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Understanding Casino Bonuses, their Conditions, Requirements to Wager, and their Implications for Gamblers
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Introduction
Numerous online casinos present various enticing bonuses for players. While many of these bonuses primarily elongate the duration of your deposit, some can provide you with a moderate edge in your gameplay especially if you know what to seek out.
This website highlights a multitude of casino bonuses, potentially numbering in the hundreds. A critical aspect to consider about these offers is the playthrough requirement, also known as the wagering requirement. What does the term playthrough bonus entail? Essentially, playthrough indicates how many times you need to wager the bonus amount, your initial deposit, or both before you can cash out your winnings. Most casino promotions come with such a playthrough stipulation.
The amount of time you choose to spend exploring various casinos to find the ideal bonus for yourself may differ based on your level of seriousness as a player, but it's vital for all participants to fully comprehend and comply with the Terms & Conditions when they accept a bonus.
Regardless of whether you're gaining an advantage or not, understanding the Terms & Conditions associated with online casino bonuses is crucial to avoid any potential issues. A significant breach of these Terms can lead to severe consequences, including the loss of your bonus and any winnings related to it, or even being banned from the casino altogether.
The terminology used in these bonuses can vary widely between different casinos. While certain Bonus Terms are clear-cut, others can be so complex that they might require legal expertise to decipher. Today, we'll aim to clarify some of these Bonus Terms by categorizing them:
- Common Bonus Terms & Conditions
- Unique Bonus Terms & Conditions
- Bonus Terms to Steer Clear of for Advantage Play
- How Does the Math Work?
- Different Types of Bonuses
1.) COMMON BONUS TERMS
Several Terms & Conditions, although the specific wording may differ slightly, tend to be consistent across all online casinos you visit.
It's crucial to be aware that there may be General Terms & Conditions applicable to the Bonus that are not specifically listed within the Bonus Terms. Therefore, if a casino has distinct sections for General Terms and Bonus Terms, it's wise to thoroughly review both to ensure you understand how the General T&C's might influence your bonus. Being aware of T&C's is generally a smart practice.
As a case study, we will examine the Bonus Terms and General Terms for a selection of promotions from one of our long-standing favorites; Bovada Casino .
Fortunately, the specific Bonus Terms for the $3,000 Welcome Offer on this site can be found on the same page as the promotion itself. We want to extend a heartfelt, \"Kudos," to Bovada for making their T&C's so accessible, especially when compared to other casinos that often hide them on separate pages.
The promotion in question is quite straightforward, featuring a 3x Welcome Bonus of up to $3,000 through a 100% deposit match . Essentially, players can deposit $1,000 up to three times and receive an equal amount in bonuses to play with.
Let’s break down some of the Terms associated with this particular bonus that are commonly seen:
A.) Playthrough Requirements
From that page, we see that the rules related to Playthrough Requirements are as follows:
- After claiming the bonus code, players must fulfill the playthrough obligations before they can utilize the code again.
- Only gameplay that occurs after redeeming the bonus code will count towards meeting the rollover requirements.
- Both the deposit and bonus amount must meet a 25X playthrough requirement before any withdrawals of the deposit, bonus amount, or associated winnings can occur.
- If you choose to forfeit this bonus, any winnings tied to it will also be nullified.
- Funds from bonuses cannot be utilized in Live Dealer games.
- Participating in Craps and Live Dealer games does not contribute towards fulfilling rollover prerequisites for withdrawals.
- All games, excluding Craps and Live Dealer options, count towards the playthrough obligations; however, certain games may contribute more significantly than others. For further details, please refer to our wagering contribution guidelines.
- Bonus funds are not to be used in Live Dealer games.
And From Bovada's Terms And Conditions Page:
- The process for withdrawing winnings is subject to verification procedures set by Bovada. This may include the necessity of providing proof of residence and government identification. If we determine that you have adhered to the Terms, as well as all Anti Money Laundering and fraud-prevention requirements, and any regulations related to Games and bonuses, your payout will be processed. The method of withdrawal may be restricted according to how you made your initial deposits. We also reserve the right to conclude your withdrawal request using an alternative method at our discretion. If, for any reason, a payout request cannot be approved, a Customer Service Representative will reach out to you.
- Bonus programs are designed solely for casual players. Professional players, or those deemed by us to be exploiting the bonus system, may face revocation of their bonuses and potential further penalties. Bonus abuse can include (but is not limited to) players cashing out to re-deposit, making deposits on top of existing balances, manipulating wagering patterns to bypass requirements, or creating new accounts for personal use. Penalties may involve heightened rollover requirements, loss of bonus privileges, balance forfeiture, and possibly closure of the offending account along with any linked accounts. We hold the right to impose restrictions on eligibility for special offers and bonuses as necessary. This may entail geographic restrictions due to bonus misuse. Bonus funds cannot be employed on games not contributing to rollover.
- Combining No-Deposit bonuses (e.g., Free Chips, Free Spins, Cashback/Insurance Bonuses, etc.) with deposits is prohibited. Should a deposit be made while a No Deposit Bonus remains active, the associated wagering requirements and maximum cash-out limits relating to that No Deposit bonus will still apply. Although the deposit will be added to your total balance, it is not considered part of active play, and any winnings thereafter are bound by the wagering requirements and the maximum cash-out of the No Deposit bonus until your balance equals or falls below the sum of the deposit and any originally available balance before claiming the bonus.
