1) Wagering requirements (the main thing)
Wagering requirements tell you how many times you must wager the bonus (sometimes also the deposit) before you can withdraw. It’s usually written like: 35x bonus or 40x bonus + deposit.
2) Game contribution (pokies vs table games)
Not every game counts 100% toward wagering. Many casinos count pokies at 100%, but table games can count 10%–25% or even 0%.
- If your plan is to play blackjack or roulette, contribution rules are critical.
- If contribution is low, it can make the bonus effectively impossible to clear.
3) Max bet rules (easy to break, easy to avoid)
Many bonuses include a maximum bet per spin/hand while the bonus is active (for example: $5). If you exceed it, winnings can be voided.
- Look for phrases like “maximum wager” or “max bet while bonus is active.”
- Set your stake and don’t change it mid-session.
4) Time limits and expiry
Bonuses often expire in 7–30 days. Some free spins expire even faster. If you don’t complete wagering in time, the bonus and any bonus winnings may be removed.
5) Maximum cashout and bonus caps
Some offers cap how much you can withdraw from bonus winnings (example: “max cashout 5x bonus”). This can be fine for small promos, but it’s important to know upfront.
6) Sticky vs non-sticky bonuses (bonus money vs real money)
A non-sticky bonus typically lets you withdraw your deposit and winnings once requirements are met. A sticky bonus can lock funds until wagering is completed, and sometimes only bonus winnings are withdrawable.
If the terms don’t clearly explain how balances behave, treat that as a red flag.
7) Quick 2-minute checklist before you claim
- Wagering: how many times, and is it bonus-only or bonus+deposit?
- Contribution: what games count, and at what percentage?
- Max bet: what’s the limit while the bonus is active?
- Expiry: how many days do you have?
- Max cashout: is there a withdrawal cap?
- Restricted games: any specific titles excluded?
8) Examples (so you can spot good terms fast)
Deposit $50, get $50 bonus. Wagering: 30x bonus. Max bet: $5. Pokies contribute 100%. Expires in 14 days. No max cashout.
Why it’s decent: lower wagering, clear rules, and reasonable limits.
Deposit $50, get $100 bonus. Wagering: 45x bonus + deposit. Max bet: $2. Pokies 100%, table games 10%. Expires in 7 days. Max cashout 3x bonus.
Why it’s harder: high wagering, tight max bet, short time limit, and capped withdrawals.