Types of Casino Bonuses — Complete Overview

Welcome bonuses

A welcome bonus is offered when you make your first deposit. It is typically a percentage match (100% up to £200) with a wagering requirement attached. These are the most common and heavily advertised bonuses. The headline number is rarely what it seems once wagering requirements are applied.

Reload bonuses

Reload bonuses are offered on subsequent deposits, usually at a lower percentage than the welcome offer (25–50%). They work the same way as welcome bonuses and carry similar wagering requirements. They are usually triggered by a promotional email or available in your account promotions tab.

Cashback bonuses

Cashback returns a percentage of your net losses over a period. A 10% cashback on weekly losses means if you lose £100 in a week, you receive £10 back. Cashback bonuses sometimes come with no wagering requirement, making them among the most player-friendly bonuses available.

No-deposit bonuses

A no-deposit bonus grants you a small amount of bonus credit or free spins without requiring a deposit. The amounts are small (typically £5–£10) and wagering requirements are high. They allow you to try the casino without risk, but the expected cash value of most no-deposit offers is very small.

VIP and loyalty schemes

Most online casinos run a loyalty scheme that rewards wagering volume with points, which can be redeemed for bonus credit or cash. High-volume players are invited to VIP schemes with personal account managers, faster withdrawals, and higher limits. VIP benefits are real but they incentivise playing more, which serves the casino's interest more than the player's.