The National Lottery winners to have prizes paid directly into their bank accounts for the first time
THE National Lottery has introduced a groundbreaking payment option, enabling players who purchase tickets in shops to have their winnings deposited directly into their bank accounts for the first time.
Developed in collaboration with payments provider Bottomline, the new system offers a fast and user-friendly online claims process for retail prizes ranging from £500.01 to £50,000.
This change aims to quicken payouts and simplify the claims experience for players.
The upgrade comes after the Post Office ceased processing mid-tier National Lottery prizes in 2024, prompting operator Allwyn to overhaul the payment system.
Since taking the reins, Allwyn has already paid out over 45,000 prizes directly, amounting to more than £50million.
In addition to expediting payments, the new system cuts administrative and postage costs by reducing the reliance on cheques.
Allwyn say the savings will channel more funds towards National Lottery-funded Good Causes, supporting vital community projects across the UK.
Jenny Blogg, Operations Director at Allwyn, said: "We’re delighted to introduce this completely new payment solution, which will see, for the first time, people who play The National Lottery in shops be able to have their prizes paid directly into their bank accounts.
"Not only will this see these prizes paid faster than ever before, but it also drastically cuts down on administration and postage costs.
"This cost efficiency will see more money going to the Good Causes that The National Lottery supports and see prize money in players' pockets in record time – so it really is a win-win."
For players who prefer traditional methods, cheque payments remain an option.
About the author
James Anderson
James Anderson is a Betting & Gaming Writer at The Sun. He is an expert in sports betting and online casinos, and joined the company in November 2020 to work closely with leading bookmakers and online gaming companies to curate content in all areas of sports betting. He previously worked as a Digital Sports Reporter and Head of Live Blogs/Events at the Daily Express and Daily Star, covering football, cricket, snooker, F1 and horse racing.
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