What Are Wagering Requirements?
A wagering requirement (sometimes called a playthrough requirement) is the number of times you must bet your bonus amount — or your bonus plus deposit — before you're allowed to withdraw any winnings generated from it. It's the single most important figure to understand when evaluating any casino bonus.
How to Calculate Wagering Requirements
The maths is straightforward once you know the formula:
Amount to wager = Bonus amount × Wagering multiplier
For example:
- You receive a €100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement.
- You must wager €100 × 30 = €3,000 before you can withdraw.
Some casinos apply the requirement to both the deposit and the bonus. So if you deposit €100 and receive a €100 bonus with 30x on both:
- Total to wager = (€100 + €100) × 30 = €6,000
Always check whether the multiplier applies to the bonus only or to deposit + bonus combined.
What Is a Reasonable Wagering Requirement?
There's no universal standard, but here's a general guide:
| Wagering Multiplier | Assessment |
|---|---|
| 10x – 20x | Excellent — very player-friendly |
| 20x – 35x | Fair — industry average |
| 35x – 50x | High — proceed with caution |
| 50x+ | Very high — often not worth claiming |
Game Contribution Rates
Not all games contribute equally toward clearing a wagering requirement. Most casinos apply a contribution percentage by game type:
- Slots: Typically 100% contribution
- Roulette: Often 10–25% contribution
- Blackjack: Often 10% or excluded entirely
- Live casino games: Varies widely, often 10–20%
- Excluded games: Some games don't contribute at all
This means if you prefer table games, a slot-focused bonus with heavy contribution restrictions may be much harder to clear than it appears.
Time Limits
Bonuses almost always have an expiry window — commonly 7, 14, or 30 days from the moment you claim the offer. If you don't meet the wagering requirement within that time, the bonus and any winnings from it are forfeited. Make sure the time limit is realistic given the amount you'd need to wager.
Maximum Bet Restrictions
While using a bonus, most casinos cap your maximum bet per spin or hand — typically at €5 or less. Exceeding this limit, even accidentally, can void your bonus and associated winnings. Set your bet size carefully and re-read this term before playing.
Free Spins Wagering
Free spins bonuses work similarly. Any winnings generated from your free spins are credited as bonus money, subject to their own wagering requirement. A common structure might be: 50 free spins, winnings subject to 40x wagering. Always calculate what that means in real terms before getting excited about the headline number.
Tips for Approaching Casino Bonuses Wisely
- Read the full terms before claiming — not just the headline offer.
- Calculate the total amount you'd need to wager in absolute euros, not just the multiplier.
- Check game contribution rates, especially if you don't primarily play slots.
- Note the expiry date and honestly assess whether you'll meet the requirement in time.
- Consider whether the bonus genuinely adds value or creates more complexity and pressure.
The Bottom Line
Bonuses can offer real value, but only when you understand what they require. An attractive headline offer with a 60x wagering requirement and a 7-day deadline is rarely as good as it looks. Approach every promotion with clear eyes and a calculator.