Stay Ahead of The Game | Master Online Casino Bonuses with These Must-Know Terms for 2023

By Andrew Cooper
Author

Fact Checked Jeffrey Hill
Reviewer
Updated At: Oct 10, 2023, 11:13 am
Created At: Oct 10, 2023, 11:12 am
Editorial Note:
We may receive commission from partner links reviewed by Casino Genius. Our editors' opinions and findings remain impartial, as they individually are not compensated by our partners.
1
Caesars

Or Read Our Caesars Review
Up to $550 in total bonuses
$650,000
1000+
97.65%
2
BetMGM

Or Read Our BetMGM Review
Up to $1,025 in total bonuses
$3,000,000
2551+
95.73%
3
Fanduel

Or Read Our Fanduel Review
Up to $1,020 in total bonuses
$500,000
400+
96.27%
DraftKings

Up to $2,100 in total bonuses
$600,000
Why We Picked It
- Superb Online Casino Product from a Fantasy Sports giant
Pros & Cons
- Regular Promotions and Offers
- High $2000 Deposit Bonus for New Players
- Exclusive DraftKings Slots
- No Live Chat 24/7
- Some offers have High Wagering Requirements
Betrivers

Up to $200 in total bonuses
$60,000
Why We Picked It
- Extension of the BetRivers Casino brand online
Pros & Cons
- Land-Based Casino Deposit at Cage
- Very low wagering on Welcome Bonus
- Large slot selection
- Cryptocurrency not offered as a payment method
- Website a bit out-of-date
- Not an extensive Table Game selection
Jackpot City

Up to $1,600 in total bonuses
$5,000,000
Why We Picked It
- Powerful Evolution Gaming and Games Global partnership
Pros & Cons
- Partnered with powerhouse Microgaming
- Multiple Deposit Bonus offers
- Excellent Live Casino games
- Outstanding selection of over 1000 slots
- No Cryptocurrency options
- No telephone Customer Support
- High Wagering on Bonuses
Betway

Up to $1,000 in total bonuses
$300,000
Why We Picked It
- Betway Casino is a safe bet
Pros & Cons
- Top Mobile APP
- 400+ Slots
- Excellent Customer Support
- Very reputable 20-years in the iGaming business
- High Wagering Requirement on Welcome Bonus
- No Cryptocurrency deposit or withdrawal options
- Limited banking options
Unibet

Up to $1,000 in total bonuses
$14,500,000
Why We Picked It
- Setting out on the right gaming path
Pros & Cons
- Huge library of games
- Very reputable brand
- Top customer service
- Too many hoops for verification
- Not a great Loyalty Scheme
- Not crypto-friendly
Borgata

Up to $1,000 in total bonuses
$500,000
Why We Picked It
- Borgata lives up to its reputation
Pros & Cons
- Nice Game Selection
- $1000 First Deposit Bonus
- MGM Loyalty Benefits
- Not many big progressive jackpots
- No Mobile APP
- No Instant Withdrawals
Slotland

Up to $1,200 in total bonuses
$300,000
Why We Picked It
- Slotland Casino: Self-Styled Slots or Missed Opportunities?
Pros & Cons
- No Withdrawal Limits on most methods
- Rewarded on first 10 deposits
- Cryptocurrency Friendly
- Weekly Giveaways
- No Live Casino
- Zero roulette or blackjack
- No major game suppliers
- Very limited slots selection
Harrahs

Up to $800 in total bonuses
$50,000
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
- Good slot selection
- Low wagering on bonuses
- Reputable brand
- No Live Casino
- Lack of roulette and blackjack games
- Outdated casino website
Betonline

