Scratch cards provide a popular and convenient way for people in the UK to take part in games of chance. You can buy these tickets at newsagents, supermarkets, or through trusted websites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.
The concept is straightforward: reveal symbols or numbers for the chance to win a prize. However, knowing how to check if your scratch card is a winner isn’t always obvious, especially if you’re new to the game.
This blog post covers what you need to know about checking both physical and online scratch cards and highlights how you can verify your results. Read on to find out more.
Top Ways To Check If You've Won
There are several clear and safe ways to check if a scratch card is a winner, whether you have a physical card or play online:
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Read the Game Rules on the Card: Every scratch card includes a set of instructions, usually found on the back or next to the scratch area. These rules explain exactly what symbols or numbers you need to match to win.
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Manual Checking: For physical cards, scratch off the panels as directed, then compare the revealed numbers or symbols with the game rules. This helps you decide whether the card might be a winner.
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Use an In-Store Terminal: Many newsagents and supermarkets with a National Lottery sign have terminals for scanning scratch cards. Hand your ticket to a staff member—they’ll scan it, and the terminal will show the result immediately.
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Online Scratch Cards: For online games, your result appears automatically after you click to reveal the panels. A record of the outcome is also saved in your online account.
Using these official methods helps ensure checking is reliable. Always use licensed retailers and authorised online operators.
Online Tools For Checking Scratch Cards
It’s easy to get mixed up about what the National Lottery app can and cannot do for scratch cards. While the app allows users to scan draw-based tickets like Lotto and EuroMillions, it does not scan the physical scratch cards you buy in shops.
Instead, the app gives access to digital scratch cards and instant win games. With these, results appear automatically, and any winnings show up in your account right away. Each online game explains possible prizes and how payments are credited, making it simple to follow.
To check a scratch card bought in a shop, visit a participating retailer. Staff will scan your ticket using their secure terminal and tell you the result.
Understanding Scratch Card Results
If you have a physical scratch card, it’s important to read the instructions carefully before you start scratching. These will explain what counts as a win—whether that’s matching amounts, symbols, or numbers.
Once you’ve revealed the panels, compare what you’ve uncovered with the rules provided. Some cards include extra games or bonus features, so it’s worth checking all the details to make sure you don’t miss anything.
For online scratch cards, the platform usually does the checking for you. If you have a winning combination, it will be displayed on screen, and you can review your results later in your account history.
If you’re ever unsure about a result, you can take your physical ticket to a retailer for scanning or get in touch with customer support via the official website for assistance.
Checking Scratch Card Results In Store
If you buy a scratch card in a shop, checking it is easy. Just take it back to any shop with a National Lottery sign. Staff will scan your card to see if you’ve won.
Shops are currently able to pay out prizes up to £100. Some larger stores may be able to pay up to £500, depending on their cash policy. If your win is more than £500, the retailer will tell you how to claim directly from the National Lottery. These claim steps are usually printed on the back of the card.
There’s no charge to scan your scratch card, and you’ll usually keep your ticket unless you need to post it in for a big claim. If you need to post your card, take a clear photo and use recorded delivery so there’s proof it was sent.
If you’re interested in playing scratch cards, make sure you do so with responsible gambling practices in mind, and never spend more than you are willing to lose.
Common Questions About Scratch Card Checking
Can old scratch cards still be checked?
Most scratch cards have an expiry date on them. Make sure you check this date, as prizes cannot be claimed after it passes.
What if part of the scratch card is damaged?
If the important parts of the scratch area are still clear, staff can usually scan the card. Larger wins may need to be checked by the National Lottery—follow the advice on the back of the card.
Do players need to register to claim a prize?
You don’t need to register to claim smaller in-store prizes. For larger prizes or any win online, you may need to provide personal details and proof of age.
Is it safe to use non-official websites or apps to check tickets?
You should not use unofficial websites or apps. Keep your personal details safe, and avoid using non-official sites or apps.
What should someone do if a winning card is lost?
If a scratch card is lost, it cannot be checked or claimed. Keeping your tickets safe until you know the result is important.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**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.