Online casinos aggressively market their deposit bonuses, making it seem like they are handing out free money.
To prevent instant bankruptcy, casinos protect these bonuses using strict rules known as wagering requirements.
How the Bonus Catch Actually Works
A wagering requirement is a multiplier that dictates exactly how much money you must bet before you can withdraw.
For example, if you receive a $100 bonus with a 30x requirement, you must place $3,000 worth of bets.
- Low wagering requirements (under 30x) are considered the gold standard in the industry
- Many players prefer to decline bonuses entirely to avoid dealing with these restrictions
- You must clear the playthrough before you can withdraw even your own initial deposit in most cases
Understanding Game Contributions
You cannot simply grind out the requirement on games like Blackjack that have a 99.5% RTP.
Live dealer games and high-RTP table games are frequently excluded from bonus wagering entirely (0% contribution).
| Activity | Contribution Rule | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Video Poker | 0% – 5% | House edge is too low for the casino to allow it |
| Progressive Slots | Usually Restricted | Check terms; often completely banned with active bonuses |
Always read the fine print carefully, and never accept a bonus if the playthrough multiplier exceeds 50x.