Lots of people wonder what happens when a Euromillions ticket matches only a couple of numbers. The jackpot grabs the headlines, but most outcomes sit in the lower tiers, and that is where many tickets land.
This guide explains what may be paid for matching two numbers, what happens with one number and one Lucky Star, how prize tiers are organised, and how smaller prizes are calculated and claimed in the UK.
If you choose to take part, set a clear budget and keep play occasional and affordable.
What Do You Win With 2 Numbers On Euromillions?
Matching two main numbers counts as a win. In the UK, this prize is typically fixed at £2.50, which often covers the cost of a single Euromillions line.
The amount is published in the official prize table and, for this tier, does not usually move around. It is one of the most common outcomes, so it helps set expectations for everyday results.
Curious about combinations that include a Lucky Star? That is where the rules differ slightly.
Does 1 Number And 1 Lucky Star Win A Prize?
One main number and one Lucky Star does not pay a prize under the current table.
The next paying outcome that includes a Lucky Star is one main number and two Lucky Stars, which is typically around £4.30 in the UK. Exact amounts for variable tiers can change from draw to draw, depending on the prize fund and number of winners.
If this seems a bit strict, it makes more sense once you see how the tiers are put together.
How Euromillions Prize Tiers Work
Euromillions uses a tiered structure based on how many of the five main numbers and two Lucky Stars are matched. The top tier is all five main numbers plus both Lucky Stars, which is the jackpot. Prizes then step down across several tiers as fewer numbers and stars are matched.
There is also a separate Millionaire Maker in the UK that guarantees one £1,000,000 code winner in each draw, independent of the main Euromillions prize table.
Most Euromillions prize tiers are variable. Payouts for those tiers are shared from the prize fund and depend on ticket sales and how many winners there are. An exception in the UK is the Match 2 prize, which is fixed at £2.50. This mix of fixed and variable amounts explains why some smaller outcomes feel steady while others shift a little.
With that in mind, here is how the two-number outcomes fit in.
Prize Range For Matching 2 Numbers
As noted earlier, matching two main numbers on its own pays £2.50 in the UK.
If a ticket matches two main numbers and one Lucky Star, the payout typically rises to around £3.60. This tier is variable, so the exact amount can change slightly between draws.
These outcomes are designed as modest returns. They are there to recognise near misses without drawing too much from the overall prize fund, which is weighted towards higher matches.
Prize Details For 1 Number And 1 Lucky Star
Under the current breakdown, one main number plus one Lucky Star does not qualify for a prize. The table starts awarding for combinations that meet set thresholds, and this particular mix sits just below that line.
The first paying outcome that includes a Lucky Star is one main number and two Lucky Stars, which usually returns a small amount, as noted earlier.
How Prize Amounts Are Calculated For Low-Tier Wins
Low-tier Euromillions prizes are either fixed or variable, depending on the tier. In the UK, Match 2 is fixed at £2.50. Most other tiers, including those that involve a Lucky Star, are pari-mutuel, meaning they are funded from a set share of the prize pot and then divided by the number of winners.
Because of that, variable tiers can move up or down slightly from draw to draw. They tend to be fairly stable in normal weeks, but special events, rollovers, or unusual patterns of winners can nudge them in either direction.
Checking the latest official prize table before each draw is the best way to see the current layout and any updates.
How To Check And Claim Small Euromillions Prizes In The UK
Results are published on the National Lottery website, in the app, and at participating retailers. For in-store tickets, small prizes can usually be paid by retailers on the spot, often up to £500, subject to each outlet’s limits.
If the ticket was bought online or through the app, smaller wins are normally credited straight into the player’s account. Account messages and balance sections confirm the amount and when it is available.
For claims above retail limits, timeframes, or current payout thresholds, the official National Lottery guidance provides the most up-to-date detail.
Do You Pay Tax On Small Euromillions Prizes In The UK?
Lottery prizes in the UK, including small Euromillions wins, are generally paid tax-free. The full amount shown for the tier is what is received. If that money later earns interest or other income, normal tax rules apply to the income, not the original prize.
If you decide to play, keep it affordable and take breaks. If gambling starts to feel difficult to control or affects your wellbeing or finances, support is available. GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential help. Understanding how the smaller outcomes work should make every result clearer, whether it is a £2.50 return or nothing this 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.