The bonus types
| Type | How it works | Worked number |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome match | The casino adds a percentage of your first deposit | 100% up to $200: deposit $100, get $100 in bonus funds |
| No deposit bonus | A small credit or spins for registering | 20 spins at $0.10 is $2 of play; winnings are often capped |
| Free spins | Spins on named slots, alone or with a deposit | Winnings usually carry wagering before you can withdraw |
| Cashback | A share of net losses returned | 10% back on $100 of losses is $10 |
| Refer a friend | A reward when someone you invite deposits | Check that both of you meet the terms |
What a bonus really costs
Clearing a bonus costs roughly the bonus times the wagering times the house edge. A $100 bonus at 35x on slots with 96% RTP means $3,500 in bets and an expected cost of $140, more than the bonus itself. At 10x, the same $100 costs about $40 to clear and leaves an expected $60.
Which one to start with
- A no deposit offer, to see the casino without risking money. Expect a cap on what you can withdraw.
- A small welcome match with wagering of 20x or less, if you planned to deposit anyway.
- Cashback or reloads later, once you know the casino pays out.
Bonus terms decide the value. Our guide to sticky and non-sticky bonuses explains what happens to the bonus money when you cash out, and how to find and claim bonuses walks through the sign-up.
Mistakes beginners make
- Depositing with an e-wallet the offer excludes, so the bonus never arrives.
- Betting above the maximum stake while the bonus is active, which can void it and its winnings.
- Missing the deadline: many offers expire within 7 to 30 days.
- Playing table games that count little or nothing towards wagering.