Casino and Sports Betting Promotions in the UK
Online Casinos and Sports Betting sites offer promotions for new and existing customers – but they always come with terms and conditions!
In this guide, we go through the most common offers you’ll come across, as well as some key information you’ll need before claiming one.
If you’re thinking of claiming a promotion, you should know the terminology and restrictions used by Online Bookies and Casino sites, and we’ll cover them all on this page.
Types of Promotions at Casinos and Sportsbooks
Online betting and casino promotions are usually categorised by who can claim them.
Welcome bonuses are for new customers, whereas ongoing promotions are for customers who have an account at the site.
There can be some overlap between the two, but let’s go over the most common offers you’ll find.
Welcome Promotions (for new customers)
You will need to create an account at a casino or sports betting site to claim the welcome bonus, and you can’t create a second account to claim it again.
Deposit Matches
When the sportsbook or casino matches your first deposit up to a specific amount, you could get an equal amount of your deposited money in bonus funds or credits.
Second Chance Bets
For second chance or play-it-again betting promotions, you can get a bonus if the first bet you place loses.
Free Spins
You can play free spins or bonus spins on slot games only. They will have a set amount per spin (for example, 10 spins worth £0.10) and may be restricted for use on a small list or even one individual slot game.
No Deposit Bonuses
No deposit bonuses don’t require you to deposit any funds to claim them. They are rarely available and, if you do find them, they’ll most likely have very restrictive rules.
It’s important to understand that they’re not “free money” but instead bonus money that comes with strict terms.
Ongoing Promotions (for existing customers)
Ongoing promos are focused on rewarding existing customers for their loyalty and can include free spins, second chance bets, deposit matches, and free spins as above.
In addition, they can also include the following,
Reload Bonuses
Reload bonuses are also deposit matches but for your subsequent deposits when you top up your account funds, rather than just your first deposit. They are usually smaller or offer a lower percentage match.
Boosted Odds
Odds boosts can give you better odds on specific sports bets.
Bonus Bets
You can get a bonus bet if you fulfill certain criteria (betting on a particular sport, placing a certain number of bets, etc.) to place on a predetermined match or game.
Loyalty Programs
Loyalty and VIP reward regular players with bonuses, perks, and higher limits based on their tier and wagering amount.
Cashback Offers
If you lose your wager or bet, the site can give you a percentage of your losses in the form of Bonus Bets or Credits.
Free Play
Free Play is similar to free spins but for use on other casino games, such as blackjack, poker, or others. Again, it’s not “free money” but bonus money that comes with strict terms.
Terminology and Restrictions on Promotions
Every promotion that you claim will come with terms and conditions.
These terms will cover any exclusions from claiming the promo, restrictions on using it, and conditions on wagering or withdrawing afterward.
Take a look at some of the key terms you’ll run into below and their definitions to help you understand more.
| Key Promotion Term | Definition |
| Wagering (otherwise known as Rollover or Playthrough Requirements) | Wagering requirements dictate how many times you must wager the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings you get from it. You may have to wager your bonus within a specific period and only on select games or game types. |
| Minimum Odds | For sports betting bonuses, your bets commonly have to be placed at minimum odds (for example, 1/2) to count toward wagering requirements. |
| Expiry Dates | Bonuses often have expiry dates. You must use them and wager them within the specified timeframe. |
| Game Restrictions | Casino bonuses and bonus funds might be restricted for use on a list of games or a specific slot. In addition, you might have restrictions on the games you can complete the wagering requirements on. |
| Maximum Bet | Some promos could limit the maximum bet you can place while using bonus funds. |
| Eligible Deposit Methods | Using specific deposit methods might exclude you from claiming a bonus offer. |
Claiming a Promotion: What Are the Steps?
Generally, claiming promotional offers is pretty straightforward, regardless of which Casino or Bookie you choose to sign up at.
All of these steps are usually required if you want to get one:
- Account Registration: You need to register as a new customer. Usually, you’ll be asked to give your name, address, email address, and date of birth. At licensed UK sites, you will also be required to verify your identity and pass other KYC checks to open an account.
- Qualifying Deposit (if required): For some promotions, you need to deposit over a minimum amount to qualify. This could be different from the amount you need to wager, so check the terms and conditions carefully.
- Bonus Code: You may need to have a promo code when signing up to be eligible for some bonuses. You could also need to opt in manually after signing up. You can find out by checking the details or terms and conditions.
- Bonus Activation: Sometimes, the bonus will be credited immediately. There will also be times when you might need to manually activate it through your account, by contacting customer support, or by meeting minimum deposit or wagering requirements.
Choosing Between Promotions
You don’t have to claim just one offer but from a quick search, you’ll see that there are hundreds to choose from.
Follow our advice below to help you decide between the neverending advertisements.
- Think About the Terms, Not the Bonus: Would you rather get a £10 bonus with no minimum deposit or a £1,000 bonus with a £1,000 deposit requirement? Don’t let a bigger bonus tempt you without reading the terms and conditions.
- Don’t Try to Make Money: It’s tempting to claim a bonus with the idea that you’ll be able to cash out after you win, but don’t count on it. Lower wagering requirements don’t increase the chances of winning or cashing out.
- Align with Your Entertainment Preferences: Make sure you take your interests into account. If one promotion offers a huge bonus, but only for blackjack, it wouldn’t be that attractive if you only like slots. Wouldn’t you prefer 10 free spins on Book of Ra?
Responsible Gambling
Remember to gamble responsibly. Claiming promotions at online sportsbooks or casinos should be seen as an opportunity to play more, not just to make money.
Set a budget, don’t spend any more than that, and get help if you feel your gambling is becoming a problem.
Resources like GamCare and GambleAware are always available to support you.