UPDATE: NS&I has just issued a critical alert for all Premium Bond holders, urging immediate account reviews as we step into 2026. With the current prize fund rate at 3.6 percent, this announcement comes as the organization highlights significant changes and unclaimed funds that could impact your savings strategy.
The organization reports a staggering 2.6 million unclaimed prizes, totaling nearly £110 million in cash waiting to be collected. This is an urgent call for action, especially as many customers may not be aware of the potential funds available to them.
NS&I emphasizes the importance of ensuring that your account details are up to date. An NS&I spokesperson stated, “The new year is a great time for financial housekeeping. Make sure NS&I has your correct contact and bank details.” Customers can easily verify their information online, enhancing their chances of winning prizes ranging from £25 to the impressive £1 million jackpot.
To facilitate this, NS&I has provided tools for customers. The NS&I app allows users to check balances and view Premium Bonds prizes from the past six months. Those who haven’t registered yet will need their NS&I or Premium Bonds numbers alongside personal details to access this service.
For immediate checks on unclaimed prizes, customers can utilize the prize checker tool on the NS&I website. It provides a quick overview of any winnings, including those from the previous six draws. This feature is updated following the first working day of each month, making it crucial for users to check promptly.
The urgency is heightened by recent cuts to the prize fund rate, which has seen a decline from 4 percent in January 2025 to its current 3.6 percent. The reductions were implemented in multiple stages throughout the year, impacting the odds of winning, which are currently standing at 22,000 to one for each £1 Bond.
Moreover, customers have the option to reinvest any winnings automatically, allowing them to enter the next month’s draw without delay. This could significantly enhance their chances of winning, given the competitive nature of Premium Bonds.
As we progress through January, the focus on checking account details and claiming potential prizes is paramount. NS&I encourages all holders to act swiftly to ensure they don’t miss out on available funds.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay tuned and make sure your Premium Bonds account is ready for this new year!
