TAMPA (WFLA) - After months of anticipation, the winner of the largest-ever Mega Millions jackpot has finally come forward to claim the staggering $1.602 billion prize. However, their identity remains shrouded in secrecy.

The winning ticket, sold at a Publix in Neptune Beach, Florida, hit the jackpot nearly four months ago. The fortunate ticket holder came forward in late September, but due to Florida law, their name was not disclosed. This state is one of several that temporarily withhold the names of major lottery winners. However, after 90 days, the winner's identity becomes public information.

Christmas marked the milestone when the Florida Lottery was legally permitted to unveil the identity of the record-breaking Mega Millions winner. Lottery officials announced on Wednesday that the prize was claimed by an entity called Saltines Holdings, LLC. Instead of opting for annual payments, the winner chose to receive a lump-sum cash payment of $794,248,882.

Saltines Holdings, LLC is a limited liability company, a popular business structure that provides protection to owners from personal financial liabilities. By claiming the prize through an LLC, the winner skillfully managed to maintain their anonymity.

Interestingly, the LLC was filed in Delaware, where the name of the owner is not a matter of public record. If the winner had filed the LLC in Florida, their name would have been disclosed. Choosing Delaware allowed the winner to safeguard their privacy.

Claiming lottery prizes through entities like LLCs or trusts is not uncommon, as it offers winners the ability to remain anonymous. Just this year, two other Mega Millions jackpots were claimed through LLCs, and three were claimed through trusts.

The current Mega Millions jackpot stands at an estimated $92 million after two winning tickets from California, sold at the same gas station, scooped the grand prize in early December.

Mega Millions tickets, priced at $2 per game, are available in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. ET, giving participants a chance to dream big and potentially become the next fortunate winner.

As for the mysterious billionaire who claimed their monumental prize through Saltines Holdings, LLC, their identity will remain a captivating mystery, leaving many to wonder who the lucky individual or group might be.