Bonus Turnover Explained — Wagering Requirements & Examples
Boost your bankroll with casino bonuses, but be ready for wagering requirements! These determine how much you’ll need to bet before cashing out. This guide explains casino bonus turnover, its meaning, and how it works. Plus, you’ll explore casino turnover calculation and spot fair vs. tricky offers.
Reading time: ~ 7 minutes

Key Takeaways at a Glance:
- Most online casino bonuses come with wagering requirements you must meet before withdrawing.
- These requirements vary by casino and can apply to the bonus, your deposit, or winnings from free spins.
- Time limits, game contribution rates, excluded games, and payment method restrictions often apply.
- Not all casinos offer fair terms — some bonuses are harder to clear than they appear.
- Understanding these rules helps you choose smarter offers and avoid losing bonus funds.
What Is Turnover in Casino?
Understanding the meaning of turnover in casino terms is crucial. It outlines how many times you need to waive your bonus before you can withdraw it. This is often part of the general turnover in casino guidelines, helping you manage your play effectively.
“Casino Wagering Requirements” vs. “Turnover Requirements”
Both terms mean the same thing. “Wagering” is more common in UK and Canadian casinos, while “turnover” is often used in crypto casino markets. Some casinos also refer to this as a playthrough requirement, especially in the US.
How to Calculate Casino Turnover Requirements
Wagering requirements tell you how much you need to bet before you can withdraw a bonus or any winnings from it. The exact casino turnover calculation depends on whether the requirement applies to the bonus only or the total of your deposit + bonus. Free spins follow different rules, which we’ll explain below.
Bonus-Only vs. Bonus + Deposit
Some casinos apply wagering only to the bonus amount, while others include both the deposit and bonus. The second option doubles the amount you need to wager, so always check the terms carefully.
Scenario | Wagering Rule | Calculation | You Must Wager |
---|---|---|---|
Bonus Only | 30x bonus | $100 × 30 | $3,000 |
Bonus + Deposit | 30x total amount | ($100 + $100) × 30 | $6,000 |
Tip: Always look for offers where you only need to bet on the bonus—it’s often easier!
Free Spins Winnings
Free spins don’t come with wagering on the spins themselves, but any money you win from them is treated as bonus funds and typically comes with wagering attached.
Free Spins | Winnings | Wagering | Total Wagering |
---|---|---|---|
50 | $25 | 25x | $625 |
100 | $40 | 40x | $1,600 |
Even small wins from free spins can require significant wagering before you’re allowed to cash out.
Key Bonus Terms That Affect Turnover
To hit your bonus’s wagering target, you need to keep a few key rules in mind. These can significantly impact how quickly you clear those requirements. Let’s explore what's most important:
- Minimum Deposit
- Time Limits
- Excluded Games
- Excluded Payment Methods
- Game Contribution Rates
- Max Bet Limit
Minimum Deposit
You can't complete wagering if the bonus isn't activated, and most bonuses can only be triggered with a minimum deposit. If your deposit is too low, the bonus won't be applied,and no wagering rules will kick in.
Casino | Min Deposit | Bonus Triggered? |
---|---|---|
Casino A | $10 | Yes |
Casino B | $10 | No |
Example Breakdown:
- You've deposited $10 at Casino B
- Their welcome bonus requires a $20 minimum
→ Bonus is not unlocked
Time Limits
Turnover requirements must be met within certain days after claiming your bonus. If you miss the deadline, the bonus and any winnings tied to it are forfeited.
Bonus Type | Deadline | Why it matters |
---|---|---|
Welcome Bonus | 7-30 days | Often the largest bonus, but time-limited |
Free Spins | 24-48 hours | Winnings must be used or cleared quickly |
Reload / Monthly Promotions | 1-14 days | Shorter windows requiring consistent play |
Example Breakdown:
- Bonus: $200 with 20x wagering = $4,000 needed
- Time limit: 10 days
- Daily wagering goal: $4,000 ÷ 10 = $400/day
If you wager only $100 daily, you'll fall behind the $4,000 goal. Time limits directly impact how aggressive or consistent your gameplay needs to be. The tighter the deadline, the faster you’ll need to play (which may increase your risk).
