How to Claim an Online Casino Bonus

Heath Chesters Written By Heath Chesters
Last Updated on 11.11.2024

Casino bonuses are a great way to get extra value when playing online. But are there any pitfalls when you claim them? We'll show you exactly what to do. This guide covers all the important details so you don't miss out on any rewards.

Gambling Commission GamCare
Article Summary
How to Claim a Casino Bonus
  1. Register or Sign In at an Online Casino
  2. Read the Bonus Terms and Conditions
  3. Check for No Deposit Bonuses
  4. Make an Eligible Deposit
  5. Enter Applicable Bonus Codes
  6. Receive Deposit Bonus
  7. Play and Claim Promo Bonuses

Step 1: Make a Registration at the Online Casino

You must register at a casino site before you can claim a bonus. Why? In the UK, you can’t play without a verified account. If you already have an account and want to claim a bonus, simply log in.

The Registration Form of Ladbrokes
In the Photo: The Registration Form of an Online Casino

It’s easy to register at a casino. You’ll need to enter your personal details and verify your account. Need more guidance? Check our step-by-step online casino registration guide for full details.

Step 2: Read the Bonus Wagering Terms

Before you accept any bonus – read the terms and conditions. This step is incredibly important. You’ll only get the most out of your bonus if you understand the terms..

The Bonus Terms of Ladbrokes
In the Photo: The Bonus Wagering Terms of an Online Casino

In the UK, online casinos are required to display each offer’s terms by the Gambling Commission. Do not trust any bonuses without visible terms. Our guide to bonus terms explains everything you need to know.

Photo of Heath Chesters, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Heath Chesters Author and Casino Analyst
Our Expert’s Advice

“Wagering requirements are a key bonus term. But I think validity and game restrictions are just as important. You need to know how long you get to wager the bonus and whether you can play your preferred games.”

Step 3: Check for No Deposit Bonuses

Now is the time to check whether you can claim a no deposit bonus. If such an offer is available – don’t forget to read the terms. Even if they don’t require a deposit, these bonuses will have wagering requirements, time limits, and other conditions attached.

The No Deposit Bonus at Simba Slots
In the Photo: A No Deposit Bonus Offer at an Online Casino

Step 4: Make a Deposit

You usually need to make your first deposit to claim a welcome bonus. There are often minimum deposit requirements in order to be eligible for the offer, so make sure you are over the threshold.

The Banking Page of Ladbrokes
In the Photo: The Banking Page of an Online Casino

Most other bonuses also require a deposit. Unsure how to do that? Then check our online casino deposit guide.

Photo of Heath Chesters, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Heath Chesters Author and Casino Analyst
Our Expert’s Advice

“Never deposit without first confirming that you will get the bonus. You may need to opt in to the bonus before depositing. I’ve also found that online casinos often exclude certain payment methods from claiming bonuses.”

Step 5: Enter a Bonus Code (If Applicable)

You may have the option to enter a bonus code. You will see this during registration, when depositing, or upon opening the banking page.

The Bonus Code at Ladbrokes
In the Photo: The Bonus Code at an Online Casino

Always check the terms attached to the code – they may differ from the standard bonus T&Cs. Bonus codes also often have expiration dates, so you will often find out-of-date promo codes on the internet – double-check if the code is valid before confirming anything.

Photo of Heath Chesters, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Heath Chesters Author and Casino Analyst
Our Expert’s Advice

“It’s not always worth using bonus codes. I only add a bonus code if the terms are better than the standard offer. If the code unlocks extra benefits with fair terms – that’s the time I recommend using it.”

Step 6: Claim Your Deposit Bonus

Once you’ve completed the deposit, your bonus will be automatically credited. It’s worth noting – some casinos will offer the option to claim the bonus when depositing. You will now see your cash and bonus balance reflected in your account.

The Player Balance at The Grand Ivy
In the Photo: A Player’s Balance After Claiming a Welcome Bonus

Step 7: Check for Further Bonuses and Promotions

Casinos offer various promotions and bonuses for regular players. Keep track of the promotions so you don’t miss out on any special offers. Remember – always check the promotional terms when deciding whether to claim any bonus.

The Promotions at Casimba
In the Photo: The Promotions at an Online Casino

Photo of Heath Chesters, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Heath Chesters Author and Casino Analyst
About the Author

Moving into the iGaming industry was a natural progression for Heath, initially focusing on sports betting content for major brands. Following a trip to Las Vegas, that interest evolved to embrace online casinos, using his journalism background to explore and study gambling and gaming in fascinating depth.