Wagering is the real price
Wagering requirement multiplied by bonus amount is the total you must bet before withdrawing bonus-derived winnings. A $200 bonus at 10x means $2,000 of qualifying bets. At 35x it means $7,000.
That number, not the headline, tells you what the offer costs in time and risk. An offer with a smaller headline and 1x wagering is usually worth more than a large one at 35x.
Maximum cashout caps the upside
A maximum cashout clause limits what you can withdraw from bonus winnings, regardless of how much you win. A 5x cap on a $100 bonus means $500, even if the slot pays $5,000.
The clause is usually buried under 'withdrawal conditions' rather than in the bonus summary. If you cannot find it, assume the worst and treat the bonus as entertainment rather than value.
Game contribution changes the maths
Slots usually contribute 100% toward wagering. Table games and live dealer often contribute 10% or less, and some games are excluded entirely. A requirement that takes two hours on slots can take twenty on blackjack.
If you mainly play table games, most deposit bonuses are a bad deal. Play without a bonus, or find an offer that explicitly includes your games at full contribution.
When to skip the offer
- Wagering above 30x, unless you play high-volume slots anyway.
- Maximum cashout below 5x the bonus amount.
- Expiry under seven days with a wagering requirement you cannot realistically clear.
- Game contribution under 25% for the games you actually play.
Sources
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