Quick answers to common questions

FAQs

Get quick answers to the most common questions about UK lottery taxes. From basic tax rules to complex inheritance planning, we've covered the essentials to help you understand your tax situation.

We've compiled answers to the most common questions about lottery winnings and tax in the UK. These clear, straightforward answers will help you understand what happens to your winnings from a tax perspective.

Quick answers, reliable information

Each answer is based on current UK tax law and HMRC guidance. For personalised calculations based on your specific situation, use our lottery tax calculator.

Do you pay tax on lottery winnings?

No, you do not pay tax on lottery winnings in the UK. All lottery prizes are completely tax-free when you receive them, regardless of the amount.

Is the lottery tax free?

Yes, the lottery is tax-free in the UK. This applies to the National Lottery, EuroMillions, scratch cards, and all other legal lottery games.

Is the national lottery tax free?

Yes, the National Lottery is completely tax-free in the UK. You receive 100% of your winnings without any deductions.

How much tax do I need to pay on £1 million lottery win?

You pay £0 tax on the £1 million lottery win itself. However, you may face tax implications afterwards:

  • Interest tax: If you earn 3.5% interest (£35,000 annually), you could pay up to £13,800 tax on interest (higher rate taxpayer)
  • Inheritance tax: Your estate could face £270,000 inheritance tax liability (assuming no other assets)

How much tax do I need to pay on £100,000 lottery win?

You pay £0 tax on the £100,000 lottery win itself. Potential future tax implications:

  • Interest tax: If earning 3.5% interest (£3,500 annually), you could pay up to £1,200 tax on interest (higher rate taxpayer)
  • Inheritance tax: No immediate inheritance tax liability as it's below the £325,000 threshold

How do I report lottery winnings on my tax return?

You do not need to report lottery winnings on your UK tax return. Lottery prizes are not considered taxable income. However, you must report any interest earned from depositing your winnings if it exceeds your Personal Savings Allowance.

How to calculate tax on lottery winnings?

Lottery winnings themselves require no tax calculation in the UK. For related taxes:

  • Interest tax: (Annual interest - Personal Savings Allowance) × Your tax rate
  • Inheritance tax: (Total estate value - £325,000) × 40%
  • Gift tax: (Gift amount - £3,000 annual allowance) × 40% (if you die within 7 years)

When do you pay tax on lottery winnings?

You never pay tax on the lottery winnings themselves. You pay tax:

  • Annually on interest earned from your winnings (through Self Assessment or PAYE)
  • Upon death on inheritance tax (paid by your estate)
  • Within 7 years of gifting if you die after making large gifts

Can you share lottery winnings tax free UK?

Yes, you can share lottery winnings tax-free initially. However, gifts above £3,000 per year become subject to inheritance tax if you die within 7 years of making them.

If you win the lottery how much can you give away tax free in the UK?

You can give away:

  • £3,000 per year with no inheritance tax implications
  • £250 per person per year to unlimited recipients
  • Unlimited amounts for wedding gifts (up to £5,000 to children, £2,500 to grandchildren, £1,000 to others)
  • Any amount tax-free if you survive 7 years after giving

How much is gift tax on lottery winnings?

The UK has no immediate gift tax. However, inheritance tax of 40% applies to gifts above annual allowances if you die within 7 years. For example, a £50,000 gift would potentially incur £18,800 inheritance tax (on the £47,000 above the £3,000 allowance).

How much can you give away lottery win tax free?

You can give away your entire lottery win tax-free if you survive 7 years after making the gifts. Within the 7-year period, only amounts above your annual allowances (£3,000 plus various exemptions) are potentially subject to 40% inheritance tax.

Still have questions?

While we've covered the most frequently asked questions, tax situations can be complex. For significant winnings or unique circumstances, we recommend consulting with a qualified accountant or tax advisor. Visit our about page for more information about this calculator, or check out our lottery guides.