What is wagering in online casinos?
Wagering (or wagering requirements) is a term widely used in the online casino industry, referring to the process of meeting certain betting conditions before a player can withdraw bonus funds or winnings obtained using them. Online casinos usually set these wagering requirements as part of their bonus offers, such as welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, or free spins. Understanding the principles of wagering and the associated conditions is a key aspect for any player looking to maximize the benefits of online casino bonuses. In this article, we have answered frequently asked questions by online casino players about wagering to help you better understand this process and successfully take advantage of bonus offers.
From this article, you will learn:
Key Aspects of Wagering
How to calculate wagering?
Wagering requirements tell you how many times you need to bet the bonus amount, or the deposit plus bonus amount, before you can withdraw the money. This is a crucial part of wagering. For example, if a casino offers a $100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you must bet a total of $3000 before you can withdraw the bonus money or any winnings from it. Below you can see the table with the examples of wagering calculations:
| Bonus Amount | Wagering Requirements Multiplier | Total Wagering Required | Game Contribution Rate | Effective Wagering Amount |
| $50 | 30x | $1,500 | 100% (Slots) | $1,500 |
| $100 | 40x | $4,000 | 50% (Table Games) | $8,000 |
| $200 | 25x | $5,000 | 20% (Roulette) | $25,000 |
| $150 | 35x | $5,250 | 100% (Slots) | $5,250 |
| $75 | 20x | $1,500 | 10% (Blackjack) | $15,000 |
How to complete wagering requirements?
To complete wagering requirements, start by reading the bonus terms to understand how many times you need to wager the bonus amount. Play games that count 100% towards the requirements, like slots, and avoid those with lower contribution rates. Use the casino's bonus tracker or check your account dashboard to monitor your progress. Manage your bankroll wisely, set a budget, and stick to it to ensure you can meet the requirements without running out of funds. Follow any maximum bet limits set by the casino, and if you're unsure about your progress, contact customer support for an update. By following these steps, you can efficiently complete wagering requirements and access your bonus winnings.
Which games count towards meeting wagering requirements?
Not all games count equally towards meeting wagering requirements. Slots usually count 100%, making them the best choice for clearing the requirements. On the other hand, table games like roulette, blackjack, or poker might only count 10-20% or not at all. For example, if roulette counts only 10%, you would need to bet $30,000 to meet a 30x wagering requirement with a $100 bonus.
How much time is given to meet wagering requirements?
Wagering requirements often have a time limit. This means you need to meet the requirements within a set period. For instance, a casino might require you to complete the wagering within 30 days of receiving the bonus. If you don’t meet the requirements in time, the bonus and any winnings from it can be canceled. Time limits are important to consider when accepting a bonus.
Are there betting limits when meeting wagering requirements?
Many casinos limit the amount you can bet while meeting wagering requirements. This prevents players from making large bets to quickly meet the requirements. These limits might be, for example, $5 per spin or round. If you break these rules, the casino might cancel your bonus and any winnings from it. This rule helps ensure fair play.
Excluded Games Some bonuses have a list of games that don’t count towards meeting the wagering requirements. For example, casinos often exclude progressive jackpots because they offer huge potential wins, making the requirements easier to meet and less profitable for the casino.
Is it possible to refuse the bonus?
Yes, in most online casinos, you can refuse a bonus if you don't want to meet the wagering requirements. You might choose to refuse a bonus due to high wagering requirements, game preferences that don't contribute much to meeting these requirements, or a preference to play with your own money without restrictions. Opt out during sign-up to refuse a bonus, contact support if you missed the option, or request removal if the casino automatically credited the bonus.
Always read the bonus terms before deciding and note that once you've started playing with a bonus, you might not be able to refuse it. Refusing one bonus doesn't prevent you from accepting future bonuses that better suit your preferences. Understanding these options helps you make informed decisions for the best online casino experience.
Why are some games excluded from meeting wagering requirements?
The casino may exclude some games, like progressive jackpots, from meeting wagering requirements because they offer large potential winnings, making them less profitable for the casino. Including such games increases the risk for the casino, as players can win significant amounts without meeting all the wagering conditions.
