A lucky New Jersey lottery player won a massive $90 million Mega Millions jackpot after purchasing a ticket at a Union City convenience store. The winning ticket from the December 2, 2025 drawing matched all six numbers, marking the sixth Mega Millions jackpot won in 2025. The winner has not yet come forward to claim the prize.
- • Prize Amount: $90 million annuity or $41.9 million cash option
- • Winning Location: Garden State News at 4024 Bergenline Avenue, Union City, Hudson County
- • Winning Numbers: 17, 25, 26, 53, 60 with Mega Ball 16
- • Winner Status: Has not yet come forward to claim prize
Shortest Jackpot Run Since August 2023
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The $90 million jackpot represents the shortest run between major wins since August 2023. Only five drawings occurred between the previous jackpot and this Union City win. This marks a significantly faster pace than typical Mega Millions cycles.
The previous winner claimed a $983 million jackpot in Georgia on November 14, 2025. That massive prize ranked as the eighth-largest in Mega Millions history. The rapid turnaround to another winner demonstrates the improved odds implemented in April 2025.
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New Jersey Lottery officials celebrated the quick jackpot resolution. The five-drawing sequence generated nearly $5 million in ticket sales statewide. More than $2 million will flow into New Jersey’s public employee pension fund from these sales.
Garden State News Becomes Lucky Lottery Landmark
The winning ticket came from Garden State News, a convenience store at 4024 Bergenline Avenue in Union City. Store owner Krish Patel, who has operated the location since 2014, learned about the win on Wednesday morning. He expressed excitement for the unknown winner and his community.
This marks the eighth major jackpot ticket sold in New Jersey since 2018. New Jersey Lottery Executive Director Jim Carey noted that California and New Jersey dominate lottery wins nationwide. The state’s consistent success attracts players seeking lucky retailers.
Patel’s store will receive a $30,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. The retailer bonus rewards convenience stores that facilitate life-changing wins. Union City officials celebrated the win as a proud moment for their diverse community.
| Prize Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Jackpot | $90 Million (annuity) |
| Cash Value | $41.9 Million |
| Ticket Location | Garden State News, Union City, NJ |
| Drawing Date | December 2, 2025 |
| Retailer Bonus | $30,000 |
| Jackpot Run | 5 Drawings (shortest since August 2023) |
Sixth Mega Millions Jackpot Winner in 2025
2025 has produced six Mega Millions jackpot winners so far. Winners claimed prizes in Arizona in January, Illinois in March, and several other states throughout the year. The frequency exceeds historical averages for the game.
Lottery officials credit rule changes implemented in April 2025 for the increased winning pace. The overhaul improved odds from one in 302,575,350 to one in 290,472,336. The minimum jackpot doubled from $20 million to $50 million.
Ticket prices increased to $5 with the changes. Each ticket now includes an automatic multiplier feature. Players can multiply non-jackpot prizes up to 10 times through this enhancement.
“Every time I meet lottery directors from other states, they say the biggest complaint they hear is how come only people in California and New Jersey win Powerball or Mega Millions.” — Jim Carey, New Jersey Lottery Executive Director
How to Claim the Prize in New Jersey
Winners of prizes exceeding $599.99 must file a claim form through the New Jersey Lottery. Jackpot winners should contact the state lottery at (800) 222-0996 to arrange an appointment. Winners must bring identification and sign the back of their ticket.
The winner faces a critical decision between two payout options. The annuity option provides the full $90 million distributed over 30 annual payments. The cash option offers an immediate lump sum of $41.9 million before taxes.
New Jersey imposes state income tax on lottery winnings. Federal taxes also apply to jackpot prizes. Lottery officials recommend winners consult with lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors before coming forward. Winners have one year from the drawing date to claim their prize.
The Union City winner’s identity remains unknown as of December 4, 2025. Most lottery winners take several weeks or months to come forward after winning. Some winners never reveal their identity publicly if state law permits anonymity.
What happens when the winner comes forward?
New Jersey does not allow complete anonymity for lottery winners. Winners must come forward to claim their prize. However, they can take time to prepare before the public announcement. Lottery experts consistently recommend assembling a legal and financial team first.
The jackpot has reset to $50 million for the next drawing on Friday, December 6, 2025. Mega Millions drawings occur every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 PM ET. Players can purchase tickets until 10:00 PM ET on drawing days.
Sources:
NBC New York – Winner status and claiming process information
New Jersey Lottery – Official jackpot verification and prize details
ABC7 New York – Local coverage and store owner interview
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.