Whether you want to buy a luxury home, travel the world or pay off all your debt, winning the jackpot lottery could be your ticket to living out your dreams. But it’s not easy, and it takes time to manage wealth effectively. Luckily, there are a few basic strategies you can use to improve your odds of hitting it big.

The first thing you need to do is decide how you want to receive your winnings. Most lotteries offer winners the option of taking a lump sum or annuity payout. An annuity typically provides a monthly payment for 29 years or more, and any payments that aren’t made will be left to heirs in your will. But more than 90% of winners choose the lump sum payout, which is a one-time payment of the entire prize amount after taxes.

You’ll also want to make sure your tickets and cash are in a safe place, and that someone trustworthy is handling them. Also consider keeping a photocopy of your tickets in case they’re lost or stolen. You can also set up a trust to hold your tickets and money if you want to remain anonymous after winning.

As you get started with your newfound wealth, be sure to talk to a financial advisor. Our free tool can help you find an advisor who serves your unique needs.