Additionally, games with a low house edge, such as blackjack and roulette, are often excluded or only partially counted. This is because players have a higher chance of winning in these games, making it easier to meet wagering requirements and less profitable for the casino. Excluding these games helps casinos manage their risks and maintain a balance between making bonuses attractive to players and ensuring their own profitability.
Can winnings be withdrawn before meeting wagering requirements?
Usually, the answer is no. Winnings from bonuses can typically only be withdrawn after all wagering requirements have been met. This rule ensures that players fully engage with the casino's terms before accessing any potential winnings. If a player attempts to withdraw before completing the wagering requirements, the casino will likely block the withdrawal request and may even forfeit the bonus and any associated winnings.
Additionally, some casinos might allow players to withdraw their real money balance while forfeiting the bonus and any winnings derived from it. However, this varies from one casino to another, and it's crucial to read the terms and conditions carefully. Understanding these rules can prevent disappointment and ensure that players know exactly what they need to do to access their winnings. Always check the specific withdrawal policies of the casino to avoid any confusion or unexpected restrictions.
How can players determine if they have met the wagering requirements?
In most online casinos, you can track your progress in meeting wagering requirements through a bonus tracker in your account dashboard, which updates in real-time. Additionally, detailed account statements and transaction histories often show your wagering activities. If this information isn't readily available, customer support can provide updates. Some casinos also send email notifications when you're close to or have met the requirements. Familiarize yourself with the bonus terms and conditions to understand how different games contribute to the requirements and ensure you count your wagers correctly. By using these resources, you can efficiently meet the requirements and withdraw your winnings without issues.
Can you get banned for wagering?
Yes, you can get banned for wagering if you break the casino's rules. This can happen if you use unfair methods to meet the wagering requirements, such as creating multiple accounts, using betting strategies that the casino prohibits, or trying to withdraw winnings before meeting the requirements. Always follow the casino's terms and conditions to avoid any issues.
Wager: 50XB
Max Win: €/$50
Wager: 45XB
Max Win: €/$50
Wager: 25XB
Max Win: €/$100
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wagering
Advantages of wagering
Extra Playing Funds: Bonuses give players more money to play with, increasing their chances of winning and allowing them to enjoy games longer.
Attractive Bonuses: Many casinos offer enticing bonuses to attract new players and retain existing ones. These bonuses provide players with the opportunity to try different games without significant financial risk. To learn more about the various types of iGaming bonuses available, check out our article detailing the different bonus options for players.
Disadvantages of wagering
Difficulty Meeting Requirements: High wagering requirements can make it hard and time-consuming to meet the conditions.
Game Restrictions: Limits on which games count towards wagering can make bonuses less attractive to players who prefer table games or other types of entertainment.
Risk of Losing Bonus Funds: If players don't meet the wagering requirements in time, the casino can cancel the bonus and any winnings from it.
Strategies for Meeting Wagering Requirements
To make the most of bonuses and successfully meet wagering requirements, players should consider a few strategies:
Choose Slots with High RTP: Playing slots with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage increases your chances of meeting the wagering requirements. You can read more about what RTP is and how it works here.
Manage Your Bankroll: Smart bankroll management helps you avoid quick losses and allows you to play longer, which is crucial for meeting wagering requirements.
Read Bonus Terms: Before accepting a bonus, carefully read all the terms, including game contributions and time limits.
Use Low Wagering Bonuses: Some casinos offer bonuses with lower wagering requirements, making them easier to complete. You can find attractive bonuses with minimal wagering requirements in our No Deposit Bonus section.
Conclusion
Understanding and meeting wagering requirements is key to withdrawing bonus funds and winnings in online casinos. To do this effectively, always read the bonus terms, focus on games that fully contribute to the requirements like slots, and use the casino's tracking tools to monitor your progress. Manage your bankroll wisely, adhere to betting limits, and avoid excluded games. If you have questions, contact customer support. By following these steps, you can maximize your bonuses and ensure a smooth gaming experience.
