Explainer
What does “estimated jackpot” mean?
Why the advertised next-draw prize can change before tickets close.
Published 20 September 2026
An estimate for the next draw
The amount shown before a draw is an estimate based on factors such as expected ticket sales and whether the previous jackpot rolled over. You can see every current estimate on our next draws page.
Why figures can change
The final prize fund depends on actual sales and the rules of the game. That is why LotteryToday labels upcoming amounts as estimated rather than guaranteed. Thunderball is different, with a fixed £500,000 top prize.
Use the draw date
Jackpot estimates belong to a specific upcoming draw. Check the date beside the amount, especially when viewing the site shortly after a draw has taken place. After the draw, our results page shows what the jackpot actually was.