Tip: Bonuses with short timeframes (like 5–7 days) are only worth it if the required turnover is relatively low (e.g. 10x–15x).
Excluded Games
Not all casino games count toward turnover. Bonuses usually work best on slots. Table games, jackpots, and some live titles are often excluded. Playing these may forfeit your progress.
Tip: Look for the list of excluded games in the bonus terms. If a game shows 0% contribution, your bets there won’t count at all.
Excluded Payment Methods
Some e-wallets, like Skrill or Neteller, might be excluded from triggering the bonus. If you deposit with these, the bonus won’t be credited. Stick to supported methods like cards, crypto, or bank transfers unless stated otherwise.
Tip: Always check the payment section in the bonus terms. If you use a restricted method, you may not qualify for the offer — and customer support won’t reverse it.
Game Contribution Rates
Not all games contribute equally to completing wagering requirements. Slots usually count 100%, while table games and live casino games often contribute little or nothing.
Game Type | Contribution | $10 Bet Counts As | Wager Needed to Meet $2,000 |
---|---|---|---|
Slots | 100% | $10 | $2,000 in bets |
Roulette | 20% | $2 | $10,000 in bets |
Blackjack | 10% | $1 | $20,000 in bets |
Crash Games | 0% | 0% | Not eligible |
Jackpot Slots | 0% | $0 | Not eligible |
Example Breakdown:
Let’s say you split your play:
- $1,000 on slots (100% contribution) = $1,000 counted
- $5,000 on roulette (20%) = $1,000 counted
- Total wagering counted: $2,000 → Bonus cleared!
If you only played roulette, you'd need $10,000 in bets to reach the same target. Choosing the right game greatly affects how fast you clear your bonus.
Tip: Always default to slots when possible — especially if time limits are short and contribution rates are strict.
Slot Variance and Its Impact on Wagering
Understanding slot variance is crucial for meeting wagering requirements.
- High Variance:
- Bigger, less frequent payouts
- Riskier, harder to predict
- Low Variance:
- Smaller, more regular payouts
- Steadier progress
Choose slots aligning with your risk and strategy for effective wagering.
Max Bet Limit
Most bonuses include a max bet limit during wagering. This is often $5 per spin or less. If you exceed it, the casino can cancel your bonus and any winnings, even if the play was fair.
Low max bets directly slow your progress. Since wagering is calculated on total money wagered — not total time — smaller bets mean more rounds to clear the same requirement.
Example Breakdown:
Bonus: $100
Wagering: 30x → You must wager $3,000
Max bet allowed: $5/spin
You’ll need:
- 600 spins at $5
- Or 1,500 spins at $2
The lower the max bet, the LONGER it takes to finish wagering. Higher-risk spins aren't allowed, so you must grind with smaller bets.
Bonus Types and Their Wagering Requirements
Casino bonuses add great value, but come with wagering requirements. Below is an overview of common bonus types and their requirements. For a quick reference, see the summary table at the end of the section.
Receive rewards when you make your first deposit. Typically includes a deposit match, free spins, or both.
- Deposit Match: 100%–200%
- Distribution: Often split across the first 1-4 deposits
- Wagering: Generally 30x–40x on bonus/total
- Free Spins: May have separate turnover count
- Time Limit: Typically 7-14 days
Try out the casino without depositing. Winnings are capped and have higher wagering requirements.
- Amount: Usually $5–$10 or free spins
- Wagering: 40x–60x on bonus/spin winnings
- Max Cashout Cap: Commonly $100
- Time Frame: Often clear within 1-5 days
- Note: Great for exploring new casinos risk-free
Offered on sign-up or through promotions. Winnings from spins often come with win-based wagering.
- Winnings: Count as bonus funds
- Wagering: 20x–50x on total winnings
- Limits: Common restrictions on cashout and betting
- Expiration: 24-72 hours
- Specific Games: Often tied to certain slot games
Provides incentives for returning players making additional deposits. Generally smaller than welcome bonuses.
- Deposit Match: 25%-100%
- Frequency: Weekly or seasonal offers
- Wagering: Similar to welcome (30x-40x)
- Free Spins: Sometimes included
- Validity: Often valid for 7 days
Returns a percentage of your net losses over time, sometimes as wager-free funds.
