5 Things You Should Do If You Win The Illinois Lottery
Winning the lottery sounds like the ultimate "quit your job tomorrow" moment. Before you start shopping for a mansion, there are a few things you should actually do first.
Let me tell you what I'd do with my winnings if I won a billion dollars (someone in Illinois actually just won a billion!). I'd take my family to dinner one last time before I cash in on my money. I'd need one last normal dinner before my entire life changes!
Experts say you need to do a few things, though, before you start spending like the billionaire you are.
5 Things You Should Do If You Win The Illinois Lottery
SIGN THE BACK OF YOUR TICKET
That little piece of paper could suddenly be worth a life-changing amount of money. Protect it, sign it, and put it somewhere safe. Don't just shove it with the rest of your old receipts.
GET PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
Before making any financial decisions or huge purchases, talk to a financial advisor and a tax professional. A giant lottery check comes with financial decisions and you'll want to understand exactly what you're dealing with before spending a dime.
FIGURE OUT CLAIM OPTIONS
Luckily, if you live in Illinois you can stay anonymous when you get your check! There are rules about claiming deadlines, taxes, winnings and all the good stuff!
GIVE YOURSELF A TIMEOUT
\You don't need a new car, vacation home, or 14 motorcycles on day one. Let the excitement settle before making major purchases. Figure out what you want, what you need, and set yourself up for success.
TELL AS FEW PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE
You wanna tell everyone, yes, but don't. People will come out of the woodworks, try to frame you, or... murder. You never know.
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