Online casinos use bonuses and promotions to attract new players and reward loyal customers. Bonuses add extra value to your gameplay by giving you extra cash or free spins to play casino games with. However, before you can withdraw any winnings, you must meet wagering requirements.
Types of casino bonuses
- Welcome bonus – This is given to new players when they make their first real money deposit. It usually matches a percentage of your deposit up to a maximum amount. For example, a 100% welcome bonus of up to $200 would double your initial deposit up to $200.
- No deposit bonus – This gives you bonus cash or free spins without making a deposit first. It allows you to try out games for free before risking your own money. No deposit bonuses are usually small, around $10 to $20.
- Reload bonus – Given to existing players who make subsequent deposits. It encourages you to continue playing and depositing at the casino. Reload bonuses offer a match percentage up to a specified amount.
- Cashback bonus – Returns a percentage of your net losses over a certain period, usually a week or a month. It helps cushion the blow of losing streaks.
How wagering requirements work?
The catch with every online casino bonus is that there are wagering requirements before you withdraw your winnings. Also known as playthrough requirements, wagering requirements specify how much is needed before the bonus funds turn into real cash. This amount is calculated based on the size of the bonus and displayed as a multiple. Common wagering requirements are 20x, 30x, or 40x the bonus amount. Here is an example to illustrate:
You claim a $50 welcome bonus with 30x wagering. To convert this to cash, you must place bets totaling 30 x $50 = $1,500. Only bets made with bonus funds count toward this playthrough requirement. Wagering contributions also depend on the game. Slots usually contribute 100% because they have higher house edges. Table games like blackjack only contribute 10% to 20% due to better chances. Video poker and live dealer games are roughly equal at around 50% to 70%.
Strategies for clearing your bonus
- Opt for bonuses with the lowest wagering requirements. 25x or 30x is more reasonable.
- Pick bonuses with longer expiration dates, at least one week but 30 days is ideal. It gives you enough time to clear the playthrough.
- Play slots as they fully contribute 100% towards wagering. Play max bet to finish roll over faster. Detailed information can be found by visiting https://www.safespin.com/best-payout-casinos/.
With some savvy bonus shopping and strategic gameplay, you minimize the house edge and put those bonus funds to good use. Avoid traps like unrealistic wagering requirements or short expiration dates. Approach bonuses as extra funds to enhance your overall experience rather than looking at them as free money.