A 20-year-old woman from Montreal has gone viral after turning down a $1 million lump-sum payout and opting instead for a $1,000-per-week lifetime annuity, according to a report from Yahoo News.
Brenda Aubin-Vega won the prize after scratching a Gagnant à Vie (“Winner for Life”) lottery ticket during a break at work. When she uncovered three piggy-bank symbols, she instantly qualified for the top prize.
Lottery officials confirmed that winners must choose between a one-time $1 million payout or weekly lifetime payments.
Aubin-Vega selected the weekly option, citing long-term stability and the ability to plan responsibly for her future. She also noted that the steady income will help her work toward buying a home.
The decision has sparked significant debate online, with many arguing over which option offers better long-term value.
A weekly payment of $1,000 equals:
- $52,000 per year
- $520,000 over 10 years
- $1,040,000 over 20 years Payments continue for life.
The lump-sum payout, however, provides immediate access to $1 million but requires financial discipline and carries more investment risk.
Her choice highlights the ongoing public conversation about stability versus immediate liquidity, especially among younger adults navigating modern financial realities.
