Arkansas Christmas Miracle: Single Ticket Claims $1.8 Billion Powerball Jackpot

A single Powerball ticket sold in Arkansas has won a staggering $1.8 billion jackpot. The winning numbers were drawn on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. This historic win instantly creates one of the nation’s newest billionaires.

The prize is the second-largest in U.S. lottery history. It ends a massive jackpot run that captivated the country for weeks. Lottery officials confirmed the winning ticket was sold in Arkansas.

Record-Breaking Jackpot Details and Winning Numbers

The final jackpot amount was $1.817 billion. The winning numbers were 4, 25, 31, 52, 59 and the Powerball was 19. The Power Play multiplier was 2X.

According to the Associated Press, the win ranks only behind a $2.04 billion prize from 2022. The odds of winning were approximately 1 in 292.2 million. This Christmas Eve drawing followed 46 consecutive rollovers.

What Happens Next for the Winner?

The winner now faces a critical choice. They can take the annuity, paid over 29 years, or a lump sum cash payment. The cash option is estimated at around $845 million before taxes.

Arkansas law allows winners to remain anonymous. Experts strongly advise the winner to seek legal and financial counsel immediately. Such a sudden windfall requires careful planning for taxes and wealth management.

This monumental Powerball jackpot win changes one Arkansas resident’s life forever and rewrites the record books during the holiday season.

Thought you’d like to know

Where was the winning Powerball ticket sold?

The winning ticket was sold in Arkansas. The exact retail location has not been publicly disclosed by lottery officials at this time.

What are the payment options for the jackpot?

The winner can choose an annuity paid over 29 years or a lump sum cash payment. The cash option is significantly less than the advertised jackpot total.

How much will the winner pay in taxes?

The prize is subject to federal and state taxes. The lump sum could see nearly 40% taken off the top before the winner receives any funds.

Can the winner stay anonymous?

Yes, Arkansas is one of the states that permits lottery winners to claim their prize anonymously. This protects their privacy and security.

What was the previous jackpot record?

The all-time record is a $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot won in California in November 2022. This new $1.8 billion win is now the second-largest.

What should a lottery winner do first?

Sign the back of the ticket, secure it in a safe place, and contact a lawyer and financial advisor. Do not make any sudden public announcements or large purchases.