What Happens If You Win a Free Bet?
If you’ve ever considered using a free bet, you might wonder what actually happens if it wins. While it can feel like a simple bonus, the outcome isn’t always as straightforward as it first appears.
There are a few important differences between the returns from a free bet and a standard bet, and it’s easy to overlook the small details that can affect what you receive.
If you’re thinking about placing one, this blog post will walk you through what to expect, so you can go in with a clear understanding of how it all works. Read on to learn more.
What Is a Free Bet?
A free bet is a special offer many betting sites provide. It lets bettors place a bet without using their own money, usually as a welcome offer or as a reward for regular players.
Most of the time, if you want to use a free bet, you need to register, deposit, or place a qualifying bet to be eligible for a free bet. The specific steps will depend on the betting site, so make sure you check what’s required.
Unlike betting with your own cash, if you win with a free bet, you only receive the winnings from the bet. The value of the free bet itself isn’t included in your payout. This important distinction affects how much you take home if your wager is successful.
If you want to use free bets, always read the offer’s terms before using them. Knowing exactly how free bets work sets a solid foundation before moving on to payouts.
Do Free Bets Payout?
Free bets can lead to payouts, but some essential details make these winnings different from those of standard bets.
If you use a free bet and your selection wins, you receive only the profit, meaning the amount you would win with your own money, minus the stake of the free bet. For instance, with a £10 free bet at 3/1 odds, your account would be credited with £30 in winnings, not £40. The original £10 (the free bet amount) does not form part of your return.
As mentioned earlier, the exact rules can vary across betting sites. Make sure to read the full terms and conditions beforehand if you’re considering using any offer.
Are Free Bet Winnings Withdrawable?
If you win anything from placing a free bet, whether you can withdraw winnings from your free bet depends on the conditions of the specific promotion.
In most cases, the profit from a free bet is added to your account, but you may need to meet certain criteria before it becomes available for withdrawal. The most common is a wagering requirement, where your winnings need to be bet a certain number of times before withdrawal.
For example, a win of £7 with a 10x wagering requirement means you must stake £70 across qualifying bets before withdrawal is possible.
By being informed about these requirements in advance, you can manage your expectations before considering how to meet these rules, which are explained in detail below.
Free Bet Wagering Rules Explained
If you place a successful free bet, to access your winnings, you’ll often need to follow the wagering rules set by the site. These rules are called wagering or playthrough requirements, and they dictate how much you need to stake before you’re allowed to withdraw.
For example, if you win £20 from a free bet and a 3x wagering rule applies, you’d need to place qualifying bets that add up to £60 (£20 x 3). The bets may need to meet certain odds or be placed on particular types of events—details you’ll find in the offer’s terms and conditions.
In addition, some offers come with time limits. For instance, you may need to complete the wagering within seven days, or you might lose your winnings.
How To Use a Free Bet
If you choose to use a free bet, the process is usually simple, as long as you’re aware of the steps involved.
First, check whether the free bet has been added to your account or if you need to claim it manually. Some offers require you to opt in before they become available.
Next, decide where you’d like to place your bet. You might notice certain restrictions, such as minimum odds or eligible sports, so it’s worth double-checking the terms before making your selection.
When you’re ready to place your wager, you’ll typically need to select the free bet option, often by ticking a box or clicking a button on the bet slip.
Before confirming, take a moment to review the details to make sure everything looks correct.
Once the bet is placed, the outcome will determine what happens next. If it wins, you’ll usually receive just the profit from the bet—not the original free bet amount itself.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.