While chances of winning a Lottery jackpot vary from one lottery to another, there are several things that can increase your chance of winning big. The lottery design you play, the number of winning numbers drawn, and the order and return of the numbers are all factors in determining your odds of winning the jackpot. Most lotteries also award lesser prizes when you match some of the winning numbers. By adding additional prizes to your ticket, you increase your chances of winning something and increase the value of your ticket.

The first thing to do after winning the lottery is assemble your financial dream team. Whether you’ve won a large prize or a small one, assembling a team of experts is crucial to your long-term financial planning. The financial team includes an estate-planning lawyer, investment adviser, certified public accountant, private banker, and insurance specialist. You should hire a financial advisor to help you plan how to spend your prize.

If you win a lottery jackpot, you will likely be given a choice of a lump-sum payout or an annuity. While both options have their advantages, a lump-sum payment is generally less exciting in the short term. Annuity payments, on the other hand, will allow you to save a lump sum for future investments. In addition, the annuity option means you pay taxes only as you go rather than once.