5 Things To Do First if You Win the $850 Mega Millions Jackpot

Holy s***, I can't believe it happened. I just won a nearly-billion-dollar jackpot. What do I do now? And, what do I do first? Here's comes some expert advice.

This week, both the Mega Millions and Powerball lotteries have gigantic estimated jackpots. While they're not the largest ever jackpots, they are what I'd call of 'legendary' status. They are the biggest jackpots in the last couple years. The kind of money that shows up in some of your most fun dreams. The kind of money that can build a pretty impactful legacy for your family and more.

The Mega Millions jackpot, for Tuesday's (1/19) drawing, has grown to an estimated $850 million.

The Powerball jackpot, for Wednesday's (1/20) drawing, has grown to around $730 million after this past Saturday's (1/16) drawing.

According to MyStateline.com, The listed jackpot amounts above refer to winners who opt for an annuity, paid over 30 years. Winners nearly always choose cash prizes, which for Powerball would be $546 million. The estimated cash prize for the next Mega Millions jackpot is $628.2 million.

That moment you see that you matched all the numbers needed for the big payday can be pretty overwhelming (I imagine). The experts shared the 5 things I (or maybe you) Need To Do First if You Win the Mega Millions or Powerball Jackpot:

1. Chill

You'll likely have three to six months to claim your prize, so just take some moments to start getting this new wealthy life together. During this time, you should be building a team, consisting of: An attorney, a financial planner, a tax advisor and an insurance agent.

2. Get that ticket somewhere VERY safe

Get that ticket locked up until you're ready to move forward. And, while some experts will tell you to sign it, don't do that if you live in Illinois. Illinois is one of several states that allow lottery winners to remain anonymous.

3. STFU!

Of course you want to tell everyone... don't do that. You can't help letting immediate family know, but beyond that, keep the circle small.

4. Make a payment option decision

I'm taking the lump sum option, how about you? And, when it comes to taxes, you're hit the same with way. The current withholding rate for Illinois income tax is 4.95 percent and 24 percent to the Feds.

5. Build your legacy, then shop

Before you lose your mind making extravagant purchases, consider how you can set up the future for so many. Whether it's a fund for younger members of your family, or your community, consider making a contribution to something greater than yourself.

[H/T CNBC]

Steve Shannon is host of The Steve Shannon Show on 97ZOK. On the air weekday mornings from 6 to 10 a.m. and a special 'Rewind' show, featuring favorite moments from previous shows, on Saturday mornings from 5 to 7 a.m.. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and like his page on Facebook.