Understanding Deposit Bonuses

Most internet casinos offer cash bonuses for signing up. Many even offer additional cash for depositing again, playing a certain amount, even just as an occassional "thank you" for your business.

First, a little history. Back as internet casinos started booming, in the late 1990's casino bonuses were at least as good as they are now. But there were very few rules in place. You could open an account, deposit a minimal amount and get a nice bonus. You'd play a little bit here and there, mostly even money games like roulette (bet on black!). Or, even playing blackjack with proper strategy is nearly 50% (49.5% in most casinos). You'd play for a couple hours and after a couple days, withdraw the funds - including the bonus. Since those days, casinos have found ways to catch bonus abusers... And part of that is instituting some very strict rules on bonuses.

• Playthrough Requirement
Casinos make you wager your deposit + bonus amount several times over. With each cyle through the bankroll, the house has a theoretical advantage so the casino will win some back. Quite often, you are not allowed to play 50-50 games, some casinos do not allow table games to satisfy the requirement! If you deposit $100 and get a $100 bonus, and the casino has a 20X rollover requirement, you will need to risk $4000 before a withdrawl can be made.
• Games to Qualify
More and more casinos are requiring you play slots to satisfy the playthrough requirement. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully at each casino. Some casinos reserve the right to take back the bonus if you play non approved games while in the roll over committment.
• Obtaining the Bonus
Some casinos automatically credit you. Some make you send an email to customer service. Make sure to do this shortly after your payment clears.
• Maximum Bonus
If you are only looking to deposit $25, it's great to find a 300% bonus that will give you $100 to gamble. Statistically, you have the best chance of winning with the more money you get for free, so the maximum bonus amount is important. Take for example 100% bonus up to $100 versus 50% bonus up to $500. You can get a lot more free money in the latter, you just have to pony up more money upfront to get it.
• Match Bonus
Match bonuses are not the same as deposits into your account. Instead, you play with the bonus funds and only the winnings from those hands goes into your bankroll. Typically, the bonus value is roughly half that of full bonuses.
• Multiple Accounts
You are rare (if ever) allowed to have multiple accounts at the same casino. Casinos do track information based on everything from your name, deposit methods, even IP addresses. You will not fool the casino and we do not recommend trying. Some casinos have sister properties and only allow one welcome bonus at all associated properties. If you are in doubt about your status, get hold of customer service, they are happy to help and give you a definitive answer.

Casino bonuses are around to encourage you to play at their casino... But due to player abuse of the system, casinos have had to take a very tough stance on acceptance of bonuses. You do not have to accept it, but of course we recommend you do! Just read the terms and conditions and get clarification from customer service if you need one. If you dont like the terms, move on to the next casino - terms do vary widely from casino to casino. Just follow the rules and everyone will be happy!

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