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Do Scratchcards Expire?
Found an old scratchcard down the back of a drawer? Whether you can still claim depends on timing. Here’s how scratchcard expiry works.
Games have closing dates
Yes, scratchcards expire. Each National Lottery scratchcard game has a closing date, after which it’s withdrawn from sale and no new cards are issued. Games are retired regularly to make way for new ones.
The 180-day claim window
Once a game officially ends, you typically have 180 days to claim any prize on a card from that game. After that window closes, the prize can no longer be paid — so an old card really can become worthless.
Check and claim promptly
If you’ve an unscratched or unchecked card, check whether its game is still open and claim without delay. Online instant-win games avoid the issue entirely, since wins are credited automatically. See how scratchcards work, how long you have to claim and scratchcard odds.
Frequently asked questions
Do scratchcards have an expiry date?
Yes — each game has a closing date, after which the card is withdrawn from sale.
How long do I have to claim a scratchcard prize?
Usually 180 days from the game’s official end date.
Can a scratchcard be too old to claim?
Yes — once a game has closed and its claim window passes, prizes can no longer be paid, so check and claim promptly.
Related guides: how scratchcards work, how long you have to claim and scratchcard odds.