Wagering requirements explained
A wagering requirement is a multiplier on a bonus — 35× on $100 means $3,500 in bets before you can withdraw. Here's what that really costs, worked through with real numbers.
A wagering requirement is the single most important number in any bonus. This guide works the math with real figures so you can judge any offer yourself.
What it means
A wagering requirement (or “playthrough”) is a multiplier. 35× on a $100 bonus means you must place $3,500 in bets before the bonus — and often your winnings from it — can be withdrawn.
What it actually costs
Betting isn’t free. Every wager loses a little to the house edge. The expected cost of clearing a bonus is roughly:
wagering total × (1 − game RTP)
So $3,500 of wagering on a 96% RTP slot costs, on average, about $140 to clear.
A worked example
| Bonus A | Bonus B | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus amount | $100 | $100 |
| Wagering | 35× | 40× |
| Applies to | Bonus only | Deposit + bonus |
| Bets required | $3,500 | $8,000 |
| Expected cost (96% RTP) | ~$140 | ~$320 |
Same-looking headline. Very different cost. Always check the multiplier and what it applies to.
Watch “no wagering” claims
A bonus advertised as wager-free can still carry catches: a maximum cash-out cap, or a short list of eligible games. Genuine no-wagering offers exist, but read for those two things before assuming winnings are cash.
The takeaway
A big bonus with heavy wagering can cost more to clear than it’s worth. A small bonus — or a genuinely wager-free one — often beats it. Do the math before you opt in.
For the rest of the fine print, see how to read casino bonus terms.