After months of going unclaimed, the Mega Millions lottery could now bring a lucky winner an estimated $965 million — and a hefty tax bill if won by someone in South Carolina.

Combined with the Powerball jackpot standing at nearly $550 million, that adds up to more than $1.5 billion up for grabs in this weekend’s drawings.

Mega Millions next draws on Nov. 14, with Powerball drawing again on Nov. 15. Drawings both nights are around 11 p.m.

The Palmetto State taxes lottery winnings over $500 at a flat 7 percent, with potentially more owed based on annual income. The federal government exacts a 24 percent tax upfront on winnings over $5,000.

The total bill, however, would assuredly be higher as jackpots this large would push the winner into the highest federal tax bracket of 37 perc

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