Cincinnati man mistakes $1 million win for $4k before scratching out surprise — Stack of bank packages of hundred dollars, fifty dollars and twenty dollar bills. Paper money, pile of 100, 50 and 20 US dollars banknotes, isometric view. Vector illustration on white background

CINCINNATI, Ohio — An Ohio man’s April Fools’ Day took an unexpected turn after a scratched lottery ticket he thought was worth $4,000 revealed itself to be a $1 million top prize.

Scott of Cincinnati purchased a VIP Millions scratch-off ticket at UDF #162 on Princeton Road in Liberty Township. After quickly scanning the barcode, he initially believed he’d won a $4,000 prize—until a second look with his reading glasses revealed a much bigger surprise.

Unsure of the amount, he scratched the full play area and discovered he had hit the game’s top annuitized prize of $1 million, paid out as $40,000 per year for 25 years. Scott opted for the lump-sum cash payout of $500,000 and will receive $360,000 after taxes.

The April 1 win is his largest to date, and he said the realization nearly gave him a heart attack. He has not yet decided how he plans to spend the windfall.

Big win from a $50 ticket

VIP Millions is a $50 Ohio Lottery scratch-off ticket offering a top prize of $40,000 annually for 25 years. As of Thursday, 21 top prizes remain unclaimed.

The Ohio Lottery has contributed more than $33 billion to education since its founding in 1974, with proceeds from ticket sales supporting schools across the state.

Key Points

Cincinnati man wins $1 million on VIP Millions scratch-off bought April 1
Misread ticket at first, then confirmed win using reading glasses
Opted for $500,000 cash payout and will receive $360,000 after taxes

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News