- It is not permissible to redeem Free bonuses consecutively. After redeeming one No Deposit bonus, a real money deposit must be made in between to be eligible for a second No Deposit bonus. Claiming two or more No Deposit bonuses back-to-back can lead to the cancellation of subsequent winnings.
Bonus funds are not to be used in Live Dealer games.
While the specific language may vary somewhat, all online casinos will impose wagering requirements for this type of bonus. Let's break these down one by one:
1.) Once the bonus code is redeemed, players must satisfy the playthrough criteria before they may redeem the code again.
This particular rule is somewhat unique and isn't found in every online casino. It stipulates that regardless of winning or losing, players must complete the entire playthrough requirements before they can access the bonus again. This means if you deposit $1,000 and receive a $1,000 match, slot games you would need to meet a playthrough requirement of $50,000. If you lose your deposit and bonus funds after reaching $30,000 in gameplay, you would need to wager an additional $20,000 on a future deposit before being eligible to claim this bonus again.
Other casinos might have a stipulation preventing players from taking a new bonus while a current playthrough requirement is outstanding, yet if their deposit and bonus are lost, the playthrough resets when they choose to claim a new bonus. This is not the case with Bovada, so it's critical to realize you must complete the entire playthrough prior to being able to access this bonus again.
2.) Only gaming activity after the bonus code is applied will count toward achieving the rollover metrics.
This is a common rule and nearly every online casino will include some variation of it. In essence, it means if you make a deposit without securing a bonus, your gameplay will not contribute toward the wagering requirements of any bonus unless you've already activated it.
Simply put, if you intend to utilize a bonus, ensure you claim your bonus funds prior to engaging in any gameplay so that all your wagering is counted towards meeting the playthrough.
3.) The total of the deposit and bonus is bound by a 25X playthrough condition before any withdrawals of your deposit, bonus, or winnings can take place.
Again, this is a very straightforward and nearly universal stipulation. This implies that the Wagering Requirements (playthrough) must be fulfilled before any withdrawals are permissible. This generally includes your initial deposit, which is effectively \"locked," until you complete the wagering conditions.
For a $1,000 deposit with a corresponding $1,000 bonus, (25 * $2,000) = $50,000 would need to be wagered on slots before any withdrawals can be initiated.
If you wish to play at an online casino If you prefer the flexibility to withdraw your funds and winnings at any time, you may want to forgo taking a bonus. Almost all (likely all) online casinos will tie your deposit to the bonus you are claiming.*
*To prevent money laundering, many casinos stipulate that all deposits must be wagered at least once before any withdrawals can be made.
4.) If you choose to forfeit this bonus, both the bonus itself and any winnings accrued from it will be removed from your account.
This particular Bonus Term is quite common among online casinos, although the implementation can vary significantly from one casino to another.
In essence, opting out of a bonus will mean that any winnings gained from both the bonus money and the bonus itself will be deducted from your account. Since the bonus funds are utilized first, this means you’re more likely to either incur a loss or break even (if you're at least even) when you decide to exit from the bonus. If you have lost any portion of the bonus funds, your remaining balance will end up being lower than what you initially deposited.
If you suspect that you might not want to utilize a bonus, it’s best to avoid accepting it altogether. After making a deposit, always check your account balances to ensure that no unwanted bonuses have been granted. If a bonus has been erroneously applied to your account, reach out to customer support to have it removed before you start playing.
*While it’s not common practice across all online casinos, some do automatically credit players with eligible bonuses unless the player opts to opt-out of them. We generally disapprove of this practice, yet it remains available at certain casinos. Therefore, once you make a deposit, confirm that no unwanted bonuses have been added to your account.
5.) Funds from bonuses are not applicable for use on Live Dealer games. Additionally, games like Craps and Live Dealer offerings do not contribute to the rollover requirements necessary for withdrawals. All other games, with the exception of Craps and Live Dealer, assist in meeting playthrough requirements; however, some games may offer higher contributions than others. For detailed information, please refer to our wagering contribution guidelines. Bonus funds cannot be used for play on Live Dealer games.
"Bonus funds cannot be utilized in Live Dealer games," which is so crucial they reiterated it!
The majority of casinos with Live Dealer games Casinos either prohibit the usage of bonuses in these games, or provide separate bonuses for Live Dealer gameplay. For instance, Bovada appears not to offer any bonuses specifically for Live Dealer games, potentially due to concerns regarding fairness. card counting on Blackjack .
Electronic Craps Although a bonus might seem applicable to certain games, any gameplay associated with it typically won’t count towards meeting the Wagering Requirements. Most online casinos set restrictions on specific games when it comes to using bonus funds, so it’s vital to be aware of which games are limited as this can vary significantly. In fact, some casinos may even restrict particular slot or keno games!
From point #5, Bovada notes, \"For detailed information, please check our wagering contribution," which they maintain on a separate page alongside the complete Bonus Terms & Conditions. here .
