Lottery tickets and scratchcards are a common sight in shops across the UK. Many people take part for the chance to win, but expiry rules are sometimes overlooked. Once a ticket or scratchcard is bought, there is only a set amount of time to claim a prize.
This guide covers why expiry dates are important, how to find them, and how to avoid missing a claim. Whether you've found an unused card or plan to buy one soon, the details below can help you stay informed. Read on to learn more.
Where Are Expiry Dates Shown?
Expiry dates for lottery tickets and scratchcards are usually printed on the item itself. On scratchcards, this information is often located on the back, near the barcode or in the terms and conditions. There may be a specific date or a statement such as "game closes on [date]". For lottery tickets, the claim period is sometimes printed in small text at the bottom or on the reverse side.
Official sources may provide further clarity if the expiry information is hard to read. The National Lottery shares updates on its website and may also display expiry details in-store. Posters or displays in participating retailers sometimes include deadline reminders.
For tickets bought online, expiry information can be found within your account or in the game rules. It's possible to view this on the website or app used at the time of purchase.
How Long Do You Have to Claim Wins?
One key detail that often gets overlooked is the timeframe in which a prize can actually be claimed. Failing to act within that window can mean the difference between cashing in and missing out entirely.
Scratchcard and Lottery Ticket Rules
National Lottery scratchcards and draw-based tickets, such as Lotto or EuroMillions, have a claim window of 180 days. For draw tickets, the 180-day period starts from the date of the draw. For scratchcards, the period begins when the game is officially closed by the operator.
The exact claim deadline is based on the relevant game type. For scratchcards, the end-of-game date is published by the operator and is not the same as the purchase date. For draw tickets, the date of the draw marks the beginning of the claim period.
Society lotteries and other smaller competitions may have different timeframes. These are set by the specific operator and included in their terms. Checking the information before taking part could help avoid missed claims.
For tickets purchased online, the same timeframes apply. Claiming is managed through your online account. The expiry date for each product is listed clearly within the digital platform.
Online casinos and gaming websites may apply separate rules for claim periods. These can vary between providers and are set out in the platform’s terms and conditions.
Claiming Prizes After the Deadline: Is It Possible?
Once the claim deadline passes, most operators will not accept prize claims. For National Lottery games, any unclaimed prize funds after 180 days are transferred to the National Lottery Distribution Fund. This supports charitable projects and community initiatives.
Even if a ticket or card is later found, claims cannot be processed if the deadline has passed. UK-licensed operators are required to follow set rules, including those set by the Gambling Commission (UKGC). This means expired tickets or scratchcards are considered void.
Other competitions, including smaller or charitable draws, may outline specific rules. These are set by the organisers and included in the terms. It might be helpful to review them if you’re entering a draw from a less familiar source.
Can You Cash In Lost or Ripped Tickets & Scratchcards?
If a ticket or scratchcard is lost, it may still be possible to make a claim. The National Lottery allows claims for lost draw-based tickets if they are reported within 30 days of the draw. You would need to provide detailed information, such as where and when the ticket was bought. A decision is made based on the evidence available.
If a scratchcard is damaged, it may be reviewed by the operator. Key details such as the barcode, serial number, and other validation features must be intact. Claims usually require submitting the card for review. If the details cannot be verified, the claim may be declined.
For online tickets, this is less of a concern. The ticket information is stored within your account. Physical tickets are more likely to be misplaced, so keeping them safe until checked can be helpful.
Avoiding Expired Lottery Tickets & Scratchcards
Unclaimed scratchcards and tickets can happen easily. Some are put away and forgotten or received as gifts and not checked. Storing tickets in a set location, such as a wallet or drawer, may help avoid misplacing them.
You could consider checking tickets soon after each purchase. For some, it’s useful to link ticket checking to a regular task, such as shopping or reviewing finances.
If using online accounts, logging in from time to time can help keep track of any purchases and their status. Viewing expiry information this way is usually straightforward.
Keeping note of draw dates or scratchcard details can also help. It may be useful to refer to operator channels if anything is unclear or if a game’s closing date has changed.
Players should always remember to gamble responsibly and within their 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.