Have you seen those adverts for the Postcode Lottery and wondered how it really works with your address? You might be moving, thinking about entering where you live now, or simply trying to understand the rules before you sign up.
Many people want clarity on how entries link to postcodes and what that means in practice. If you want the facts without any confusion, this guide explains how your home address ties in and what to expect if your situation changes.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what counts as your address for entry, how checks are done, and how to keep everything up to date.
Who Can Enter The Postcode Lottery?
To take part, you must be at least 18 years old and live in Great Britain. The lottery is open to residents of England, Scotland, and Wales, and entries must be linked to a valid GB postcode. It is not available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
Entries are made by individuals using their own personal details. Business or group entries are not accepted, and each person needs their own account. Payment must come from a method in your name so identity checks can be completed without issues.
During registration, you will be asked to confirm that your details are accurate. This helps keep your account and any future prize claims straightforward.
Curious whether you can use a different address when you join? That’s where the postcode rules really matter.
Can I Use A Different Address For My Entry?
No. Your entry should use the address where you currently live. The Postcode Lottery links tickets to real residential addresses, and checks are in place to confirm that connection. Using a friend’s or family member’s property, or a previous address you no longer live at, can lead to cancellation or prize claims being refused.
If you split your time between homes, use the place that is your main base. If you later move, you can update your details so future draws reflect your new postcode.
Details on your account, including your name, address, and payment method, should be consistent. This avoids delays if a prize is due and keeps your entry compliant.
How Does The Postcode Lottery Verify Your Address?
When you join, your details are verified to confirm they’re correct and current. This usually involves electronic checks against trusted sources, such as the electoral roll or credit reference data, to confirm your name and address.
If a match cannot be made electronically, you may be asked for proof before a prize is paid or your account continues. The aim is simple: to make sure any winnings go to the right person at the right address.
What Documents Are Accepted For Address Verification?
If proof is needed, you’ll be asked for a clear document that shows your name and current address. Suitable options include:
- A recent utility bill, such as gas, electric, or water
- A bank or building society statement from the last three months
- A council tax bill for the current year
- A dated tenancy agreement showing your name and address
- A driving licence showing your current home address
Photos or scans are usually fine if they are clear and in date. If verification is required, the team will confirm which documents they can accept.
What Counts As Living At An Address For Entry?
Living at an address means it is your usual or main home. It’s where you spend most of your time, receive post, and are registered for important records like banking or your GP. That remains the case even if you are away for short periods for work or travel.
Students can use the place they live for most of the year, such as term-time accommodation, or their family home if that is their primary base. Shared accommodation, like a flatshare or rented house, counts as long as it is your genuine home and not just an address for correspondence.
If the lottery needs confirmation, the types of documents already mentioned are used to show that you genuinely live at the address linked to your entry.
Ready to see how this works in shared homes and rented properties? The rules stay consistent, with a few practical points to note.
Can Tenants And People In Shared Houses Enter Using The Same Postcode?
Yes. If you live in a rented property or share a home with others, you can all enter using the same postcode. Each entry is tied to an individual person, so multiple entries can sit under one postcode without any problem.
Just make sure your own details are complete and accurate. If your building has separate flat or room numbers, include the full address so your entry links to the correct residence within the property. What matters is that each person enters for the place they actually live using their own name and payment method.
How To Update Your Address With The Postcode Lottery
If you move home, let the Postcode Lottery know promptly so your entry reflects your new postcode for future draws. The customer service team can update your account, and their contact details are listed on the official website.
You may be asked for brief proof of the new address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement, to confirm the change. Once updated, you’ll receive confirmation and your entry will be linked to your new home. Keeping these details current helps avoid delays and makes any prize payment straightforward.
**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.