Ohio man cashes in $50K scratch-off after confusing windfall moment
Groveport, OH — A Franklin County man expecting a smaller payout was briefly stunned at a lottery scanner when a string of zeros made him believe he had won far more than reality before confirming a $50,000 prize.
Melvin Ebervein Jr. of Groveport claimed the $50,000 prize after playing the Ohio Lottery’s VIP Millions scratch-off game, officials said.
Ebervein purchased the ticket at Certified Oil, located at 326 Main Street in Groveport.
After scanning the ticket, he initially thought he had won $500,000 due to the number displayed on the screen. The actual prize amount was confirmed to be $50,000.
Following mandatory state and federal taxes totaling 26.75%, Ebervein will receive $36,625.
He said the winnings will be used to pay off his new truck.
VIP Millions is a $50 scratch-off game that the Ohio Lottery says offers players strong odds at top prizes. As of March 23, 2026, 15 top prizes of $40,000 per year for 25 years remain available.
The Ohio Lottery reports contributing more than $34 billion to education since 1974.
Key Points
- Groveport man wins $50,000 on VIP Millions scratch-off
- Initial scan led to confusion over prize amount
- Winnings will be used to pay off a vehicle
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