Won the Lotto? Your 7 Essential First Steps
Last updated: September 18, 2025
Winning the PCSO Lotto is a life-altering event. The numbers match, your heart races, and suddenly you're a millionaire. But what now? Acting rashly is the biggest mistake new winners make. This guide outlines the calm, essential steps to take to protect your winnings and your future.
Your First 24 Hours: Urgent Actions
- 🤫Stay Quiet: Resist the urge to tell everyone. Share the news only with a trusted partner or immediate family member for now.
- ✍️Sign Your Ticket: Immediately sign the back of the winning ticket. This makes it yours.
- 📸Photograph It: Take clear photos of the front and back of the signed ticket for your records.
- 🔒Secure It: Place the original ticket in a waterproof bag and store it somewhere safe, like a home safe or a bank deposit box.
Your 7-Step Winner's Playbook
Prepare for Claiming
Once your ticket is secure, gather the required documents. You will need at least two (2) valid government-issued IDs (e.g., Passport, Driver's License, UMID). Make sure they are not expired. For a detailed guide on locations and procedures, see our guide on how to claim your PCSO prize.
Understand the Tax Deduction
There are no surprises here. According to the TRAIN Law, all lotto prizes above ₱10,000 are subject to a 20% final tax. The PCSO will automatically deduct this before issuing your check. For a ₱50 Million prize, you will receive ₱40 Million.
Build Your Professional "A-Team"
Do not make any major financial decisions alone. Before you even claim the prize, start identifying professionals you can trust:
- Financial Advisor: To help you manage, invest, and preserve your wealth.
- Lawyer: To handle legal matters and documentation.
- Accountant: To assist with future tax obligations and financial structuring.
Plan for Your Security
While the PCSO requires winners to be publicly presented for transparency, you can take steps to protect your privacy. Limit who knows about your win. Avoid sudden, lavish public spending. Consider upgrading your home security and be cautious on social media.
Make a "Cooling Off" Plan
Resist the urge to make big purchases immediately. Create a plan for the first 6-12 months. This "cooling off" period allows the initial excitement to fade so you can make rational decisions. Your first major move should be paying off high-interest debts (credit cards, personal loans).
Define Your Long-Term Goals
What do you want this money to do for you and your family? Your financial advisor can help you turn these goals into a concrete plan. Common goals include:
- Early retirement
- Funding children's education
- Starting a business
- Charitable giving
Learn to Say "No"
Once news of your win gets out, you may receive many requests for money from friends, relatives, and even strangers. It's important to learn how to politely but firmly say "no" to protect your financial plan. Your professional team can help you navigate these difficult conversations.
Your New Life Starts Now
Winning the lottery is a gift. With careful planning and professional guidance, it can provide security for generations. The journey begins with these smart first steps. Ready to take the very first one?
View the Step-by-Step Claiming Guide