Ultimate Guide to Online Casino Bonuses
Online casino bonuses are typically incentives offered by gambling websites to new and returning customers. They serve various purposes—to invite new members, to make loyal customers feel appreciated, and to let anyone test out the casino.
Typically, perks come in the form of free cash or free spins that users get to use to test out the casino's platform. Other times, players will get deposit matches that double or triple their initial payment. However, operators have become creative these days, so there are various bonus types one can get.
Casino bonuses often include wagering requirements. They were implemented to stop customers from simply accepting a casino bonus and cashing out immediately. Yet, the playthrough is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to rules and limitations. Casino bonus offers also come with a range of other terms and conditions that set out the rules for using them.
That brings us to the point of this guide, where we will explain what online casino bonuses are and how they work. Furthermore, we will examine the different types of bonus deals offered by casinos, their pros and cons, and more.
Table of contents:
What are online casino bonuses?
If you're a complete newbie wondering what casino bonuses are and how they work, let us help. iGaming bonus deals are basically rewards or incentives, which sometimes require a deposit and sometimes don't, that casinos deliver to new and existing players.
Typically, gambling websites reward their players in various instances, such as:
- First, when a new member registers and creates an account with the casino, it welcomes them with a specific perk.
- Players are also often awarded a bonus when funds are deposited into their casino account.
- When a player wants to deposit money into their account, the operator often gives a token of appreciation in return.
- Online casinos often launch limited-time promotions that users can claim. These may include new game promos, cashback on losses, VIP rewards, and exclusive deals.
Note: Online casino bonuses help operators to attract new customers and retain existing ones. More importantly, they are a way for online casinos to make members feel welcomed and appreciated.
How do casino bonuses work?
Online casinos offer various bonuses and promotions to entice new and retain returning customers. They may come in the form of bonus funds, free spins, or both, and they are available to different types of players. Bonuses benefit users because they enable them to play longer when they deposit or to play without investing anything.
Yet, you should know that each bonus has specific wagering requirements, expiration dates, qualification criteria, and other rules. These dictate how any separate promotion functions.
For example, no deposit bonuses require no payment for players to claim them. Deposit deals won't be granted unless the minimum depositing amount is met. Some bonuses demand that players use a specific code.
As you can see, there's no single explanation for how casino bonuses work. Generally, players need to claim them, use them, and then meet the requirements to withdraw any winnings acquired through playing with an active bonus. We will get into the mechanics of casino bonuses later on in this article.
Note: All the important rules and principles that apply to a specific bonus are usually laid out in its bonus terms and conditions, so you should always carefully read the T&Cs before claiming any deals.
Different types of online casino bonuses
Players can take advantage of several bonuses when playing at online casinos. But not all bonus deals are created equal. Understanding the differences between each type before claiming any offers is essential.
We have a detailed article where you can learn about all the different types of casino bonuses available in online casinos. Still, below, we'll briefly look at the most common kinds of casino bonus deals and how they work:
- Welcome bonus – The welcome bonus is the most common type of promo in online casinos. As the name implies, these bonuses are added to your casino account once you join the website. Welcome bonuses can be deposit match deals, free spins, or a mix of the two.
- No deposit bonus – No deposit bonuses are casino bonuses that can be claimed without a deposit. Casino operators frequently provide these bonuses to encourage new members to play. Such incentives are sometimes offered to registered members as a token of appreciation.
- Free spins – Free spin bonuses are the simplest to comprehend because they don't directly involve money. Operators give them upon sign-up, as reload bonuses, for promoting new slots, etc. Depending on the deal, the spins may be for a single slot machine or multiple online slots at the casino.
- Cashback – Just like regular cashback, you get this casino bonus as a share of your daily, weekly, or monthly losses or wagers. The cashback percentage drastically varies and may be affected by various factors, including your VIP status, deposited amounts, and total losses.
Qualifying for online casino bonus offers
As we mentioned above, there are many different types of casino bonuses. Some are available for new players, and others are only offered to existing casino members. Whatever the case, each bonus comes with its own set of criteria you must meet to qualify.
No deposit bonuses, for instance, are most commonly available to first-time players. So, as soon as you create your casino account, you are qualified to receive a no deposit bonus without taking any action, as long as the casino offers one.
Deposit bonuses are different. Only if you deposit the required amount of money will you be able to get the available bonus. Each casino has different rules, but in the T&C of each deposit bonus, the minimum required amount is clearly stated. With so many brands on the Internet, the minimum amount can start as low as $1 but typically around $10-20.
Free spins and other bonus offers also come with specific rules, which are always clearly stated below the offer. Thus, it is important to examine each promo and ensure you can meet its criteria before diving in.
