Independent guide · Article

Wagering Requirements Explained: How to Read Bonus Terms

A bonus headline tells you the amount. The wagering requirement tells you the real cost of earning it. Here is how to work out what a bonus actually asks of you.

Stack of coins on a dark blue faceted background

What Is a Wagering Requirement?

A wagering requirement, also known as turnover or play-through, is the amount you must bet before bonus money, or winnings linked to it, can be withdrawn. It is usually written as a multiple, such as 20x or 30x.

How to Calculate It

  1. Step 1

    Find what the multiple applies to

    Terms say whether the requirement is on the bonus only, or on the deposit plus the bonus.

  2. Step 2

    Multiply

    Multiply that amount by the number shown. This gives the total you must wager.

  3. Step 3

    Adjust for game contribution

    Some games count only part of each bet. A game that counts 10% needs ten times as much wagering.

  4. Step 4

    Compare with your budget

    If the total is far above what you would normally spend, the offer may not suit you.

Worked Examples

These examples use made-up numbers to show the method. They are not real offers.

ScenarioCalculationTotal wagering needed
₱500 bonus, 20x on bonus only₱500 × 20₱10,000
₱1,000 deposit + ₱1,000 bonus, 30x on bonus only₱1,000 × 30₱30,000
₱1,000 deposit + ₱1,000 bonus, 30x on deposit + bonus₱2,000 × 30₱60,000
₱10,000 requirement, game counts 10%₱10,000 ÷ 0.10₱100,000 in bets on that game

Other Terms to Check

  • Maximum bet: betting above the limit can void the bonus.
  • Maximum withdrawal: some bonuses cap how much can be cashed out.
  • Excluded games: certain titles may not count at all.
  • Expiry: both the claim time and the time to complete the requirement.
  • Payment method restrictions: some methods are not eligible.

Red Flags

A Quick Checklist Before You Accept

  1. Read the full terms on the operator’s official site.
  2. Work out the total wagering with the method above.
  3. Check the expiry date and the time zone.
  4. Check the maximum bet and withdrawal limits.
  5. Decide whether the bonus is worth the extra play. It is fine to decline.

Conclusion

The right question is not “how big is the bonus?” but “what must I do to keep it?” For the latest on what we have been able to verify, see our promotions page.

Frequently asked questions

Is a lower wagering requirement always better?

Usually, yes, but also check the cap on winnings, the game restrictions and the expiry date.

What happens if I do not meet the requirement before it expires?

The bonus and winnings linked to it are normally removed, so check the deadline.

Can I withdraw before finishing the requirement?

Often, withdrawing early cancels the bonus. The terms of the offer will say what happens.

Sources and further reading

About the author

DMFirst Editorial Team. An independent team writing about gaming accounts, apps and safer play. Articles use official sources where they exist and are updated when details change.