Up to $4,300 in total bonuses
$70,000
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
- Good range of Promotions
- Top Slots from NetEnt and BetSoft
- Caters to High Rollers
- Not any big progressive jackpots
Introduction To Online Casino Bonus Terms
Bonuses are incentives offered by casinos to attract players and keep them engaged. These bonuses come in various forms, such as free spins, matches, or even no-deposit bonuses.
While they sound enticing, understanding the terms and conditions attached to these bonuses is key. That's where this glossary steps in. Whether you're new to online casinos or a seasoned player, this glossary will help you easily navigate the world of bonuses.
Glossary: Key Bonus Concepts
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Wagering Requirements | The number of times you must bet a bonus amount before withdrawing winnings. |
Bonus Code | A unique code to activate a specific bonus offer. |
Free Spins | Complimentary spins on slot games, often with set wagering requirements. |
Match Bonus | A bonus where the casino matches a percentage of your deposit. |
No Deposit Bonus | A bonus that doesn't require a deposit to claim. |
Reload Bonus | A bonus for existing players making additional deposits. |
Sticky Bonus | A non-cashable bonus that can be used for wagering but not withdrawn. |
Maximum Bet Limit | The maximum amount you can wager per bet while using a bonus. |
Game Contribution | The percentage of bets on specific games that count toward wagering requirements. |
Cashout Limit | The maximum amount you can withdraw from bonus winnings. |
Expiry Date | The date by which a bonus must be claimed and used. |
Wagering Requirements
Understanding the requirements of Wagering is the fine print of casino bonuses, which is key for any player. These requirements represent the number of times you must wager your bonus amount (sometimes combined with the deposit) before you can withdraw any winnings.
For instance, if you receive a $100 bonus with a 20x wagering requirement, you'd need to wager a total value of $2,000 ($100 x 20) before receiving a payout. It's essential to note that not all games contribute equally to wagering requirements. Slots often contribute 100%, while table games might contribute less or nothing. To meet wagering requirements efficiently, focus on games that contribute the most.
Gambling Bonus Codes
Bonus codes are like secret keys that unlock exclusive rewards and offers at online casinos. These codes are typically a combination of letters and numbers, and they can be found on the casino's website, in promotional emails, or on affiliated websites. To use a bonus code, you simply enter it in a designated field during the deposit or registration process.
It's like entering a special code to access a hidden treasure chest in a video game. Some bonus codes are time-sensitive, meaning they are only valid for a limited period. Others are exclusive and available only to players who use specific links or codes.
Betting Limits
Betting limits are like guardrails that ensure a safe and enjoyable casino experience for players and casinos alike. They represent the minimum and maximum amounts you can wager on casino games while using a bonus. For instance, if a bonus has a maximum bet limit of $5, you cannot wager more than $5 per bet when using the bonus funds.
These limits are in place to prevent players from taking excessive risks or abusing bonuses by placing large bets. Staying within these limits is important to avoid the risk of forfeiting your bonus and potential winnings.
Restricted Games and More
Restricted games are essential to bonus terms designed to prevent bonus abuse at online casinos. These games usually have a high Return to Player (RTP) rate, making it too easy for players to meet wagering requirements and potentially exploit the bonus.
Using your bonus funds to play restricted games can lead to your bonus being voided. To determine which games are restricted, refer to the casino's terms and conditions or the specific bonus terms.
Game Contributions
Game contributions are like a sliding scale of fairness in casino bonuses. Some games contribute more to meeting wagering requirements than others. This means that when you play certain games, they count less towards fulfilling the requirements.
For instance, slots might contribute 100%, meaning every dollar you wager counts as a full dollar towards the requirements. However, table games like blackjack might contribute only 10%, so each dollar wagered counts as only $0.10.
Expiry Dates
Expiry dates are like the ticking clocks in online casino bonuses. They represent the deadline you must use or complete the bonus offer. If you fail to do so, the bonus and any associated winnings may vanish.
These dates vary from one bonus to another, ranging from a few hours to several weeks or months. Keeping track of these expiry dates is necessary. You can do this by marking them on your calendar or setting reminders on your phone.
Cashable Bonuses
Cashable bonuses are the golden tickets of the online casino world. These payouts allow you to withdraw your winnings and the bonus amount after you've met the specified wagering requirements. It's like winning a prize and being able to take both the prize and your initial investment home!
Non-Cashable Bonuses
These bonuses are also known as “sticky” or “phantom” bonuses, intended solely for wagering purposes. While you can use them to place bets and potentially win, you cannot withdraw the bonus amount.
It's like having a free token to play at the casino; any winnings you collect are yours to keep. These bonuses are designed to enhance your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning, but they remain with the casino.
Cash Out Limits
Cash-out limits are like the safety nets that prevent casinos from taking too big a risk. These limits specify the maximum amount players can withdraw from their casino accounts within a given timeframe.
For example, a casino might have a daily cash-out limit of $5,000, meaning you can get a payout of up to $5,000 in winnings in a single day. These limits help manage the casino's financial liability and ensure fair play among all players.
Why It'S Important To Understand Casino Bonus Terms
Casino bonus terms are like the instruction manual for a game, providing key rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Understanding these terms is vital for five reasons:
