What Time Do Shops Stop Selling & Cashing Scratch Cards UK?

Scratch cards are easy to find in shops across the UK, but the times you can buy them or cash a win are not the same everywhere. If you are planning a late visit, it helps to know how different retailers handle sales and payouts.

This guide covers typical cut-off times, the age rules, how prize claims work, and why checking terms matters. With a few basics in mind, you can plan your trip and avoid wasted journeys.

What Are The Shop Rules For Selling And Cashing Scratch Cards In The UK?

Shops that sell scratch cards must follow rules set by the UK Gambling Commission. You must be at least 18 to buy or cash a scratch card, and retailers are expected to check ID where needed.

Sales are generally limited to a shop’s normal opening hours. Most retailers that stock scratch cards use the same terminals, but they choose their own service hours within their trading licence. There is no single national cut-off time that applies to every shop.

For payouts, smaller prizes are usually paid in-store, with each retailer setting a cash limit. These limits often range from about £100 to £500. Larger wins may need to be claimed by post, usually with a completed claim form.

Outcomes are determined by the game itself and cannot be influenced. The odds and prize structure are printed on the card and listed online.

So, when do sales actually stop for the day? That depends on where you shop.

What Time Do Shops Stop Selling Scratch Cards UK?

There is no national rule on the final hour for sales. Retailers decide how long they keep scratch card sales open during their trading day.

Large supermarkets often sell scratch cards into the evening, sometimes until 10pm or 11pm. Smaller shops and newsagents may close earlier, anywhere between 5pm and 9pm. Hours can also change on public holidays or during special events.

Even if a store is open, scratch card sales can pause near closing if tills are shut or staff are cashing up. Shops can also refuse sales if the terminal is offline or if there is not enough staff cover.

If you are heading out late, stores with longer opening hours are more likely to be serving. A quick check of today’s opening times can help you avoid a wasted trip. The type of shop you choose often makes the difference.

Scratch Card Cut-Off Times In Different Shop Types

Cut-off times vary by retailer, and there are no standard national hours. The pattern below is common, but local practice can differ.

Large supermarkets tend to have long opening hours. Scratch cards are often sold and paid at the customer service desk or main tills. Customer service desks may close before the store itself, sometimes as early as 9pm, even if the supermarket stays open later. If the desk is shut, sales and payouts may not be available.

Convenience stores usually follow their general shop hours, which might be roughly 7am to 10pm, though smaller outlets can finish earlier. Sales stop when tills close.

Petrol stations with attached shops may only sell scratch cards when staff are present at the counter. Overnight pay-at-pump services typically do not include scratch card sales.

Newsagents and local corner shops sometimes close as early as 5pm or 6pm. In these cases, sales and payouts are limited to the advertised hours.

If you plan to buy or claim, checking customer service desk hours or asking a member of staff can save time. If you do miss the window, here is what to expect.

What Happens If You Try To Cash A Scratch Card After Hours?

If you arrive after the relevant counter or tills have closed, staff cannot check or pay a prize until the next trading period. Some shops shut their lottery or customer service point earlier than the main store, so a late-night visit might not be suitable for claims.

If that happens, keep your scratch card safe and return during opening hours. The ability to claim will depend on the game’s claim window and whether the card is still in date. If you are unsure about eligibility or next steps, ask in-store or read the information on the back of the card.

How Long Do You Have To Claim A Winning Scratch Card?

In the UK, the standard claim period is 180 days, or about six months, from the official end date of the game. That date is set by the lottery operator and is published on their website and in the game’s terms.

Small prizes are generally paid in-store within a retailer’s cash limit. Larger amounts may need a postal claim or a formal claim process, with instructions provided on the card and online.

Some promotions or limited-run games can have different timelines. Always check the terms and the end date of the specific game you are playing. If the claim window has passed, the prize cannot be paid.

If a shop refuses a payout because the claim period has ended, that decision is final under the game’s rules. Still uncertain about your card? The operator’s website and customer support can confirm the dates and the right claiming route.

What Should You Do If A Shop Refuses To Sell Or Cash A Scratch Card?

A refusal is often down to practical reasons such as closing time, a cash payout limit, an offline terminal, or ID verification. It can also happen if the game has ended or the claim period has passed.

If a shop cannot help, ask for the reason and what to do next. For higher-value prizes, you may need to claim directly with the operator using the details on the reverse of the card. If you think there has been a mistake, contact the shop’s customer service or the operator’s support team. Keep the card safe and undamaged, as it will be required for any claim.

Scratch cards are designed for adult play, and outcomes are random with no way to influence the result. Spend only what you can afford. With the basics on hours, limits, and claim periods, buying and cashing a winning scratch card should be straightforward.

_{*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.}

_{**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.}