A routine garage cleanup turned into a life-changing moment for Laurentides, Que., resident Sandra Turrin. Hidden inside a grocery bag was a forgotten Lotto Max ticket from the Aug. 13, 2024 draw — one worth a staggering $500,000.
“I feel doubly lucky: I won and found the ticket before the deadline,” said the winner, while claiming her prize.
Turrin had purchased the ticket during the summer but forgot about it until she stumbled upon it while tidying up her garage in January. Just before tossing the bag, she decided to check the ticket and was stunned to discover it was a massive winner.
Even more incredible — she found it just in time. Had she waited until August 2025, the ticket would have expired, and the life-changing prize would have been lost forever.
The winning ticket was purchased at the Jean Coutu pharmacy on Boulevard Saint-Jacques in Boisbriand, Que. In Canada, players have one year from the draw date to claim their prize, and fortunately, Turrin discovered hers with seven months to spare.
“We remind lottery players that the prize claim deadline for draw-based lottery games is one year from the draw date shown on the ticket,” Loto-Québec stated in a release.
“Customers can check their tickets easily at retailers, on the Loto-Québec website, and via the Loto-Québec app.”
Turrin’s story is a reminder that unclaimed winnings don’t last forever. So before you throw out that old purse, backpack, or grocery bag, take one last look — you never know what you might find. Also don’t forget to dig through your drawers, glove compartments, and coat pockets. That long-forgotten ticket could be worth more than you ever imagined.
Lotto Max gives Canadians the chance to dream big every Tuesday and Friday, with tickets starting at just $5. Players can choose their own numbers or opt for a Quick Pick, hoping to land jackpots that can soar up to $80 million — plus additional Maxmillions prizes.
Tools to stop gambling
If you’re looking to take a break from gambling, self-exclusion programs can be effective tools. See here for resources that are available across Canada.
