Guide
How Casino Wagering Requirements Really Work
That €500 bonus might cost you more than it pays. Here is how to read wagering terms before you deposit.
2 min read
A big welcome bonus looks like free money, but every bonus comes with a wagering requirement — the amount you must bet before bonus funds turn into cash you can withdraw. Understanding it takes two minutes and can save you a lot of frustration.
The basic formula
Wagering is shown as a multiplier such as 35x or 40x. Multiply it by the bonus (and sometimes the deposit) to see how much you must bet:
| Bonus | Wagering | Applies to | You must bet |
|---|---|---|---|
| €100 | 35x | Bonus only | €3,500 |
| €100 + €100 deposit | 35x | Bonus + deposit | €7,000 |
| €100 | 10x | Bonus only | €1,000 |
The difference between "bonus only" and "bonus + deposit" doubles the target, so always check which one applies.
Game weighting
Not every bet counts 100%. Slots usually contribute in full, while table games and live casino may count 10–20% — or nothing at all. Betting €10 on blackjack might only clear €1 of your requirement.
Max bet and max win
- Max bet: most casinos cap your stake (often €5) while a bonus is active. Breaking it can void your winnings.
- Max win: some offers cap what you can withdraw from bonus play, for example x10 the bonus amount.
Free spin wagering
Winnings from free spins are often wagered separately. A casino may set x35 on free spin winnings while the cash bonus carries x40.
How to compare offers
- Look past the headline amount — a smaller bonus with 10x wagering often beats a huge one at 40x.
- Check the time limit; seven days for a 40x requirement is very tight.
- Make sure your favourite games count toward wagering.
- Note the max bet and max win rules before you start playing.
Every review on this site lists wagering, minimum deposit and key terms in one place, so you can compare offers side by side.
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