Wagering Requirements: The Math Behind Every Bonus

How the calculation works

If you claim a $100 bonus with 30x wagering on the bonus only, you must place $3,000 in qualifying wagers before the balance converts to withdrawable cash. If the terms say 30x deposit plus bonus and you deposited $100, the figure doubles to $6,000.

Always check which base the multiple applies to. It is the difference between a reasonable offer and a practically unclearable one.

Game weighting changes everything

Weighting decides how much each dollar wagered counts toward the requirement. Slots usually contribute 100%. Video poker and table games are often reduced to 10% or 20%, and live dealer games are sometimes excluded entirely.

At 10% weighting, that same $3,000 requirement becomes $30,000 in blackjack wagers. If you prefer table games, look for an operator that publishes table-friendly weighting rather than assuming the standard bonus fits your style.

A quick rule of thumb

• Under 15x on bonus only: strong, usually worth claiming.
• 15x to 30x: standard for the US market, fine if you play slots.
• Above 35x, or applied to deposit plus bonus: treat the bonus as entertainment credit, not expected value.
• Any offer with a cashout cap below the bonus amount: read twice before opting in.

When to decline the bonus

Most casinos let you opt out at deposit. If you plan to play table games, want to withdraw quickly, or intend to make a handful of larger bets, declining the bonus keeps your balance free of restrictions and maximum-bet rules.