Wagering requirements are the most misunderstood aspect of casino app bonuses. Here's a plain-English explanation of how they work — and how to calculate whether a bonus is worth claiming.
What does "10x wagering" mean?
If a casino offers a £50 bonus with 10× wagering, you need to wager a total of £500 (10 × £50) before the bonus converts to withdrawable cash. Every £1 you bet using the bonus counts towards that total.
The UKGC January 2026 Cap
From January 2026, the UKGC set a maximum wagering requirement of 10× the bonus amount. Previously, 30×–65× wagering was legal and common — making most bonuses negative expected value.
Bonus − (Wagering × Bonus × 0.04)Pre-cap (40×): £100 → EV = £100 − (40 × £100 × 0.04) = −£60
Post-cap (10×): £100 → EV = £100 − (10 × £100 × 0.04) = +£60
What counts towards wagering?
Most UK casino apps count slot stakes at 100% towards wagering. Table games typically count at 10–50%. Live casino games may count at lower rates. Always check contribution rates in the T&Cs before playing.
Tips for clearing wagering requirements
- Use high-RTP slots (97%+) — they're more efficient for clearing wagering
- Bet smaller amounts — reduces variance
- Note the time limit — most bonuses expire in 7–30 days
- Check maximum withdrawal caps on winnings
