Payout, or distribution, refers to the process of distributing funds or assets to individuals or entities. This can occur in various contexts, such as in finance, where investors receive returns from their investments, or in insurance, where policyholders receive claims. The amount and timing of payouts can vary based on specific agreements or policies. In the context of dividends, companies distribute a portion of their earnings to shareholders as a payout. Similarly, in lottery systems, winners receive a payout based on their ticket's success. Understanding payout structures is essential for managing expectations and financial planning.