Deposit Bonuses in a Nutshell
As the name implies, deposit bonuses are goodies you can grab upon funding your account. A casino deposit bonus can be claimed by both new and existing players, but these two main categories work a bit differently.
In terms of what you get by making a deposit, you can expect different types of bonuses, such as match bonuses, free spins, and so on. With this in mind, let’s have a look at the main types of deposit bonuses.
Types of Deposit Bonuses, Explained
Regardless of what kind of gambler you are, these incentives are designed to give you a little boost for your gambling sessions and reward you for your commitment. With this in mind, let's have a look at the main types of deposit bonuses.
Welcome Bonuses
A welcome bonus, also known as a sign-up bonus or first deposit bonus, is a reward you get when joining a new casino. These offers will boost your initial bankroll and most of the times you will also get free spins. In most cases, welcome bonuses can range from 50% to 500%. As a new player, building a bankroll takes time, so welcome bonuses that double or triple your deposit can be very helpful.
For example
A typical welcome bonus might be: "200% up to $1500 + 250 Free Spins." This means the casino matches your first deposit up to $1500 and gives you 250 free spins.
Another offer might be
A "500% Match Bonus on your first 3 deposits," which boosts your first three deposits by up to 500%. However, that 500% is granted as follows: 250% FD, 150% SD, 100% TD. This is why you need to be careful and read all the details of the bonus.
Also, if you just want to casually get the feeling of real money gambling, you can choose a $1 deposit casino bonus available at minimum deposit sites. You can gamble with as little as a buck and still be eligible for deposit bonuses.
Free Spins
Free spins, also called cash spins or extra spins, are used for playing video slot games. They sometimes (although rare) come with lower wagering requirements compared to cash bonuses. Some casinos offer free spins on the second and third deposits too.
Keep in mind that deposit-based spins come in bigger amounts compared to no deposit free spins. And you should also pay attention, since almost all of these bonuses are available only for a specific title.
Be aware
Very generous bonuses often have strict terms and conditions; eg: the higher the bonus, the higher the wagering requirements.
Bonuses By Payment Method
Different payment methods have varying transaction costs. Casinos like to use methods that save them money because these methods cost less to run and help them make more profit..
To encourage customers to use these favorable methods, casinos offer extra benefits.
For example
A casino might give you 15% of your deposit as a bonus when you use crypto like Bitcoin or methods like Neteller. Note that some casinos can offer specific or bigger promotions (e.g. a combination of match bonus + free spins or up to 100 free spins).
Deposit Bonus for Existing Players / Reload Bonus
These bonuses, also known as loyalty bonuses, reward you for your ongoing play. Reload bonuses can mean match bonuses, bonus spins, cashback, or a combination of these..
For example,
Deposit at least $50 during the weekend and play any games. Receive a 20% cashback on net losses incurred during the promotional period.
Some casinos offer these bonuses if you deposit on specific days, for instance, deposit a certain amount on Wednesday, and get 35 free spins the next day.
They also consider your monthly spending to reward you based on your betting level. In other words, by staying active, you can earn a monthly bonus.
Bonuses for VIP Players
Casinos value high-spending customers and offer generous perks to keep them engaged. A high roller might not be swayed by a 15% deposit bonus but would appreciate juicier rewards.
VIP customers receive personal care assistants to cater to their needs. These perks come in a customized package based on your playing habits.
Why Deposit Bonuses Can Be Good for You
The idea behind deposit bonuses is to boost your account without committing too much financially. Deposit bonuses are typically more generous than their no deposit counterparts, which also gives you more leverage in real money gambling.
Extra playtime
Deposit bonuses boost your bankroll, giving you longer play sessions.
Test-drive new games
With extra funds, players are more likely to try games they wouldn't normally play. This adventurous approach can lead to finding new favorites.
Increased winning potential
More funds mean more chances to hit a big win.
Loyalty boost
Casinos offer deposit bonuses to keep players engaged and loyal. It's their way of saying, "Thanks for sticking with us!"
There’s also the idea of improving your overall experience at the casino, as it offers a more comfortable environment for playing casino games with real money.
Playing with bonus funds can encourage you to strategize more boldly or try different betting patterns you wouldn't risk with just your money.
Deposit Bonuses Limitations and Conditions
Like everything gambling-wise, even the best casino deposit bonus is often tied to certain terms and conditions, which you should absolutely read and understand before claiming it.
Release Conditions
Bonus funds aren't usually available for immediate withdrawal. They're placed in a separate bonus account and moved to your real money balance as you meet certain conditions (i.e. after you’ve completed the wagering requirements).
Expiry Date
Just like any offers, deposit bonuses come with an expiry date. You need to claim the bonus within a set timeframe after your deposit, and those timeframes are usually small.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Online Casino Deposit Bonus
Everyone wants to grab the best casino deposit bonus, but not everyone wants to understand the ups and downs of claiming and using such offers.
In other words, the most suitable casino bonuses for players who make a deposit are those with the least amount of conditions and the lowest wagering requirements. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
Read the Terms and Conditions
When picking the best bonus, always read the terms and conditions. But don't stop there. The wide range of online casinos and their bonuses can be overwhelming.
While more options are usually good, finding the best offer can be challenging. Do some research before choosing a casino with deposit bonuses and closely examine the codes they offer.
If you don’t fancy that much of a financial commitment, there are also sites with super low minimum deposits. Feel like betting small amounts just for the fun of it? Try grabbing some $1 deposit casino bonuses and spin some reels.
Study the expiration date, the availability in your region, and, last but not least, which games you’re allowed to play using that specific deposit bonus.
Check the Bonus Amount
Once you've chosen a casino, look at the bonuses. First, compare its offers against other casinos before signing up as a newcomer or claiming it as an account holder.
Also, note the maximum amount credited to you after a deposit and the maximum bet allowed while using an active bonus.
Aim for Forfeitable Bonuses
Look for casinos or codes that offer forfeitable bonuses. This means you can give up the bonus after you start playing.
Always Go for Cashable Bonuses
Check if the deposit bonus is cashable. If it is, you can keep the bonus along with any winnings when you withdraw.
For example, if you get a €100 bonus and you win €100 with it, after completing the wagering, a cashable bonus lets you withdraw the full €200. A non-cashable bonus only lets you withdraw €100, removing the initial €100 bonus.
Deposit Bonuses at Casinos - Final Thoughts
To summarize, deposit bonuses provide extra playtime, chances to try new games, and the potential for bigger winnings for both new and existing players. However, I advise you to never skip the research part and to do your homework to the best of your ability before claiming and using your casino deposit bonus.
Diligent research, alongside keeping things realistic, will help you minimize risks and downsides while having fun with your favorite casino games.