Here are the Wagering Contributions for Bovada as of 10/03/2018:
|
Wagering Contributions |
Percentage Contribution |
|
Slots, Specialty Games (all types) |
100% |
|
Table Games (unless specified otherwise) |
20% |
|
Video Poker (all variations) & Blackjack (unless otherwise indicated) |
10% |
|
Single and Double Deck Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat |
5% |
|
Craps & Live Dealer (all types) |
0% |
To estimate your total wagering requirement, first determine what 100% of the playthrough would amount to and then divide this by the expressed percentage in decimal form. For example, if a player deposits $1,000 and receives a matching bonus of $1,000, their total funds amount to $2,000, with a Wagering Requirement of 25x, necessitating $50,000 in wagering on slot games.
Other Table Games would necessitate a playthrough of $50,000/.2 = $250,000.
Video Poker + Blackjack would entail a playthrough of $50,000/.1 = $500,000.
Games with a 5% contribution would necessitate a playthrough of $50,000/.05 = $1,000,000.
To successfully identify bonuses that can be beaten, it's crucial to understand the nature of the bonus you are facing and to evaluate the expected loss based on the playthrough requirements. This can also be approached in reverse by calculating the proportion of expected loss that still allows for a break-even scenario overall.
In practical terms, just take the playthrough, multiply it by x, and as long as the total is equal to or less than the amount of the bonus, you can anticipate a profit with a straightforward bonus. (See: Flat Betting )
50000 * x = 1000
X = 1000/50000
X = .02 or 2%
This translates to a slot game needing to have a house edge of 2% (98% Return-to-Player) in order for the player to break even with this bonus. A lower house edge would be beneficial, while a higher one would pose a disadvantage. This could only occur if a Progressive Slot places the game within such parameters.
For Other Table Games:
250,000 * x = 1000
X = 1000/250000
X = .004 or 0.4%
With regard to the \"Other Table Games," they would need to present a House Edge or Element of Risk of 0.4% (99.6% RTP on all wagers) for a player to reach a break-even point. A lower House Edge is beneficial, while a higher one is less favorable.
You can replicate this calculation for other game types now that you understand the method. In simple terms, without structuring your betting, finding an advantage could be quite difficult, and may not even be possible with betting structuring. Furthermore, clarifying whether bet structuring is permissible is vital.
Calculate Casino Bonus House Edge
-
1st Step
Input the amount of the bonus you wish to claim. -
2nd Step
Enter the wagering commitment as a multiple based on the Bonus or Bonus + Deposit. If the requirement is 25x, simply input \"25\" in this field. -
3rd Step
If you need to satisfy the wagering requirements for both the bonus and the deposit, ensure that both boxes are checked and include the total deposit amount. -
4th Step
Input the percentage contribution assigned to the game you wish to engage with. -
5th Step
Select \" Calculate \" and the calculator will provide a break-even house edge for any completely cashable bonus.
B.) OTHER BONUS-SPECIFIC TERMS
Unfortunately, for whatever reason, many online casinos (Bovada included) have a page that only summarizes the Bonus Terms & Conditions while a separate page lists them in full. The full page, which we will link again for your convenience.
Provides additional Bonus Terms as well as comprehensive versions of the summarized terms previously mentioned.
1.) The process of withdrawing winnings is contingent upon Bovada's verification protocols. This may involve, but is not limited to, the submission of proof of residence and a government-issued ID. If we are satisfied that you have adhered to the Terms, including all Anti Money Laundering regulations and fraud-monitoring standards, as well as all guidelines associated with the Games and related bonuses, your payout will be processed. The method of your withdrawal may be subject to limitations, depending on how the original deposits were made. Furthermore, we retain the right to process your withdrawal request through an alternate means at our discretion. Should there be any reason a payout request cannot be approved, a Customer Service Representative will reach out to you.
This section encompasses several terms bundled into one. Many online casinos would typically break these down into individual listings, but we will address this complete set as if they were described separately.
Nearly all online casinos employ some type of verification process , and when Bovada mentions, \"This can include..providing proof of address and government-issued identification…" it’s typical for casinos to request both pieces of information when you initiate a withdrawal. While some casinos may ask for these details for every withdrawal, most only require them during the first withdrawal, as long as you have conducted subsequent withdrawals in a relatively short time frame.
These verification measures are standard practice and are primarily intended to confirm that it is indeed you who is accessing the funds while also verifying that you were the individual who made the initial deposit. If an account is used to make a deposit, this is enforced for the security of the account holder so that their information isn’t misappropriated.
It's critical to pay close attention to your details when registering with an online casino. All your inputted information should accurately match the details on your identification alongside any required utility bill or credit card statement as proof of address. Avoid creating unnecessary hassle by ensuring all information provided is accurate!
Bovada, along with other online casinos, will also verify that none of the Bonus Terms & Conditions (like restricted games or wagering obligations) have been violated. This is a common procedure; however, sometimes an account might get flagged for additional scrutiny by a human reviewer, which can result in delays of several days.
The subsequent information indicates that your chosen payout method might not necessarily align with your deposit method. Be certain that you can receive withdrawals through the same method that the casino uses for processing payouts before engaging in any gameplay. This information is usually included within the terms and conditions or the \"Cashier" section of the casino's website. If you have any questions or require clarification, you should reach out to customer service prior to making any deposits. deposit method *Many online casinos implement a policy requiring players to wager their deposited funds at least once before they can make a withdrawal; this is a standard procedure aimed at preventing money laundering activities.
4.) If you choose to give up this bonus, both the bonus itself and any winnings generated from it will be canceled.
