Bonus terms: the six rules that void the most bonuses

Bonus terms and conditions are the contract of a promotion. Nearly every bonus problem — balances removed, withdrawals refused — comes from rules that were there from the start. This page goes through the bonus rules that most often surprise players and shows where to find them. The terms that count are always the operator's, on a domain you have checked in your regulator's register.

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Bonus rules, one by one

Rule	What it says	How to avoid trouble
Max bet	Highest stake per spin while a bonus is active	Set your stake below it before playing
Max cashout	Cap on what can be withdrawn from bonus winnings	Know the cap before accepting
Restricted games	Games that do not count or are banned with a bonus	Check the list before opening a game
Time limit	Time to meet wagering	Compare with your pace
Sticky bonus	Non-withdrawable bonus removed on withdrawal	Count only winnings above it
Wagering cap	Limits or special rules on the requirement	Read the exact formula

General bonus rules versus promotion terms

Most operators have two levels: general bonus rules that apply to all promotions, and the terms of each promotion. Where they conflict, the terms say which prevails. Reading only the promotion page leaves out general rules such as the max bet or the restricted games list.

Bonus abuse: what operators usually include

Opening more than one account to receive the same bonus.
Combining opposite bets to remove risk while clearing wagering.
Switching to restricted or low-risk games to "clear" the requirement.
Changing bet sizes in ways the terms treat as irregular.

The exact definition belongs to each operator. If you are unsure about a strategy, ask support in writing before using it.

Before accepting: a checklist

Domain confirmed in your regulator's licence register.
Base and multiple of the wagering requirement.
Max bet per spin and the restricted games list.
Time limit and max cashout.
Whether the bonus is sticky or withdrawable.

Who interprets the terms in a dispute

In a bonus dispute, the operator reads the terms first. The difference lies in the next step. On a licensed site, there is a regulator you can take the matter to after the operator's own process. On an unlicensed site, the terms are interpreted by whoever wrote them, and any appeal goes wherever that operator points — often abroad.

Frequently asked questions

What is the max bet with a bonus?

The highest stake per spin or bet allowed while a bonus is active. Betting above it, even once, can lead the operator to void the bonus and related winnings.

What is a sticky bonus?

A bonus that cannot be withdrawn itself: it stays attached to the balance and is removed when you withdraw. Only winnings above it can leave.

What do operators treat as bonus abuse?

Each operator defines it in its terms. It typically includes multiple accounts, betting patterns that remove risk and using restricted games to clear wagering.