Bonus Terms Explained – Your Quick Guide to Getting the Most Out of Promotions

Ever signed up for a free bet or bonus only to find it vanished because you missed a tiny rule? You’re not alone. Bonus terms are the fine‑print that decides whether a promo turns into cash or a dead end. Below you’ll find the core clauses you should check every time you see a new offer.

1. Wagering Requirements – The Real Cost

Wagering is the most common hurdle. It tells you how many times you must bet the bonus amount (or sometimes the bonus + deposit) before you can withdraw. A 5x requirement on a £10 bonus means you need to place £50 of qualifying bets. Look for phrases like “playthrough” or “rollover”. The lower the multiplier, the quicker you can cash out.

2. Expiry Dates – Don’t Let Time Run Out

Every bonus comes with a clock. Some offers expire after 24 hours, others after 30 days. The expiry can apply to the bonus itself, the wagering window, or both. If you miss the deadline, the bonus is usually cancelled and any winnings disappear. Set a reminder on your phone as soon as you claim a promo.

Maximum Stake Limits – Many sites cap how much you can wager on a single bet using bonus money. You’ll see statements like “max £5 per bet”. Ignoring this can void the bonus instantly, so adjust your bet size accordingly.

Game or Market Restrictions – Some bonuses are only valid on specific sports, casino games, or bet types. For example, a free spin promo may only work on selected slots, while a free bet could be limited to football matches. Always double‑check the eligible categories.

Cash‑out and Early Settlement – If you cash out a bet that uses bonus funds, many operators will either forfeit the bonus or only return a portion of the winnings. The same goes for early settlement of markets. Read the clause about “cash‑out of bonus bets” to avoid surprise losses.

Bonus Bet Value vs. Real Money – A bonus bet isn’t the same as cash. Some sites will only pay out winnings, not the stake, and they may apply a reduced odds cap (e.g., max 2.0). Knowing this helps you pick bets that give the highest expected return.

When you see a promo, skim the “Terms & Conditions” link and ask yourself these quick questions:

• What is the wagering multiplier?
• When does the bonus and the wagering period expire?
• Is there a max stake per bet?
• Which games or markets are allowed?
• How are cash‑outs handled?

If any answer feels vague or overly restrictive, it might be better to skip that offer. A clear set of terms usually means the operator is confident about the promo’s fairness.

For EasyBet fans, the “50% bonus” works like this: you get half your deposit as bonus money, a 4x wagering requirement, a 30‑day expiry, and a £10 max stake per bet. Knowing those details upfront lets you plan your betting strategy and avoid sudden account blocks.

Bottom line: treat bonus terms like a recipe. Follow each step, respect the limits, and you’ll turn a free perk into real profit. Happy betting!