Bonus spins or free spins? What the difference means

Spins are the most common welcome offer. The words used to describe them matter, because the UK advertising rules say a promotion must not be misleading.

“Free” means free

The advertising codes say that an offer cannot be called free if you have to pay or deposit to get it. So:

• Free spins are credited without a deposit, sometimes after registering or adding a payment card.
• Bonus spins (or deposit spins) require a qualifying deposit or wager.

On GamCasual we use “free spins” only where no deposit is needed. Everything else is “bonus spins”, with the condition stated beside the headline.

Terms to check before you claim

• What triggers the spins: deposit, wager, opt-in, or code.
• Spin value: for example 10p each. Fifty spins at 10p is £5 of play, not £50.
• Which game: spins are usually tied to one slot.
• Wagering on winnings: none, or a multiplier up to 10x.
• Time limits: how long you have to claim and to use them.
• Caps: a maximum you can convert to cash.
• Eligibility: new customers only, one per person or household, some regions excluded.

Questions to ask yourself

• Would I deposit this amount without the spins?
• Am I comfortable with the spin deadline, or does it push me to play sooner than planned?
• Have I set a deposit limit?

If the answer to any of these is no, skip the offer. See wagering requirements explained and our no-wagering offers list.

About our claim page

Our claim page follows these rules: it states the deposit requirement in the headline whenever one applies, and shows the key terms and safer-gambling information beside the button.

Frequently asked questions

Are spins that need a deposit really free?

Under UK advertising guidance, describing an offer as free is misleading if you must deposit or spend money to get it. Such offers should be described as bonus spins.

Can I keep what I win from spins?

That depends on the terms. Some spins pay winnings as cash, others as bonus money with wagering. There may also be a cap.

Do I need a code to claim?

Only if the offer says so. Check the terms and enter any code at the stage the operator specifies, usually on the first deposit.