Playing EuroMillions is an activity that some individuals in the UK choose to take part in regularly. Whether you have entered draws before or are simply exploring how the game works, you might be interested in understanding what certain results mean.
This guide outlines the essential information, including how prizes are allocated, the odds associated with different outcomes, and important considerations to keep in mind before participating.
How Do Lucky Stars Work in EuroMillions?
In EuroMillions, the Lucky Stars are drawn separately from the main numbers. When entering a draw, you choose five main numbers from 1 to 50, along with two Lucky Stars from a separate pool ranging from 1 to 12.
Each draw results in five main numbers and two Lucky Stars being selected. The combination of numbers matched on your ticket determines whether a prize is awarded and, if so, which prize tier it falls under. Matching Lucky Stars alongside main numbers may place a ticket in a different prize category than matching main numbers alone.
Because the main numbers and Lucky Stars are drawn from separate number pools, the odds for each are calculated independently. This format helps establish the structure of multiple prize tiers.
What Do You Win For Matching 1 Number and 1 Lucky Star?
If your ticket matches 1 main number and 1 Lucky Star, it falls within the 12th prize tier in the UK. The current fixed prize for this tier is £4.50.
This amount is intended to return slightly more than the standard cost of a single ticket entry. While this prize value has remained stable, it is subject to change at the discretion of the operator. Referring to the most up-to-date prize breakdown could help you stay aware of any changes.
The odds of matching 1 main number and 1 Lucky Star are approximately 1 in 188, making it one of the more common outcomes compared to the higher prize tiers.
In the UK, prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the draw date. After this period, any unclaimed prizes are no longer valid.
Full List of EuroMillions Prizes
EuroMillions offers a range of prize tiers based on the number of main numbers and Lucky Stars matched. The following list outlines the standard prize structure in the UK.
Actual prize amounts may vary depending on the number of winners and overall ticket sales. It might be wise to check the official results and prize breakdown after each draw for the most accurate information.
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5 Main Numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – Jackpot*
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5 Main Numbers + 1 Lucky Star – Approximately £130,554.30
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5 Main Numbers – Approximately £13,561.20
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4 Main Numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – Approximately £844.70
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4 Main Numbers + 1 Lucky Star – Approximately £77.80
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3 Main Numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – Approximately £37.30
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4 Main Numbers – Approximately £25.60
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2 Main Numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – Approximately £9.10
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3 Main Numbers + 1 Lucky Star – Approximately £7.30
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3 Main Numbers – Approximately £6.00
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1 Main Number + 2 Lucky Stars – Approximately £4.30
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2 Main Numbers + 1 Lucky Star – Approximately £3.60
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2 Main Numbers – Approximately £2.50
In addition to the main draw, UK players are automatically entered into the UK Millionaire Maker with every ticket purchased. This guarantees one UK winner of £1,000,000 in each draw.
*The jackpot starts at a set minimum and can roll over if not won, up to a capped amount. Once the cap is reached, funds are distributed to the next prize tiers according to the rules set by the operator.
How EuroMillions Winners are Notified
How you receive prize information depends on how your EuroMillions ticket was purchased.
If you entered the draw online or via the National Lottery app, you will typically be notified by email if your ticket has won a prize. For smaller amounts, winnings are usually credited directly to your online account. In cases of larger prizes, you may also be contacted by phone by the National Lottery team.
If you bought your ticket from a retailer, it is your responsibility to check whether it has won. This can be done by scanning the ticket using the app, checking it at a retail outlet, or comparing your numbers to the official results. Smaller prizes are often paid out in-store, while larger amounts may need to be claimed through a specific process outlined by the National Lottery.
Is The EuroMillions Worth Playing?
Whether or not EuroMillions is worth playing ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people enjoy taking part as a form of light entertainment, while others are simply curious about the outcomes. As a well-known lottery in the UK, it offers regular draws and a structured prize system, but whether that appeals is entirely up to the individual.
The odds of winning the jackpot are around 1 in 139 million, and the overall odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 13. Most prizes awarded tend to be on the lower end of the scale. Because of this, many people view it as a form of participation rather than something to approach with specific expectations.
A EuroMillions ticket costs £2.50 in the UK. This covers entry into the main draw and also includes automatic entry into the UK Millionaire Maker. Whether this represents value is a decision for each person to make based on their own circumstances and preferences.
**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.