Michigan Man Wins $1 Million After Buying Rejected Lottery Ticket

DETROIT, Mich. — November 21, 2025 — A Michigan man won a $1 million prize after purchasing a scratch-off lottery ticket that had been rejected by a previous customer, officials said Thursday.

The man bought the ticket at a local convenience store after another customer declined to purchase it, according to authorities. Upon scratching the ticket, he discovered it was a top-prize winner.

Lottery officials confirmed the ticket was valid and had not been claimed before the man bought it. The prize amount of $1 million is one of the largest payouts available for the particular scratch-off game.

The store where the ticket was sold is located in the Detroit metropolitan area. The man, whose identity has not been released, chose to remain anonymous while claiming his prize.

State lottery representatives reminded players that tickets rejected by some customers can still be legitimate winners. They encouraged all players to check their tickets carefully before discarding them.

This incident highlights the importance of verifying lottery tickets even if another customer chooses not to purchase them. Lottery officials said they have received reports of similar cases in the past, where tickets initially rejected later turned out to be winners.

The Michigan Lottery continues to promote responsible gaming and encourages players to play within their means. Winners are advised to sign the back of their tickets and consult with financial advisors before claiming large prizes.

The man plans to use the winnings to pay off debts and invest in his family’s future, according to a statement provided through lottery officials. No further details about his plans were disclosed.

The Michigan Lottery has paid out billions in prizes since its inception and regularly updates the public on major winners and jackpot amounts. This latest $1 million win adds to the list of significant payouts this year.

Lottery officials also reminded players to purchase tickets only from authorized retailers and to report any suspicious activity related to lottery sales.

The Michigan Lottery’s customer service center is available for ticket verification and prize claims during regular business hours. Winners can also find information on the official Michigan Lottery website.

This case serves as a reminder to players that a ticket’s value is not determined by its initial reception but by the numbers it holds. The man’s unexpected win after buying a rejected ticket underscores the unpredictable nature of lottery games.