Time Limits For Claiming Lottery & Scratchcard Winnings
Uncovering a winning number on a scratchcard or matching your lottery numbers could be a memorable experience. Before planning how to use any winnings, it might be useful to understand how to claim and how much time you have to do so.
Whether you’re holding a ticket now or simply planning ahead, the sections below explain how to claim prizes for UK National Lottery tickets and scratchcards. Read on to learn more.
How Long Do You Have To Claim Lottery Winnings?
If your ticket was purchased for a UK National Lottery draw, you have 180 days to claim from the date of the draw. For example, if the draw took place on 1 January, the final date to claim would be 29 June.
After 180 days, unclaimed winnings are transferred to National Lottery-funded projects. You can find the draw date printed on your physical ticket or listed in your online account.
Tickets bought online or through the National Lottery app may be credited automatically for smaller amounts. Larger prizes may require you to confirm your identity or submit additional documents. For tickets purchased in a shop, the original ticket is required to claim.
All draw-based and instant win games operated by the National Lottery follow the same 180-day claim timeframe. For more detailed or up-to-date information, you could refer to the official National Lottery website.
Scratchcard Claim Deadlines Explained
If you bought a National Lottery scratchcard from a retailer, you have 180 days to claim from the official end date of that scratchcard game. This date is not the same as the purchase date. End dates vary for each scratchcard and are published on the National Lottery website.
If a scratchcard game has ended, the final claim date will be 180 days after the closure date. Claims must be made within this period. After that, prizes can’t be claimed.
To collect any winnings from a scratchcard, the physical card must be presented. Prizes up to £100 are typically paid in shops, depending on the retailer. For amounts above £100 and up to £500, some retailers may still pay out, though this depends on the store’s available funds and policy.
For prizes between £500.01 and £50,000, a digital claim process now applies. You need to complete an online claim form, including uploading images of the front and back of your scratchcard. Additional verification steps may be needed.
Scratchcards bought digitally may have different expiry details. These are usually outlined in the game’s rules or within your account information. Reviewing these might help you understand what applies to your specific card.
Does the Countdown Start From Purchase or Win?
For National Lottery draw tickets, the 180-day period begins from the draw date, not the date of purchase. It makes no difference how early you bought your ticket ahead of the draw.
For physical scratchcards, the claim period begins from the official closure date of the game. This means the countdown does not start when you scratch the card or when you reveal any matching numbers.
Checking the relevant dates linked to your ticket or scratchcard may help you avoid missing the claim period.
What Happens If You Miss the Claim Deadline?
Once the 180-day period has passed, unclaimed prizes can no longer be collected. These amounts are transferred to support National Lottery-funded initiatives across the UK.
This applies to all types of eligible winnings, including those purchased in shops or online. Smaller online wins are usually credited directly, but any unclaimed larger prizes are also subject to the 180-day rule.
Each ticket type and game has its own terms. If you’re unsure whether a ticket is still valid, consider checking your account or contact the relevant provider for more information.
Where to Check Expiry Dates on Lottery Tickets and Scratchcards
Draw dates for lottery tickets are printed on the front of the ticket. If you bought a ticket from a shop, the receipt may also show the draw entered. For online purchases, the draw details are saved in your account history or sent to your email.
Scratchcards usually don’t list end dates on the card itself. To check if a scratchcard game has ended, you could visit the National Lottery website or ask staff at the retailer where the card was bought.
If you bought a digital scratchcard, the expiry details are included in the game rules or information section available in your online account.
What If You Find a Winning Lottery Ticket on The Ground?
If you find a lottery ticket that doesn’t belong to you, claiming a prize could raise issues. The National Lottery requires proof of ownership. If a name isn’t written on the ticket, the buyer is still considered the rightful owner.
For higher-value claims, investigations may be carried out. This can involve checking CCTV, reviewing the time of purchase, and gathering other evidence to confirm ownership.
Attempting to claim a prize with a ticket that isn’t yours may result in an investigation. In some cases, it could be treated as fraud. You may wish to hand in the ticket at your local police station or contact the National Lottery for guidance.
These steps are designed to protect the integrity of the process and help ensure that players are treated fairly.
Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.