Bonus (Welcome Bonus)
A promotional offer from a sportsbook or casino that gives you extra funds or free bets.
Welcome bonuses (also called sign-up bonuses) are promotional offers designed to attract new customers. Common types include deposit matches (e.g., 100% match up to $1,000), free bets, and risk-free first bets.
Bonuses come with wagering requirements (playthrough requirements) that specify how much you must bet before you can withdraw bonus funds. A $100 bonus with a 10x rollover means you must wager $1,000 before cashing out.
Not all bonuses are created equal. Compare the total bonus amount, rollover requirements, eligible games/bet types, and time limits. A smaller bonus with lower rollover requirements can be more valuable than a larger bonus with restrictive terms.
Example
BetMGM offers "Bet $10, Get $200 in Bonus Bets." You must wager $10 first, then receive $200 in bonus bets regardless of whether your first bet wins.
Related Terms
Top Sportsbooks
Top-rated platforms reviewed by our editorial team