Many people are curious about what happens when they match 2 Lucky Stars in a EuroMillions draw. It is not a route to the biggest prizes, but it is a common talking point.
To make sense of it, it helps to understand how the prize tiers work, where 2 Lucky Stars sit within that structure, and how the payouts are set.
This blog post explains the tiers that involve 2 Lucky Stars, typical amounts, how prizes are shared when there are multiple winners, whether winnings are taxed in the UK, and how to claim. If you choose to play, set sensible limits and only spend what fits your budget.
Which Prize Tier Includes 2 Lucky Stars?
Matching only 2 Lucky Stars without any main numbers falls into the thirteenth and lowest tier. In the UK, this outcome does not pay a prize.
Match 1 main number plus 2 Lucky Stars and you reach the tenth tier, which usually pays a small fixed amount. At the time of writing, that is £4.30.
EuroMillions checks every line against a set prize breakdown, so each combination of main numbers and Lucky Stars maps to a specific tier. Once you know the tier you fall into, the next question is how the amount for that tier is set.
How Are Payouts Calculated For 2 Lucky Stars?
EuroMillions uses a prize structure that assigns amounts to each tier. For the lower tiers that involve 2 Lucky Stars, the amounts are typically fixed. For example, 1 main number plus 2 Lucky Stars usually pays £4.30, and 2 main numbers plus 1 Lucky Star is typically £3.60.
These figures can be updated from time to time, so it is worth checking the official EuroMillions site or our results pages for the latest amounts. With that in mind, here is what you can usually expect to see at the lower end.
Typical Payout Range For 2 Lucky Stars
If a ticket matches only 2 Lucky Stars and no main numbers, there is no payout for that tier.
Add a main number and the return is small but fixed, as noted above. Combinations that include more main numbers alongside the 2 Lucky Stars sit higher in the structure and pay more than the tiers below. Exact amounts are published on the official prize table for each draw and may be reviewed occasionally.
Knowing the ballpark for payouts helps. The other half of the picture is how likely those outcomes are.
What Are The Odds Of Winning With 2 Lucky Stars?
The odds depend on how many main numbers you match alongside the 2 Lucky Stars. Matching only the 2 Lucky Stars and no main numbers is relatively uncommon, with odds of around 1 in 115.
Once you add main numbers to the mix, the chances get longer because there are more numbers to match. For instance, matching 1 main number plus 2 Lucky Stars happens less often than matching the 2 Lucky Stars alone.
EuroMillions outcomes are random for every draw, so no method can influence the results. With the chances in mind, it is also useful to know how prizes are shared if lots of players land the same tier.
How Prize Money Is Split Between Multiple Winners
Within each tier, the prize is paid equally to all qualifying tickets. For tiers that have fixed amounts, every winner receives the same listed payout for that category. For example, if the tier pays £4.30, each winning line in that tier gets £4.30.
The jackpot is different because it can be shared when there are multiple winners, with each receiving an equal proportion of the advertised amount.
Lower fixed tiers, including those involving 2 Lucky Stars, are not reduced if there are many winners. After that, a common follow-up is whether any of it is taxed.
Are EuroMillions Winnings Taxed In The UK?
EuroMillions prizes are not taxed in the UK. Whether you match 2 Lucky Stars in a paying tier or win a larger prize, the amount is paid in full.
Tax can arise later depending on what you do with the money. Interest on savings, returns from investments, or gifts that might have inheritance tax implications are separate from the original prize. Independent financial advice can help if you are unsure.
If your ticket qualifies for a payout, here is how claims usually work in practice.
How To Claim A Prize For 2 Lucky Stars
The claims process depends on where the ticket was bought. For retail tickets, smaller prizes can usually be paid by the shop or another authorised retailer. If a prize is above the in-store limit, it may need to be processed by post or at a lottery office.
For tickets bought online or through the official app, eligible winnings are normally credited to the player’s account automatically. For higher amounts, identity checks may be required before funds are released.
Keep paper tickets safe and check results promptly, as claims must be made within the published deadline. Full details are available from the official lottery provider.
Only take part if it remains affordable and does not affect your other commitments. If gambling starts to impact your well-being or finances, seek support early. Organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware provide free, confidential help.
**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.