Wagering Requirements Explained: How to Read Casino Bonus Terms
A casino bonus comes with rules about how much you must bet before you can withdraw anything linked to it. Knowing those rules before you accept is the difference between a useful extra and a trap.
What is a wagering requirement?
It is the amount you must bet, as a multiple of the bonus (or sometimes of bonus plus deposit), before bonus funds and related winnings can be withdrawn. Casinos state it as a number followed by an x, such as 35x.
What does 30x on a bonus mean?
Take a $100 bonus with a 30x requirement on the bonus amount. You must wager 30 × $100 = $3,000 before withdrawing. If the requirement applies to bonus plus deposit, a $100 deposit with a $100 bonus means 30 × $200 = $6,000 of wagering.
What does the requirement cost you in expected loss?
Multiply the wagering amount by the house edge of the games you play.
| Bonus | Requirement | Total wagering | Expected loss at 96% RTP |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50 | 20x on bonus | $1,000 | $40 |
| $100 | 30x on bonus | $3,000 | $120 |
| $100 | 40x on bonus plus deposit | $8,000 | $320 |
In the middle example, the expected loss is higher than the bonus itself. That does not mean every bonus is a bad deal, but it shows why you should do the sum first. For background on RTP see our RTP guide.
Which terms should you read first?
| Term | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Wagering base | Bonus only, or bonus plus deposit |
| Time limit | How many days you have to finish |
| Game contribution | Which games count and by what percentage |
| Maximum stake | The most you can bet per spin or round while a bonus is active |
| Maximum cashout | A cap on what bonus winnings you can withdraw |
| Excluded games | Titles that do not count at all |
How does game contribution affect wagering?
Not every bet counts in full. A casino might count slots at 100% but table or instant games at a much smaller share, or exclude them. At a 10% contribution, a $3,000 requirement would need $30,000 of staking, which is rarely realistic.
Why does the maximum stake rule matter?
Betting above the cap while a bonus is active can void the bonus and any winnings. Check the limit before you raise your stake, including on features such as bonus buys.
Do bonuses carry any protection?
Consumer and gambling rules differ across provinces and territories, and terms are set by the operator. Do not assume a bonus is protected in a particular way. Read the terms, keep screenshots of the offer, and contact support in writing if there is a dispute.
When should you walk away?
Walk away if the terms are unclear, if the requirement is very high for the size of the bonus, or if you feel pushed to deposit more to unlock it. You can usually decline a bonus at sign-up. If you feel pressure to chase, visit our responsible gambling page.