Table of Contents
- How We Define an Online Casino Bonus
- How to Choose the Best Casino Bonuses
- Different Kinds of Bonuses and Promotions at Online Casinos
- Online Casino Bonus Terms and Conditions
- Some Other Terms and Conditions
- How to Get the Latest Bonus Offers
- Tips to Get the Most Out Of Online Casino Bonuses
- Are Casino Bonuses Worth It?
- Online Casino Bonuses FAQ
How We Define an Online Casino Bonus
An online casino bonus is free site credit that casinos offer players, and which allows you to play games for free or to get more value out of your bankroll. Bonuses are a common promotional tool used by online casinos, and the goal is to attract new players and retain existing ones. Bonuses come in various forms. They either provide players with bonus money or extra opportunities to play.
How to Choose the Best Casino Bonuses
Choosing an online casino to play at depends on a lot of factors, like the selection and quality of games, payment methods, and usability. However, bonuses are undeniably the magnet that breaks the ice for most players.
Online casinos are much more popular than their land-based counterparts because of the range of bonuses they offer. Everyone wants to get the best bonus deals, but how exactly do you ensure that? Our expert insight for you is that the best casino bonuses are more than just the face value. Here’s our list of criteria for identifying top-of-the-class online bonuses:
Casino’s Integrity
Legit bonus deals are only available at legit casinos. A seemingly valuable bonus can leave a sour taste in the mouth if the casino offering it is not licensed and safe. Casinos that accept UK players must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. You need to make sure a casino is licensed before you even consider the bonuses.
Low Wagering Requirements
The best bonuses are those that offer a fair chance of you actually redeeming them. Unreasonably high wagering requirements can prevent you from unlocking the bonus, so the lower, the easier for you to claim.
Other Bonus Terms and Conditions
There’s a full document highlighting the terms and conditions of bonuses on every casino site, so make sure to read it through and understand what rules are attached to the deal. You can lose out on your bonus if you miss just one requirement, so you should ensure that all the terms are attainable for you.
Amount of Bonus Offered
Where all other factors remain equal, it’s only logical to go for the larger offer. Casinos decide the amount and tangible value of all bonuses and promotions they offer, and some are more generous than others.
Different Kinds of Bonuses and Promotions at Online Casinos
Online casinos are versatile in many aspects, including bonuses. There are a great many different kinds of bonuses you can encounter at online casinos that accept UK players. Each one will allow you to get free money, free play credits, or some other perk. One thing these bonuses have in common is that they allow you to turn nothing into something.
Welcome Bonus
Welcome bonuses are often listed as a type of bonus, hence their inclusion here. However, the broad spectrum of bonus types can be a welcome bonus. A welcome bonus is an umbrella term for any deal that is offered to new players at a casino. So, any bonus that you can claim as a new player is a welcome bonus, regardless of whether it is labelled as such. Sometimes, a welcome bonus deal combines multiple bonuses in one, e.g., a deposit match plus free spins.
Deposit Bonus
These are the largest and most common casino bonuses. A deposit bonus is one that you receive after making a deposit. Often, casinos will offer new players a deposit bonus match offer that awards bonus money based on the amount they’ve funded their accounts with. A 100% deposit bonus match up to £1000 is a standard example. This means with a £10 deposit, you receive an extra £10 in bonuses. Deposit the max £1000, and you receive an extra £1000, making £2000 of gaming funds.
Free Spins
Free spins are one of the most beloved types of casino bonuses, frequently offered to both new and regular players. They allow you free chances to spin the reels on slot games and may be offered as a deposit bonus or a deposit bonus. Casinos often use free spins to promote new slot sites or to reward player loyalty.
No Deposit Bonus
A no deposit bonus is, without a doubt, the best way to try out new casinos. This bonus offers free credits or free cash at no risk, so you can play without spending any of your own money. This bonus is usually provided for new players right after registration.
Loyalty/VIP Bonuses
These bonuses are rewards provided to members of an online casino’s VIP club or loyalty program. Loyalty rewards usually allow all-inclusive membership, while a VIP scheme may be exclusively for high rollers. Whether it’s an all-inclusive or exclusive approach, the purpose is to reward players who consistently deposit and play at the casino. These offers are more lucrative than those regular players receive and can include perks such as:
- Higher match deposit bonuses
- Personalised gifts
- Access to exclusive tournaments
- Dedicated account managers, etc.
Cashback Bonus
These are some of the most common high roller bonuses at online casinos. Players who spend large sums will often get special rebates on their losses or on their total deposits in a time period. Cashback is also available for regular casino players, although percentages will be smaller.
Mobile Bonuses
Mobile bonuses are exclusive promotions offered to players who use a casino’s mobile app or mobile website. These aim to encourage more players to try out the casino’s mobile offerings. They can come in the form of free spins, no deposit bonuses, or bonus cash. Some casinos may offer enhanced deposit bonuses or cashback offers specifically for mobile users.
Game-Specific Bonuses
Game-specific bonuses are promotions targeted at specific games within the casino. For instance, a casino might offer bonus money to be used on a particular table game like blackjack or roulette, or free spins for a new slot game. These bonuses are a great way to encourage players to try different games and find new favourites while providing an extra chance to win.
