Maryland Lottery Winners Revealed: Two New Millionaires and $30 Million in Prizes Claimed

Last week turned into a golden moment for players of the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) as more than $30.1 million in prizes were paid out across the state. Two lucky ticket-holders struck the million-dollar jackpot in scratch-off games, and several others walked away with substantial sums from draw games such as Powerball.
What’s behind this surge in winnings? And what should winners — and hopeful players — understand about claiming their prizes and playing responsibly?

Two Instant Millionaires From Scratch-Offs

During the week of October 13–19, one player in Annapolis hit the top prize on the “$1 Million Royale” scratch-off, while another player in Owings Mills won big via the “MONOPOLY™ X200” game. The winning tickets were purchased at Annapolis Wine & Spirits on Forest Drive and at the Giant Food store on Mill Run Circle in Owings Mills respectively.

These wins illustrate how instant games continue to deliver life-changing outcomes in Maryland. For players seeking immediate results rather than waiting for draw-game nights, scratch-offs remain a popular option.nPlayers should note: While the chance of winning a top prize is relatively low, many scratch-off games offer smaller but still meaningful prizes, and the excitement of the instant outcome can be compelling.

Big Wins Even Without Hitting the Jackpot

Not every winner hit a million-dollar prize—yet some still walked away with substantial amounts. Two Powerball tickets sold in Accokeek and Morningside won $150,000 and $50,000 respectively, even though they didn’t capture the full jackpot.

This points out an often overlooked fact: near-misses in draw games can still be lucrative. Matching most of the numbers might not get the headline jackpot, but it can still mean a large payout.

Why Such a Big Payout Week?

Several factors may have contributed to this unusually high payout week for the Maryland Lottery:

• A larger number of scratch-off games reaching their top prize thresholds or promotional levels.

• Increased game sales in the state, which naturally boosts prize pools.

• Players possibly spending more consistently in the run-up to the weekend draw games.

• The randomness inherent in lottery games: some weeks will see more winners, others fewer.

The fact remains: more than 28 individual tickets each won $10,000 or more during that week. It’s a reminder that lottery players don’t need to aim only for the top prize—they might find substantial wins in the mid-range territory.

What Winners Should Do Immediately

If you happen to find that winning ticket, here are some best practices to follow:

• Sign the back of the ticket immediately. This helps establish your ownership.

• Check the claim deadline for your particular game—each has its own rules and expiration dates.

• Keep your ticket secure—store in a safe or secure place while you consider your options.

• Consult professionals—if it’s a large prize (especially six or seven figures), talk to a financial advisor, tax professional, and possibly attorney.

• Consider anonymity or publicity: Depending on state rules (in Maryland winners must release at least county & prize info but may be able to limit personal exposure), think about whether you want attention or prefer to keep matters private.

Playing Smart—Tips for Lottery Participants

While playing the lottery can be exciting, it’s crucial to do so responsibly. Here are some pointers for players in Maryland (and beyond):

• Set a budget for lottery tickets as you would with entertainment spending—don’t treat it as investment.

• Choose games you understand—scratch-offs vs draw games carry different odds and strategies.

• Stay aware of how many tickets you’re buying—more tickets increases cost, but doesn’t necessarily increase your odds proportionally.

• Keep all tickets until the draw or claim period has passed—losing a winning ticket by mistake is a painful lesson.

• Avoid chasing losses—losing a few games and buying more tickets to “get back” can spiral into problem gambling.

The Takeaway for USA & UK Audiences

Although this story centers on Maryland, U.S. and U.K. audiences can appreciate the broader themes: the dream of instant riches, the reality of odds, and the importance of responsible play. For American audiences, state lotteries like Maryland’s are familiar vehicles for hope, community funding, and occasional life-changing wins. For U.K. readers, where lotteries and scratch cards also operate (albeit under different regulatory frameworks), the same excitement and caution apply. Large payout weeks such as this one capture public attention—but they also remind us that with the allure of big wins comes the need for rational play and clear planning.

Key Numbers at a Glance

• Total payout for week: $30.1 million + in Maryland. Top prizes: Two new millionaires via scratch-offs.

• Additional major wins: $150,000, $50,000 from Powerball draw games.

• Over 28 tickets each won $10,000+ in the same week. These figures emphasise how a confluence of wins—big and mid-scale—adds up rapidly.