Lotto HotPicks uses the numbers from the main Lotto draw but gives players a different way to win. But what exactly is Lotto HotPicks, how do you play and what are the odds? Fortunately, we’ve got all your questions answered!
What is the lottery HotPicks?
Lotto HotPicks is a separate game to the main Lotto draw. However, it uses the same numbers as the main game. Unlike Lotto, Lotto HotPicks allows players to choose how many numbers they would like to predict.
That is how the lottery HotPicks differs from Lotto. You must get all of the predicted numbers correct to win a prize. For example, you might choose to play a single number, which is then drawn. You would win the Pick 1 prize! However, if you predict two numbers but just one is drawn, you wouldn’t win a prize. The prize increases when your correctly predicted numbers increases.
How do you play Lotto HotPicks?
When playing the lottery HotPicks, you first have to decide how many numbers you would like to match – Pick 5, Pick 4, Pick 3, Pick 2, or Pick 1. Pick 5 has a larger prize, but you have a lower chance of winning.
If you decide to Pick 5, you have to get all 5 numbers correct. If you only get 4 numbers correct in the Lotto HotPicks results, you do not win any prize.
You can select your own numbers or you can choose a Lucky Dip which will randomly select the numbers for you.
When does the draw take place?
The lottery HotPicks draw takes place with Lotto – every Wednesday at 8 pm GMT and Saturday at 8:30 pm GMT. The lottery HotPicks results are available on Lottery Results shortly after the draw.
Do I have to enter Lotto to play Lotto HotPicks?
You can play Lotto HotPicks without having to enter Lotto, it is a standalone game.
If you do wish to enter Lotto as well as Lotto HotPicks, you do not have to use the same numbers.
What are the odds of winning?
The odds of winning change depending on how many numbers you select. The odds of Lotto HotPicks are:
| Game | How to Win | Prize | Odds |
| Pick 5 | Match 5 | £350,000 | 1 in 834,398 |
| Pick 4 | Match 4 | £13,000 | 1 in 30,342 |
| Pick 3 | Match 3 | £800 | 1 in 1,626 |
| Pick 2 | Match 2 | £60 | 1 in 115 |
| Pick 1 | Match 1 | £6 | 1 in 10 |
The prize tiers are fixed and are the same for every draw. That means, that even if two people win Pick 5, they will receive £350,000 each. Much better than having to share a jackpot prize!
How much does it cost?
Lotto HotPicks costs £1 per line.
Where can I buy a ticket?
You can purchase tickets online through the National Lottery website or through the National Lottery app. You can also purchase tickets in-store through authorised retailers.
When does the Lotto HotPicks draw close?
Ticket sales close at 7:30 pm GMT on the night of the draw. Online ticket sales close at 11:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
Can I watch the draw?
You can watch the draw on the National Lottery website. Alternatively, you can watch the Latest Draws on YouTube at 7:45 pm every Wednesday and Saturday.
Where can I find the Lotto HotPicks results?
You can find the lottery HotPicks results right here at Lottery Results.
How do I claim a prize?
Claiming your prize will differ depending on if you purchased the ticket online or through a retailer. Before you rush to claim a prize, make sure you have the right Lotto HotPicks results on Lottery Results.
If you purchased your ticket online:
Prizes up to £500 will be automatically paid into your account after the draw; you will then be able to transfer the funds into your bank account. Prizes between £501 and £30,000 will need a confirmation that the funds should be transferred into your bank account. If you win over £30,001, you will need to contact the National Lottery Customer Care Team.
If you purchased from a retailer:
You can claim prizes up to £100 from any authorised retailer. Prizes under £500 can be claimed from an authorised retailer, providing they have sufficient funds.
Prizes between £501 and £50,000 can be claimed at a National Lottery affiliated Post Office. If you win over £50,001 you will need to contact the National Lottery directly.
All prizes are valid for 180 days once the draw takes place. Any unclaimed lottery winnings will be donated to the National Lottery Good Causes fund.