This is a common stipulation seen across various online casinos, and while the principle remains the same, its application may differ slightly depending on the casino’s policies.
In practical terms, this means that if you decide against keeping a bonus, any winnings you may have generated from the bonus funds will be deducted from your account. Since you use the bonus money before your actual deposit, this implies that if you're not able to play through the bonus, you could end up with a total balance that’s lower than what you initially deposited. If you incur any losses from the bonus funds, taking this action will reduce your account balance below your initial deposit.
If you have any doubts about the value of playing with a bonus, it's advisable to decline the bonus right from the start. When making a deposit, always check your account balance to confirm that no bonus has been inadvertently added. If a bonus is applied by mistake, reach out to customer support to have it removed before you start playing.
*While not common, a handful of online casinos automatically assign eligible bonuses to players' accounts, requiring them to actively choose to \"Opt-Out" if they prefer not to receive the bonus. While we generally view this practice unfavorably, some casinos implement it nonetheless. After completing a deposit, always verify that no unwanted bonuses have been added to your account.
5.) Bonus funds are not applicable for use on Live Dealer games. Playing Craps and Live Dealer games does not count towards fulfilling the rollover requirements necessary for a withdrawal. All gaming options, apart from Craps and Live Dealer, contribute towards the necessary playthrough; however, some games may contribute more significantly than others. For further details, please refer to our wagering contribution.
"Bonus funds are not applicable for use on Live Dealer games," and this important rule is emphasized twice!
Some casinos might not permit bonuses for use on these games, while others may provide bonuses specifically designed for Live Dealer play. For instance, Bovada seems to have no Live Dealer bonuses available, possibly due to their particular gaming approach.
While it seems that you can engage in some games with a bonus, it appears that such gameplay won't count toward fulfilling the Wagering Requirements. Most online casinos impose restrictions on certain games for bonus play, meaning it's crucial to check which specific games may be excluded. Some casinos may even limit particular slot or keno games!
From #5, Bovada notes, \"For more information, please review our wagering contribution," which they maintain on a separate webpage along with the comprehensive Bonus Terms & Conditions.
As of 10/03/2018, here are the Wagering Contributions for Bovada: Table Games (unless otherwise specified) All types of Video Poker & Blackjack (unless stated otherwise)
Single Deck & Double Deck Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat
To determine how much you need to wager, calculate the total playthrough requirement and then divide by the percentage expressed as a decimal. For example, if a player deposits $1,000 and receives a $1,000 matching bonus, they’ll have $2,000 in total with a 25x Wagering Requirement, thus needing to wager $50,000 on slots.
Other Table Games would require a total playthrough of $50,000/.2 = $250,000 No-Deposit Bonus Video Poker and Blackjack would require a total playthrough of $50,000/.1 = $500,000
Other games with 5% contribution would need a playthrough of $50,000/.05 = $1,000,000
To successfully identify bonuses that are worth pursuing, you need to understand what type of bonus you are encountering and how the expected loss aligns with the playthrough requirements. This assessment can be reversed by determining the acceptable level of potential loss that still allows for breaking even overall.
Bonus funds are not to be used in Live Dealer games.
To achieve this, simply multiply the playthrough by x, and if the total is equal to or less than the bonus amount, you're likely to see an expected profit from this bonus . (For additional reading:
C.) REGULAR TERMS THAT AFFECT BONUSES
We have discussed all of Bovada's bonus-specific terms, but it is also important for players to note that many of the regular Terms & Conditions at casinos will also have an impact on any bonuses being played. Once again, we will use Bovada as an example and determine what sorts of terms might apply:
- In simpler terms, a slot game would need to have a house edge of 2% (which equates to a 98% Return-to-Player) for a player to break even while using this bonus. Lower house edges are advantageous, whereas higher house edges place players at a disadvantage, which might be the case if a game has a Progressive jackpot.
- For \"Other Table Games," the required House Edge or Element-of-Risk should be 0.4% (99.6% RTP across all wagers) for the player to achieve a breakeven scenario. A lower House Edge is beneficial, while a higher House Edge is detrimental.
- You can apply this approach to other game categories as well now that you understand the methodology. In straightforward terms, without a strategy for your betting, there is little chance of gaining an advantage, and this may still be challenging even with a structured betting approach. It is also essential to recognize whether bet structuring is permissible. Enter the amount of the bonus you plan to claim. are as follows:
Input the wagering figure as a multiple of the Bonus or Bonus + Deposit. For example, if the wagering requirement is 25x, simply input \"25\" in the designated box.
If you need to fulfill the wagering requirements for both the bonus and the deposit, make sure to check both boxes and indicate the deposit amount.
Specify the percentage contribution of the game you intend to play.
Click on \" Calculate \" and the calculator will provide you with a breakeven house edge for any fully redeemable bonus. own page .
This section also contains a wider range of other Bonus Terms, along with more in-depth versions of the previously summarized terms.
1.) Winnings withdrawal will follow Bovada's verification processes. This may involve providing a proof of identity and a valid address, among other things. If it is established that you have adhered to all Terms, including Anti-Money Laundering and fraud detection criteria, as well as rules relating to Games and corresponding bonuses, the payout will be processed for you. The method of processing withdrawals can vary depending on how the initial deposit(s) were made to your account. Without limiting our options, we reserve the right to process your withdrawal request through a different method or system as we see fit. If, for any reason, a payout request is disallowed, a Customer Service Representative will reach out to you.
