Jessica Sanchez’s big win on America’s Got Talent season 20 felt like a dream come true — and in many ways, it really was. Nearly twenty years ago, she had first stood on that same stage as a 10-year-old, full of hope and ambition. Back then, she didn’t win, but life came full circle when she returned this year and finally claimed the title she had always wanted. On finale night, Jessica delivered a breathtaking performance of Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga’s Die With A Smile, and her soulful voice moved both the judges and the audience, securing her victory through live voting.
Many fans were curious about how much Jessica actually took home after winning. The grand prize for America’s Got Talent has always been advertised as $1 million, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. According to TV Insider, the winner can’t immediately collect the entire amount. The show’s official disclaimer states that the prize is paid out as a financial annuity over 40 years — meaning the winner receives about $25,000 per year before taxes. There’s also an option to take a lump-sum payout, but in that case, the total is significantly less than $1 million once taxes and interest adjustments are calculated.
So while Jessica technically won a $1 million prize, the real amount she’ll receive depends on which payout option she chooses. Either way, the win is still a huge milestone in her career — one that comes with both recognition and opportunity beyond the money itself.
Jessica’s journey has been long and inspiring. After first appearing on AGT as a child, she went on to make a name for herself in the music industry. She rose to national fame as the runner-up on American Idol, where her powerful voice caught the world’s attention. Over the years, she’s released albums and singles, gained millions of views on YouTube, and built a steady following on Spotify, where she now has over 100,000 monthly listeners.
Outside of Idol and AGT, Jessica has been part of Showtime at the Apollo and even sang the national anthem for the San Diego Chargers. She also made an appearance on the hit TV show Glee and took part in Miss Universe Philippines 2020 and The Clash. Her success across different platforms has helped her build an estimated net worth of about $1 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Now, with her America’s Got Talent win, Jessica stands at a new beginning — not just as a champion but also as a soon-to-be mom. She’s currently nine months pregnant and ready to embrace both motherhood and a renewed chapter in her career. Her story is one of resilience, talent, and the kind of patience that turns long-held dreams into reality.