Online Casino Bonuses: How They Work and How to Use Them

Online gambling is an extraordinarily competitive market. There are so many different online casinos to choose from, and sometimes the only way a platform can make itself truly stand out is through its bonuses. There are many different types of bonuses, but all bonuses pretty much have the same job - they'll increase the number of spins or betting money you'd regularly have, and depending on the terms and conditions, claiming these offers can often be very rewarding.

Welcome Casino Bonuses

These bonuses can only be claimed by new players, oftentimes only once unless it's part of an entire welcome package. These bonuses give new players extra incentive to try out the casino's games, and while the bonus will vary a lot, the general premise is the same. You'll have free credits to try out the games with along with whatever your deposit is. Welcome bonuses will either be one single offer, or they'll give out a welcome package totaling a certain amount with the welcome bonus awarded over two to five, sometimes more, deposits. They also might offer free spins on specific games with this kind of bonus.

When claiming a bonus like this, you'll want to read the terms and conditions associated with it. While there are no-rules bonuses, which are free of withdrawal maximums and wagering requirements, the majority of online casino bonuses will require you to fulfill a playthrough requirement. This means you need to play through the bonus a certain number of times before you can withdraw. There will also often be a minimum deposit requirement. You might need a code, or several codes, to claim the bonus. Oftentimes they're available directly on the website, and you need to input them into the cashier section before or after making your deposit. Most bonuses go through a similar validation process.

How to Claim Casino Bonuses

Step 1: Register an Account
Sign up and register for an account by providing some personal information. Opt-in to the bonus offer if required.
Step 2: Enter Promotional Code
Enter the promotional code depending on the bonus requirements.
Step 3: Make a Deposit
Go to the cashier section and make your deposit.
Step 4: Receive the Bonus
The bonus should be credited automatically.

Step 1: Complete Registration
Register for an account.
Step 2: Activate Bonus
The bonus is often credited after registration, or claim it via code or support.

No Deposit Bonuses

These bonuses do not require a deposit to claim, and oftentimes they'll be the first type of bonus you'll claim after registration. Sometimes a no deposit bonus might just be free spins on a certain game, or $10 worth of credits for example. Some no deposit bonuses still come with wagering requirements, so read the terms and conditions carefully.

Deposit Match Bonus

The difference between this bonus and the welcome bonus is that this one is for existing players rather than new players. This is a very popular type of bonus. To claim this type of bonus, the casino matches a deposit you make (up to a capped amount) by a certain percentage. For example, a 100% match bonus claimable up to $500 means you deposit up to $500 and the casino adds another $500 in bonus funds. Deposit $250 and get $250 bonus, for a total of $500 to play with.

Cashback Bonus

This type of bonus is often only viable for VIP players, but some casinos like Bovada Casino or Sloto Cash Casino offer general cashback to their members. With this promotion, you'll be guaranteed a certain percentage of your losses back on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis. In most cases, you will receive the cashback as bonus credits. You can then use these to play games and cash out the winnings after satisfying the wagering requirements.