How wagering requirements work, how to calculate them, and why bonus winnings may stay locked until playthrough is complete.
What Are Wagering Requirements?
A wagering requirement (also called “playthrough”) is the amount you must bet before bonus-linked funds become withdrawable. It is the rule that separates a promotional balance from cash you can withdraw.
How to Calculate
Formula: Bonus Amount × Wagering Multiplier = Amount You Must Wager
Example:
- You deposit $100 and receive a 100% matched bonus of $100
- The wagering requirement is 35x
- You must wager: $100 × 35 = $3,500 before withdrawing bonus winnings
Note: Some casinos apply the wagering requirement to the bonus only, while others apply it to the bonus + deposit combined. That difference can double the required playthrough.
Wagering Requirement Ratings
| Multiplier | Rating | Final Thoughts |
|---|---|---|
| 1x-20x | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low by casino bonus standards |
| 21x-35x | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Common and more realistic for casual play |
| 36x-45x | ⭐⭐⭐ | Requires careful bankroll and time management |
| 46x-60x | ⭐⭐ | Difficult for most players |
| 60x+ | ⭐ | Very restrictive; read every term before claiming |
Game Contributions
Not all games contribute equally toward meeting wagering requirements:
| Game Type | Typical Contribution |
|---|---|
| Slots | 100% |
| Scratch Cards | 100% |
| Blackjack | 10-20% |
| Roulette | 10-20% |
| Video Poker | 10-15% |
| Live Dealer | 5-10% |
| Baccarat | 5% |
This means if you play blackjack with a $100 bonus at 10% contribution, you’d need to wager $35,000 instead of $3,500 to clear a 35x requirement.
How to Read Wagering Terms
- Check eligible games - slots often count more than table games
- Check the expiry window - many bonuses expire after 7-30 days
- Check max bet limits - one oversized bet can void winnings
- Check max cashout - some bonuses cap how much you can withdraw
- Know whether you can refuse the bonus - a plain deposit may be simpler if the rules are too restrictive