2.) UNIQUE BONUS TERMS & CONDITIONS
Certain online casinos will have Bonus Terms & Conditions that are fairly unique to them and will also vary significantly from one casino to another. These are usually just more specific versions of the general conditions that we looked at above.
This segment includes multiple terms condensed into one. Many online casinos might list some of these separately, but for clarity, we will explore each aspect as if they were enumerated independently.
BET LIMITS
Almost every online casino has some sort of verification process , and as Bovada indicates, \"This may involve... providing proof of address and government-issued identification…" almost universally, casinos will request both documents when you withdraw. Some may ask for this information numerous times, but generally, it is required only once for your initial payout, unless your follow-up withdrawals are not too far apart.
Set by Amount
These verification protocols are quite standard; they’re primarily implemented to ensure that you are indeed the one making the withdrawal and that you are identical to the account holder who deposited the funds. If the deposit was completed using a specific account, this precaution guards against potential fraudulent use of the account holder's information.
Be diligent while signing up for an online casino; ensure that all your details correspond with those on your identification. Also, remember to gather a utility bill or credit card statement for proof of address that matches. Avoid creating unnecessary complications by entering incorrect information!
Bovada, alongside other online casinos, will also verify that there have been no violations of the Bonus Terms & Conditions (such as engaging in restricted games or not meeting wagering requirements). This is a standard practice, but on rare occasions, your account may be flagged for manual review, which may lead to processing delays of a few days.
The remaining notes indicate that your method of receiving a payout may not be identical to how you deposited funds. Ensure that you are capable of receiving withdrawals through the method that the casino uses for payouts before you start playing. This information is typically found in the terms and conditions or in the \"Cashier" section of the casino website. Should you have any uncertainties or require clarification, it’s encouraged to contact customer service before making a deposit.
*Certain online casinos may enforce a requirement that players must wager their deposit funds at least once before they can cash out, serving as a precaution against money laundering activities.
If you want to play Video Poker 4.) If this bonus is forfeited, not only will you lose the bonus itself, but any winnings generated from it will also be deducted from your account.
Set by Multiplier
This is a common stipulation seen across many online casinos; however, the specifics of how it is implemented can vary by establishment.
In essence, if you choose to decline the bonus, any earnings made from both the bonus money and the bonus itself will be taken away from your balance. Since you begin with playing the bonus funds first, if you later decide to opt-out of the bonus, your balance may be reduced to less than your initial deposit, especially if you have incurred losses. Keep in mind that if you've lost any portion of the bonus funds, opting out will lower your total balance below your deposited amount.
If there’s any chance you might not want to utilize a bonus, then it’s best to avoid accepting it altogether. When you make a deposit, ensure that your account doesn’t have any bonuses applied if you prefer not to have one. If you notice a bonus has been incorrectly credited to your account, reach out to customer support immediately and request its removal before you start gambling!
Time Restrictions
*While it's not a widespread practice, there are some online casinos that automatically place an eligible bonus into a player’s account, requiring them to actively choose to 'Opt-Out' if they do not want the bonus. We typically view this policy unfavorably, but it exists in certain casinos. After depositing, always verify that you haven’t unintentionally received unwanted bonuses on your account.
5.) Bonus funds cannot be used to participate in Live Dealer games. Furthermore, wagers placed on Craps and Live Dealer games do not contribute toward meeting the wagering criteria necessary for withdrawals. All other games, excluding Craps and Live Dealer, count toward the playthrough obligations; however, some games may contribute more significantly than others. For detailed information, please review our wagering contribution guidelines. Bonus funds cannot be utilized in Live Dealer gameplay.
"Bonus funds cannot be used for participation in Live Dealer games," and the emphatic repetition highlights its significance!
Game Restrictions
Some casinos may either prohibit bonus usage on Live Dealer games altogether, or they might offer distinct bonuses tailored for Live Dealer gameplay. In the case of Bovada, it appears that they do not provide any bonus specifically for Live Dealer games, possibly due to concerns about...
Deposits and Bonuses
Although certain games might be eligible for bonus play, it seems that any activity on those games won't help you meet the Wagering Requirements. Most online casinos restrict specific games from being playable with bonuses, so it's crucial to review these restrictions, as they can differ significantly between casinos. Be aware that some casinos may even limit particular slot or keno games!
In reference to #5, Bovada notes, \"For more details, please consult our wagering contribution page," which is available on a different page alongside their complete Bonus Terms & Conditions.
Here’s the breakdown of Wagering Contributions for Bovada as of 10/03/2018:
There are many Bonus Terms out there that are specifically designed to thwart advantage players, in fact, most of the terms out there are designed for this reason, if not to outright completely preclude the possibility of advantage play.
Table Games (unless stated otherwise)
All types of Video Poker & Blackjack (unless stated otherwise)
Single Deck & Double Deck Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat
Ambiguous Terms
A straightforward method for calculating your wagering obligations involves determining what 100% of the required playthrough would total, then dividing that figure by the percentage expressed in decimal form. For example, if a player has a $1,000 deposit and receives a $1,000 bonus match, their total available funds would be $2,000 with a 25x Wagering Requirement, thus necessitating $50,000 in wagering on slots.
