Wagering Requirements
A term you’ll encounter frequently is the “wagering requirement.” For instance, consider a standard welcome bonus: “100% match up to €100 with a 30x wagering requirement.” Depositing €100 gives you €200 to play with after the bonus. However, you must meet the 30x wagering requirement to withdraw any winnings from this bonus.
So, you need to place bets totalling €3,000 (€100 bonus x 30). This doesn’t mean losing €3,000 but rather wagering that amount, whether it’s through €1 spins on slots or €50 blackjack bets.
The coveted ‘no wagering bonus’ eliminates the minimum betting requirement, allowing you to immediately keep any winnings from a bonus or free spins. While less common due to their higher risk for casinos, these bonuses are highly prized for their straightforward value. Always examine the details to avoid hidden costs or surprises.
Minimum Deposit
The “Minimum Deposit” is a staple in online casinos, signifying the smallest amount you must deposit to access a particular bonus or promotion. This practice helps casinos manage bonus expenses and encourage player loyalty.
For example, a “100% match bonus up to €500” might have a minimum deposit requirement. This encourages players to stay with a casino rather than hopping between sites for the best deals. Always check the minimum deposit to ensure you meet the bonus criteria.
Game Restrictions
Not all games are equal in the eyes of casino promotions. “Game Restrictions” refer to games that may not count fully, or at all, towards meeting a bonus’s wagering requirements.
Typically, slots contribute 100%, but table games like blackjack and roulette might contribute much less. This is due to the house edge, as games with a lower edge give players a better chance to win, posing a risk to casinos when bonuses are in play. Always review game restrictions to tailor your strategy and maximize bonus potential.
Game Contributions
‘Game Contributions’ assess how different games impact meeting wagering requirements. Casinos usually specify the percentage each game type contributes. A typical contribution table might look like this:
Game Type | Contribution % |
Slots | 100% |
Table Games (e.g., Blackjack, Roulette) | 10% |
Live Dealer Games | 10% |
Video Poker | 5% |
Scratch Cards | 100% |
Specialty Games | 50% |
Bet Size Limits
The ‘Bet Size Limit’ caps the maximum bet you can place while meeting a bonus’s wagering requirements. This helps casinos control potential payouts and risks associated with their bonuses.
For instance, with a €100 bonus, you might be tempted to bet it all in one go. But if the maximum bet is €5, you’d need to make at least 20 bets. This strategy lowers the volatility and chance of a huge win from a single bet.
Be mindful of these limits as exceeding them can void your bonus and any associated winnings.
Maximum Win Limit
The ‘Maximum Win Limit’ sets a cap on the highest win you can withdraw from a bonus. While one casino might offer a no-deposit bonus of up to €20, it might limit your winnings to just €100. So, a €500 win from a bonus might only allow you to withdraw €100, with the rest forfeited.
Casinos use these limits to safeguard their finances while still offering players a chance to win significantly. Always read this term closely to avoid surprises.
Time Limit
Most bonuses come with a ‘Time Limit,’ specifying how long you have to use the bonus and meet any wagering requirements. While free spins might expire in 24 hours, more substantial deposit bonuses might offer a month.
These limits encourage prompt play and prevent the casino from being indefinitely liable.
Time limits are crucial for players. Failing to meet the terms in time results in the forfeiture of the bonus and any winnings. It’s best to use a bonus swiftly, keeping a close eye on the clock.