Two States, One Dream: The $1.8 Billion Powerball Split That Shook America

Two Powerball winners, one from Texas and one from Missouri, have split the $1.8 billion jackpot—the second-largest lottery prize in U.S. history. The winning numbers drawn on Saturday were 11, 23, 44, 61, and 62, with a Powerball of 17 and a 2X Power Play multiplier [2]. The jackpot, which had grown to $894 million in estimated value before the draw, marked the longest Powerball jackpot run since the game's introduction in 1992, spanning 41 consecutive draws [2].

The two winning tickets were purchased in Missouri and Texas, though the exact locations of the winners remain unknown. Lottery officials typically refrain from confirming a winner's state of residence due to the possibility that the ticket holders were not local residents at the time of purchase. The winners have until 180 days after the draw to claim their prize; after that period, unclaimed tickets expire [2].

Each winner is eligible for a share of $893.7 million before taxes. However, the amount they will receive will vary due to state tax policies. Texas does not withhold state taxes on lottery prizes, while Missouri imposes a 4% withholding tax. In addition, all winners must pay federal taxes, regardless of whether they choose the annuity or lump-sum payout. If the winners opt for the cash option, their respective shares would be approximately $410.3 million before taxes [2].

This draw will reset the Powerball jackpot to its minimum starting amount of $20 million. Despite the end of the record-breaking jackpot, the increased ticket sales generated by the high prize pool have contributed significant funds to public programs across the U.S. Lottery officials often announce the impact of such sales on state budgets and charitable causes in the coming months [2].

The winners' identities are expected to remain private unless they choose to reveal them. It is not uncommon for winners of such magnitude to take weeks or even months to claim their prizes, allowing time to secure legal and financial advice. The lottery has drawn widespread media attention, and while the big jackpot has now been claimed, the Powerball game remains a popular and accessible option for players in many states [2].

Source:

[1] Winning Numbers Drawn in Saturday's Powerball (https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2025-09-07/winning-numbers-drawn-in-saturdays-powerball)

[2] $1.787 Billion Powerball Jackpot Won in Missouri and Texas (https://www.powerball.net/news/1-787-billion-powerball-jackpot-won-in-missouri-and-texas)