Bonus literacy
Read the offer before you chase the headline.
Promotions can be useful, but the important details live beneath the splash: eligible games, wagering, expiry windows, and withdrawal rules.
01 · The headline
Welcome offers
A deposit match or sign-up reward usually has a maximum value, a minimum deposit, and a time limit. Treat the headline as an invitation to inspect the terms—not as guaranteed cash.
- Check whether the offer is for new customers only.
- Confirm the minimum deposit and maximum bonus.
- Look for a claim code or opt-in step.
02 · The detail
Free spins
Free spins may apply only to selected games and can have a separate expiry date. Any winnings may carry their own wagering or maximum-cashout conditions.
- Note which slot the spins are attached to.
- Check the value per spin and release schedule.
- Read the rules for winnings from bonus spins.
03 · The maths
Wagering rules
Wagering tells you how much eligible play is required before bonus funds or winnings become withdrawable. Compare the requirement with the contribution rate of each game.
- Separate the bonus amount from the deposit amount.
- Check whether casino and sportsbook play qualify differently.
- Watch for maximum bet limits while a bonus is active.
04 · The gate
Eligibility checks
Location, age, account history, payment method, and identity checks can all affect eligibility. A promotion is only useful if it applies to your situation.
- Verify the offer is available in your jurisdiction.
- Use only one account per household where required.
- Keep a copy of the terms at the time you claim.
A quick pre-claim check
Five questions worth answering
Before selecting an offer, make sure you can answer these in plain language: What do I deposit? What do I receive? What must I wager? When does it expire? What happens if I withdraw early?