Scratch Prize Ticket Codes

Scratch Validation Codes are Being Discontinued

On older Scratch tickets, you may see small letters under the scratch-off coating. These are called prize codes and were once used as an additional way to confirm certain prizes.

Beginning January 2026, prize codes will no longer appear on new Scratch tickets.

Because all tickets are already validated through our secure system at retail locations and vending machines, these codes are no longer needed.

Nothing about how you play, win, or claim prizes is changing.

If you’re ever unsure about a ticket, the best way to check it is always to have it scanned at a retailer or vending machine.

How to Check Your Scratch Tickets

Did you know there’s more than one way to confirm whether your Scratch ticket is a winner? Here are the easiest ways to check your ticket:

• Ask any Lottery retailer to scan it on the Lottery terminal

• Use a Lottery Ticket Checker at select retailers

• Scan the barcode with the Colorado Lottery mobile app

These options give you an instant and accurate result every time.