Other Table Games would necessitate a total playthrough of $50,000/.2 = $250,000.
Video Poker + Blackjack would call for a playthrough of $50,000/.1 = $500,000.
Other games with a 5% contribution would require playthrough of $50,000/.05 = $1,000,000. Roulette Understanding the types of bonuses available is key to identifying beatable bonuses, and if you choose to attempt to beat a bonus, it’s crucial to recognize the expected losses based on the listed playthrough criteria. We can flip this around and establish what percentage of anticipated loss while still breaking even. Phantom Bonus To accomplish this, just multiply the playthrough requirement by x; as long as the result does not exceed the bonus amount, you would likely see a profit on a straightforward bonus . (Refer to:
In simpler terms, to break even with a bonus, a slot game would need to have a house edge of 2% (98% Return-to-Player). A lesser house edge is favorable while a higher house edge is not. The only way this can occur is if the game is a Progressive that establishes that level.
For the 'Other Table Games,' the house edge would have to be 0.4% (99.6% RTP of total bets) for players to break even. Again, a lower house edge is advantageous while a higher one is detrimental. online message board .
4.) HOW DOES THE MATH WORK?
We have addressed the math for specific types of advantage plays elsewhere Now that you understand the process, you can perform similar calculations for various game types. It’s important to note that without, \"Structuring your betting," you may not discover any advantages, and there’s a possibility that even with structured bets, no advantages can be achieved. Additionally, check if bet structuring is permitted.
Enter the amount of the bonus you intend to accept.
Input the wagering requirement as a multiplier of either the Bonus or the Bonus + Deposit. For instance, if the wagering demand is 25x, simply type \"25\" in this section.
If both the bonus and deposit have wagering obligations, ensure to check both boxes and include the deposit amount.
Indicate the percentage contribution of the game you plan to play.
Click on \" Calculate ,” and the tool will provide you with a break-even house edge for any cashable bonus. Keno game that Bovada offers.
Contains additional Bonus Terms and more detailed versions of the summarized terms discussed earlier. Rival Software :
1.) The process for withdrawing winnings involves verification procedures by Bovada. This may include, among other things, the necessity to provide proof of address and an official form of identification. If they are satisfied that you're in compliance with the Terms, all Anti-Money Laundering checks, fraud detection protocols, and the regulations surrounding the Games and related bonuses, your payout will be processed. Please be aware that the method of withdrawal might be subject to limitations based on how the initial funds were deposited in your Account. Without constraining this, we retain the authority to conclude your withdrawal request through an alternative method at our discretion. Should a payout request be unable to be approved for any reason, a Customer Service Representative will reach out to you.
This segment essentially consolidates various terms into one. While many online casinos may lay these out individually, we'll break this down as though each were listed separately.
Nearly every online casino will implement some form of verification processes , and Bovada states, \"This may include… proof of address and government-issued identification…" where, typically, most casinos will mandate both documents when withdrawing funds. Some may require this information for multiple withdrawals, although most will only request it for your first withdrawal if subsequent withdrawals are made in a timely manner.
5.) DIFFERENT TYPES OF BONUSES
These verification measures are standard protocols designed to confirm that you are actually the one making the withdrawal and that you are indeed the person who made the original deposit. When a deposit originates from a particular account, this serves to protect the holder's information, ensuring it's not misused or accessed fraudulently.
Be meticulous when registering with an online casino. Ensure that all details entered match those on your ID, and you should also be aware that you'll need a utility bill or credit card statement as proof of address, which should also correspond. Avoid creating unnecessary complications by entering incorrect information!
A.) No-Deposit Bonuses
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A1.) No Deposit-Free Spins
The most significant concern relates to Bet Structuring , which Bovada addresses with, '..players deemed to be manipulating or otherwise changing wagering or playing behavior (bet, game type, bet structure or other pattern of betting) for the purposes of circumventing wagering requirements, or creating new Accounts that they are using themselves….' This essentially means that Bovada does not want players making large bets to chase a big win, then slowly fulfilling playthrough requirements with much smaller bets.
Certain casinos, unlike Bovada which does not seem to operate this way, state the maximum allowable wagers (or provide a range of bets) that can be made while utilizing a bonus. If such conditions are indeed necessary, it would be more transparent for casinos to directly inform players of these limits beforehand. Alternatively, game frameworks could limit player wagers within the specified range while the bonus is applicable.
Sometimes, players will land a significant win on slots and hope to, 'Grind out,' the playthrough requirements on a lower edge, low variance game like Blackjack. Generally, casinos won’t take action just because a player switches games now and then , but if your account undergoes a review (which is likely), they will be able to detect if such switching is done in a structured manner.
Violating these terms may result in penalties which can include, '..Sanctions may be in the form of increased rollover requirements, loss of bonus privileges, balance forfeiture and account closure for the offending Account as well as any linked Accounts. We reserve the right to restrict eligibility for special offers and bonuses when necessary.'
Typically, an online casino will only make you forfeit your balance in severe violations of their terms. Understandably, this is not a popular action and often leads to a player voicing complaints on platforms like this one or our affiliate site, LCB.org, meaning casinos will usually only enforce forfeiture under valid circumstances. In most cases, such incidents will be investigated if a complaint is raised by the player.
