If a jackpot prize is not claimed within the required time limit (which varies by state), each participating state in the Mega Millions game will get back all the money that state contributed to the unclaimed jackpot. Each state uses its unclaimed lottery prizes for different purposes. Contact the lottery where you play to find out how unclaimed prizes are used.

Public disclosure laws vary from state to state. Some states require their lotteries to publicly identify winners, while others do not. Check with your Mega Millions state lottery.