What Is a Wagering Requirement?
When an online gaming platform offers a bonus, it almost always comes with a wagering requirement (also called a playthrough requirement). This is the number of times you must bet the bonus amount — or sometimes the bonus plus your deposit — before any winnings can be withdrawn as real cash.
For example: If you receive a $50 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you must place a total of $1,500 in wagers ($50 × 30) before you can withdraw winnings derived from that bonus.
Why Do Wagering Requirements Exist?
Platforms use wagering requirements to prevent bonus abuse — the practice of claiming a bonus, immediately withdrawing it, and never actually playing. While this is understandable from a business perspective, it also means that bonuses are rarely as straightforward as they first appear.
Types of Wagering Calculations
Not all wagering requirements are calculated the same way. Always read the terms carefully:
- Bonus only: You wager only the bonus amount (e.g., 30x on $50 bonus = $1,500 total).
- Bonus + deposit: You wager both the deposit and the bonus (e.g., 30x on $50 deposit + $50 bonus = $3,000 total). This is more demanding.
- Winnings only: Less common — you wager only the winnings generated from the bonus.
Game Contribution Rates
Another critical detail: different games contribute differently toward clearing a wagering requirement. A typical breakdown looks like this:
| Game Type | Typical Contribution |
|---|---|
| Slots | 100% |
| Table Games (Blackjack, Baccarat) | 10–20% |
| Roulette | 10–20% |
| Video Poker | 10–20% |
| Live Dealer Games | 0–10% |
This means if you prefer table games, a bonus may be much harder — or impractical — to clear.
Other Bonus Terms to Watch For
Expiry Dates
Most bonuses and their associated wagering requirements must be completed within a set timeframe, often 7–30 days. If you don't meet the requirement in time, the bonus (and any winnings from it) may be forfeited.
Maximum Win Caps
Some bonuses cap the maximum amount you can win from them — for example, "maximum withdrawal from bonus winnings: $100." Even if you run up a large balance, you may only be able to withdraw a limited amount.
Minimum Deposit Thresholds
Bonuses are often only triggered when you deposit a minimum amount. Check that threshold before depositing.
How to Evaluate Whether a Bonus Is Worth It
- Calculate the total amount you need to wager to clear the requirement.
- Check which games contribute to wagering and whether you enjoy those games.
- Note the expiry date — is it realistic to meet within that window?
- Look for any win caps that might limit the benefit.
- Ask yourself: would you be depositing and playing this amount anyway?
A bonus is only beneficial if the terms are realistic relative to how you already play. Always prioritize understanding the full terms before opting in to any promotion.