North Carolina Lottery Tax Calculator

Calculate your take-home winnings after 4.50% North Carolina state tax and federal taxes.

State Tax Rate

4.50%

North Carolina Income Tax

Federal Tax Rate

24–37%

24% withheld upfront

Max Combined Rate

41.50%

Federal + state

North Carolina withholds 4.50% state income tax on lottery prizes above the threshold, in addition to 24% federal withholding. Your maximum combined rate could reach 41.50%.

Enter Your Winnings

$

Lump sum is approximately 55% of the advertised jackpot

Your estimated take-home winnings

$363,203

After 33.96% effective tax rate

Tax Breakdown

Advertised Jackpot
$1,000,000
Lump Sum (55%)

Cash value before taxes

$550,000
Federal Tax (29.46% effective)
-$162,047
North Carolina Income Tax (4.50%)
-$24,750
Total Tax
-$186,797
Net Winnings
$363,203

Winnings Distribution

Take Home
Federal
State

Frequently Asked Questions — North Carolina Lottery Taxes

How much tax do I pay on a $1 million lottery win in North Carolina?

On a $1 million lottery win in North Carolina, the lump sum cash value is approximately $550,000. Federal withholding is 24% ($132,000) and North Carolina state tax is 4.50% ($24,750). Your estimated take-home lump sum is approximately $393,250 — though your final federal tax bill may be higher depending on your total income for the year.

Does North Carolina tax lottery winnings?

Yes. North Carolina taxes lottery winnings at a 4.50% state income tax rate. This is in addition to federal taxes of 24-37%. The North Carolina lottery withholds state taxes automatically on prizes above the threshold.

What is the lottery tax rate in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the lottery tax rate is 4.50% at the state level, plus federal taxes of 24-37%. The federal government withholds 24% upfront on prizes over $5,000. Combined, lottery winners in North Carolina may pay up to 41.50% in total taxes.

Lottery Tax in North Carolina

North Carolina imposes a 4.50% state income tax on lottery winnings (North Carolina Income Tax). This is in addition to federal taxes of up to 37%. Combined, lottery winners in North Carolina may pay up to 41.50% in total taxes.

The North Carolina lottery withholds state taxes automatically on prizes over a certain threshold. If you are a non-resident winner, different withholding rates may apply.

North Carolina Lottery — Key Facts for Winners

North Carolina taxes lottery winnings at a flat 4.5% state income tax rate. The NC Education Lottery withholds state taxes automatically on prizes over $600. North Carolina's rate is relatively moderate compared to neighboring states, though winners still face combined federal and state obligations that can significantly reduce their take-home amount.

Tax Sources & References

Federal withholding rates are based on IRS Topic No. 419 — Gambling Income and Losses. State tax rates are sourced from each state's department of revenue. Official North Carolina lottery rules and prize information are published on the North Carolina Lottery official website.

Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates only and does not constitute tax advice. Actual tax amounts may vary based on your individual circumstances, deductions, and other income. Please consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.