If you have ever picked up a EuroMillions ticket and wondered what happens if you match one main number and one Lucky Star, you are not alone. The prize table might seem a bit unclear at first glance, especially if you are new to the game.
Knowing how results are assessed could make it much easier to read any future tickets with confidence. Read on to learn more.
What You Actually Win with 1 Number and 1 Lucky Star on EuroMillions
Matching one main number and one Lucky Star on a EuroMillions ticket does not result in a prize in the UK. It can feel like two matches should count for something, but this particular pairing is not part of the UK prize structure.
The lowest tier that pays out is matching two main numbers. Anything less, including one main number with one Lucky Star, is not a winning line. If you are unsure, the official EuroMillions prize breakdown sets out every paying combination so you can see exactly what qualifies.
If you do decide to try your hand at the EuroMillions, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How the EuroMillions Prize Structure Works
EuroMillions has 13 prize tiers, based on how many of the 5 main numbers and 2 Lucky Stars you match from the draw. The top tier requires all 5 main numbers and both Lucky Stars. Below that, the tiers step down through various combinations of main numbers and Lucky Stars, with at least two main numbers needed for a UK payout.
The value of each prize tier is influenced by how many winners there are in that draw and the share of the prize fund allocated to each tier. Fewer winners usually means a larger share per person, while busy tiers share the pot between more tickets. This is why prize amounts can vary from draw to draw, even within the same tier.
Because the prize structure is fixed and published, it applies consistently whether a ticket is bought in a shop or online through The National Lottery. If you want to check the current tier values for a specific draw, the official results page shows the numbers, the tiers, and how many winners there were in each.
How to Check If Your EuroMillions Ticket Has Won
After the draw, the winning numbers are listed on The National Lottery website, in the official app, and often in newspapers. Results are shown as two sets: the 5 main numbers from 1 to 50 and the 2 Lucky Stars from 1 to 12, which makes it easy to line up your entry with what was drawn.
For paper tickets, compare your selection against the published results and note how many main numbers and Lucky Stars match. For online entries, your account usually flags any winning lines and credits smaller prizes automatically. Many retailers also have terminals that scan a paper ticket and display whether it qualifies for a payout.
If your ticket does qualify for a smaller prize, the claims process is straightforward.
What Happens If You Win a Small EuroMillions Prize?
For tickets bought in shops, smaller prizes are typically paid at authorised retailers. Amounts up to £100 are usually settled on the spot. Many retailers can also pay up to £500, while higher amounts may need to be claimed at selected Post Offices or directly with The National Lottery, depending on the value and current procedures.
If you played online through The National Lottery, smaller prizes are normally added to your account balance automatically. For higher amounts, you may be asked to complete additional verification or follow the claim process set out in your account. Exact limits and processes can change from time to time, so it might be worth checking the latest guidance on the official site if you are unsure.
Always keep responsible gambling practises in mind.
**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.