Facts
1. First off, you wouldn't be getting 1 billion dollars. You'd be getting around $600,000.00 IF you choose instant payout, which most people do. (taking monthly payments would be better, but you neve know if the state will change the rules on you and take it back or end it, which is why most people take the lump sum, which is always a lot less).
2. After paying legal fee's and taxes (you really need a lawyer to claim this amount of money for you and pay all the fees and state taxes on it) you will end up with about $280,000.
3. At the end of the year, you will have to pay federal taxes on it, which will reduce it even more.
4. You will be lucky to walk away with the actual cash value of $180,000 - $200,000
5. Which is better than nothing at all.