Wagering requirement

A wagering requirement (also called a playthrough or rollover) is the condition attached to most casino bonuses. It is written as a multiple, such as 35x, and applies to the bonus, the deposit plus bonus, or winnings from free spins, depending on the terms.

Why it matters

The multiple decides whether a bonus is realistically worth anything. Because every bet carries a house edge, the more you are required to wager, the more of the bonus you are expected to lose before you finish.

Worked example

You deposit $100 and receive a $100 bonus with 35x wagering on the bonus only. You must place $3,500 in bets before withdrawing. On a slot with a 4% house edge, the expected loss over $3,500 of bets is about $140, which is more than the bonus. The same bonus at 10x would require $1,000 of bets and an expected loss of about $40.

What to check

• Whether the multiple applies to the bonus alone or to deposit plus bonus.
• Which games count, and at what percentage (see game weighting).

Our wagering calculator works out the total you need to bet and the expected cost.

• The time limit, maximum bet while wagering, and any maximum cashout.