The Mega Millions lottery offers two kinds of payouts to jackpot winners: lump sum or annuity. People who match all the winning numbers can opt between getting the full amount at once or over a determined period of 30 years. Each payout method comes with specific advantages and disadvantages. Taxation laws differ a lot for lump sum and annuity payment. For example, if you scoop a $40 Million Mega Millions jackpot, this is the exact amount you will receive if you opt for the 30 years’ annuity option. On the other hand, if you want it all in one single payment as a lump sum, you will get around $25 Million after taxes are deducted.