Reload Bonus
The reload bonus is basically a deposit bonus for existing players. It’s about the best and easiest way to award regular players. The best online casino sites may offer reload bonus deals on a recurring basis – usually weekly or monthly. Reload match percentages tend to be lower than those offered to new players, part of the reason being that it’s a recurring bonus as opposed to the one-time deal new players get. A typical example is a 50% reload bonus up to £500.
Online Casino Bonus Terms and Conditions
Claiming free spins, bonus money or other rewards always comes with terms and conditions. Imagine that casinos gave out free money just like that. You could practically sign up just to collect and be on your way. However, in order to protect their interests, casinos apply several rules and restrictions to using these offers. These are the bonus terms and conditions.
The bonus conditions can affect how profitable the bonus will be. While some bonuses have stricter terms, others are more flexible. Fortunately, all the top sites nowadays make their T&Cs visible and transparent. So you simply have to go through it to learn all there is to know. Keep in mind that the terms of a bonus are just as important as a bonus itself. Failing to abide by the rules can make it more difficult to benefit from the bonus. In the worst case scenario, you may have to forfeit the bonus entirely.
We explain the most common bonus terms and conditions below:
Minimum Deposit
This is the lowest amount that players are required to deposit to qualify for a bonus or to start playing at an online casino. Online casinos set minimum deposit levels to be able to reach a wider audience of casual players, and these levels can vary widely between different casinos and bonuses. The most common minimum limits include the following:
Max Win/Max Cashout
The term Max Win refers to the maximum amount players can withdraw from winnings obtained through a casino bonus. Online casinos impose this limit to manage financial risk and prevent the potential of awarding disproportionately large wins from bonus play. Win caps are most common on free spins and no deposit bonuses.
Max Bet Sizes
The maximum bet condition in online casino terms refers to the highest wager allowed when playing with bonus funds. This rule is implemented to control bonus abuse and extend the gameplay involved in meeting wagering requirements. Players must adhere to this betting limit; surpassing it may result in the forfeiture of the bonus and any winnings. While it may restrict high rollers looking to bet big, max net limits help manage a player’s bankroll and encourage responsible gambling.
Game Restrictions
Game restrictions are specific limitations placed on casino bonuses that dictate where they can be used. Casinos often exclude certain games from bonus play, particularly those with higher payout rates or low house edge, like certain table games or specific slots. You should always review which games are eligible to ensure you can use their bonus on preferred games and to avoid any voided winnings due to playing restricted games.
Time Limits/Expiry Date
Time limits on casino bonuses set a deadline by which players must use the bonus and fulfil any associated conditions, like wagering requirements. This can range from a few days to several months. If you don’t meet these conditions within the stipulated time frame, the remaining bonus and any winnings derived from it may be forfeited.
Game Contribution Percentages
Contribution percentages refer to the rate at which different casino games count towards meeting the wagering requirements of a bonus. Not all games contribute equally. Typically, slots contribute 100%, meaning every bet counts toward the requirement, while table games like blackjack might contribute only 50%, sometimes as low as 10%. This is because games with a low house edge offer a higher chance of player profit, making it riskier for casinos.
Players should check these percentages to strategize their play. Generally, you’re safe if you stick with slots. Focusing on games with higher contribution rates can also help fulfil wagering requirements more efficiently and enhance the overall value of the bonus.
Payment Method Restrictions
Payment method restrictions in online casinos specify which deposit methods are eligible for claiming a bonus. E-wallets like Skrill or Neteller are commonly excluded due to their association with bonus abuse. Players must use accepted payment methods to qualify for bonuses. Selecting a non-qualifying payment method can result in bonus forfeiture.
Wagering Requirement
A wagering requirement is the number of times you must play through a bonus amount before being allowed to withdraw the bonus or any winnings accrued from it. This is the most common bonus conditions set by online casinos. You’ll find them attached to every deal except the so-called no wagering bonuses.
How Do Wagering Requirements Work?
Wagering requirements are essentially a multiplier that applies to bonus money. Let’s take a typical example to explain how this bonus condition works.
Suppose you join a casino offering a 100% bonus of up to £100 with a 20x wagering requirement.
- If you receive a £100 bonus, this means you must make bets totalling (£100 X 20) £2000 before withdrawing.
- Sometimes, the wagering will apply to the bonus plus the deposit amount. The wagering requirement in this case would be ((£100 + £100) x 20) = £4000.
- For free spins, wagering applies only to the winnings won from the freebies.
Wagering requirements are crucial to claiming your bonus winnings. Basically, your bonus and any money earned from it is locked in your bonus balance. Completing the playthrough requirement will allow the bonus funds to be released into your real money balance from where you can withdraw.
The drawback is that these requirements can sometimes be set very high, making it challenging to meet them and actually cash out any winnings. High wagering requirements can turn an attractive bonus into a tedious task, as players may feel they’re spinning their wheels without the ability to cash out. It’s crucial for players to look for bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements, ensuring a fair chance to benefit from the bonus received.
