Return Instructions

Learn about the different return types and helpful information for managing Scratch & Win ticket returns.

Understanding Return Types

Full Pack Returns 

Full Pack Returns apply only to one-off games (games with a specific launch date). Eligible games are typically approved for return several months after launch, helping retailers manage inventory, keep ticket selections fresh for players, and make room for new product launches. 

  • Return unopened full packs only
  • Continue selling loose tickets
  • Refer to the Full Pack Returns page for eligible games
  • Do not return single tickets

For more details check out the Full Pack Returns Overview.

Expiring Tickets Campaigns

Tickets nearing expiration are identified several months before the expiration date to ensure they are removed from sale before they can no longer be validated or claimed. This helps protect players, retailers and BCLC. Tickets not returned before expiration are subject to settlement by BCLC. 

Includes both one-off games (games with a specific launch date) and base games, such as Gold Rush, Crossword, and Bingo.

  • Return single tickets
  • Return full packs
  • Scan and return before the scan deadline displayed on the ticket listing
  • Refer to the Returns, Expiring & Withdrawals page for the ticket listing

Ticket Withdrawals 

Ticket withdrawals occur when all top prizes of $500,000 or more have been claimed, or when a verified issue requires a Scratch & Win game to be removed from sale.

  • Follow the instructions provided at the time
  • Observe all posted return deadlines
  • Return eligible inventory before the deadline
Request Return Materials

All Scratch  & Win returns require a BCLC issued return bag and return waybill. 

You can request return materials through: 

  • Retailer Portal: Submit an order request for a Return Bag and note the return type - Full Pack Returns, Expiring Tickets or Ticket Withdrawal.
  • Insides Sales Representative (ISR): Request return materials on your regular order day and indicate the return type - Full Pack Returns, Expiring Tickets or Ticket Withdrawal

Return Bag requests will include the return waybill.

Scan Tickets for Return
  • Scan eligible tickets/packs for return on the lottery terminal and include the Return Order slip(s) with your shipment. 
  • For expiring tickets, scan and return before the Scan Deadline (one month before the ticket expiration date). Scan Deadlines are listed on the Expiring Tickets. 
  • Tickets cannot be scanned for return on the lottery terminal after the Scan Deadline.

 

Shipping Your Return Package
  • Once your return package is ready, contact Purolator at 1-888-744-7123 or ship using your standard return method to BCLC.
  • Ship return packages promptly after receiving return materials.
  • Take a photo of the return waybill for your records and to assist with tracking, if required. 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why should my store return tickets?

Staying up to date with ticket returns helps keep your inventory and reporting accurate and up to date. It also helps identify discrepancies sooner, and keep your display stocked with current products giving players access to the latest games and maximizing Scratch & Win sales potential.

Your Stock Summary Report should accurately reflect the lottery tickets in your possession. If you cannot locate them, conduct an immediate inventory review. Missing tickets may indicate lost, stolen or improperly processed. If tickets were improperly processed, consider using the Reconcile Ticket/Pack feature on the lottery terminal. 

Check the Full Pack Returns page and the Returns, Expiring & Withdrawal page on the Retailer Hub. Additionally, sites will be notified through terminal messages and updates from your Inside Sales Representative.

No. Full Pack Returns only accepts unopened packs. Continue selling any remaining single tickets. If single tickets remain as a game approaches expirations, they will be included in an Expiring Tickets Campaign.

A scan deadline is the last day a Scratch & Win ticket can be scanned for return on the lottery terminal. Scan deadlines occur one month before a game's expiration date, and missing the deadline may affect return eligibility and credit. If you miss a scan deadline, contact Lottery Retail Support for assistance. 

Tickets must be returned before they expire to avoid incurring the cost of the expired ticket..

Credit is applicable only for preactivated tickets. Once BCLC reviews and approves your Return Order, credit will display: 

  • On the General Terminal Report under the Returns subsection.
  • On the Invoice in the Scratch & Win/Pull Tab Games section under Returned Tickets. 
Need Help
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Step by Step Instruction Guides
Training & Information
Getting Prepared - Best Practices
Troubleshooting Guide
Returning Tickets - Instructions
Returning Tickets - Watch Video