Lotto America — how prizes are taxed

United States: the rules

Lottery winnings are ordinary taxable income: the IRS requires 24% federal withholding on large prizes, and the top marginal federal rate of 37% typically applies to jackpots when the return is filed. Most states add their own income tax (roughly 0-10.9%), while a handful such as Florida and Texas levy none. Non-resident aliens generally face 30% federal withholding on US gambling winnings.

Can you stay anonymous?

Varies by state — some states (e.g. Delaware, Florida for large prizes) allow anonymity, others require public disclosure of winners.

How long you have to claim

Varies by state and game, typically 90 days to 1 year from the draw.

Regulator: State lottery commissions (lotteries are regulated state by state) — official site

Full country guide: every United States game, ranked, with tax rules. For a cross-border view, see lottery tax in every country and the after-tax prize calculator.