Scratchcards are a simple way to play games of chance in the UK. They can be bought from shops such as newsagents, supermarkets and petrol stations, or played online through licensed websites, including the official National Lottery platform.
Whether you scratch off a card with a coin or tap your screen to reveal symbols, the goal is the same—to see if you've matched a winning combination.
But checking if you've won isn’t always as straightforward as it might seem. Some players aren't sure where to scan their cards, how online games work, or what steps to follow if a prize has been won.
This guide explains how to check physical and online scratchcards, how the process works, and what you might expect if your card results in a win. If you're completely new to scratchcards or just want a clearer understanding, each section breaks things down in a simple and direct way.
Using an Online Scratch Card Checker
It's a common misunderstanding, but the National Lottery app cannot scan physical scratchcards. That feature is only available for lottery tickets, such as the Lotto, Thunderball and EuroMillions.
What you can do with the National Lottery app is play online scratchcards and instant win games. These digital games reveal your result automatically after each play. If your game results in a win, your balance is updated within your account. The potential prize structure and payout process for each game are explained on the app or website before you play.
If you want to check a physical scratchcard, you'll need to visit a participating retailer. Most shops that sell scratchcards can scan them at the till using a secure terminal. The result appears on the retailer's screen and you'll be told whether there’s a prize or not.
Only use tools and apps that come from licensed UK operators. The National Lottery website and app are operated by Allwyn, who run the UK National Lottery under strict rules from the Gambling Commission. Other apps or websites may not be authorised, and may not protect your personal data or provide reliable information.
How To Check Cards Bought Online
Online scratchcards and instant win games are played and checked at the same time. As you complete the game, the system reveals whether or not you've won. There's no need to read symbols or check a prize table. The game does this for you.
If the amount won is small, it usually goes straight into your account balance. If the amount is higher, the site may ask you to confirm your identity before making the payout. This may include uploading a copy of your ID or proof of address. These checks are required to meet UK gambling rules and to prevent any underage or fraudulent play.
Your account will also contain a full game history, where you can see what you've played, how much you’ve spent, and any prizes awarded. This can be particularly useful if you’re keeping track of your play over time.
It’s worth knowing that instant win games and online scratchcards aren’t always identical. Some games include bonus features, mini-games, or different possible prize layouts. For this reason, check the rules and game description before you start. Each game will also show the odds of winning, which might be something like 1 in 3.41 or 1 in 4.05, depending on the game.
How Retailers Can Help With Checking
If you've bought a scratchcard in a shop, the easiest way to check it is to bring it back to a participating retailer. Most National Lottery retailers in the UK have a terminal behind the counter that can scan your card securely. Once scanned, the system tells the member of staff if the card has won and how much the prize is.
Retailers can typically pay out prizes up to £100. Some larger shops, like supermarkets, may be able to pay up to £500, but this depends on how much cash they have available and their own policies. If your prize is over £500, you’ll be given instructions on how to make a claim directly with the National Lottery. These steps are usually explained on the back of the scratchcard.
There is no charge for scanning your card, and you usually keep your scratchcard unless the claim needs to be processed through the post. If you're sending a card in, it's recommended to take a photo beforehand and use recorded delivery, so you have proof of the claim.
What To Do With Winning Cards
The way you claim your prize depends on how you played and how much you've won. For shop-bought cards, small prizes up to £100 can usually be paid out in cash by the retailer. Larger chain stores might also be able to pay out up to £500. If your prize is more than this, you’ll need to fill out a National Lottery Prize Claim Form and post your scratchcard to a designated address. Using recorded post and taking a picture of your card is a good idea.
For scratchcards played online, any smaller potential prizes are credited to your balance. From there, you can choose to withdraw them to your bank account or e-wallet. Any higher-value prizes might trigger an identity check before the funds are released. This process helps to make sure the account is yours and that you're of legal age to play.
Each game or operator may have specific terms about how and when prizes are paid. These are usually listed clearly on the website or within the app. Reading them before you play helps to avoid any surprises if your card results in a win.
Responsible Gambling With Scratch Cards
Scratchcards are random games of chance. This means the outcome is already set when the card is printed or when the online game begins. There is no skill involved, and no decision made by the player will influence the result. The probability of winning is fixed and is usually displayed on the card or in the game information. For example, a game might offer an average win rate of 1 in 3.78.
It’s not possible to predict which cards will win, and buying more cards does not improve your chances for each individual play. There’s also no strategy that guarantees better results. Some people enjoy buying cards with certain designs or prices, but these preferences are based on personal taste, not winning patterns.
Scratchcards and instant win games are not intended to make money. Some players may choose to set a spending budget, or decide in advance how many games they’ll play. Most licensed platforms provide tools that help players manage how much time or money they spend.
The idea of a "best" game is subjective. One person may prefer a £1 card with many smaller potential prizes, while another might choose a £5 game offering fewer, but higher-value prizes. What suits you depends on your budget, interests, and reasons for playing.
If you ever feel unsure about your gambling or want to talk to someone, free and confidential support is available from organisations like BeGambleAware.org and GamCare. Help is there if you need it, with advice, self-assessment tools and access to trained advisers.
Avoiding Scams And Fake Checkers
While most scratchcard play in the UK is safe and regulated, there are some unofficial websites and apps that claim to check scratchcards or offer better odds. These should be avoided. They are not authorised by the National Lottery or licensed by the Gambling Commission, and may be misleading or unsafe.
To stay protected:
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Use the official National Lottery app only for checking draw tickets or playing online games.
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Visit the official website at national-lottery.co.uk for game details or prize claims.
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Check physical cards at licensed retailers with secure scanning terminals.
If you're using an app, make sure it's listed under Allwyn, the official operator of the National Lottery since 2024. The app should be downloaded from a recognised store like the App Store or Google Play, and should show correct branding.
If something seems suspicious, or if a site or app asks for personal details without a clear reason, it may be wise to avoid it. You can report suspected scams or fake websites to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime.
*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.