There are many different types of casino bonuses out there. Some are only in place for new players, whereas others are to reward existing players for their loyalty. With such a range to choose from, there’s bound to be something that has you excited to jump on board!

No deposit bonus

The most sought-after bonus is the no-deposit bonus for a simple reason; to play for the bonus, you don’t need to part with money.

However, because this is such a great deal, you’re unlikely to come across them often. After all, online casinos aren’t looking to give away cash prizes for nothing! These types of bonuses are more commonly linked to welcome bonuses. The market is competitive, and this is the ideal bonus to tempt new players to play new casino sites with the potential of winning prizes without having to part with anything.

Deposit bonus

A deposit bonus may be unlocked by making a real money deposit. Often there is a minimum deposit amount required. For example, a casino may offer a £50 deposit bonus, but to gain this amount, you must first deposit a minimum of £25.

The types of deposit bonuses can often change, so it’s essential to read the small print so you understand the rules and requirements for the specific bonus.

Matched deposit bonus

This bonus refers to the Casino matching the amount of money you deposit.

So if you deposit £30, the Casino will match, leaving you £60 to play with, in your account.

There will be limits to the amounts a casino will match, so read the small print before deciding on an amount to deposit. For example, if the limit a casino will match is £60, if you deposit £80, you’ll have a total of £140.

Free spins

This refers to a free spin of the wheel on a specific slot game. Each spin counts as one, so you can spin the wheel ten times if you unlock ten free spins. These free spins will most likely need to be used on the same game. Any winnings on these spins will be added to your account. 

Free spins are a risk-free way for players to experience new casino sites and slot games.

Loyalty bonus

In some cases, the more you play on the same site, the more bonuses you’ll unlock. These types of bonuses are triggered by specific dates, such as your sign-up anniversary or birthday or by reaching a milestone such as playing a game a certain amount of times. The latter is based on a points system. The more you play, the more points you’ll earn, and once you reach a certain achievement, you’ll unlock that bonus. 

It’s easy to lose players after a welcome bonus has been used, so it’s beneficial for casinos to reward loyal players for keeping them returning again and again.

How to claim a welcome bonus 

Steps to claim a welcome bonus may vary from online casino site to site. Usually, if a welcome bonus is no deposit, you’ll be credited with the bonus upon completion of opening an account.

If a deposit is required, once you’ve created an account and deposited the minimum amount, the welcome bonus will be credited to your account.

Terms and conditions

The terms and conditions for each bonus are ever-changing due to how often the bonuses change. Some common things to look out for are:

  • Bonuses are valid on specific games only
  • Time limits
  • Wagering requirements

We’ll look at these in more detail below.

Specific games

Usually, bonuses apply to specific games. So if you win free spins, don’t expect to use them across games of your choosing. 

Each bonus will list the games applicable in the small print, so read this to avoid any surprises!

Time limits

If you unlock free spins, you’re likely to have to use these by a specific date - they may also be staggered.

For example, if you win 50 free spins, you may have to use a specific amount on the first day and two days to use the remaining. 

Wagering requirements

Bonuses on the surface are great. However, it’s always best to be aware of the wagering requirements.

Wagering refers to how many times you need to wager a bonus before withdrawing it. 

You may have claimed a big bonus, but you’ll be unable to make a withdrawal until you’ve met the wagering requirements.

For example, if the wagering requirement is 30x, this means you must play your bonus at least 30 times before withdrawing any winnings.

It can take a while to get your head around, so read our in-depth guide to wagering requirements here.

Summary

Casino bonuses are a great way to discover new sites and new games. Welcome bonuses are often generous as there is so much competition in the casino industry.

If you find a casino site you enjoy after claiming your welcome bonus, keep your eyes peeling loyalty bonuses that pop up from time to time to reward existing players.