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Tutorial • 10 min read

How to Use a Casino Bonus

Sarah Mitchell - Chief Casino Analyst
Sarah Mitchell
Chief Casino Analyst • 15+ years casino operations, Former Operations Manager at Betsson Group
•
January 8, 2024
•
Updated January 15, 2025
•10 min read
Complete step-by-step guide to claiming, activating, and using casino bonuses. Learn the process from registration to withdrawal with expert tips to maximize your bonus value.

Step 1: Choose the Right Bonus

Not all bonuses are created equal

Before claiming any bonus, research and compare offers. Look for bonuses with fair wagering requirements (25x-35x), reasonable time limits (21-30 days), and high game contribution rates (100% for your preferred games).

Key Factors to Consider

  • Wagering Requirements: Lower is better (25x-35x is fair)
  • Game Contribution: 100% for slots, 10-20% for table games
  • Time Limit: At least 21 days to complete wagering
  • Max Bet Limit: $5-$10 per spin is standard

Step 2: Register Your Account

Creating your casino account

Visit the casino website and click the "Sign Up" or "Register" button. You'll need to provide basic information including your name, email, date of birth, and address. Most casinos require you to be 18+ or 21+ depending on jurisdiction.

Registration Checklist

1
Provide Accurate Information
Use your real name and details - you'll need to verify later
2
Create a Strong Password
Use a unique password with letters, numbers, and symbols
3
Enter Bonus Code (if required)
Some bonuses require a code during registration
4
Verify Your Email
Click the verification link sent to your email

Step 3: Make Your Deposit

Funding your account to claim the bonus

Navigate to the cashier or deposit section. Choose your preferred payment method (credit card, e-wallet, crypto, etc.) and enter the deposit amount. Make sure to meet the minimum deposit requirement for the bonus.
Important Deposit Tips
  • Check the minimum deposit amount - depositing less may forfeit the bonus
  • Some payment methods may be excluded from bonuses (check terms)
  • Enter bonus code in the deposit form if required
  • Opt-in to the bonus if there's a checkbox (don't miss it!)

Step 4: Activate Your Bonus

Claiming and activating the bonus funds

After depositing, your bonus should be credited automatically or appear in your "Bonuses" section. Some casinos require manual activation - look for an "Activate" or "Claim" button. Your bonus balance will be separate from your real money balance.

Automatic Activation

Most modern casinos credit bonuses instantly upon deposit. Check your account balance - you should see both your deposit and bonus funds.

Manual Activation

Some casinos require you to visit the "Bonuses" or "Promotions" section and click "Claim" or "Activate" to receive your bonus.

Step 5: Meet Wagering Requirements

Playing through your bonus

Now comes the important part - meeting the wagering requirements. This means you must wager the bonus amount (or deposit + bonus) a certain number of times before you can withdraw. Most casinos show your progress in the account section.

Wagering Example

Bonus Amount:$1,000
Wagering Requirement:30x
Total Wagering Needed:$30,000

You must place $30,000 in bets before you can withdraw bonus winnings

Wagering Tips

  • Play games with 100% contribution (usually slots)
  • Choose high RTP games (96%+) to maximize your chances
  • Never exceed the max bet limit (usually $5-$10)
  • Track your progress regularly in your account
  • Complete wagering before the time limit expires

Step 6: Withdraw Your Winnings

Cashing out after completing wagering

Once you've completed the wagering requirements, you can withdraw your winnings. Navigate to the cashier, select your withdrawal method, and enter the amount. Most casinos require identity verification (KYC) before your first withdrawal.

Withdrawal Checklist

  • Verify your identity (upload ID, proof of address)
  • Check for maximum withdrawal limits
  • Use the same payment method as your deposit (if possible)
  • Allow 1-5 business days for processing

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Exceeding Max Bet Limits

Betting more than the allowed amount (usually $5-$10) will void your bonus and winnings. Always check the terms.

Playing Excluded Games

Some games don't contribute to wagering or are completely excluded. Playing them wastes your time and may void the bonus.

Missing the Time Limit

Bonuses expire after a set period (usually 14-30 days). If you don't complete wagering in time, you lose the bonus and any winnings.

Not Reading Terms & Conditions

Every bonus has specific terms. Not reading them can lead to forfeited bonuses and frustration. Always read the fine print.

References & Resources

This guide references the following authoritative sources for accuracy and credibility:

Disclosure: External links are provided for informational purposes and include rel="nofollow" attributes. We are not affiliated with these organizations.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell - Chief Casino Analyst

Sarah Mitchell

Chief Casino Analyst

15+ years casino operations, Former Operations Manager at Betsson Group

Sarah spent 8 years as Casino Operations Manager at Betsson Group (2012-2020), directly overseeing bonus program design and player retention strategies. She has personally tested and documented over 500 casino bonuses across 200+ operators. In 2019, Sarah identified and exposed hidden wagering terms that affected 50,000+ players, leading to industry-wide transparency reforms. Her expertise in bonus mathematics has been cited by the UK Gambling Commission in regulatory guidance documents.

Areas of Expertise

Bonus AnalysisWagering RequirementsCasino OperationsPlayer Value AssessmentRegulatory Compliance
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