Two routine errands in California turned into life-changing moments when a pair of Scratchers players realized their tickets were worth a combined $15 million. In Van Nuys, a player identified as M. Zey said they had to scan their ticket several times before believing the number on the screen. Hours away in San Jose, player Mai Vo uncovered a $10 million top prize on a 7’s Scratchers ticket, leaving both winners stunned.
As reported by the Sacramento Bee, M. Zey bought the $5 million Superstar ticket at Harvest Market, 14055 Burbank Blvd., and has been playing at that shop for about eight years, winning only smaller prizes until now. "I was extremely shocked and scanned the ticket maybe three or four times before I realized I was a $5 million winner," M. Zey told the outlet. The Bee also reports that Mai Vo's $10 million 7’s ticket was purchased at Dolce Espresso, 2078 Tully Road in San Jose, and lottery officials have verified both wins.
Claims Timeline And School Funding
According to the California Lottery, winners have to complete the agency's claims process before they see a dime, a procedure that typically takes six to eight weeks. The lottery notes that proceeds from Scratchers and other games support public schools across the state, as outlined on its Who Benefits page. Lottery news releases and the agency's website spell out the next steps for both winning players and the retailers who sold the lucky tickets.
Resources And Responsible Play
Big jackpots can draw a lot of attention and, for some, raise questions about their own gambling habits. Help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling operates a 24/7 helpline at 1-800-522-4700 and offers state-by-state resources on its website, National Council on Problem Gambling. California also provides problem-gambling services through public-health programs for residents seeking support close to home.
