Miami Player Scores $1 Million on Florida Scratch-Off

A simple grocery run turned into a $1 million surprise for one South Florida man.

The Florida Lottery announced on Tuesday, February 24, that Pierre Khawly, 49, of Miami claimed a $1 million prize from the popular 500X the Cash scratch-off game. He picked up the lucky $50 ticket at a Publix store on Village Boulevard in West Palm Beach — proving once again that you never know when luck might strike.

? Took the Cash and Ran

Instead of annual payments, Khawly chose the lump-sum option.

• Total prize: $1,000,000

• Cash payout: $640,000 (before taxes)

• Claimed on: November 10, 2025

Not a bad return on a grocery trip!

?? About the 500X the Cash Game

This scratch-off is a big one:

• Top prize: $25 million — the largest ever for a Florida scratch-off

• Ticket price: $50

• Starting prizes: $50

• Overall odds: 1-in-4.23

The game launched on January 15, 2024, and it’s been creating millionaires ever since.

? How Long Do You Have to Claim?

If you win in Florida, don’t sit on that ticket too long.

• Winners have 180 days (six months) to claim prizes.

• If choosing the one-time cash option, you must claim it within 60 days of the draw date.

? Can You Stay Anonymous in Florida?

Here’s the deal: Florida law requires the lottery to release certain winner details, including:

• Name

• City of residence

• Game won

• Prize amount

However, winners of $250,000 or more get a 90-day temporary privacy window before their information becomes public — unless they waive that protection.

? Where Can You Buy Tickets?

In Florida, lottery tickets are almost everywhere:

• Most gas stations

• Many grocery stores

• Self-service vending machines

Along with Publix, some Walmart stores in Florida sell tickets at customer service counters or through vending machines — though availability can vary by location.