North Carolina Lottery Tax Calculator
See what you'd actually keep from a North Carolina lottery prize after federal and state taxes — North Carolina withholds up to 4.5%, plus federal tax.
North Carolina lottery take-home by jackpot size
Estimated net take-home after federal + 4.5% North Carolina state tax.
| Advertised jackpot | Lump-sum take-home | Annuity total (30 yrs) | Effective tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1,000,000 | $626,812 | $841,960 | 37% |
| $10,000,000 | $5,891,812 | $6,938,758 | 41% |
| $100,000,000 | $58,541,812 | $59,754,368 | 41% |
| $500,000,000 | $292,541,812 | $293,754,368 | 41% |
Estimates use single-filer federal brackets and North Carolina's top lottery-withholding rate. Actual tax depends on your total income, filing status, deductions and residency. Not tax advice.
How North Carolina lottery winnings are taxed
Lottery prizes are taxable income. Every winner pays federal tax — the IRS withholds 24% up front, and the true rate climbs to 37% on large prizes. On top of that, North Carolina taxes lottery winnings at up to 4.5%. Taking the prize as a lump sum is taxed all in one year (pushing more into the top bracket); a 30-year annuity spreads the income out.
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North Carolina lottery tax FAQ
Does North Carolina tax lottery winnings?
Yes. North Carolina taxes lottery winnings at up to 4.5%, on top of federal tax (progressive, up to 37%).
How much tax do you pay on a $1 million North Carolina lottery prize?
On a $1,000,000 North Carolina prize taken as a lump sum, you'd owe roughly $373,188 in combined federal and state tax (about 37%), leaving about $626,812 take-home.
Is it better to take a lump sum or annuity in North Carolina?
A lump sum gives you the discounted cash value now; a 30-year annuity pays the full advertised jackpot in equal yearly installments. Either way North Carolina's 4.5% state rate and federal tax apply; the annuity can keep more of each year's payment in lower brackets. Use the calculator above to compare.