Wagering Requirements Explained
Wagering requirements are the most important factor to understand when evaluating any casino bonus. They determine whether a bonus represents genuine value or simply a marketing headline designed to attract sign-ups. This guide explains exactly what wagering requirements are, how to calculate the real value of a bonus, and what constitutes a fair versus unreasonable requirement.
What Is a Wagering Requirement?
A wagering requirement (sometimes called a playthrough requirement) specifies how many times you must bet the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings derived from that bonus. For example, if you receive a £50 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you must place a total of £1,500 in bets before the bonus converts to withdrawable cash.
How Wagering Requirements Are Calculated
The calculation is straightforward: multiply the bonus amount by the wagering multiplier. Some casinos apply the wagering requirement to both the bonus and the deposit amount, making the actual requirement much higher. Always check whether the wagering requirement applies to the bonus amount only, or to the combined deposit and bonus amount.
Game Contribution Rates
Not all games contribute equally to meeting wagering requirements. Slots typically contribute 100%, while table games, live casino, and video poker often contribute 10%, 5%, or even 0%. This means using a blackjack-focused bonus on blackjack tables may not progress your wagering at all. Always check the contribution table in the bonus terms.
What Is a Fair Wagering Requirement?
In the current UK market, a fair wagering requirement is generally considered to be between 20x and 35x on the bonus amount. Requirements above 50x are high and significantly reduce the real value of the bonus. Requirements below 15x represent excellent value and are unusual in the current market.
Maximum Bet Rules
When a bonus is active, most casinos impose a maximum bet limit — typically £5 per spin or £5 per hand. Exceeding this limit while a bonus is active can result in the bonus and any winnings derived from it being voided. This rule is strictly enforced and is one of the most common sources of bonus disputes.
Our Top Recommended Casinos
Min. Deposit £20
100% Bonus Up To £200
+ 100 Free Spins
18+. Welcome offer. Min Dep £20. 10x wager/7 days. Max bet £5. Max wins apply. £0.10 per spin. 50 spins added immediately, 50 credited 24h later. Full T&Cs apply.
Min. Deposit £10
100% Deposit Match Up To £100
+ 100 Free Spins
18+. New customers only. Min deposit £10 for 100% deposit match bonus up to £100 (wager bonus 10x within 3 days on selected games) and 100 Free Spins (wager winnings 10x within 3 days). Accept bonus & free spins within 48hrs. Debit cards only. Offer ends 31.07.26. T&Cs apply. GamCare.org.uk
Min. Deposit £10
200 Free Spins
When You Play £10
New cust only. Opt-in required. Deposit £10 & wager 1x on casino games for 200 Free Spins worth 10p each on Big Bass Splash. 3 day reward expiry. 7 days to deposit & wager. 18+. T&Cs apply.
18+ only. T&Cs apply. Please gamble responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw my deposit while a bonus is active?
At many casinos, withdrawing your deposit before meeting the wagering requirement will forfeit the bonus and any bonus winnings. Some casinos allow you to forfeit the bonus and withdraw your deposit, but check the specific terms at your chosen casino.
Do free spin winnings have wagering requirements?
Yes. In most cases, winnings from free spins are subject to a wagering requirement. The amount required to wager is the total winnings from the free spins multiplied by the wagering multiplier specified in the offer terms.
More Guides
Editor's Choice
LottoGo Casino
100% Bonus Up To £200
18+. Welcome offer. Min Dep £20. 10x wager/7 days. Max bet £5. Max wins apply. £0.10 per spin. 50 spins added immediately, 50 credited 24h later. Full T&Cs apply.
Visit Casino18+ | T&Cs apply