What did Jessica Sanchez win on America’s Got Talent Season 20? Prize money details

Jessica Sanchez, the singer who had auditioned so long ago as a child, won America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 20 in an incredible finale on September 24, 2025. And since she was pregnant at the time of competing, her victory became even more miraculous.

Her performance of “Die with a Smile” in transcending weepiness was emotive and compelling. Jessica won the one-million-dollar prize for this season. The winner does not get the full million dollars all at once, of course; instead, contestants can opt between getting a lump sum up front (before any taxes) or a 40-year annuity that would pay out close to $25,000 per year (pretax).

With the money, Jessica also got things that come with being an AGT (America’s Got Talent) winner: a headline show in Las Vegas, national attention, and the push to take her music career where she wants it to go. It paid dividends this time around, however, as she was invited to return and perform on the prestigious stage where she first auditioned 20 years prior, proving that when most other people might find things at their toughest, you can still prevail.

Jessica Sanchez’s America's Got Talent (AGT) win: Breaking down the million-dollar prize

Jessica's victory on America's Got Talent Season 20 is a well-planned prize package rather than just a trophy. The awards, which range from a $1 million prize to a residence in Las Vegas, have restrictions and requirements. Knowing the career benefits and reward alternatives shows how AGT positions its winners for success after the finals.

How the $1 million prize works

Jessica’s financial fortune isn't just about a million-dollar check. Like previous winners, she will have the choice between taking a lump-sum payoff, which is typically much less than the headline amount after taxes and administrative cuts, or a 40-year annuity that works out to about $25,000 per year before taxes.

Depending upon their finances, the winners can not only get quick liquidity but also a regular income and plan for the long term, thanks to this mechanism. For Jessica, who is balancing a blooming music career with being a parent, the choice between security and freedom has taken on extra significance.

Furthermore, according to financial experts, investing in an annuity could result in higher long-term returns than a lump payment, providing Jessica with the chance to accumulate money for future generations while preserving a consistent cash flow.

Career opportunities beyond the cash

Besides the cash, America's Got Talent (AGT) Season 20 winner now gets a headline show in Las Vegas, an in-demand deal that gives her a stage to begin performing live immediately. Past winners have parlayed this residency into lucrative sponsorship contracts, national tours, and recording contracts.

It certainly doesn’t hurt that Jessica’s million-dollar win comes on her return to the show after a long break and while she is nine months pregnant. She has a ready-made angle for sponsorships and other media opportunities.

It also gives her a chance to try out new music, work with leading producers, and attract industry scouts: As a springboard for an international career instead of one night’s work, the residency offers something more than only singers themselves.

Trending

Watch all of Jessica's performances on America's Got Talent (AGT) on NBC.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback