Thunderball FAQs

Thunderball is a UK-based lottery game where players choose 5 main numbers from 1 to 39 and 1 Thunderball from 1 to 14. The aim is to match the numbers drawn in order to win prizes, with a jackpot of up to £500,000.

To play Thunderball, select 5 main numbers from 1 to 39, and 1 Thunderball number from 1 to 14. You can either choose your own numbers or opt for a “Lucky Dip,” which randomly selects your numbers for you.

Each Thunderball entry costs £1 per line. You can enter more lines or play for multiple draws at once, which increases the total cost.

Thunderball has several prize tiers, based on how many numbers you match:

• Match 5 + Thunderball: £500,000 (jackpot)
• Match 5: £5,000
• Match 4 + Thunderball: £250
• Match 4: £100
• Match 3 + Thunderball: £20
• Match 3: £10
• Match 2 + Thunderball: £10
• Match 1 + Thunderball: £5
• Match Thunderball: £3

The Thunderball is an additional number drawn from a separate set of 14 numbers (1 to 14). It is critical for determining many of the prize tiers, including the top jackpot prize.

The results are determined by a live draw that takes place every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 8:15 PM (UK time). The Thunderball numbers are randomly selected during the draw.

You can check the results of the EuroMillions draw directly on our website or follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.

To claim your prize, smaller amounts will be credited directly to your National Lottery account if you played online. For larger prizes, you’ll need to follow the official claim process, which may require verification and in-person claiming.

Yes, you can play Thunderball from anywhere within the UK as long as you are 18 years or older and you purchase your tickets through authorised outlets or the official website.

You have 180 days (about 6 months) from the date of the draw to claim your prize. If you miss this deadline, the prize will be forfeited.

If you win the jackpot of £500,000, the prize is paid as a lump sum, and you will need to follow the official process to claim your winnings.

Unlike some other lottery games, Thunderball winners may be required to appear publicly when claiming large prizes. However, smaller prizes may allow for more privacy.

The odds of winning the £500,000 jackpot by matching all 5 main numbers and the Thunderball are 1 in 8,060,598. Visit our odds of winning page to discover the full odds in Thunderball.

In the UK, lottery winnings are not subject to income tax. However, if you decide to invest or transfer your winnings, you may be liable for taxes on the investment income or capital gains.

To play Thunderball, you must be a UK resident or located in an eligible country, such as the Isle of Man or Channel Islands. Unfortunately, if you live outside the UK and aren’t in one of these eligible areas, you cannot play.

If you lose a physical Thunderball ticket, there is no way to claim the prize. It’s essential to keep your ticket in a safe place. For online players, your account will track your tickets and winnings, so there’s no need to worry about losing an online ticket.