Prevent Misunderstandings
Clear comprehension of bonus terms safeguards against misunderstandings and disputes between players and online casinos. Think of it as knowing the rules of a sport before you play; it prevents unnecessary fouls and penalties. Players may unintentionally violate terms without a proper understanding and risk losing their bonuses and winnings.
Optimize Bonus Benefits
Knowing bonus terms enables players to make the most of their casino bonuses and enhance their gaming journey. It's similar to having a roadmap for a treasure hunt.
When players understand the conditions, they can strategize accordingly to meet requirements efficiently. This might involve choosing games with high contribution percentages or calculating bets to clear wagering faster.
Ensure Fair Play
Bonus terms are the guardians of fairness in the online casino world and ensure a fair online casino environment. They serve as a deterrent against bonus abuse and unethical behavior, akin to referees in a sports match.
These terms prevent players from exploiting bonuses by setting clear boundaries and guidelines. In essence, comprehending bonus terms ensures that everyone plays by the rules, creating a level playing field in online casinos.
Protect Your Bankroll
Understanding casino bonus terms is crucial in protecting your bankroll when you engage in online gambling. These terms are like the rules of a game, and not knowing them is similar to playing blindfolded. Ignorance of bonus terms can lead to unexpected losses and financial risks.
For instance, wagering requirements dictate how much you must bet before you can withdraw your bonus and winnings. Not grasping this concept can result in premature withdrawal attempts, leading to the forfeiture of your bonus funds and the associated winnings. This situation is similar to unknowingly entering a race with hurdles; you might stumble and lose valuable resources.
Stay Informed and Responsible
Staying informed about bonus terms is essential for responsible gaming in the online casino world. Think of it as keeping up with the latest rules in your favorite sport – not knowing can lead to disqualification or penalties.
When you're well-informed, you're better equipped to make informed decisions. Moreover, the online casino landscape is dynamic, with rules and regulations occasionally changing. Staying up to date with bonus terms ensures you're aware of any developments or modifications.
Most Misunderstood Bonus Terms And Offers
Online casino bonus terms can sometimes resemble a complex puzzle, with some pieces harder to fit than others. Among these terms, the two most commonly misunderstood are wagering requirements and minimum bet limits.
Wagering Requirements
Wagering requirements, often called playthrough or rollover requirements, are like the fine print of a bonus offer. They stipulate how much you must bet before withdrawing any bonus-related winnings. These requirements are put in place to prevent players from simply pocketing bonus funds without engaging in the games.
However, these requirements can be quite confusing. They are expressed as a multiple of the bonus or the plus deposit amount. For example, if you have a $100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you need to wager $3,000 before you can cash out any winnings.
Minimum Bet Limits
Minimum bet limits are another term that players might misinterpret. These limits set the minimum amount you must wager on a single bet while using your bonus funds. They are typically in place to ensure that players don't place extremely small bets, essentially trying to exploit the bonus without engaging in substantial gameplay.
The misunderstanding often arises when players assume they can bet any amount they desire. They might disregard the minimum bet limit, thinking it doesn't apply to them. However, breaching these limits can result in the voiding of bonus funds and winnings.
Get The Most Out Of Casino Games And Available Promotions
In online casinos, bonuses bring excitement and opportunities but carry crucial terms. Our exploration of these bonus terms highlights their significance. Understanding these terms safeguards your bankroll and optimizes benefits, preventing misunderstandings and ensuring fair play.
Ignoring them risks losses, so stay informed about changes. Our Bonus Glossary is a valuable guide with clear definitions for quick reference. In conclusion, grasp bonus terms to enhance gaming, protect your bankroll, and enjoy online casinos responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find and use online casino bonus codes effectively?
Check the casino's official website or promotions page to find and use online casino bonus codes effectively. Some codes are exclusive and can be found on affiliate websites or promotional emails.
Once you have a valid code, log in to your casino account and navigate to the bonus or cashier section. There, you can enter the code to claim your bonus. Read and understand the terms and conditions associated with the bonus before using it.
What are the wagering requirements for bonuses?
Wagering requirements specify how much you need to bet or wager before you can withdraw any winnings associated with a bonus.
These requirements are usually expressed as a multiplier, such as 20x or 30x, indicating the multiple of the bonus amount that must be wagered. For example, with a 20x wagering requirement on a $100 bonus, you would need to wager $2,000 before cashing out any winnings.
Are there any online casinos with no wagering requirements on their bonuses?
Some online casinos offer bonuses with no wagering requirements, commonly known as "wager-free" bonuses. These are less common but provide a straightforward way to withdraw winnings without meeting specific playthrough conditions.
Keep an eye out for casinos that advertise wager-free bonuses, as they can be a great way to enjoy your winnings without additional obligations.
What is a 20x wagering requirement?
A 20x wagering requirement means that you must wager a total amount equal to 20 times the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings associated with that bonus.
For instance, if you receive a $50 bonus with a 20x wagering requirement, you must place bets totaling $1,000 ($50 multiplied by 20) before you can cash out your bonus-related winnings. Understanding the specific wagering requirements of each bonus you claim to manage your gameplay effectively is essential.