The Biggest Lottery Wins in United States History

Richard Kee Jr. of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, won in 2026 with a $2 Powerball ticket bought at West 10th Mart. At first, he was listed only as an anonymous North Carolina winner, since state law allowed him to keep his identity private for 90 days after claiming such a large prize.

When his name became public, the financial choice was already clear. Kee picked the lump sum of about $95.3 million instead of the full 30-year annuity. After federal and state taxes, he took home about $68.6 million, enough to transform daily life while still requiring careful planning to protect it.