How to win back a bonus in an online casino: in plain language

Published: April 29, 2025

How to win back a bonus in an online casino: in plain language
Many online casino newcomers face tempting offers:
  • "100% deposit bonus," "50 freespins," "€20 without deposit."

But when the time comes to withdraw the winnings, it turns out that you need to win it back. What does it mean? How realistic is it to fulfill these conditions? Which vager is considered honest?

In this article, we will explain in detail:
  • What is Bonus Wagering
  • What is a wager
  • How to calculate the required amount of bets
  • What games help (or hinder) to fulfill the conditions
  • And how not to lose the bonus of stupidity

What does it mean to "win back the bonus"?

When a casino gives you a bonus (money or freespins), it does not allow you to withdraw it immediately. First, you have to bet a certain amount - this is called a wagering or wager.

Example in simple words:
  • You received a bonus of €100 with an x30 vager.
  • This means:
    • 100 × 30 = €3,000 - you have to bet €3,000 to withdraw money.

    It doesn't matter if you win or lose - it is the volume of bets that counts, not their result.

    How to calculate the bonus payout?

    Formula:
    • 'Bonus amount × wager = bet amount'

    There are two types of vager:
    • 1. Bonus only - applies only to the issued bonus
    • 2. Bonus + deposit - applies to the entire amount

    💡Example:
    Deposit: €100
    Bonus: €100
    Vager: x40 (for bonus + deposit)
    Then you need to play: (100 + 100) × 40 = €8000

    What are the best games to play?

    GameConsidered in the game?
    Video Slots100% (Typical)
    Live games5-10% (if allowed at all)
    Board games5-20%, often excluded
    JackpotsUsually not counted
    Sports BettingSpecial Offers Only
    Zero-risk gamesMay break rules

    💡Always read the list of exceptions - some casinos have a "black list" of slots that do not count towards the wagering!

    Step-by-step instructions: how to win back a bonus

    1. Explore bonus terms

    Vager (x20, x30, x50?)
    Maximum bid (often €5)
    Wagering time (e.g. 7 days)
    Which games count
    Are there limited countries

    2. Don't exceed the maximum bid

    Even if the casino allows you to bet €10 - with an active bonus, there may be a limit of €5. Violate - bonus and winnings can be canceled.

    3. Only play games that count

    Prefer video slots with high volatility and good RTP.

    4. Follow the progress of the game

    A good casino displays how much% you have already played.
    If not, keep records manually.

    5. Don't make a cashout until complete

    If you try to withdraw money before the full wagering, everything will burn out: both a bonus and a win.

    What to do with freespins?

    If you received freespins, then:
    • Making free spins first
    • Winning from them turns into "bonus funds"
    • They also need to be played according to the standard scheme (for example, x40 from winning)

    💡Example: got 50 freespins → won €12 → vager x30
    💡Bet 12 × 30 = €360

    Frequent wagering errors

    1. Max Bid Exceeded - Bonus Cancelled
    2. Games outside the rules - bets don't count
    3. Passivity - the playing time is out
    4. Output to End - Zero Balance
    5. Mixing deposits and bonuses - confusion over rules

    Is it possible to really win back the bonus?

    Yes, especially if:
    • Wager adequate (x20-x35)
    • Give a bonus without a deposit or + 100%
    • You choose slots with good RTP (96% +)
    • Play disciplined (not all-in, not chaotic)

    But remember: the bonus is not a guarantee of earnings, but the ability to test a casino with a chance of winning.

    Bonus without a wager - it happens?

    Yes I did! Some casinos offer:
    • No-play freespins (winnings immediately available)
    • Cashback without vager
    • Sign-up bonus that can be deducted after minimum bids

    Look for the note: "No Wagering Bonus," "No wagering," "Wager-Free"

    Conclusion

    It is possible to win back a bonus if:
    • Read the terms and conditions carefully
    • Choose the right games
    • Do not violate limits and rules
    • And remember that the bonus is not a gift, but a tool with conditions

    Use the bonuses smartly and they can be a great start or a nice plus to your tin.

    See also: "Tactics of minimal risk," "How to distinguish a fake casino," "Frispins and their types."

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