What Are Wagering Requirements, and Why Do They Exist?
Wagering requirements (also called "playthrough requirements" or "rollover requirements") are conditions that tell you how much you need to bet before you can withdraw any winnings from a bonus. Casinos set these rules to ensure players use the bonus for its intended purpose—playing games—rather than cashing out immediately.
Example:
- You claim a £20 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement.
- This means you need to bet £20 × 30 = £600 before you can withdraw any winnings from the bonus.
How Wagering Requirements Work
When you receive a bonus, it’s usually credited as "bonus funds" in your account. Here’s how it interacts with your gameplay:
- Bonus Funds vs. Real Money
Casinos often separate your deposit (real money) from the bonus funds. You’ll use your real money first, and then your bonus funds kick in. - Meeting the Requirement
Let’s say you’re playing a slot with a 100% contribution rate. If you bet £1 per spin, you’ll need to spin 600 times (in the example above) to meet the requirement. - What Counts Toward the Requirement?
- Slots: Usually count 100%.
- Table Games: Blackjack, roulette, and poker often contribute less, like 10%-20%.
- Live Casino Games: May not count at all.
Example Breakdown:
- You bet £100 on slots → £100 counts toward the requirement.
- You bet £100 on blackjack → Only £10 (10%) counts toward the requirement.
Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Time Limits
Bonuses often expire within 7-30 days. If you don’t meet the requirement in time, the bonus and any winnings will be removed.
Example:
- You claim a £50 bonus with a 14-day time limit. If you don’t wager the required £1,750 (35x) within two weeks, you lose both the bonus and any winnings.
- Betting Limits
Casinos often set a maximum bet amount while using bonus funds. For instance, if the limit is £5 per spin and you bet £10, you could forfeit the bonus. - Excluded Games
Some games are excluded from wagering entirely. For example:
- Progressive jackpot slots.
- Certain high-RTP games like Starburst.
- Bonus Stacking
If you claim multiple bonuses, they may have overlapping requirements. Always finish one bonus before moving to another.
Tips for Managing Wagering Requirements
- Look for Low-Wagering or No-Wager Bonuses
Some casinos offer bonuses with requirements as low as 5x or even no wagering at all. These are easier to complete and let you withdraw winnings faster.
Example of Low-Wagering Casinos:
- Casino A: 10x wagering.
- Casino B: No wagering on free spins.
- Choose High-RTP Games
Games with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage give you a better chance of retaining your funds. Look for slots with RTPs above 96%, such as:
- Book of Dead (96.21% RTP).
- Gonzo’s Quest (96.00% RTP).
- Track Your Progress
Many casinos have a progress bar that shows how much of the wagering requirement you’ve completed. Use it to plan your bets. - Start Small
Begin with smaller bets to stretch your funds and reduce risk while meeting the requirements. - Read the Terms Carefully
Always check:
- The contribution rates of your favorite games.
- Maximum bet limits.
- Time limits.
Conclusion
Wagering requirements are a key part of casino bonuses. They ensure that bonuses are used for gameplay, but they can be tricky to understand. By understanding how they work and following these tips, you can make smarter decisions and enjoy your bonus responsibly.