- Cashback Rate: 5%-25%
- Withdrawable: May be bonus or withdrawable funds
- Wagering: If applied, typically 5x-10x
- Validity: Daily or weekly
- Note: Check for max bet limits
Designed for those depositing large amounts. Offers large rewards with high playthrough.
- Bonus Match: Generally 50%-100%
- Wagering: Typically 40x+
- Benefits: Higher max bets, longer duration
- Extras: May include personal VIP support
- Suited For: Experienced players with larger bankrolls
Often requires no wagering to participate, but winnings may come as bonus credits.
- Format: Daily/weekly leaderboards
- Winnings: May have set withdrawal limits
- Engagement: Encourages competition with tangible rewards
- Eligibility: Check game eligibility rules
Bonus Types & Typical Wagering
Bonus Type | Typical Wagering | Best For |
---|---|---|
Welcome Bonus | 30x-40x bonus/total | New players, high value |
No Deposit Bonus | 40x-60x bonus/winnings | Free testing, low risk |
Free Spins | 20x-50x winnings | Casual players, short-termers |
Reload Bonus | 30x-40x bonus | Returning users |
Cashback | 0x (or 5x-10x) | Risk reduction, loyalty |
High Roller Bonus | 40x+ bonus | VIPs, experienced players |
Tournaments | Varies (or 0x) | Competitive, skilled players |
What Makes Wagering Conditions Fair?
Some bonuses are easier to clear than others — and that’s okay. A fair offer gives you reasonable time, clear rules, and realistic wagering terms. Others may be harder to complete, especially if you're a casual player. Here’s a comparison to help you decide what suits your playstyle.
- Wagering requirement of 30x or less
- Time limit of at least 7–14 days
- Most games (esp. slots) contribute 100%
- No max win cap on standard deposit bonuses
- Max bet limit is clear and reasonable (e.g., $5-$10)
- All popular payment methods are accepted
- Wagering over 50x with a short time limit
- Time limit of less than 5 days
- Free spins winnings capped at $50 or less
- High wagering but low contribution rate on preferred games
- Max bet below $2/spin
- Exclusions on common deposit methods like Neteller or Skrill
Real-World Wagering Scenarios
Wagering requirements aren’t just about numbers — they shape how you play, what you can win, and whether you’ll walk away with a payout. Below are practical examples that show how these rules affect real casino sessions.
Scenario 1: Mixed Game Contribution
Imagine you’re playing with a $100 bonus that needs to be wagered 30 times. Here’s how choosing the right games can impact your progress:
Game Type | Amount Bet | Contribution Rate | Amount Counted |
---|---|---|---|
Slots | $1,000 | 100% | $1,000 |
Blackjack | $2,000 | 10% | $200 |
Roulette | $1,500 | 20% | $300 |
Total | $4,500 | — | $1,500 |
Scenario 2: Max Bet Violation
You received a $200 bonus with 30x wagering and unknowingly exceeded the bet limit.
Rule | Condition |
---|---|
Wagering Requirement | 30x bonus = $6,000 |
Max Bet | $5 per spin |
Your Bet | $10 (over limit) |
Outcome | Bonus & winnings voided |
Scenario 3: Deadline Missed
You tried to clear $20,000 in wagering over 7 days but fell short.
Bonus Winnings | Wagering | Time Limit | Daily Target | Actual Progress |
---|---|---|---|---|
$500 | 40x = $20,000 | 7 days | ~$2,857/day | $10,500 wagered total |
Scenario 4: Smaller Bonus with Easier Terms
Comparing two bonus offers — the smaller one turns out to be smarter.
Bonus | Wagering | Total Required | Time Limit | Outcome |
---|---|---|---|---|
$500 | 50x | $25,000 | 7 days | Unfinished |
$200 | 20x | $4,000 | 14 days | Cleared & cashed |
How to Clear Wagering Faster (Tips That Actually Work)
Clearing wagering requirements takes planning, not luck. These tips can help you unlock bonuses faster, avoid mistakes, and keep your bankroll from burning out before the playthrough is done.
-
Start Soon
Take advantage of your first session. You're focused, excited, and likely to play naturally. Wagering feels easier right after activation — so get a strong start before the clock runs out.
