[Naspino]

...I'd be at Lottery headquarters at the crack of dawn to claim it. During all that time, I wouldn't let the ticket out of my sight. But then, I need not worry about that scenario because I don't play the Lottery.

I'd be finding an attorney and a someone to handle the finances to make sure I didn't lose out on anything before I claimed it.

[smith288]

I'd be finding an attorney and a someone to handle the finances to make sure I didn't lose out on anything before I claimed it.

First and foremost, I would put it in a fireproof safe, burying it in my back yard, plant an oak tree on it under the cover of night...then go get me a lawyer.

[Bikers4Bush]

Years ago a friends father won the lottery here, took home a little over 4 million after taxes etc.

He always said that if he had it to do over again he'd set up a blind trust and use that to claim the money. Every nutjob in the world was calling him (until he changed the number) and knocking on his door (until he moved) once his name was out.

[PBRSTREETGANG]

I'd be finding an attorney and a someone to handle the finances to make sure I didn't lose out on anything before I claimed it.

You are wise indeed. You should sign the ticket and then place it in a fireproof safe, or a safety deposit box if you prefer. (Possibly making some other copies for yourself to hide elsewhere, if you're a "belt and suspenders" person.) Then you should consult a tax attorney and an accountant as there are certain trusts that need to be set up in advance of claiming the ticket that can have significant tax impacts.