Guide
How to Read Bonus Terms Before Signing Up
Most UK casino operators offer some form of welcome bonus. Before you take one, it pays to understand what the terms actually mean. This page is a factual explainer — no promotional claims, no specific offers. Just the mechanics.
Wagering Requirements
A wagering requirement (sometimes called playthrough) is the number of times you must bet a bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings derived from it. A 30× requirement on a £10 bonus means you need to place £300 in wagers before the bonus funds convert to withdrawable cash.
Requirements vary widely. Some operators set them at 20×, others at 50× or higher. Lower is generally more favourable, but the requirement is only one part of the picture — game weighting and time limits matter too.
Game Weighting
Not every game contributes equally to clearing a wagering requirement. Slots usually count 100% — every £1 wagered counts as £1 toward the playthrough. Table games like blackjack and roulette often count at 10–20%, meaning you would need to wager five to ten times more on those games to clear the same requirement. Some games (often progressive jackpot slots) may be excluded entirely.
Time Limits
Bonuses typically expire after a set period — often 7 to 30 days from the time they are credited. If you haven't cleared the wagering requirement by then, the bonus and any associated winnings are forfeited. Check the deadline before opting in.
Maximum Bet Limits
While a bonus is active, most operators cap the maximum stake per spin or per hand — commonly £5. Betting above this limit can void the bonus. This rule exists to prevent players from clearing requirements with a few large bets.
Maximum Win Caps
Some bonuses limit how much you can withdraw in winnings. A cap of £100 on a £10 bonus means that even if you win £500 during the playthrough, only £100 of that is withdrawable. Not all operators impose this, but it is worth checking.
Free Spins Terms
Free spins often come with their own wagering requirement applied to the winnings they generate. The spins themselves are free, but the money they produce is typically subject to the same playthrough conditions as a deposit bonus. The value per spin is usually pre-set by the operator (often 10p–20p per spin).
Key Takeaways
- Always read the full terms before opting in. The headline offer is only part of the story.
- Compare wagering requirements alongside game weighting and time limits, not in isolation.
- If you prefer table games, check the weighting carefully — a low wagering requirement is less useful if table games only count at 10%.
- Set yourself a reminder for the expiry date. Losing accrued bonus winnings to a time limit is avoidable.
For how we compare operators on these factors, see the homepage comparison. For support resources, visit responsible gambling.
18+ only. Gambling involves risk. Bonus terms are set by the operator and can change — always check the source before acting on the information here.