In this guide
“Wagering requirement” is the number that decides whether a welcome bonus is worth taking. It is also the most misread number on a casino page. Here is a worked example you can adapt to any offer.
The set-up
You deposit €100 and the casino adds a 100% bonus of €100. The terms say 35x wagering. The key question is: 35 times what?
Two ways it is calculated
| Bonus only | Deposit + bonus | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount multiplied | €100 bonus | €100 deposit + €100 bonus |
| Turnover required (35x) | €3,500 | €7,000 |
| Spins at €1 each | 3,500 | 7,000 |
| Spins at €0.20 each | 17,500 | 35,000 |
The same “35x” can mean twice the playing. Always check whether the multiplier applies to the bonus alone or to deposit plus bonus.
What it costs on average
Every bet loses a small amount on average — the house edge. On a slot with a 96% return to player (RTP) the average loss is 4% of every euro staked.
- Bonus-only: €3,500 × 4% = €140 expected loss across the wagering.
- Deposit + bonus: €7,000 × 4% = €280 expected loss across the wagering.
In the second case you start with €200 in play and are expected to lose €280 before you can withdraw, which is why the average outcome is that the bonus balance does not survive. That does not mean you will lose every time: slots are volatile and some sessions end well above the start. It does mean the bonus is better understood as extra play time than as free money.
Questions to ask before you accept
- Is the multiplier applied to the bonus only, or to deposit plus bonus?
- How long do I have? Seven days is common; some are shorter.
- What is the maximum bet while wagering, and what happens if I exceed it?
- Which games count, and how much?
- Is there a maximum cashout from bonus winnings?
The cleaner alternative
Some casinos offer cashback or free spins with low or no wagering. The headline number is often smaller, but the maths is simpler and the money is yours sooner. Compare offers on the amount you can realistically withdraw, not on the size of the banner.
Next, read how game contribution and maximum bet rules change the calculation.