Setting up a trust helps lottery winners protect their privacy and money while avoiding common mistakes like overspending and poor tax planning decisions.

On Sept. 25, 2025, Phillips from West Monroe won the top prize in New York Lottery’s Millionaire Maker scratch-off game. He received a one-time lump sum payment of $651,000 after required withholdings. Phillips purchased the winning ticket at Kinney Drugs, located at 9543 US Route 11 in Brewerton, Oswego County.