For those new to the world of online casinos, bonus and promotion jargon can often leave the head spinning. With so many different terminologies and fiddly terms and conditions, new players can find it hard to understand just what it is they’re getting into.
However, it’s a shame to let this lucrative market go untapped. Bonuses are one of the most rewarding parts of playing online casino games. The casino rewards you for enjoying your favorite online games. So don’t miss the opportunity! Read on for our handy guide on all the must-know casino bonus terms so you can grab your next opportunity by the horns.
What is an online casino bonus?
Casino bonuses are rewards provided for simply signing in and playing casino games. These bonuses can take many forms, such as in-game currency, bonuses on deposits and free perks to let you enjoy your games for longer. To claim these bonuses, you must meet certain criteria and conditions, such as being a new player, depositing money or logging in a certain number of days in a row.
What are the best online casino bonuses?
Now that we know why online casino bonuses are so great, it’s time to get down to the gritty details and explain the jargon so you can enjoy your next Sky City online casino bonus to the fullest.
Deposit match
This is a form of bonus where the casino will apply a percentage match to any money you deposit at the casino. For example, a $100 deposit with a 100% match will net you a bonus of $100 to enjoy on your favorite casino games. This is the most common form of welcome and reload bonus.
Free spins
A free spin reward lets you enjoy your favorite slot machines at no cost. These are usually tied to specific games and are a common part of a welcome bonus or no-deposit bonus.
Welcome bonus
As the quintessential casino bonus, a welcome bonus is the bread and butter of the casino world. Any casino worth its salt should offer a lucrative welcome bonus that includes a high deposit match and some free spins so that you can jump into the casino world with your payroll boosted, ready to explore what the casino has to offer.
No-deposit bonus
This is the holy grail of the casino world. Usually, welcome bonuses require an initial deposit, but some casinos will offer the rare opportunity to grab a reward simply for signing up — all at no cost! These are great for newcomers looking to try out a new casino to see if it suits them.
Reload bonus
Reload bonuses are for returning players. These offer a percentage deposit match on your subsequent deposit to the casino to give you a little boost each time you play.
Cashback bonus
Cashback bonuses let you regain some of the money you lose along the way. Usually running at a low single-figure percentage, this bonus offers you a return on any money you spend in-game. It’s the sort of bonus that can really add up over time. However, there are normally terms and conditions that state a minimum spend figure over a specified time period.
Loyalty program
Loyalty programs are for players who are really dedicated to their casinos. These usually work on a milestone reward structure where players can earn badges, free spins and even small amounts of bonus funds for completing fun goals or daily log-ins.
VIP or high-roller bonuses
A lot of casinos also have a reward program for high-spending players with special rewards. Once you’ve taken care of your financial strategies and you have spare cash to spend at your casino of choice, you might be rewarded with bonuses that go beyond the usual deposit matches, such as a ticket to a poker tournament or a tailored package of exciting in-game bonuses.
What to look out for when claiming a casino bonus?
It’s important to remember that bonuses aren’t free. Keep a careful eye on the fine print when claiming a bonus to avoid spending money on something that doesn’t suit your playstyle, or worse still — you don’t actually qualify for! Here’s some key terms to look out for.
- Wagering requirements: Given as a multiplier, this is the number of times that you must wager the money earned on your bonus before being able to withdraw it.
- Minimum deposit: Usually applying to welcome or reload bonuses, you must deposit this amount in one sum in order to qualify.
- Time limit: This is the amount of time you have to meet the wagering requirement before you lose the bonus money.
- Game restrictions: Some bonuses are only usable on certain games, so make sure it’s one you actually enjoy!