Do Scratch Cards Expire & What Happens To Unclaimed Prizes?

Scratch cards, a beloved form of entertainment for many, offer the fun of potential winnings. However, an often-overlooked aspect is the lifespan of these cards and the fate of unclaimed prizes. 

This Red Casino blog will delve into these aspects, providing an insightful guide on the expiration of scratch cards and the destiny of unclaimed winnings.

Do Scratch Cards Expire?

Indeed, scratch cards do have an expiration date. This is not printed on the card itself, but you’re often expected to keep tabs on the official lottery website to ascertain the status of the scratch card.

In a nutshell, scratch cards become invalid after the closure of ticket sales. There’s no rationale for the cards to stay valid if they’re no longer available for purchase at retail outlets. Additionally, the card’s validity also ends once the jackpot has been claimed.

How Long Do You Have To Claim Scratch Card Winnings?

The timeline to claim any winnings from scratch cards is quite specific. Some key dates to remember are the closure date of the game and the final date for claiming your winnings. 

Although ticket sales end after the closure date, winners still have a grace period of up to 180 days to claim their prize, respectively.

Regrettably, if you miss this window, you won’t be able to claim the winnings. The rules are strict, and a claim on the 181st day will be unceremoniously rejected.

How To Find Scratch Card Expiry Date

Determining the expiry date of a scratch card can be relatively straightforward. By visiting the official lottery website, you can access all the necessary information. Once there, head to the games section and click on “scratch cards”.

A list of all available scratch cards will be displayed, and you can easily find the specific scratch card you’re interested in. The table provides a wealth of information, including the remaining top prizes, allowing you to make an informed decision before making a potential purchase.

Unclaimed Scratch Cards: What Happens To Remaining Prizes?

Scratch card enthusiasts often ponder what happens to unclaimed prize money. Is there a second chance for others to win? The answer to this is quite interesting.

Unclaimed winnings, if not claimed within the 180-day window, are redirected towards various charitable causes across the UK. 

For instance, in 2020, a whopping £58 Million from the March EuroMillions draw went unclaimed and was subsequently added to the Good Causes pot.

How To Find Scratch Card Prizes Remaining

To find out how many prizes are left on a specific scratch card, visit the official lottery website. Here, you can see all the current scratch cards available for purchase, along with the details of any remaining prizes.

This information can be quite helpful as it allows you to know whether the top prizes, including the jackpot, have been won or not. It also provides insight into how many smaller prizes are still up for grabs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you’re a casual scratch card player or an avid gamer, it’s crucial to be aware of the expiration dates and the procedure to claim any winnings. 

It’s equally important to know what happens to unclaimed prizes and how you can find out about any remaining prizes on a scratch card.

As the old saying goes, ‘knowledge is power’. So, stay informed, play responsibly, and remember to claim your winnings within the specified time frame.

---

*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.