Finance

Mega Millions After-Tax Payout Calculator

Estimates what you'd actually take home from a Mega Millions jackpot. It compares the lump-sum cash value with the 30-year graduated annuity that grows 5 percent a year, then applies 2025 federal brackets and state tax.

How to use
  1. Enter the advertised jackpot amount.
  2. Choose the lump sum or the 30-year annuity.
  3. Select your state for the right tax rate.
Jackpot
Estimated take-home

after federal and state tax

Cash value
Federal tax
State tax
Total effective tax
Estimates for general information, not financial advice. Confirm figures before making money decisions.
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How it's calculated

Take-home = cash − federal tax − cash × state rate

cash = jackpot × cash-value % (lump sum), federal tax from 2025 graduated brackets, state rate = flat state income-tax rate. Annuity sums 30 graduated yearly payments.

Common questions

Should I take the lump sum or the annuity?

The lump sum is a smaller upfront cash value, while the annuity pays the full jackpot over 30 years with 5 percent yearly increases. The right choice depends on taxes, investing, and your needs.

How much tax comes out of a jackpot?

Federal withholding starts at 24 percent but the top bracket is higher, and most states add their own tax. New York City residents owe an extra local tax too.