A Premium Bonds holder from Liverpool has secured a life-changing £1million prize in the February 2026 draw, marking a major win for the city as National Savings and Investments (NS&I) announced its latest round of big prize winners.
The monthly prize draw, which takes place at the beginning of each month, gives every £1 Bond the same chance to win. Currently, each Bond has odds of 22,000 to one, and the overall prize fund rate stands at 3.6%. Prizes range from £25 to £1million, with two £1million jackpots awarded each month.
Liverpool Winner
One of this month’s two top prizes went to a long-time Premium Bonds saver from Liverpool, who held the maximum £50,000 in Bonds. Their winning Bond, 40QJ919368, was purchased back in October 2004, when they initially invested £2,000. Over the years, the saver built their holding up to the full £50,000 limit.
Their patience has paid off-over 20 years after that first purchase, they now join the exclusive list of £1million Premium Bond winners.
Second Jackpot Winner
The second £1million prize for February went to a saver in Central Bedfordshire. Their lucky Bond, 489TB013219, was bought far more recently in February 2022, as part of a £17,500 investment. Like the Liverpool winner, this individual had also reached the maximum allowed holding of £50,000.
More Winners in Merseyside
In addition to the jackpot, the February draw was generous to other savers in the Liverpool and Merseyside area:
- £50,000 prize: Won by a saver in Liverpool with Bond 427GM704870
- £25,000 prizes:
- Liverpool region: Bond 440BA235900
- Wirral: Bond 354CM060528
- £10,000 prizes:
- Four winners in the Wirral
- One winner in Merseyside, who purchased their winning Bond as recently as November 2025
These wins reflect the region’s strong showing in the February draw, highlighting how both long-term and recent savers can benefit from consistent investment in Premium Bonds.
Oldest Winning Bonds
Some long-term Premium Bond savers also had reason to celebrate. Among the standout stories was a saver from Devon whose Bond, TS968214, was purchased over 50 years ago in July 1973, with just a £90 investment. This bond secured one of the larger prizes in the draw.
Other examples of aged Bonds winning include:
- A saver from Plymouth: £5,000 prize with Bond 2NN092213, purchased in October 1975
- A saver from South East Wales: £5,000 prize for Bond bought in April 1977, with only £86 total holding
These examples serve as a reminder that even small, decades-old investments can yield significant returns in the Premium Bonds system.
Prize Fund Changes
While these high-profile wins are welcome news for savers, it’s worth noting that NS&I has reduced the Premium Bonds prize fund rate several times over the past year. The result is a smaller prize pool-despite unchanged odds of 22,000 to one.
Here’s how the prize fund rate has declined:
| Date | Prize Fund Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 4.15% → 4.00% |
| April 2025 | 4.00% → 3.80% |
| August 2025 | 3.80% → 3.60% |
These cuts mean fewer high-value prizes are being distributed, although the number of smaller prizes remains consistent. It may now take longer for individual savers to secure large wins unless they hold close to the maximum allowance.
Despite the changes, Premium Bonds remain a popular, tax-free savings option for millions across the UK. The blend of saving and chance continues to appeal-especially when jackpot stories like Liverpool’s latest winner come to light.
FAQs
Who won the £1million Premium Bond prize?
A saver from Liverpool and one from Central Bedfordshire each won £1million in February.
When was the winning Liverpool Bond bought?
It was purchased in October 2004 as part of a £2,000 investment.
What are the odds of winning a Premium Bond prize?
The odds are currently 22,000 to one per £1 Bond.
What is the current prize fund rate?
As of February 2026, the rate stands at 3.6%.
