular winners across the Tri-State region due to its favorable odds of approximately 1 in 4,496,388. With a $1 million starting jackpot that grows until won, the game creates a steady stream of millionaires across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Tri-State compact means jackpots can grow substantially between wins.
Revenue Impact: General Fund and Outdoors
When you play any Maine Lottery game, your ticket purchase supports the state's General Fund and the Outdoor Heritage Fund. The Outdoor Heritage Fund specifically supports conservation programs, wildlife management, and outdoor recreation — fitting for a state known as "Vacationland." This makes the Maine Lottery unique in directing a portion of revenue specifically to environmental and outdoor causes.
Claiming Prizes in Maine
Maine lottery prizes must be claimed within one year 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 Maine Lottery headquarters in Hallowell. Prizes can also be claimed by mail.
Taxes on Maine Lottery Winnings
Maine has a 7.15% state tax on lottery winnings — one of the higher state lottery tax rates in the country. Federal withholding of 24% applies to prizes over $5,000, bringing the combined withholding to 31.15% for larger prizes. Use our Jackpot Tax Calculator to model the difference between lump sum and annuity for any prize amount.