The UK National Lottery Lotto holds draws twice a week, every Wednesday and Saturday. To enter, players select six numbers from 1 to 59. If the numbers you choose match those drawn, you win a prize. The more numbers you match, the bigger the reward.
But what exactly happens if you match only three numbers? And does the bonus ball affect your chances when you have matched three numbers?
In this Wizard Slots blog, we take a closer look at the odds of matching three numbers in the National Lottery and explain what you can expect if you do.
Read on to find out more.
What Are The Odds of Getting 3 Numbers In The Lottery?
If you decide to play the UK National Lottery Lotto, winning the jackpot means matching all six main numbers drawn, which is extremely unlikely. The odds of that happening are about 1 in 45,057,474.
However, if you match just three of the five main numbers, you would win a smaller, fixed prize. The odds of matching exactly three numbers are much better—about 1 in 97.
This means that out of 97 tickets, on average, one of them would match three numbers and win a prize. While this is not a huge chance, it is far more attainable than winning the jackpot, making smaller wins a more common outcome if you choose to play.
I Have 3 Numbers In The Lottery: What Happens?
If you choose to play the National Lottery and match three numbers, you would win a fixed prize of £30. This amount stays the same regardless of how many other players also match three numbers, so even if you are the only one, you will still receive £30.
You would need to claim your prize within 180 days of the draw. If you don’t claim it within this period, the prize will expire, and unfortunately, you won’t be able to get the money or a refund for your ticket.
If you have an online account with the National Lottery, you can easily claim your winnings online. Alternatively, you could visit the retail store where you bought your ticket to make your claim. If you go to a physical retailer, make sure to bring your winning ticket along with some form of identification to prove that you are the rightful owner.
Does The Bonus Ball Count For 3 Numbers?
If you’re wondering whether the bonus ball counts towards matching three numbers, the answer is no. The bonus ball only comes into play if you match five main numbers.
So, if you match three numbers plus the bonus ball, you would still only receive the prize for matching three numbers. The bonus ball doesn’t increase the prize or count towards smaller wins like three numbers.
Last Word
The National Lottery remains one of the most popular forms of gambling in the UK, offering impressive jackpot prizes that appeal to millions of players every week.
While the chances of winning the jackpot are very slim, you don’t need to match all the numbers to win something. Even matching three numbers can earn you a prize.
Although you can’t play the National Lottery directly on our site, if you’re interested in other games, you can register with Wizard Slots and explore our range of lottery-style games, including scratch cards and other instant-win options.
If you choose to play the lottery or any other similar games, always do so with responsible gambling practices in mind, and never wager more than you are willing to lose.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time.
**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.