Can you remain anonymous after Powerball win?

Reporter: Corey Lazar
Published: Updated:
Tony Magpantay / MGN

FORT MYERS, Fla. – A long line out the door was visible at many gas stations across Southwest Florida Wednesday evening as folks stocked up on last-minute Powerball tickets.

But could you truly remain anonymous in Florida if you win? Florida public records laws are extremely broad and the Florida Lottery says once you win, your name will still be public record for anyone to see.

“The key word is try to stay anonymous as possible because under Florida law it is, I would say, it is virtually impossible,” said local family attorney Luis Insignares.

Insignares says after you realize you win, catch your breath, then hire an attorney. One way to try and hide is establish a trust for your Powerball earnings.

“You can name a trust anything you want it to be for legitimate purposes and the trust would basically protect the monies that you have earned,” he said.

Hiring an attorney could protect you from lawsuits, creditors or even family members.

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