How to Claim a Scratchcard Prize
This is an independent, informational guide for UK readers and is not affiliated with the organisations mentioned. It is provided for general information only.
To claim a scratchcard prize, take smaller wins to any National Lottery retailer (shops can usually pay up to £100, some up to £500), and claim larger prizes by post or with the operator. Either way you have 180 days from the game's official closure date.
Small prizes in store
For smaller wins, take the scratchcard to any National Lottery retailer, who can scan it and pay out. Shops can usually pay prizes up to £100 (a till-point terminal may be limited to £50), and some retailers and Post Offices can pay up to £500.
Sign the back of the card first, as it's your proof of the win.
Larger prizes
For bigger amounts, you claim by post or directly with the National Lottery, following the process on the official site. Larger prizes involve identity checks before payment.
If you bought a digital instant-win game online, any prize is added to your account automatically.
Mind the deadline
You have 180 days to claim a scratchcard prize, counted from the game's official closure date — not from when you bought or scratched it. Closure dates are published on the National Lottery website.
If you're unsure whether a card is still valid, a retailer can scan it to check.
Damaged cards
A torn or damaged scratchcard can often still be claimed, provided the barcode, game number and security details are readable, so don't bin it.
If in doubt, a retailer can scan it or you can contact the operator.
The single most useful habit is to sign and safely store any card you mean to keep, and to check it promptly — because the clock runs from the game's closure date, not your purchase. Claim small wins at the till, and let the operator guide you through anything larger.
How do I claim a small scratchcard prize?
Take the signed card to a National Lottery retailer; shops can typically pay up to £100, and some up to £500.
How long do I have to claim a scratchcard prize?
180 days from the game's official closure date, which is published on the National Lottery website.
How are large scratchcard prizes paid?
By post or directly with the operator, after identity checks; online instant-win prizes are credited to your account.
Can I claim on a damaged scratchcard?
Often yes — if the barcode, game number and security details are still readable, the operator can verify it.
Related guides: Do scratchcards expire?, How to claim winnings, Unclaimed winnings
18+ only. Gambling should be fun, not a way to make money. If you are worried about your gambling, or affected by someone else's, free and confidential help is available from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, from BeGambleAware.org, and through the self-exclusion scheme GAMSTOP. You must be 18 or over to gamble.