2 Lucky Stars on EuroMillions: Payouts & Prize for 2 Numbers
EuroMillions has a layered prize table, and the two Lucky Stars sit at the heart of how many of those tiers are formed. If you have ever wondered what happens when you match just the Stars, or how payouts work when they are paired with main numbers, you are in the right place.
Below, we explain what “2 Lucky Stars” means in practice, how prizes are calculated for key combinations, and what to expect if you match two numbers. You will also find the relevant odds, why amounts can change between draws, and how prizes are paid in the UK.
Read on to learn more.
What Does “2 Lucky Stars” Mean In EuroMillions?
In EuroMillions, each line has five main numbers from 1 to 50 and two Lucky Stars from 1 to 12. The Lucky Stars are drawn from a separate pool and help define many of the prize tiers.
Matching “2 Lucky Stars” means both of your Star numbers are drawn. On their own, the Stars do not create a prize tier. A payout only starts when at least one main number is matched as well. For instance, matching 1 main number and 2 Lucky Stars qualifies for a lower-tier prize.
This setup explains why the Stars matter even at the smaller end of the table, and it leads neatly to the question most people ask next: what if you also match two main numbers?
Payout For Matching 2 Main Numbers And 2 Lucky Stars
Matching 2 main numbers and 2 Lucky Stars is one of the standard winning combinations on EuroMillions. The payout for this tier is not fixed. It comes from the shared prize fund and varies by draw, based on ticket sales and how many winners land the same combination.
As a guide, this tier typically pays more than 1 main number plus 2 Lucky Stars, and more than 2 main numbers plus 1 Lucky Star, because matching both Stars is less common. The exact amount for your draw is shown with the official results and prize breakdown.
If you land 2 main numbers and 2 Lucky Stars, check the results for that draw on the official site or through an authorised retailer to see the confirmed amount. Now, what if your ticket has only the two Stars and no main numbers?
Does Matching 2 Lucky Stars Alone Win A Prize?
Matching only the two Lucky Stars does not create a winning line. There is no prize tier for this on its own. A payout requires at least one of the main numbers alongside the Stars.
How Are Prizes Calculated For Matching 2 Numbers?
How prizes work for “2 numbers” depends on which numbers they are:
- If you match 2 main numbers without any Stars, the UK pays a fixed £2.50. This amount does not change with the number of winners.
- If you match 2 main numbers and 1 Lucky Star, or 1 main number and 2 Lucky Stars, the amounts are variable. They come from the shared prize fund, so they shift from draw to draw. In recent results, these returns have typically been a little above the ticket price for 2+1, and higher again for 1+2.
In short, only the “2 main numbers” prize is fixed in the UK. All other small and mid-tier payouts are shared across winners from each draw’s prize fund.
With that in mind, it helps to know how often these combinations come up.
Odds Of Matching 2 Numbers With Lucky Stars
The odds change with the combination:
- Matching 2 main numbers on a single line is about 1 in 22.
- Matching 2 main numbers and 1 Lucky Star is about 1 in 218.
- Matching 2 main numbers and 2 Lucky Stars is about 1 in 986.
These figures show why adding Stars increases potential returns: the combinations are harder to hit, so they sit in higher tiers. Outcomes are random, and no result can be predicted.
Why Prize Amounts Vary Between Draws
EuroMillions prizes are funded by ticket sales and split between tiers using set percentages. This means most prizes are variable, because the number of winners changes every draw. When more people hit a tier, the fund for that tier is shared across more winners, reducing the individual payout. Fewer winners in that tier usually means a larger share for each.
There is one exception at the lower end in the UK: 2 main numbers pays a fixed £2.50. Beyond that, tiers move with sales, winners, and, at times, updates made by the operator to the prize structure. The size of the jackpot can also influence the amounts flowing to other tiers.
With the “why” covered, what happens after a win in the UK?
How Winners Are Paid Out In The UK
In the UK, prize payments depend on how you bought the ticket and how much you have won. Smaller prizes can usually be paid at authorised retailers. Larger wins may require a claim by post, in person, or through your online account if the ticket was bought digitally. Identification and verification can be required for higher amounts. All prizes are paid as a single lump sum and are tax-free in the UK.
How To Check And Claim A 2-Number Prize
Whether you play in-store or online, checking results is straightforward. The latest winning numbers and the prize breakdown for each draw are published shortly after the draw. If you bought in-store, most 2-number prizes can be paid at participating retailers. If you bought online or via the official app, eligible prizes are usually credited to your account automatically.
Do keep an eye on claim deadlines. If a prize is not claimed within the stated period, it may be forfeited and allocated to good causes supported by the lottery. If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, seek support from independent organisations such as GamCare or GambleAware, which offer free and confidential help.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game 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.