How Does The Bonus Ball Work In Lotto?

Ever wondered why people talk about the Bonus Ball when they mention Lotto? If you’ve checked your ticket and seen the extra number but weren’t sure what it actually does, you’re not alone.

Many players find the idea confusing at first, especially because you don’t pick the Bonus Ball yourself. This guide explains how the Bonus Ball works in the UK Lotto without any complicated jargon. Read on to learn more. 

What Is The Bonus Ball In Lotto?

The Bonus Ball is an extra number drawn after the six main numbers in the UK Lotto. All numbers come from the same pool of 59 balls. First, six main numbers are drawn. Then one more number is picked from the remaining balls. That seventh number is the Bonus Ball.

You never choose the Bonus Ball when you buy your ticket. You select six numbers as usual, and the Bonus Ball is created by the draw itself. Its purpose is simple. It adds a separate prize tier for players who match five main numbers and the Bonus Ball in one line.

It does not affect the jackpot, and it does not apply to every prize level. Only the “5 + Bonus Ball” tier uses it. Everything else is decided by how many of the six main numbers you match.

If you do decide to try your hand at the Lotto, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose. 

Lotto Bonus Ball Explained

Because the Bonus Ball only matters if you have five main numbers in the same line, most tickets will never need it. That is by design. The draw gives a specific prize tier for “5 + Bonus Ball” that sits between matching five numbers and matching all six.

Think of it as a way to bridge the gap. Two, three, four or six main numbers are judged on their own. If you have five, the Bonus Ball can move you into a higher prize tier than five alone, but it still won’t touch the jackpot. The top prize always needs all six main numbers.

For clarity, the Bonus Ball is drawn from the same set of numbers as the main draw and comes after the six mains have been confirmed. It is not a separate game, and you cannot add it to your ticket. If your line includes five of the main numbers and also contains the Bonus Ball, that is when it counts.

1 Number and Bonus Ball: Do You Get Anything?

Matching one main number and the Bonus Ball does not qualify for a prize in the standard UK Lotto. The Bonus Ball only has value when combined with five main numbers in the same line.

Prizes begin at two main numbers. That is why you will not see “1 + Bonus Ball” listed on the payout table. Even if your slip shows that combination, it will not trigger a win.

If you’re playing a game that looks similar to Lotto on a different platform, it might be a wise idea to check its rules carefully. Some versions use extra numbers in other ways, and their prize categories can vary.

Most Common Bonus Ball Numbers

Over time, some Bonus Ball numbers appear more often than others in published results. You might see charts highlighting numbers such as 38, 45 or 31 as having shown up frequently in recent years. These figures can be interesting to track, especially if you enjoy following long-term trends.

Each draw is random and every ball has the same chance of being selected each time. Past frequency does not change that. A number that has appeared often before is no more likely to be drawn today than any other.

Statistics can add context, but they do not influence outcomes.Always keep responsible gambling practises in mind. 

**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.

 *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.