A casino bonus wagering requirement is the total value of eligible bets a player must place before bonus-related funds or winnings may become withdrawable. The amount is usually expressed as a multiple, such as 30×. It is not a fee paid upfront, and completing it does not guarantee a profit or a withdrawal.
Rules differ between offers. Before accepting a bonus, check exactly what the multiplier applies to, which games count, the deadline and any withdrawal limits. You can also choose not to accept a bonus.
How to calculate a wagering requirement
Required eligible wagering = qualifying amount × wagering multiplier. The qualifying amount depends on the offer. Always read its actual terms.
- Bonus only: A hypothetical $100 bonus with 30× wagering requires $3,000 in eligible wagers ($100 × 30).
- Deposit plus bonus: A hypothetical $100 deposit and $100 bonus with 30× on both requires $6,000 in eligible wagers ($200 × 30).
These are examples, not offers. The wagering total is the sum of qualifying bets, not a requirement to deposit that whole amount at once. However, repeated bets can still result in substantial losses before a requirement is met.
Why your progress may be slower than expected
Some offers count different games at different rates. For example, if the terms say a game contributes 10%, a $10 eligible bet adds only $1 toward the wagering requirement. Other games may contribute nothing. Check the operator’s rules for each game, including any exclusions or minimum odds.
For free spins, determine whether the multiplier applies to winnings from the spins, a bonus balance, or another amount. An expiry period or maximum amount convertible to cash may also apply. Do not assume all free-spin winnings can be withdrawn.
Seven terms to check before accepting
- Multiplier and base: Does it apply to the bonus alone, the deposit plus bonus, or free-spin winnings?
- Contribution: Which games and bet types count, and at what percentage?
- Time limit: When does the requirement expire, and what happens to remaining funds?
- Maximum bet: Does the offer restrict stake size while the bonus is active?
- Withdrawal and cashout rules: Are winnings capped, and does requesting a withdrawal forfeit a bonus?
- Eligibility and verification: Review age, location, account and identity requirements.
- Cancellation: Ask what happens to your deposit, bonus and winnings if you decline or cancel. Rules vary by offer.
Keep a copy of the terms shown when you accepted. If the wording is unclear, ask the operator for a written explanation before deciding. Do not increase your bets or spend beyond your budget to meet a deadline.
Ontario: check the operator and the actual offer
Ontario has specific rules for regulated internet gaming advertising and inducements. Rules and offer availability can change; check the current conditions directly with the operator and consult the regulator. Our Ontario casino bonus rules guide explains the context, and our operator verification guide explains how to check an Ontario site.
Frequently asked questions
Does 30× mean I must deposit 30 times?
No. It describes a wagering target calculated from a specified amount. The eligible bets placed over time count toward it under the offer’s rules. Your actual loss depends on play and outcomes, and you may lose the balance before reaching the target.
Can I withdraw my deposit while a bonus is active?
It depends on the offer and operator. A withdrawal can affect bonus eligibility or cause bonus funds to be forfeited. Check the terms and ask support before acting.
Is a bonus with no wagering risk-free?
No. No wagering requirement does not remove gambling risk or other restrictions, such as expiry, game eligibility, verification or cashout limits. Review the full terms.
More information and support
See our casino welcome bonus guide and free spins guide. Gambling is not a way to earn income; set a time and spending limit and avoid chasing losses. For help and safer-play information, visit the Responsible Gambling Council or our responsible gambling resources.
Sources: GambleAware research on promotional offers; Responsible Gambling Council: gambling FAQs.