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Stick to Slots
Most slots count fully toward wagering. Other games like live casino or video poker often count less (or not at all). Stick to high-contribution slots until the bonus is cleared.
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Space Out Your Bets
Don't try to clear the bonus in 5 spins. Budget your bets to stretch over multiple sessions. Example: $500 in bets with $2 spins = 250 rounds, more chances to win + easier bankroll control.
-
Track Your Progress
Many casinos don't show wagering progress clearly. Use a smartphone note or calculator to track how much you've bet — especially if you stop mid-session and return later.
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Watch the timer — don’t cut it close
If your bonus expires in 7 days and you only play twice, you're forced to rush or lose everything. Space your play out and set calendar reminders if needed.
Tip: Games with a higher RTP return more over time, helping you maintain balance through extended play.
Common Wagering Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a good strategy, a few simple missteps can wipe out your bonus or your winnings. These are the most common errors players make:
Mistake | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Going over the max bet limit | Can lead to immediate bonus cancellation, even if the bet won big |
Starting too late | Tight time limits mean rushed gameplay or missed wagering goals |
Playing excluded or low-contribution games | Bets may not count at all toward wagering |
Using unsupported deposit methods | Your bonus won’t trigger if you deposit with Skrill, Neteller, or others |
Not tracking wagering manually | Casinos don’t always show progress clearly — manual tracking keeps you on pace |
Tip: Always double-check bonus terms before you play — especially max bet limits, game exclusions, and the deadline.
Conclusion
Understanding wagering requirements is your ticket to getting the most from casino bonuses, whether you’re spinning slots, betting on roulette, or enjoying live games. Grasping these essentials will guide you toward smarter, more rewarding gaming choices.
Aim for bonuses with low wagering—around 20x to 30x—and generous time limits to ensure a favorable gaming experience. This will help you maximize benefits while minimizing risk.
As you explore options, prioritize responsible gambling. Choose trustworthy casinos and understand all terms before playing to safeguard your experience and enhance your enjoyment.
Casinos with Fair Wagering Terms
Now that you know how wagering works and how to spot fair terms, here are the most reputable casino sites offering bonuses that are actually worth claiming.
Wagering Requirements FAQs
Wagering requirements indicate how often you must bet your bonus (or free spin winnings) before cashing out. For instance, a $100 bonus with a 30x requirement means wagering $3,000 total. Grasping casino wagering rules aids in planning your betting strategy effectively.
Bonus turnover, also known as wagering requirement or playthrough requirement, is the total amount you must bet to convert bonus funds into withdrawable money. It's a core aspect of managing a casino bonus turnover effectively.
To do a casino turnover calculation, multiply the wagering rate by the bonus amount or the total of your deposit + bonus. For example: 30x on a $100 bonus equals $3,000. If it’s 30x total on a $200 deposit + bonus, you’ll need $6,000 in bets.
Yes, in most cases. If you win $10 from free spins and the wagering is 25x, you’ll need to wager $250 before you can withdraw. Always check what is involved in turnover in casino winnings — some casinos also cap max wins.
Slots usually count 100%, making them optimal for meeting requirements. Table games, jackpots, and some live casino formats often count much less or not at all. Understanding which games contribute to turnover in casino contexts is essential.
Because most casinos require you to meet wagering requirements before funds are unlocked, they do this to avoid bonus abuse and ensure fair play. Until then, the bonus money is “in play,” not withdrawable.
You’ll lose your bonus and possibly any winnings tied to it. Some casinos remove both immediately after the deadline. Always track your deadline—it’s usually between 7 and 30 days.
Yes! Some casinos offer no-wager cashback or free spins, in which winnings are paid in real money. These are rare but beneficial if you're looking to play without concerns about turnover requirements.
Usually right in the casino’s bonus terms (T&Cs). Look for phrases like “wagering,” “turnover,” or “playthrough.” If you don’t see it, don’t trust the bonus.
How we keep our content up to date:
As soon as figures, data or facts change, our team of crypto and casino experts adjusts the articles. Here you can see the editing history of this article.
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May 2, 2025
Improved existing sections to simplify wagering requirements, with clearer language, real examples, and improved mobile usability.
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January 29, 2025
Additional information in content, rephrasing sections, and adding new elements for user guidance and usability purposes.