Wagering Requirements Explained: How Casino Playthrough Works

Almost every casino bonus comes with wagering requirements. Understanding them is the single most useful skill for reading bonus terms. Here is wagering requirements explained in plain English for US players.

What is a wagering requirement?

A wagering requirement (also called playthrough) is the total amount you must bet before bonus funds, or winnings from them, can be withdrawn. It is written as a multiple, such as 15x or 30x.

How to calculate playthrough

Example: a $100 bonus with a 15x requirement on the bonus only means $100 × 15 = $1,500 in total bets. If the requirement applies to deposit plus bonus, a $100 deposit and $100 bonus at 15x means $200 × 15 = $3,000. Always check which amount the multiple applies to.

Game contribution

Not every game counts fully. Slots often contribute 100%, while table games such as blackjack may count 10–20% or nothing at all. If blackjack contributes 10%, a $10 hand only clears $1 of playthrough.

Other terms that matter

• **Time limit:** many bonuses expire in 7 to 30 days.
• **Max bet:** bets above a set amount while a bonus is active can void it.
• **Max cashout:** some offers cap what you can withdraw from bonus winnings.
• **Excluded games:** certain slots or jackpot games may not count.

Is a lower requirement always better?

Generally a lower multiple is easier to meet, but contribution rates, expiry, and caps can matter as much. Compare the whole package using our casino bonuses guide and the detailed wagering requirements page.

Keep it in proportion

Wagering requirements mean you will bet more than the bonus amount, and the house edge applies to every bet. Never deposit more than your entertainment budget to chase a bonus. See our bankroll guide.

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