When You Lose Your Winning Lottery Ticket, Here's What Happens

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In Tennessee, buying a lottery ticket does not guarantee you ownership of a ticket until you sign the back. That means anyone holding an unsigned ticket can claim the prize, and Tennessee is not alone — a number of state lotteries have this same policy. This means that, regardless of the hard work you may have put in to increase your odds of winning the lottery, if you lose the ticket your work will have been in vain. 

South Carolina gives a warning in its claim guide – prize money goes to whoever turns in the ticket, not necessarily the person who bought it. In New York, you must turn in the original signed ticket to get paid. Meanwhile, in Texas, the lottery commission clearly states it is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets and will not pay without one, while New Jersey tells winners to copy the front and back before mailing a claim, but still requires the signed original to release any money. In fact, no matter which state you play the lottery, your ticket is the only proof you have that you might own a prize, so remember to protect your ticket the same way you would protect yourself after winning.

Since a signed ticket is your only proof against someone else trying to claim your prize, make sure to write your name on the ticket. In fact, Florida's winner guide urges players to sign the ticket as soon as they buy it, since the lottery can't trace or recover it if it's lost. Your signature must be clear, and done in ink. Next, put the ticket somewhere safe. Consider using a DocSafe Fireproof Document Box with Lock or get the Kisangel Lockable Document Folders to store important paperwork alongside your lottery tickets.

South Carolina also suggests copying or taking a photo of both sides of your ticket before you even leave the store. If mailing in a ticket for a prize, use certified mail or, better yet, drive directly to a claims center to turn it in by hand. Also, be ready with documents if your prize is considerable. In South Carolina, you need a signed claim form, a photo ID, and the original ticket for any prize over $500. Or, if you win more than $100,000, you must claim it in person at the Columbia Claims Center. And remember, if you miss the deadline, or lose the ticket, the prize is gone for good. However, the rules might be different if a person dies after winning the lottery.