The general casino bonus qualification criteria are related to:
- Using a specific code
- Creating a new casino account
- Living in an allowed country
- Depositing a certain amount
- Generating losses of a certain amount
- Having a specific VIP status
EXAMPLE
There may be a 20 free spins bonus available to anyone who will deposit at least $20. The rules may include a list of allowed and/or banned countries. If you live in a restricted country, you won't get the deal even if you make the necessary deposit.
EXAMPLE
There may be a reload bonus for everyone who will deposit at least $10 and use the code RELOAD. If you make the deposit and fail to enter the code, you will not qualify for the deal. If you deposit under $10 and use the code, you will not be eligible for the offer.
Using online casino bonuses
Beginners who are not familiar with bonuses yet may find everything new and a little bit confusing. Many different bonuses are available, and it's okay if you feel overwhelmed sometimes. Claiming an online casino bonus is not complicated at all. However, learning how to make the most out of a bonus deal is beneficial.
Understanding the terms and conditions of a bonus will give you detailed information about each aspect that sets out the accepted and prohibited behavior with an active bonus. This may include the time within which you must use the bonus and meet the playthrough requirements, but also set out any banned games, restricted countries, and more.
Note: For more detailed information, check out our article on how to use a casino bonus correctly by respecting its bonus terms and conditions.
Cashing out casino bonus funds
One of the most significant conditions that apply to casino bonuses is the wagering requirement. It is the biggest roadblock the casino puts in the way of a player's ability to cash out winnings from a bonus or free spins.
The amount of wagering required is indicated as a multiplier, such as 30x, 40x, and so forth. The specific number depends on the operator. Players must wager their bonus money, and sometimes the deposited amount, the specified number of times to withdraw their winnings.
EXAMPLE
A 100% deposit match up to $100 where the player deposits $100 and ends up with a total of $200.
- If the playthrough is 30x the bonus amount, the player must wager $3,000 ($100 * 30).
- If the playthrough is 30x the bonus + the deposit amount, the player must wager $6,000 ($200 * 30).
Only if the playthrough is met within the specified period can the player cash out their winnings. The amount they can withdraw may or may not be limited, depending on the bonus terms.
EXAMPLE
For example, a no deposit bonus can come with a max cashout of $100. Any winnings over that amount will be void, regardless of whether you've managed to wager them or not.
Are online gambling bonuses worth it?
The online casino sector is fiercely competitive, and operators constantly reevaluate and reinvent themselves to remain relevant. So, you may notice that each online casino bonus is greater and better than the previous one.
However, nothing is perfect, and casino bonuses also have positive and negative sides. After all, you will ask yourself—are casino bonuses worth it? Below, we will give you an insight into the advantages and disadvantages of online casino bonuses.
Pros of casino bonuses
Online casino bonuses come with numerous benefits for players. They can greatly impact your gameplay, whether you're a newbie or an experienced gambler. Take a look at the list of most significant benefits of iGaming promo offers below:
- Enhance your bankroll
- Risk reduction
- Rewards for your loyalty
- Prolong your playing time
- Option to try new games without investing anything
Cons of casino bonuses
Despite all the advantages that online casino bonuses offer, they also come with certain disadvantages. Here's a list of some disadvantages of using casino bonuses:
- Short expiration dates
- Lots of restrictions
- Sometimes unfair rules
Tips for making the most out of your casino bonus
The sheer variety of offers certainly makes it challenging to choose and use your bonus optimally, even with casino bonuses explained. Still, some strategies and tips can help you get even more value from these iGaming promotions.
Below are some tips and tricks that will show you how to take advantage of online casino bonuses.
- Stick to low wagering requirements. Nowadays, you will hardly find anything lower than 25x. Anyway, a bonus with wagering requirements of 40x or above usually isn't worth the trouble.
- Don't get seduced by attractive-looking bonuses. Choose casinos that have a solid reputation and a proven track record. Look at player complaints, as they will help you determine the brand's trustworthiness.
- Make sure to set a budget and stick to it religiously. As attractive as casino bonuses may seem, most players have limited funds to gamble with. Thus, you must be wary of chasing deals – especially deposit ones – and overspending.
- Always consider your gaming preferences. Some casino incentives are explicitly designed for a specific type of player. For instance, you might get a free bet on a single sporting event or access to free spins on a particular slot machine. This is great if you enjoy these bonuses. If you don't, however, there is no point in claiming them.
- Respect the rules. Casinos these days have many methods to discover if someone is trying to trick them. So, use the bonus as instructed because otherwise, you may end up with a blocked account.
