Wagering requirements are one of the most important aspects of casino bonuses, yet many players don't fully understand how they work. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about wagering requirements and how to find the best bonus deals.
What Are Wagering Requirements?
Wagering requirements (also called playthrough requirements) are the number of times you must bet your bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings from that bonus. They're designed to prevent bonus abuse while still giving players a fair chance to win.
Example:
If you receive a $100 bonus with 35x wagering requirements, you must bet $3,500 (100 × 35) before you can withdraw any winnings from that bonus.
How Wagering Requirements Work
When you claim a bonus, the casino adds the bonus funds to your account. However, these funds are "locked" until you meet the wagering requirements. Here's the process:
- You claim a bonus (e.g., 100% up to $500)
- You deposit $500 and receive $500 in bonus funds
- You now have $1,000 total ($500 deposit + $500 bonus)
- You must wager the bonus amount × wagering multiplier
- Once wagering is complete, bonus funds convert to withdrawable cash
Types of Wagering Requirements
1. Bonus Only Wagering
You only need to wager the bonus amount. This is the most common and player-friendly type.
Example: $100 bonus with 35x = $3,500 to wager
2. Bonus + Deposit Wagering
You must wager both the bonus and your deposit amount. This is less favorable for players.
Example: $100 deposit + $100 bonus with 35x = $7,000 to wager
Understanding Game Contribution
Not all games contribute equally toward wagering requirements. Casinos assign different contribution percentages:
- Pokies: Usually 100% contribution (best for clearing wagering)
- Table Games: Often 10-20% contribution
- Live Casino: Typically 10-20% contribution
- Video Poker: Usually 10-20% contribution
- Roulette/Blackjack: Sometimes excluded or 0%
Game Contribution Example:
If you bet $100 on pokies (100% contribution), the full $100 counts toward wagering.
If you bet $100 on blackjack (10% contribution), only $10 counts toward wagering.
What Are Good Wagering Requirements?
For Australian players, look for bonuses with:
- 35x or lower: Excellent - very achievable
- 40x: Good - reasonable and fair
- 50x: Acceptable - still manageable
- 60x or higher: Avoid - very difficult to complete
Time Limits
Most bonuses have time limits for completing wagering requirements:
- 7 days: Very short - difficult to complete
- 14 days: Short - requires frequent play
- 30 days: Standard - reasonable timeframe
- 60+ days: Excellent - plenty of time
Always check the time limit before claiming a bonus. If you don't complete wagering in time, you'll lose both the bonus and any winnings from it.
Maximum Bet Limits
Many bonuses restrict your maximum bet size while using bonus funds:
- Common limits: $5-$10 per spin/hand
- Exceeding the limit can void the bonus
- Always check the maximum bet before playing
Tips for Meeting Wagering Requirements
- Play pokies: They contribute 100% toward wagering
- Choose low volatility games: More frequent wins help maintain your balance
- Use smaller bets: Extends your playing time
- Track your progress: Most casinos show wagering progress in your account
- Read terms carefully: Understand all restrictions before playing
Common Wagering Requirement Mistakes
- Not reading the full terms and conditions
- Playing excluded games that don't count toward wagering
- Exceeding maximum bet limits
- Not completing wagering within the time limit
- Withdrawing before completing wagering (forfeits bonus)
How to Calculate Wagering Requirements
Use this formula:
Total Wagering Needed = Bonus Amount × Wagering Multiplier
Calculation Examples:
- $100 bonus × 35x = $3,500 to wager
- $500 bonus × 40x = $20,000 to wager
- $1,000 bonus × 30x = $30,000 to wager
Finding Bonuses with Best Terms
When comparing bonuses, prioritize:
- Low wagering requirements (35x or lower)
- 100% game contribution (pokies count fully)
- Reasonable time limits (30+ days)
- No maximum bet restrictions (or high limits)
- Clear and fair terms (no hidden conditions)
Conclusion
Understanding wagering requirements is essential for making the most of casino bonuses. While they may seem complicated at first, they're actually straightforward once you understand the basics. Always read the terms and conditions, choose bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements, and play games that contribute 100% toward clearing them.
Remember: A bonus with lower wagering requirements is often better than a larger bonus with high wagering. Focus on finding bonuses with fair terms that give you a real chance to win and withdraw your winnings.