Complete Guide to Wagering Requirements
After tracking over $2.3M in casino bonuses, I can tell you this: the difference between a great bonus and a terrible one almost always comes down to wagering requirements. In this guide, I'll teach you exactly how they work—and how to avoid bonuses designed to never pay out.
🧮 Calculate Your Bonus Value
Use our wagering calculator to see if a bonus is worth claiming.
TRY THE CALCULATORWhat Are Wagering Requirements?
Wagering requirements (also called playthrough) are the number of times you must bet the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings. They're the casino's way of ensuring you actually play—not just collect free money and run.
💰 Simple formula:
Example: 35x wagering on $100 bonus = $3,500 in bets needed
Two Common Types
- Bonus-only wagering: Applies only to the bonus amount. 35x on $100 bonus = $3,500 to wager. This is more player-friendly.
- Bonus + deposit wagering: Applies to both your deposit and the bonus. 35x on $100 deposit + $100 bonus = 35 × $200 = $7,000 to wager. This is much harder to clear.
Real Bonus Examples Compared
| Casino | Bonus | Wagering Type | Total to Wager | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitstarz | $100 bonus | 35x bonus | $3,500 | Good |
| Bovada | $100 bonus | 25x (bonus + deposit)* | $5,000 | Average |
| BetOnline | $100 bonus | 30x bonus | $3,000 | Good |
| Generic High-Roller | $100 bonus | 50x (bonus + deposit) | $10,000 | Avoid |
*Bovada's 25x applies to bonus + deposit, making it effectively 50x on bonus alone
How to Calculate Wagering Requirements
Follow these steps to evaluate any bonus:
Step 1: Find the Multiplier
Look in the bonus terms for a number followed by "x" (e.g., 35x, 40x). This is your wagering multiplier.
Step 2: Check What It Applies To
Find the phrase: "wagering requirement applies to bonus only" or "applies to bonus + deposit." This is critical.
Step 3: Do the Math
Bonus only: $100 bonus × 35x = $3,500 to wager
Bonus + deposit: ($100 deposit + $100 bonus) × 35x = $7,000 to wager
Step 4: Factor in Game Contributions
Not all games count equally. Here's how different games typically contribute:
- Slots: 100% (every $1 bet = $1 toward wagering)
- Video Poker: 10-50%
- Blackjack: 10-20%
- Roulette: 10-20%
- Baccarat: 10-20%
- Live Dealer: Often 0% or very low
If you play blackjack at 10% contribution, you'd need to bet 10x more to clear the same requirement.
🔗 Try it yourself: Wagering Calculator | Bonus Value Calculator
What's Considered "Good" Wagering?
| Rating | Wagering (Bonus Only) | Wagering (Bonus+Deposit) | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excellent | 1x - 10x | 1x - 15x | Cashback offers, no-wagering bonuses |
| Good | 15x - 35x | 20x - 30x | Most reputable casino welcome offers |
| Average | 35x - 45x | 30x - 40x | Standard industry offers |
| Poor | 45x - 60x | 40x - 50x | Difficult to clear |
| Avoid | 60x+ | 50x+ | Almost impossible to clear |
No Wagering Bonuses
Some casinos offer "no wagering" or "low wagering" bonuses. These are the holy grail—winnings are yours immediately or with minimal playthrough. Look for:
- Cashback bonuses: Often have 1x wagering or none
- Free spins winnings: Some casinos credit winnings as cash with 0x wagering
- Exclusive bonuses: Our partners sometimes offer reduced wagering
🔗 Find them here: Best Low Wagering Bonuses | Cashback Offers
5 Tips to Clear Wagering Requirements Faster
- Play high RTP slots: Games with 97-99% RTP reduce your expected loss while wagering. See High RTP Slots.
- Avoid table games: Their low contribution means you'll need 5-10x more bets.
- Check excluded games: Some progressive slots count 0%. Avoid them.
- Track your progress: Most casinos show wagering completion percentage.
- Don't withdraw early: Even requesting a withdrawal can forfeit your bonus.
⚠️ Red Flags in Bonus Terms
- "Max bet while wagering": Often $5-$10 per spin. Exceeding it voids your bonus.
- "Game restrictions": Some games are excluded entirely.
- "Max cashout": Limits how much you can withdraw from bonus winnings (e.g., $100 max).
- "Time limits": You must clear wagering in 7-30 days.
- "Different countries": Some bonuses aren't available to US players.
🔗 Read more: How to Spot Fake Bonuses
🎁 Bonuses with Fair Wagering
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wagering requirements?
Wagering requirements (also called playthrough) are the number of times you must bet the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings. For example, 35x on a $100 bonus means you need to place $3,500 in bets before cashing out.
How do I calculate wagering requirements?
Multiply the wagering multiplier by the amount it applies to. If terms say '35x bonus' and you received $100 bonus, you need $3,500 in wagers. If it's '35x (bonus + deposit)' and you deposited $100 for $100 bonus, you need 35 × $200 = $7,000 in wagers.
What is a good wagering requirement?
For deposit bonuses, 35x or lower is considered good. For no-deposit bonuses, 40-50x is common but harder to clear. Anything above 50x is generally unfavorable and should be avoided.
Do all games count the same toward wagering?
No. Slots usually count 100%. Table games like blackjack and roulette often count only 10-20%. Some games may be excluded entirely. Always check the terms to see which games contribute.
What happens if I withdraw before meeting wagering requirements?
You will forfeit the bonus and any winnings from it. Some casinos may also deduct the bonus amount from your withdrawal. Always complete wagering requirements before requesting a withdrawal.
Are there bonuses with no wagering requirements?
Yes, some casinos offer 'no wagering' or 'low wagering' bonuses. These are rare but highly valuable. Cashback bonuses often have no wagering requirements. Check our low wagering bonuses page for current offers.
