Louisiana players love to play Powerball. Each week it seems like we get to report that someone in the state has purchased a ticket that will either change their life or get them over a financial hump. And, let's face it, winning a big prize in a multi-state lottery game like Powerball or Mega Millions isn't easy. So, that's why we always keep an eye on which big money prizes are about to expire.

Shane via Unsplash.com
Shane via Unsplash.com
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This week there are two $50,000 Powerball winners that were sold in the state that will not be collected by the ticket purchaser if action isn't taken immediately. The first of the $50,000 prizes will actually expire tomorrow May 4th, 2023. The ticket in question was sold in Baton Rouge at a Circle K store on Perkins Road. The ticket matched four of the five white balls and the Powerball in the November 5th Powerball drawing from last year.

The second $50,000 winner will expire on Saturday. That ticket was purchased for the November 7th Powerball drawing in 2022. That winning ticket also matched four of the five white balls and the Powerball for a total prize of $50,000. Louisiana Lottery officials say that the ticket was purchased in Ponchatula, Louisiana at Best Stop #46.

USA Mega via YouTube
USA Mega via YouTube
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Incidentally, there is also a $1,000,000 Powerball prize that is set to expire in just over a month too. That big winner was sold for the December 20th drawing in 2022. The ticket purchaser matched all five of the white ball numbers but not the Powerball. The ticket was purchased in West Monroe.

What Happens to Lottery Prizes That Aren't Claimed?

Here's what the Louisiana Lottery website says about that question:

unclaimed prize money is returned to players in the form of prizes and promotions, such as increased payouts on scratch-offs and additional second-chance promotions.

So, it's not like someone at the Lottery is taking the money and going on vacation. The money is reinvested in games and prizes. I guess if no one puts in a claim for these prizes then all lottery players will "win" at least in the global sense.

Courtesy Louisiana Lottery
Courtesy Louisiana Lottery
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There was no winner in last night's Mega Millions game. That jackpot will grow to an estimated $68 million for Friday's drawing. Tonight's Powerball jackpot will be an estimated $71 million dollars. That drawing takes place at 10 pm tonight.

As always we encourage responsible play anytime you choose to play lottery games. If you or someone you love has an issue with gambling, please call 1-877=770 STOP (7867) help is available.

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