How Wagering Requirements Work: A Complete Guide for Canadian Players
Wagering requirements are the most important — and most misunderstood — part of any casino bonus. Before you can withdraw bonus winnings, you need to bet a certain multiple of the bonus amount. This guide explains exactly how they work.
What Are Wagering Requirements?
A wagering requirement (also called playthrough) is a multiplier that tells you how much you need to bet before bonus funds convert to real, withdrawable cash. For example, a $100 bonus with 35x wagering means you need to place $3,500 in total bets.
Always read the full bonus terms and conditions before claiming any offer. The wagering requirement is the single most important factor in determining a bonus's real value.
How to Calculate Wagering
The formula is simple: Bonus Amount × Wagering Multiplier = Total Bets Required
- 1 Find the bonus amount and wagering multiplier in the T&Cs
- 2 Multiply the bonus amount by the wagering multiplier to get total bets required
- 3 Check whether wagering applies to bonus only or bonus plus deposit
- 4 Note the time limit and maximum bet restrictions
Some casinos apply wagering to the bonus only, while others apply it to the bonus plus your deposit. Always check the terms — "35x bonus" is very different from "35x (bonus + deposit)".
What Counts Toward Wagering?
Not all games contribute equally:
| Game Type | Typical Contribution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Slots | 100% | Best for clearing wagering |
| Table Games | 10-20% | Blackjack, roulette, baccarat |
| Live Dealer | 5-10% | Real-time streamed games |
| Some games | 0% (Excluded) | Check T&Cs for specific titles |
Stick to slots — they contribute 100% and get you through wagering fastest. Avoid excluded games entirely, as bets on them won't count toward your requirement.
Tips for Meeting Wagering Requirements
- Stick to slots — they contribute 100% and get you through wagering fastest
- Check the time limit — most bonuses expire in 7-30 days
- Watch the max bet — exceeding the max bet while wagering can void your bonus
- Read the full T&Cs — look for restricted games and maximum cashout limits
Frequently Asked Questions
What are good wagering requirements?
Wagering requirements of 35x or lower on the bonus amount are considered fair. Anything above 50x makes it very difficult to profit from the bonus.
Do all casino bonuses have wagering requirements?
Most do, but some casinos offer "wager-free" bonuses where winnings are immediately withdrawable. These are rare but becoming more common.
What happens if I don't meet wagering requirements in time?
If the bonus expires before you complete the wagering, both the bonus balance and any winnings from it are typically forfeited.
Our Verdict
Wagering requirements are a standard part of online casino bonuses. The key is understanding them before you claim a bonus. Look for requirements of 35x or lower on the bonus amount only — anything higher starts to make the bonus hard to profit from.