What to Do If You Lose a Lottery Ticket?
Quick answer: If you lose a Spanish lottery ticket (décimo): 1) write down the number, series, fraction and where you bought it, 2) if it may have won, report the loss to the police as soon as possible, 3) notify Loterías y Apuestas del Estado with a copy of the report to try to block payment, and 4) gather proof of purchase (photos, receipts, witnesses). The ticket is a bearer document, so acting quickly is key.
Updated 25 September 2026 · By the Serviloto team, Lottery Office no. 40 in Málaga (Spain).
Lottery tickets are bearer documents, meaning the person presenting the original ticket is generally entitled to claim the prize. Losing a ticket can therefore be a serious concern.
Gather all available information
Try to remember where and when the ticket was lost. Collect photographs, payment receipts and any details regarding the ticket number.
File a report if necessary
If the ticket may be a winner, filing a report with the authorities can help document the loss and protect your interests.
Contact the lottery operator
If you know the ticket details, you may be able to notify the relevant lottery organization about the situation.
Can a lost ticket be claimed?
In most cases, the original ticket is required to collect a prize. However, disputes regarding ownership may sometimes be resolved through legal procedures.
Prevention tips
- Take a photo of every ticket.
- Keep ticket details recorded.
- Store tickets safely.
- Document shared ownership.
Conclusion
Losing a lottery ticket can be stressful, but acting quickly and keeping proper records may help protect your rights. Prevention remains the best strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Can you claim a lost lottery ticket in Spain?
In principle, no, because the ticket is a bearer document and the prize is paid to whoever presents it. Only with a police report and notice to Loterías y Apuestas del Estado can you try to block payment, and in case of dispute a judge would decide.
What details do I need if I lose a ticket?
The number, series, fraction, draw date and the outlet where you bought it. A photo of the ticket is the best proof.
Do I need to report a lost ticket to the police?
Yes, if you think it may have won. The report records the loss and is needed to notify Loterías y Apuestas del Estado.
What if I lose a ticket bought online?
If you buy online from an official lottery office such as Serviloto, your entry is registered in your account, and the ticket is kept safe by the lottery office, so there is no risk of losing it.
How can I avoid losing a lottery ticket?
Take a photo when you buy it, write down the number and series, keep it in a fixed, safe place and avoid carrying it around unless necessary.
