EuroMillions is played across several European countries, but its prize tiers can be confusing at first glance. Many players want to know exactly what happens if their ticket matches 2 main numbers, or if they have 1 main number and a Lucky Star.
This guide explains how the prize tiers work, what you get for 2 main numbers, where 1 number and a Lucky Star fits in, and how to check and claim smaller prizes. It also flags the common mistakes that trip people up.
To finish, it tackles a few myths about amounts and payouts so you can read results with confidence. If you choose to play, set sensible limits and only spend what you can afford.
How Do EuroMillions Prize Tiers Work?
EuroMillions uses a tiered system, which means different combinations of matches lead to different prizes, not only the jackpot.
Players pick 5 main numbers and 2 Lucky Stars. The more of these that match the draw, the higher the tier and the larger the prize may be. The jackpot is for matching all 5 main numbers plus both Lucky Stars, and if it is not won, it can roll to the next draw.
There are 13 prize tiers in total, from matching 2 main numbers at the bottom up to the jackpot at the top. Some lower-tier amounts are fixed, while higher tiers can vary depending on ticket sales and how many winners there are.
In the UK, each EuroMillions ticket also includes entry into the UK Millionaire Maker, which gives one or more codes a separate £1,000,000 prize on the night.
With that in mind, what does matching two main numbers actually return?
What Do You Win For Matching 2 Main Numbers?
Matching 2 main numbers qualifies for a prize. This is the first paying tier.
In the UK, the amount for 2 main numbers is currently £2.50. This is generally a fixed amount and does not depend on Lucky Stars for this tier.
If your ticket matches additional main numbers or Lucky Stars, it moves into a higher tier with a larger payout. So what happens with the common combination of 1 number and a Lucky Star?
Do 1 Number And A Lucky Star Win Anything?
Matching 1 main number and 1 Lucky Star does not pay a prize in the standard EuroMillions breakdown.
A payout applies if a ticket matches 1 main number and 2 Lucky Stars, but with only 1 Lucky Star, there is no prize.
When a prize does apply, is it fixed every time?
Are Prize Amounts Fixed Or Variable For 2 Numbers?
For the 2 main numbers tier, the payout is usually set in advance. In the UK, this amount is typically £2.50 and does not change from draw to draw.
Higher tiers can be variable. Those amounts are influenced by total sales and how many winning tickets share a tier. Prize structures can be updated from time to time, so it is worth checking the official EuroMillions pages for the latest details.
Once you know the amounts, the next step is checking a ticket properly.
How To Check If Your 2 Numbers Have Won?
The simplest way to confirm a prize is to compare your numbers with the official results for that draw. Results are published online shortly after each draw and can be checked with authorised retailers.
For the 2-number prize, you only need to see whether two of your main numbers match the five main numbers drawn. The order does not matter and no Lucky Stars are required for this tier.
Many players use the official ticket checker on the website or app. Enter your numbers or scan your ticket and it will confirm whether a prize is due. In shops, retailers can scan the barcode at the terminal and tell you in seconds.
If it is a winner, claims are straightforward.
How To Claim Prizes For Matching 2 Numbers
Claiming a small EuroMillions prize depends on how the ticket was bought, but the process is designed to be quick.
Retail Claims For Small Prizes
If you bought your ticket in a shop, take it to an authorised National Lottery retailer. Small prizes, including the 2-number payout, are usually paid in cash at the till once the ticket is scanned and confirmed. Keep hold of the ticket until payment is received.
Online Account Claims
If you played online or through the app, eligible winnings are normally credited to your account automatically after the draw. You can withdraw to your linked bank account or leave the balance in your account to withdraw later.
Whatever the method, always double-check the draw date and result before discarding a ticket or notification, and only play within your means.
Common Mistakes When Reading EuroMillions Results
A regular slip-up is mixing up main numbers and Lucky Stars. They are separate parts of the draw and different combinations place a ticket in different tiers.
Another misconception is expecting a prize for matching only one main number, or 1 main number with 1 Lucky Star. That combination does not meet the minimum for a payout, so it is worth checking the official breakdown.
The order of numbers does not matter. Your numbers only need to match the drawn numbers in any order, so there is no need to line them up exactly.
Players sometimes forget the UK Millionaire Maker code printed on their ticket or shown in their online account. It is separate from the main draw and can produce an additional win.
Checking the wrong draw date can also lead to confusion. Make sure the ticket and results match the same draw.
These mix-ups feed a few myths that are easy to clear up.
Myths About Winning With One Number Or A Lucky Star
One myth is that matching a single main number or just a Lucky Star pays a cash prize. It does not. Neither of those on their own is a paying tier.
Another is that 1 main number plus 1 Lucky Star always wins something. In reality, a prize is only paid when a ticket has 1 main number and 2 Lucky Stars.
It is also sometimes assumed that the lowest tiers pay more than they do. The official breakdown sets clear expectations, and the 2-number prize is modest at £2.50 in the UK.
If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, support is available from independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware, which offer free, confidential help.
In short, 2 main numbers pays a small fixed prize, 1 main number with 1 Lucky Star does not pay, and checking or claiming is simple once you know where your combination sits in the tiers.
**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.