Have you come across an old lottery ticket or an unused scratchcard? You might wonder if it can still be claimed or if the deadline has passed.
Understanding time limits could be useful, as claims must be made within set periods. These rules vary depending on the type of ticket or game.
This guide outlines what to expect when claiming in-store or online.
How Long Do You Have To Claim A Lottery Win?
For National Lottery draw-based games in the UK, the claim period is 180 days from the date of the draw. This timeframe applies whether the ticket was bought in a shop or online. Claims made after this period are not accepted.
If you make contact with the National Lottery before the 180-day deadline to notify them of an intention to claim, there may be an extra seven days allowed to complete the claim in person.
Other lotteries, such as those run by charities or regional operators, may apply different timeframes. Their websites or customer service channels often provide these details.
Tickets purchased online are recorded in your account, but claims still need to be made within the 180-day period. Checking the terms on each lottery’s website may help clarify the current process.
Scratchcards: When Do They Expire?
Most National Lottery scratchcards have a claim deadline of 180 days after the game is officially closed. This date is published on the National Lottery website and is sometimes displayed at retailers.
The end of the claim period is based on the closure of the scratchcard game, not when you purchased the card. In some cases, scratchcards may remain on sale shortly before the game ends or be withdrawn early.
Any prizes not claimed by the deadline are allocated to projects funded by the National Lottery.
For online scratchcards, expiry details are listed in your account or within the game’s specific rules.
Do Different Scratchcards Have Different Claim Periods?
Scratchcards offered by providers other than the National Lottery may not follow the same 180-day timeframe. The terms for claiming can vary depending on the organiser.
It could be useful to check the back of the scratchcard or the terms provided at the point of purchase. Some may allow a shorter claim window, such as 28 or 90 days.
Game organisers or shop staff can usually offer guidance on deadlines. If in doubt, their contact details are often included on the ticket or packaging.
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How To Check The Expiry Date On Lottery Tickets & Scratchcards
For physical National Lottery tickets, the draw date is printed on the front. Scratchcards display the expiry or closure date in small print on the back.
If you play online, claim periods can be reviewed in your account history or in the help section of the website.
Charity and regional lotteries usually include expiry details on the card or leaflet. Their websites may also list relevant dates.
Getting familiar with this information could potentially help avoid missing a claim.
What Happens If You Miss The Deadline To Claim?
If the deadline for claiming has passed, the prize cannot be paid out. For National Lottery games, unclaimed prizes and any associated interest are transferred to the National Lottery Distribution Fund. This fund supports initiatives across the UK.
For online entries, the same deadline applies. If the period has passed, winnings will not be credited to the account.
Other lottery operators may have their own process for unclaimed prizes. Their websites or printed materials usually explain how funds are handled after the deadline.
Lost Or Damaged Winning Tickets: Can You Still Cash In?
If you lose a physical ticket or scratchcard, you can contact the National Lottery to make a claim. This must be done within 30 days of the draw or scratchcard game ending. You’ll be asked for details about where and when the ticket was bought, along with any identifying numbers.
If a ticket is damaged but essential information is still visible, it may still be accepted. If the ticket cannot be verified, the claim may not proceed.
For tickets bought online, entries are stored in your account. This makes it easier to reference them if needed.
Other lottery providers may follow a different policy. Their terms or customer support can explain the process for lost or damaged tickets.
How To Make Sure You Don’t Miss Out On Your Winnings
There are a few steps that might help when it comes to checking and claiming in time:
- Review your tickets shortly after each draw or game.
- Store tickets together in a place you can easily find.
- Set reminders for draw dates or game closures.
- Use an online account to keep track of digital entries.
- Read the terms and check websites for updated claim dates.
If you need more information, the retailer or game organiser might be able to assist. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
