Wagering requirements explained with examples

A wagering requirement (also called playthrough) is the amount you must bet before a bonus, or winnings from a bonus, can be withdrawn. Since 19 January 2026 UK bonuses are capped at 10x. The examples below are illustrative and not tied to any operator.

Worked example 1: matched deposit

You deposit £20 and receive a £20 bonus with 10x wagering on the bonus only.

• Wagering needed: £20 × 10 = £200 of bets.
• If the same offer applied the multiplier to deposit plus bonus, it would be £40 × 10 = £400.

The wording is therefore as important as the multiplier.

Worked example 2: spin winnings

You deposit £10 for 50 spins at 10p. The spins win £8, which is credited as bonus money with 10x wagering.

• Wagering needed: £8 × 10 = £80.
• If the offer says winnings are paid as cash with no wagering, you can withdraw the £8 straight away, subject to normal checks.

The terms that change the value

• Maximum bet. Often £1 to £5 while a bonus is active. Larger bets can void the bonus.
• Time limit. From 48 hours to 30 days. A short deadline makes a large requirement hard to complete.
• Contribution. Slots often count 100%, table games less or not at all.
• Cash-out cap. A limit on how much can be withdrawn from bonus winnings, for example £50 or £100.
• Early withdrawal. Some operators cancel the bonus if you withdraw before completing wagering. Others let you withdraw your deposit at any time.
• Excluded games and payment methods. Some e-wallets or prepaid methods do not qualify.

How to judge an offer

1. Work out the total you must bet, in pounds.
2. Compare it with the time you have and the maximum bet.
3. Check any cap on what you can take out.
4. Decide your own deposit limit first and stick to it, whatever the offer.

A bonus is never a reason to gamble more than you planned. If you find yourself chasing a requirement, stop. Read our guide to staying in control.

Frequently asked questions

What does 10x wagering mean?

You must stake ten times the relevant amount before bonus funds or winnings are released. If the requirement applies to a £20 bonus, that is £200 of bets.

Does wagering apply to my deposit?

It depends on the offer. Some apply only to the bonus, some to deposit plus bonus. The terms state which. This difference can double the amount you must bet.

What is a maximum bet rule?

While you have an active bonus there is a limit on the size of each bet. Breaking it can void the bonus and winnings.