Scratch cards are a popular form of lottery that provide instant results and the chance of a potentially large win. However, the rules around when you can buy and cash them in aren’t always clear, which can lead to confusion for many players.
In this Slots UK casino blog, we’ll go through the basics of the timings and processes involved with purchasing and redeeming scratch cards.
Keep reading to find out more.
What Time Can You Cash Scratch Cards Until?
If you have a scratch card to cash in, you’ll usually need to do so during the store’s opening hours. Most retailers stop redeeming scratch cards when their National Lottery terminal shuts down, which typically happens at closing time. Once the terminal is offline, they won’t be able to pay out any prizes.
However, it’s worth noting that some shops may set an earlier cut-off time for cashing in scratch cards—even if they’re still open—so it’s a good idea to check with the store in advance to avoid any disappointment.
You should also make sure to claim any winnings within the official timeframe. This is generally 180 days from the game’s end date—after that, any unclaimed prizes are forfeited.
What Time Can You Buy Scratch Cards Until?
If you want to buy a scratch card, the time you can do so usually depends on the shop’s opening hours and the policies of the retailer. In most cases, sales stop when the National Lottery terminal is switched off—typically close to the store’s closing time.
That said, the exact cut-off can vary from one shop to another. Some retailers may stop selling scratch cards earlier than others, depending on their own procedures or chain-wide policies. If you’re visiting a 24-hour store, you might find that scratch cards are still available late at night, but it’s always best to check with the store directly to be sure.
Can Scratch Cards Be Redeemed Anywhere?
If you have a scratch card to redeem, you can usually claim your prize at the shop where you bought it. However, whether the store can pay out your winnings may depend on how much cash they have available and their own store policies.
For smaller prizes—typically up to £500—most retailers are able to pay you directly. If your win is above that amount, you’ll likely need to claim it through the lottery operator instead, which usually involves filling out a Prize Claim Form.
How To Claim Scratch Card Winnings
If you have scratch card winnings to claim, the process usually depends on how much you’ve won. For smaller prizes, you can typically claim the money at the shop where you bought the card. Just take it back to the retailer, and they’ll usually be able to verify and pay out your winnings on the spot.
If you’ve won a larger amount—more than the retailer is allowed or able to pay—you’ll likely need to fill out a Prize Claim Form and send it to the lottery operator. They’ll handle the rest of the process directly.
For online scratch card games, claiming is often simpler, as your winnings are usually credited to your account automatically or can be claimed through the website.
Play Real Money Scratch Card Games Online at Slots UK
If you’re interested in playing scratch cards from the comfort of your own home, Slots UK has plenty of options to explore. We offer a wide selection of real money online scratch card games, all available to play whenever it suits you—so long as you have an internet connection.
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Visit Slots UK to explore the range of games we have available in a secure environment.
*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.
**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.