Ohio man left stunned after $20 scratch-off turns into $15K payday
Diamond, OH — A routine scratch-off purchase turned into a five-figure surprise for a Portage County man who realized he had won $15,000 only after scanning his ticket at a local store.
David W. of Diamond purchased the winning Set for Life scratch-off ticket at Collas Market on Mahoning Avenue in nearby Austintown, according to the Ohio Lottery.
He said he began scratching the ticket from the bottom and uncovered a “50X” symbol before working his way up, realizing the prize was significant but choosing to scan the ticket rather than calculate the total himself.
The scan confirmed a $15,000 win, leaving him momentarily stunned before the realization set in.
This marks another win for David, who previously appeared twice on Cash Explosion and also recorded a prior prize from a 50th Anniversary scratch-off game.
After required state and federal taxes totaling 26.75%, the take-home amount is $10,987.50. He said he plans to use the money to pay bills and set aside savings.
As of March 23, 2026, Ohio Lottery officials said two top prizes of $250,000 per year for 20 years remain in the Set for Life game.
The Ohio Lottery reports contributing more than $34 billion to education since 1974.
Key Points
- Portage County man wins $15,000 on $20 scratch-off ticket
- Winning ticket purchased at Collas Market in Austintown
- Winner plans to pay bills and save remaining money
