Bonus terms traps
The terms and conditions determine the value of a casino bonus. The headline amount gives only part of the cost. Our wagering requirements guide explains the turnover calculation. Other terms can limit withdrawals or void bonus winnings. Read all relevant terms before you accept an offer.
Max cashout caps
A maximum cashout clause limits the amount that you can withdraw from bonus winnings. The limit applies even when your winnings exceed the stated amount. Maximum cashout limits are common on no-deposit offers. For example, terms can combine a $10 free chip, 40x wagering and a $50 withdrawal cap. The terms would limit the withdrawal from the offer to $50. Deposit bonuses can also use a cashout limit based on the deposit. Compare the limit with the bonus amount and required turnover before you accept the offer.
Sticky vs cashable bonuses
A cashable bonus becomes available for withdrawal after you complete its wagering requirement. A sticky bonus remains unavailable for withdrawal. Operators can call a sticky bonus "non-withdrawable" or "forfeited on withdrawal." The operator deducts the bonus amount when you withdraw. With a $100 sticky bonus, the original $100 remains unavailable even if the winnings qualify. Search the terms for "removed," "deducted" and "forfeited" before you accept the offer.
Expiry windows
Bonus terms set an expiry time. The time limit usually includes completion of the wagering requirement. One documented example is the BitStarz welcome package. Its official bonus terms, checked on 2026-08-11, give the package a seven-day limit. No-deposit spins can use shorter limits. A $7,000 turnover requirement within one week can create pressure to increase spending or playing time. The operator can remove unfinished bonus funds and related winnings at the deadline. Compare the expiry time with the required turnover before you accept the offer. You can also check the offer date in our bonus schedule.
Restricted games and weighting
A contribution table states how much each game type counts toward required turnover. Slots often contribute 100%. Table games and live games often contribute 5% to 10%. The terms can also exclude specific games. Some operators can void the bonus and its winnings after play on an excluded game. High-return slots and bonus-buy features often appear on exclusion lists. Read the contribution table and the full exclusion list before you play.
A 40x requirement on a $100 bonus creates $4,000 of required turnover. A game with 100% contribution requires $4,000 in bets. A game with 5% contribution requires $80,000 in bets. A 0.5% house edge on $80,000 gives a theoretical expected loss of $400. A 4% house edge on $4,000 gives a theoretical expected loss of $160. The $400 and $160 figures are long-run expectations. Neither figure predicts the result of one bonus attempt.
Irregular play clauses
Some terms let the operator void winnings for "irregular play." The definition can be broad or incomplete. Common examples include large stake changes, opposite bets on table games and play that targets only a feature trigger. A broad clause gives the operator discretion during a withdrawal review. Some offshore licenses provide no certified independent dispute process. Our Curaçao licensing guide explains the available complaint route. Follow every stated stake, game and play restriction while a bonus is active.
Bonus-terms checklist
- Check the maximum cashout and compare it with the bonus amount.
- Find the wagering multiplier and the amount to which it applies.
- Calculate the required turnover and compare it with the expiry time.
- Check the maximum bet, excluded games and contribution table.
- Confirm whether the bonus is cashable or sticky.
- Read the irregular-play clause and note the operator's discretion.
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Our casino bonus value guide calculates the clearing cost for each tracked offer.