Some Other Terms and Conditions
- New Players Only: Some bonuses are reserved for new players only as a part of welcome offers.
- One Bonus at a Time: Casinos often stipulate that players may have only one active bonus at a time.
- Bonus Codes: Some bonuses require a code to be entered during the deposit process.
- Country Restrictions: Due to differing gambling laws, some bonuses may not be available to players from certain countries.
- Withdrawal Conditions: Withdrawals may be subject to additional verification or conditions once bonus money is involved.
How to Get the Latest Bonus Offers
Securing the latest bonus offers is a straightforward process at most casinos. You simply have to sign up to take advantage of the newest and most exciting deals. Here’s how you can go about it:
- Select a Casino – Start by selecting an online casino that is reputable and offers generous bonuses. We advise you to pick from our list of top-rated sites.
- Create an Account – Once you’ve chosen a casino, head to the website and register for a new account. You will need to provide some personal information and complete the verification process.
- Opt-In for Bonuses – During the sign-up process, make sure to opt in for welcome bonuses. Some sites may need you to enter a promo code, which can usually be found on their homepage or under the promotions section. We often have exclusive codes here at Casinos.win too.
- Make a Qualifying Deposit – Check what the minimum deposit is to qualify for the bonus and make your deposit. Remember to use a payment method that is eligible for the bonus offer.
- Check the Terms – Familiarise yourself with the bonus terms and conditions to ensure you fully understand how to claim and use the bonus.
- Claim the Bonus – After your deposit, the bonus should be credited to your account. If not, contact customer support for assistance.
Tips to Get the Most Out Of Online Casino Bonuses
To maximise the benefits of online casino bonuses, consider these tips:
- Read the Fine Print – Read and understand the terms and conditions to avoid surprises regarding wagering requirements or withdrawal limits.
- Choose Wisely – Select bonuses that offer the best value, such as low wagering requirements or high contribution rates for your preferred games.
- Keep Track of Time – Be mindful of any time constraints to ensure you use the bonus and meet the playthrough requirements before it expires.
- Bet Smart – Use strategies that stretch your bonus longer and increase your chances of winning. Play games with high RTP (Return to Player) where allowed.
- Loyalty Pays – Engage in loyalty programs where consistent play is rewarded with more advantageous bonuses and promotions.
- Stay Updated – Regularly check the casino’s promotions page and subscribe to newsletters to catch new and tailored bonus offers. Check with us here for the latest bonus codes.
Are Casino Bonuses Worth It?
Yes, casino bonuses are worth it because there’s just more value in playing your favourite games with free perks – whether it’s free spins or bonus money. Players sometimes have bad experiences with bonuses, but that’s usually because they don’t read the terms and conditions associated with each bonus to fully understand how they can be used and the requirements for cashing out their winnings.
Different bonuses may also be more suitable for your player preferences than others and, therefore, more beneficial to your gameplay. For instance, no deposit bonuses are great for recreational players who aren’t big on risks, while deposit bonuses are best for serious players thanks to larger or uncapped withdrawals and lower wagering requirements than free promotions.
Game-specific bonuses cater to those who favour a certain game over others. If you always visit the casino to play roulette, a roulette bonus will be more valuable to you than to another player who prefers playing slots. The great thing about the bonus landscape is that there’s something for everyone. The varied range of deals helps online casinos cater to different player preferences.
Online Casino Bonuses FAQ
Can I win real money with online casino bonuses in the UK?
Yes, it’s possible to win real money from online casino bonuses. However, you have to complete any wagering requirements first before your bonus winnings become withdrawable.
Can I get a casino bonus in the UK?
UK casinos have some of the best bonus offerings in the industry. Casinos offer everything from free spins to deposit bonuses, no deposit bonuses, cashback, loyalty programs, and more.
Can I really win from free spins?
Yes, you can. Free spins are casino credits for playing slots. Any successful spin using this bonus will award payouts according to the game’s paytable. These winnings will go to your bonus balance. After completing the wagering requirements, you can cash out to your bank account.
Are bonuses for new players only?
There are bonuses for everyone at the best online casino sites. The welcome bonus is the only kind reserved for new players, and no deposit deals are usually used to reward new registrations, too. All other bonuses may be available for existing players.
What’s the best kind of online casino bonus?
The best kind of online casino bonus is subjective and depends on player preferences. However, many consider no deposit bonuses to be highly favourable as they offer a chance to win real money without any personal financial risk. Others may prefer generous deposit bonuses or free spins. You’ll be able to get the best value with offers that have low wagering requirements.
What are the benefits of a casino bonus?
Casino online bonuses extend gameplay without additional personal investment, increase the chances of winning, offer opportunities to try new games risk-free and enhance the overall entertainment value by providing extra playing funds or free spins. They’re a significant advantage for both new and regular players in the online gaming experience.
Are there taxes on UK casino bonuses?
In the UK, gambling winnings, including casino bonuses, are generally not taxed as they are considered the result of good luck rather than income. Players can expect to get the full payout of any bonus and its winnings after completing the wagering conditions.