Thunderball is a popular National Lottery game played throughout the UK, appreciated for its straightforward format and frequent draws.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the key details, including how the game works, the cost of tickets, when draws take place, the different prize levels, the odds of winning, and how jackpot payouts are managed. We’ll also explain the process for claiming prizes.
Read on to find out more.
Thunderball Rules Explained
Thunderball follows a clear structure. Each line consists of five main numbers from 1 to 39 and one Thunderball number from 1 to 14.
In every draw, five main balls and one Thunderball are drawn. Prizes depend on how many of your selections match the results. Matching the Thunderball alongside some main numbers can secure a prize, and there is also a small prize for matching the Thunderball alone.
Numbers must be chosen before the stated draw deadline. Each line is treated separately. If preferred, the system can pick numbers at random through a Lucky Dip.
With the basics covered, the next part looks at how entry works in practice.
How Do You Play Thunderball?
If you choose to play Thunderball, you can do so either in-store using a playslip or online through your National Lottery account. For each line you enter, you’ll select five main numbers plus one Thunderball number, following the game’s format. Alternatively, many players opt for a Lucky Dip, which randomly selects numbers for you to keep things simple.
Each line you play gives you a separate chance in the draw, and you can enter as many lines as you like—within your own budget, of course. Just be sure to purchase your entries before the cut-off time on draw days.
How Are Thunderball Numbers Drawn?
Thunderball uses a mechanical draw machine designed to produce random outcomes within strict technical standards. The five main numbers are drawn from one set of balls, and the Thunderball is drawn from a separate set, which keeps the two parts of the draw independent.
Independent observers oversee each event to check that procedures are followed correctly. The equipment is routinely tested and maintained. Results are published shortly after the draw online, in shops, and through official announcements.
Knowing how the draw works, it helps to look at when it takes place and what it costs to take part.
Thunderball Ticket Cost and Draw Days
Each Thunderball line costs £1.
Draws are held four times a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Tickets must be bought before the published deadline on each draw day. You can enter in-store or online, and you must be 18 or over in the UK.
With timing and cost sorted, the natural next question is what a line can win.
What Are the Thunderball Prize Tiers?
Thunderball offers fixed prizes, meaning the amount you win depends on how many numbers you match and does not change from draw to draw. The top prize is awarded for matching all five main numbers plus the Thunderball.
Here’s a breakdown of the prize tiers:
- 5 Main Numbers + Thunderball: £500,000
- 5 Main Numbers: £5,000
- 4 Main Numbers + Thunderball: £250
- 4 Main Numbers: £100
- 3 Main Numbers + Thunderball: £20
- 3 Main Numbers: £10
- 2 Main Numbers + Thunderball: £10
- 1 Main Number + Thunderball: £5
- 0 Main Numbers + Thunderball: £3
You can also win smaller prizes by matching the Thunderball on its own, while different combinations of main numbers without the Thunderball correspond to other fixed amounts. These set prizes come with set odds, which we’ll explain next.
What Are the Odds of Winning Thunderball?
Each prize tier has defined odds. The chance of winning the jackpot by matching all five main numbers and the Thunderball is 1 in 8,060,598.
There are nine prize tiers in total. For the smallest prize, awarded for matching the Thunderball alone, the odds are 1 in 29. As you match more main numbers, the tier changes and so do the odds.
Understanding these odds provides useful context for how the top prize is paid when it does land.
How Do Thunderball Jackpot Payouts Work?
The Thunderball jackpot is a fixed £500,000 per winning ticket. This amount remains the same in every draw.
If several tickets match all five main numbers plus the Thunderball in the same draw, each receives £500,000. The top prize is not shared or reduced. Jackpot payments are made as a single lump sum rather than in instalments.
Payouts are processed by the National Lottery operator under established procedures. If you choose to play, keeping your ticket secure and checking results promptly will make the claiming process straightforward if you happen to win anything.
Claiming Thunderball Prizes in the UK
If you choose to play Thunderball, how you claim any prizes, if you win anything, will depend on how you entered the game. For tickets bought in a shop, smaller prizes can usually be paid directly by the retailer, while larger winnings are handled by The National Lottery itself. If you play online, most prizes will be credited straight to your account, though bigger amounts may require additional verification following official guidance.
It’s important to remember that all prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the draw date—after this time, unclaimed prizes are not paid out. Be sure to keep your tickets safe, check the results soon after the draw, and use the support tools available if you ever feel you need help managing your play.
Above all, please gamble responsibly and only play within your means.
*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.