Wagering (also called playthrough) is how many times a bonus value — or bonus plus deposit — must be staked before winnings turn into withdrawable cash. The maths aren't hard, but a small formula change — 35×B versus 35×(B+D) — can double or triple the amount you have to play. This guide walks through concrete examples, game weighting, bet caps and the red flags that mark a trap bonus.
Contents:
- 1. What wagering actually is
- 2. Worked example: €20 bonus × 35×
- 3. B or B+D — formulas that matter
- 4. Game weighting: why roulette is a trap
- 5. Bet cap and time limit
- 6. Red flags — when to skip the bonus
- 7. Frequently asked questions
1. What wagering actually is
Wagering or playthrough requirement means the bonus cash cannot be withdrawn until you've staked a specified multiple of its value. Terms read as "35×", "40×B" or "35×(B+D)". The point is to prevent players from cashing the bonus out immediately — the casino wants the bonus-linked play to happen first.
When does wagering start and end?
It starts the moment the bonus hits your account and ends once you've placed the required total in stakes. Most operators show a running bonus meter. If you don't clear wagering within the time window, the bonus and any winnings expire.
2. Worked example: €20 bonus × 35×
Suppose you receive a €20 bonus with 35× wagering. The basic maths:
- Total required stake: 20 × 35 = €700
- On slots (100 % weight), every €1 bet reduces the requirement by €1.
- Time limit is typically 7–30 days. €700 at €1 spins = 700 spins.
If the same bonus uses 35×(B+D) and your deposit is also €20, the playthrough jumps to (20+20) × 35 = €1,400 — twice as much.
3. B or B+D — formulas that matter
The two common formulas:
- 35×B: only the bonus value is wagered. Player-friendly — look for "bonus only" in the T&Cs.
- 35×(B+D): bonus plus deposit is wagered. Standard on large welcome offers — doubles the play.
Why B+D is much harder
Take a €100 deposit + €100 bonus (100 % match). At 35×B, wagering is 100 × 35 = €3,500. At 35×(B+D), it becomes (100+100) × 35 = €7,000. Same multiplier — double the work. This is the #1 source of the "big bonus trap".
4. Game weighting: why roulette is a trap
Game weighting tells you what percentage of a bet counts toward wagering. A typical weight map:
| Game type | Weight | €1 bet clears |
|---|---|---|
| Slots | 100 % | €1.00 |
| Video poker | 10–20 % | €0.10–€0.20 |
| Table games (blackjack, roulette) | 10 % | €0.10 |
| Live dealer | 5–10 % | €0.05–€0.10 |
| Jackpot games | 0 % or 100 % | Read T&Cs |
| Bingo / lottery | 0 % | €0 |
In practice, €700 of wagering on slots is 700 spins. The same on roulette is €7,000 — almost impossible. Clear wagering on slots unless the bonus terms force you elsewhere.
5. Bet cap and time limit
Max bet cap
Most casinos impose a €2–€5 per bet cap while a bonus is active. Break it — even accidentally via autoplay — and the casino can void the bonus and winnings. Set bets manually and switch off autoplay during wagering.
Time limit
Typical bonus expiry windows:
- Free spins: 24–72 hours
- No deposit bonus: 3–7 days
- Deposit bonus: 7–30 days
If the clock runs out, bonus and winnings disappear. Don't claim a bonus you can't realistically clear in time.
6. Red flags — when to skip the bonus
Warning signs:
- Wagering above 50×: EV is so low the bonus is almost never worth it.
- Most games below 50 % weight: you can't realistically clear wagering in time.
- Max cashout at 2–5× bonus value: most winnings get truncated even if you do win.
- 35×(B+D) on a big match: the real effective multiplier is 70×–80× of the bonus.
- Vague or missing T&Cs: if the terms aren't clearly available, don't activate.
A useful shortcut is to compare the wager-free bonuses category — no-wagering offers are always more player-friendly. For concrete no-deposit models, see our no deposit guide, and for big-match maths, see our 200% bonus breakdown.
7. Frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if a wagering requirement is unreasonable?
Multiply the bonus value by the multiplier and divide by the amount you can realistically wager within the time limit. If the hourly stake required is far above your normal play, it's a trap bonus.
What does 35×(B+D) actually mean?
B+D means both bonus and deposit are multiplied by the wagering number. €100 deposit + €100 bonus × 35 is €7,000 in required stakes — double the 35×B version.
Can I clear wagering by playing roulette?
You can, but most casinos weight roulette at 10 %, meaning you'd need ten times the stakes compared to slots. In most cases, slots are the only realistic route.
What happens if I break the max bet cap during wagering?
The casino can void the bonus and any winnings from it. Always bet manually under the stated cap (usually €2–€5).
Is low wagering the same as wager-free?
No. Low wagering (1×–10×) is player-friendly but a requirement still exists. Wager-free means winnings are immediately withdrawable, no playthrough at all.
Why do casinos use wagering requirements?
They stop players from withdrawing the bonus instantly and force actual play. The business model assumes the house edge will absorb much of the bonus during wagering.