A2.) No Deposit-Bonus Funds
Casinos may revoke bonus privileges or allow a player to withdraw their funds and close their account if they suspect bonus abuse. While this is often an unpopular choice, it is within the rights of the casino to limit service to whom they see fit, provided the player gets paid before such actions are taken.
3.) Mixing No-Deposit bonuses (like Free Chips, Free Spins, Cashback/Insurance Bonuses, etc.) with deposits is not permitted. Should a deposit occur while a No Deposit Bonus is active, the wagering criteria and maximum allowable cash-out related to the No Deposit bonus will still be enforced. The deposited funds will add to your balance, but they are not considered in play, and any winnings thereafter are subject to the wagering criteria and cash-out limits of the No Deposit bonus until your balance is equal to or less than the deposit along with any pre-existing balance prior to redeeming bonuses.
This kind of term is fairly standard across most casinos. In actuality, many online casinos will refuse a person the opportunity to claim a 'Welcome Bonus' if that individual has previously claimed a at all, making Bovada relatively more lenient in this regard. Most casinos, nonetheless, will not permit simultaneous claims of multiple bonuses, and attempts to do so can lead to account closure and/or forfeiture of bonuses.
A3.) No Deposit-Tournaments
It is critical to remember that the maximum cash-out for the No Deposit Bonus will be enforced if you make a deposit while this bonus is still in effect, so avoid doing this! Your deposit could exceed the maximum cash-out permitted on the No Deposit Bonus, which tends to be quite limited. A2 ) or free spins (see A1 4.) Free bonuses cannot be redeemed back-to-back. If you've redeemed one No Deposit bonus, you must make a real money deposit in between to qualify for a second No Deposit bonus. Claiming two or more No Deposit bonuses consecutively may lead to the cancellation of any winnings from the subsequent bonuses.
Our last condition in this section aligns with what is common among most (but not all) online casinos. Usually, online casinos aim to prevent players from continuously taking No Deposit Bonuses in hopes of eventually achieving a win while , 'Free-Rolling,' them. No Deposit Bonuses are genuinely intended for players to test out a handful of games and potentially win some cash. Although repeatedly claiming a No Deposit Bonus (and then never returning to play again if losing) might be viewed as advantageous, the expected value derived from such a bonus is MINIMAL, particularly bearing in mind the limit on withdrawals permitted.
B.) Deposit Bonuses
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B1.) Deposit Bonuses-Cashable Bonuses
If you manage to win using a bonus and decide to withdraw, only to make another deposit shortly afterward for the sake of claiming a new bonus, you might find yourself accused of , '..cashing out for the purpose of re-depositing…' However, as long as a player is not taking advantage of the bonus, reputable online casinos typically avoid casting such allegations. If you’re simply enjoying slot games or other activities without any 'Bet structuring,' you can usually rest easy.
B2.) Deposit Bonuses-Phantom Bonuses
Should you decide to make a deposit for an additional bonus while still maintaining a balance , you might be considered to be '..depositing on top of an existing balance…' To easily sidestep accusations of this nature, it’s advisable to withdraw any remaining funds before making a new deposit and only start again when your balance reflects $0.00. Truthfully, it's unclear why Bovada would take issue with such behavior initially.
The primary concern is Bet Structuring , which Bovada addresses with, '..players deemed to be manipulating or otherwise changing wagering or playing behavior (bet, game type, bet structure or other pattern of betting) for the purposes of circumventing wagering requirements, or creating new Accounts that they are using themselves….' This means that Bovada is against players who place high bets attempting to score significant wins, followed by 'Grinding out' the playthrough demands with smaller stakes.
While some casinos explicitly outline the maximum bet limits allowed when playing with a bonus—unlike Bovada—it's generally more effective to communicate these limits directly to players beforehand. Alternatively, games can be programmed to restrict bets within the permissible range during the bonus period.
B3.) Deposit Bonuses-Sticky Bonuses
There are times when players experience a significant win on slots and then aim to 'Grind out,' their wagering requirements on a lower volatility game like Blackjack. As a general rule, casinos won’t take action against players merely for transitioning between games , but if your account comes under scrutiny (which is quite possible), they may deduce whether your approach is systematic.
Violating these guidelines could lead to penalties such as '..Sanctions may be in the form of increased rollover requirements, loss of bonus privileges, balance forfeiture and account closure for the offending Account as well as any linked Accounts. We reserve the right to restrict eligibility for special offers and bonuses when necessary.'
Conclusion
In general, an online casino will typically require a player to forfeit their balance only in cases of severe violations of terms. Obviously, this is not a decision that’s well-received and tends to lead to complaints directed to platforms like this one and our sister site, LCB.org', so casinos will only pursue balance forfeiture when warranted. If something like this occurs and the player raises a complaint, the situation will likely be investigated.
Casinos frequently revoke bonus privileges or permit a player to withdraw their funds before closing their account if they suspect bonus exploitation. Although these actions are not the most favorable, it is within the casino's rights to limit its services to whomever they choose, provided the player has received their due payouts beforehand. advertising policy :
3.) Mixing No-Deposit bonuses (such as Free Chips, Free Spins, Cashback/Insurance Bonuses, etc.) with deposits is strictly prohibited. If a deposit is made while a No Deposit Bonus is in effect, the associated wagering conditions and maximum cash-out limits for the No Deposit bonus will still apply. Although the deposit will be added to your balance, it's important to note that this amount will not be actively engaged in play, and any winnings accrued subsequently will be subject to the No Deposit bonus's wagering requirements and cash-out limits until your balance equals or drops below the deposit amount plus any pre-existing balance prior to the bonus redemption.
