Millions left unclaimed in premium bonds

5th August 2025

Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said "While premium bonds are a fun, unconventional way to win some tax-free cash, the reality is that it is a game of chance, and the majority of savers may not even win a prize. They sometimes also rely on investors to claim these prizes, meaning there is currently over £100 million left unclaimed—more than £10 million higher compared to the end of 2024. To avoid missing out on any winnings, it is crucial that savers keep their contact details up to date.

“There is no need to panic if savers have forgotten or lost their premium bonds. Any unclaimed prizes can be easily checked using National Savings & Investments' (NS&I) online prize checker or the prize checker app using a unique holder or NS&I number. However, if savers have misplaced any of these or are trying to track down gifted or a deceased relative’s premium bonds, they could be harder to trace. In this case, savers will need to contact NS&I directly and will be asked to provide some additional information.

“Returns on premium bonds are not guaranteed and the chance to win big may not be enough incentive for everyone. The premium bond prize fund rate currently sits at 3.60%, which doesn’t even out-pace inflation. Savers looking for more reliable returns may find ISAs a more enticing tax-free option that could earn them as much as £480 a year from a £10,000 pot."