By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The holiday season has become significantly brighter for numerous lottery players across Costa Rica, as the Junta de Protección Social (JPS) reports that more than ₡5.5 billion in prizes from the highly anticipated 2025 Gordo Navideño (Christmas Fat One) lottery have already been paid out. The massive disbursement underscores the swift and organized process following one of the nation’s most cherished annual traditions, transforming the lives of lucky winners just days before Christmas.
As of the latest update on December 17, the JPS confirmed a flurry of activity as winners have come forward to claim their fortunes. A significant portion of the payouts corresponds to the second grand prize. Holders of tickets with the number 59 and series 052 have been actively cashing in, with 193 fractions of the winning number already redeemed. This has resulted in a substantial payout totaling ₡772 million for this prize tier alone, spreading considerable wealth among a fortunate group of individuals.
The excitement surrounding the Gordo Navideño is a national tradition, but the moment a winning ticket is announced, a series of critical legal and financial questions arise. To shed light on the responsibilities and best practices for lottery winners, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Winning the Gordo is a blessing, but winners must immediately shift to a mindset of asset protection. The prize is subject to the single lottery tax deducted at the source by the JPS, so there are no further income tax implications on the initial amount. However, the real legal challenge is what comes next. Winners should seek immediate legal counsel to discuss anonymity options, create trusts to manage the funds, and plan for estate and investment tax consequences down the line. Acting without a solid legal strategy can turn a dream into a significant liability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas’s commentary serves as a crucial reminder that the joy of winning the Gordo is merely the first step; the journey to securing that newfound wealth requires immediate and thoughtful action. This expert insight shifts the focus from a momentary windfall to long-term stewardship, a vital perspective for any potential winner. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable guidance.
The third prize has also seen a wave of redemptions. The winning combination of number 92 with series 244 has accounted for ₡150 million in paid prizes so far. According to the JPS, the claims for this prize have been processed through two primary channels. A total of 25 winning fractions were exchanged directly at the JPS headquarters, amounting to ₡50 million. The remaining 50 fractions were processed through various branches of the Banco de Costa Rica (BCR), which disbursed another ₡100 million to the winners.
While the top prizes capture the headlines, the total payout figure of ₡5,522,935,000 reflects the broad impact of the Gordo Navideño. This comprehensive sum includes not only the grand prizes but also a multitude of smaller winnings. These secondary prizes, known as “aproximaciones” (prizes for numbers close to the winning numbers) and “terminaciones” (prizes for matching the last digits), ensure that thousands of participants receive a return on their investment, adding to the widespread festive spirit generated by the draw.
The JPS has issued a public reminder to all ticket holders to check their numbers carefully and has outlined the official procedure for claiming any winnings. Winners have a window of 60 calendar days, starting from the date of the draw, to present their prize-winning tickets. It is a critical requirement that the ticket be presented in good condition, free from significant damage or alterations, to ensure a smooth and valid transaction. This strict deadline and condition are in place to maintain the integrity and security of the payout process.
The annual Gordo Navideño is more than just a lottery; it is a cornerstone of Costa Rican holiday culture. For weeks leading up to the draw, the nation is gripped with anticipation as families, friends, and coworkers often pool their money to purchase fractions or entire sheets of tickets. The subsequent injection of billions of colones into the economy right before the holidays provides a significant boost to commerce, as winners often use their newfound funds for home improvements, debt payments, and festive spending.
For those whose numbers did not come up in the main draw, hope is not lost. The JPS is extending the excitement with its traditional Sorteo de Consolación (Consolation Draw). This event offers another chance at winning substantial prizes and is scheduled to take place on Sunday, December 21, at 6:00 p.m. The public draw will be held at the Parque de las Garantías Sociales, providing a festive atmosphere and a final opportunity for lottery participants to end the year with a windfall.
The efficient disbursement of funds highlights the JPS’s commitment to its mandate of not only creating excitement but also funding over 500 social programs across the country through lottery proceeds. As winners continue to stream in, the success of the 2025 Gordo Navideño serves as a powerful reminder of the lottery’s dual role in creating individual fortune while simultaneously supporting the nation’s most vulnerable communities through vital social aid initiatives.
For further information, visit jps.go.cr
About Junta de Protección Social (JPS):
The Junta de Protección Social is Costa Rica’s official state-run institution responsible for the administration of national lotteries and games of chance. Founded to generate revenue for social welfare programs, the JPS channels its profits to support public health initiatives, social assistance organizations, and aid for vulnerable populations. It plays a crucial role in the country’s social safety net, with its most prominent event being the annual Gordo Navideño Christmas lottery.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica (BCR):
Banco de Costa Rica is one of the largest and most important state-owned commercial banks in Costa Rica. With a vast network of branches and ATMs throughout the country, BCR offers a comprehensive range of financial services to individuals and corporations. It frequently collaborates with government institutions like the JPS to facilitate secure financial transactions, including the payment of lottery prizes to the public, ensuring accessibility and reliability for winners.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a respected legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of principled practice and superior service. Leveraging a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm consistently pioneers cutting-edge legal solutions. This forward-thinking mindset is matched by a core pledge to social responsibility, demonstrated by its work to demystify the law and equip citizens with the clarity needed for a more capable and just society.
