LANSING, MI -- If you’re one of the lucky lottery players in Michigan who win a large prize, the process for claiming your winnings will be slightly different for the time being. The Michigan Lottery has closed several claims offices in response to the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Offices in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Livonia, Saginaw, Sterling Heights, and Lansing have been closed indefinitely while the state continues to work to stop the spread of the virus. That means those who win big lottery prizes will have to adjust how they claim their prize.

Anyone who wins a prize worth $600 or less can still claim that prize at any lottery retailer. However, if you win between $601 and $50,000 you will have to redeem that prize via the mail. Any prize larger than $50,001 can be claimed by appointment only with the Michigan Lottery.

That also means banks that have partnered with the lottery to process claims will not be able to process the claim even if the bank itself is open.

PREVENTION TIPS

Michigan’s State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips:

What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases:

· Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.

· Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same.

· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

· Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

· Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available.

· Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.).

· It’s not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.

https://www.mlive.com/lottery/2020/03/michigan-lottery-claims-offices-closed-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-winners-can-still-redeem-prizes.html