How do casino bonuses and wagering requirements work?

These casino “bonuses” (really just free spins) have been a mixed blessing. You need to roll the bonus over at least 35 times before you can actually withdraw any winnings. Game on!

The newbies must read the fine print carefully. Check for expiration dates (really!), slot exclusions (this bonus only works for certain games), maximum bet limits. Frequently overlooked: You have to wager the bonus as well as your deposit separately, so that $100 bonus on a $200 deposit that requires a 300x wager equals 30, 000 spins!

How do people get into a cash-out loop? By being greedy and wagering too much too soon. Recall, each additional bet is an additional commitment. Think of the bonus as free playtime (test out new games), not a license to print money. Take it easy and maximize the value of the offer.

Be wary of casino bonuses. They seem great, but they come with strings attached. Often accompanied by 30 to 40 times play-throughs (you must bet 30 or 40 times the bonus before doing a withdrawal), they can break beginners who run out of money chasing the wagering requirement. Some also have maximum cash-out amounts. Stay within your means, manage your bankroll, and don’t lose your edge pursuing a bonus.

The same is true of casino bonuses. They provide players with free money or bets, although you must spin the money 25-30 times (known as “wagering”) before you can withdraw it. So, if you receive a $100 bonus with 30x wagering requirements, that means you need to bet your $100 for 30 times ($3,000), before you can cash out.

Check the terms and conditions. Take note of any maximum bets, excluded games, or time restrictions. Certain deals apply to just a handful of slot machines. Fail to wager, and you may forfeit both the bonus and your winnings.

Newcomers shouldn’t be tempted by bonuses. Many end up losing money trying to reach the required turnover. Choose wisely.

Casino bonuses are like a loaded gun. The premise is simple: get some free money to play with, as long as you fulfill wagering requirements (you have to bet your bonus a set number of times before it is cashable). T&C apply – and they can be draconian. They can include game exclusions (some games are excluded from qualifying for your wagering), max bet limits (you might have to bet your entire balance on a single hand or spin), and even deadlines (the clock is ticking). Newcomers should look at the small print to know what they’re getting into, lower their expectations, and stop chasing losses. If you don’t want to end up in a cash-out cycle, always remember to risk only what you can afford to lose.