This term is fairly standard among most casinos. Indeed, many online casinos have restrictions preventing individuals from claiming a 'Welcome Bonus' if they have used a No Deposit bonus previously , so Bovada stands out as relatively permissive in this regard. Moreover, almost no casino allows players to activate multiple bonuses at once, and trying to exploit such an opportunity can lead to account termination and/or forfeiture of bonuses.
It’s critical to understand that if you make a deposit while simultaneously holding a No Deposit Bonus, it will be subject to the maximum cash-out associated with that bonus —so it's best to avoid that! Your deposit might exceed the maximum amount you are allowed to withdraw from the No Deposit Bonus, which tends to be quite limited.
Internal Related Reading
- 4.) Consecutive redemption of Free bonuses is not allowed. After redeeming one No Deposit bonus, you must make a real money deposit before you can be eligible for a second No Deposit bonus. Attempting to claim two or more No Deposit bonuses back-to-back could lead to the cancellation of any resulting winnings.
- Real Casinos, Real Money
- Guide to No-Deposit Bonuses
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- Our last stipulation from this section aligns with the general practice among most (though not all) online casinos. Simply put, online casinos discourage players from repeatedly claiming No Deposit Bonuses with the expectation of winning through 'Free-Rolling.' No Deposit Bonuses are fundamentally intended for players to explore a few games and potentially win modest amounts. While it might seem advantageous to claim a No Deposit Bonus (and never return if you end up losing), the actual expected value one derives from such bonuses is quite low, especially considering the maximum withdrawal limits.
- Legitimate Online Casinos
- All terms regarding identity verification, deposits, withdrawals, and similar matters also extend to bonuses. Therefore, it's crucial for you to review the standard terms and conditions before engaging in play at any online casino and ensure you fully understand them and find them to be fair.
- Terms that relate to maintaining a single account per household naturally apply to bonuses. In fact, the only time accommodations are particularly important for casinos concerning a single account per household is regarding bonuses ; in other respects, it tends to be less significant.
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External Related Reading
- Sometimes, terms associated with No Deposit Bonuses may appear within the standard Terms & Conditions rather than on a dedicated Bonus Terms page, which is the case with Bovada. The
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- maximum withdrawal rules for their No Deposit bonuses, 4.9 Withdrawal of Bonus funds. Unless otherwise stated in the particular rules applicable to individual Activities, Games or Bonus promotions, any bonus funds that are credited to your Account (whether as a result of a prize, promotion, redemption or any other reason) shall be subject to rollover requirements before such bonus funds (and any associated winnings from such bonus funds) can be withdrawn. Unless otherwise stated in the bonus terms, no deposit bonuses under $100 will have a maximum cashout amount of $125, and no deposit bonuses over $100 will have a max cashout equal to 1X the bonus.
- Learn the Rules!
- Scamming the Casinos
- Nearly every casino, if not all, imposes a limit on the maximum withdrawal from a no-deposit bonus . The rationale behind this is obvious; they aim to avoid heavy payouts from players who have not themselves risked any of their funds.
- D.) FINANCIAL TERMS RELEVANT TO BONUSES
- At last, we address some common financial terms related to bonuses. Conveniently, Bovada maintains a Financial Q&A section on their site. The most significant point here is the general withdrawal limits . It's crucial to understand that after fulfilling the requirements of a bonus, a player might not be able to withdraw their entire balance if it exceeds the allowable amount per individual withdrawal. This is a critical consideration that you should grasp and accept, particularly if you're planning a substantial deposit.
- 2.) The bonus programs are exclusively designed for casual players. If we determine that a player is exploiting the bonus system in any way—whether they're professional players or simply engaging in behavior we perceive as manipulative—we reserve the right to revoke bonuses and impose additional penalties. This abuse might involve actions such as withdrawing funds to make a fresh deposit, adding to an existing balance, or changing betting habits (like bet sizes or types) to dodge wagering requirements, including the creation of new accounts for personal use. Consequences can manifest as increased rollover requirements, loss of bonus eligibility, forfeiture of funds, or even the closure of the account and any linked accounts. We maintain the right to limit access to bonuses and special promotions whenever it seems appropriate, which could include geographical restrictions in response to bonus exploitation. Note that bonus funds cannot be utilized on games that do not contribute to the rollover obligations.
- We apologize for the substantial amount of information contained within the term, \"Term," but this is how it is presented on the Bovada website. To clarify, we will break it down into parts as effectively as we can:
- ADVANTAGE PLAYERS CARE MORE
- WHEN TO AVOID PROMOTIONS
- HOW NOT TO PLAY PROMOTIONS
- HOW NOT TO PLAY PROMOTIONS PART 2
- HOW NOT TO PLAY PROMOTIONS PART 3
- BETTER BONUS BEATING
- TWO BONUSES TO LOOK AT
- ADVANTAGE PLAYERS ANONYMOUS
- PROMOTION TO AVOID