Learn How Online Casino Bonuses Work and Profit

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Online casino bonuses offer significant opportunities for new and returning players seeking to maximise their winnings. Online casinos offer bonuses to attract new players and retain existing ones. The primary bonuses include welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, free spins, reload bonuses, cashback rewards, and VIP bonuses. Understanding how these bonuses work is key to maximising your online gambling experience.

The New Zealand Online Casino Landscape

In New Zealand, online casinos target New Zealand players with their bonuses. New Zealand gambling laws allow residents to play on offshore online casinos. Since these casinos are accessible online, New Zealand players enjoy casino bonuses like players in other countries. 

How Online Casino Bonuses Work:

Each bonus type has unique terms, conditions, and requirements, including how to claim them, fulfil wagering requirements, and maximise their benefits. Next, we will discuss all the different types of online casino bonuses and how each works.

Understanding Bonus Types

Casino bonuses, also known as rewards or complimentary spins, vary in type and function. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering the most popular types:

Welcome Bonuses

New players receive welcome bonuses upon joining an online casino. A typical welcome bonus includes free spins and deposit matches. For instance, a welcome bonus may offer up to 100 free spins and a 100% deposit match up to $500. New players can claim a welcome bonus by signing up and making an initial deposit.

Example:

Casino A:
50 free spins + 100% deposit match up to $300
Casino B:
100 free spins + 200% deposit match up to $500

Claim Process: Register, deposit the minimum required amount (e.g., $10 or $20), and receive free spins and a deposit match. For instance, if you deposit $30 at Casino A, you’ll receive a $30 welcome bonus plus 50 free spins. You’ll have $60 and 50 free spins in your account to start playing.

Deposit Bonuses

A deposit bonus is an incentive where the casino matches your deposit by a certain percentage. Deposit bonuses require players to make a qualifying deposit to receive a matching bonus. These bonuses typically range from 50% to 200% of the deposit amount, up to a specific limit. Deposit bonuses often require a minimum deposit of $10 to $50.

Example:

Casino X:
Deposit $20, receive a 100% match up to $200
Casino Y:
Deposit $50, receive a 150% match up to $300

Claim Process: Register at the casino and deposit the minimum required amount (e.g., $20 or $50). For instance, if you deposit $50 at Casino Y, you’ll receive a $75 deposit bonus (150% match) for a total of $125 in your account.

Note: A deposit bonus is rewarded on the First Deposit Bonus or Welcome Bonus or on any other subsequent deposits that are not part of the welcome bonus. 

No Deposit Bonuses

No-deposit bonuses attract high traffic due to their lack of financial commitment. A no-deposit bonus typically ranges from $1 to $20 and is offered to new players upon signing up.

Example:

Casino 1:
$10 no deposit bonus
Casino 2:
$15 no deposit bonus

Claim Process: Register at the casino and enter any required no-deposit bonus code. For instance, at Casino 1, simply register, and you’ll receive a $10 bonus directly into your account to start playing without any deposit.

Is a no-deposit bonus worth it?
Yes, it’s worth it to try a casino without risking your own money.

Reload Bonuses

Reload bonuses are given to returning players on subsequent deposits after the initial welcome bonus, on a specific day of the week, for example, every Monday or monthly. They offer a percentage match on deposits made after the initial welcome bonus.

Example:

Casino Z:
50% reload bonus up to $100 every Monday
Casino Q:
75% reload bonus up to $200 every Friday

Claim Process: Deposit the minimum required amount (e.g., $20) to qualify for the reload bonus. For instance, if you deposit $40 at Casino Z, you’ll receive a $20 reload bonus (50% match), leaving you with $60 in your account. Reload bonuses usually require higher minimum deposits than welcome bonuses or first deposit bonuses.

Free Spins Bonuses

Free spins allow players to play specific slot games for free while retaining the potential for real money winnings. A free spins bonus typically offers 10 to 100 spins as part of a welcome or deposit bonus.

Example:

Casino G:
50 free spins on "Starburst"
Casino H:
50 free spins + 100% deposit match up to $300.

Claim Process: Register or deposit the minimum required amount (e.g., $10 or $20) to receive the spins. For instance, if you deposit $20 at Casino H, you’ll receive a $20 deposit match and 50 free spins, giving you $40 and 50 free spins in your account.

Can I win real money with free spins?
Yes, winnings from free spins can be converted into real money after meeting wagering requirements.

Cashback Bonuses

Cashback bonuses offer a percentage return on losses incurred over a set period. Cashback rates typically range from 5% to 20%.

Example:

Casino P:
10% cashback up to $500 every month
Casino S:
15% cashback up to $300 every week

Claim Process: Opt into the cashback promotion and ensure you’ve met the eligibility criteria. For instance, at Casino P, you can opt-in and receive 10% cashback on your net losses up to $500 each month.

Are cashback bonuses worth it?
Yes, they offer a safety net by returning a portion of your losses.

VIP Program Bonuses

VIP programmes reward frequent players with exclusive bonuses such as loyalty points, cashback rewards, and higher deposit limits. The VIP programme structure often includes player tiers like Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

Example:

Casino W Bronze Tier:
5% cashback + 2,000 loyalty points
Casino X Platinum Tier:
20% cashback + 10,000 loyalty points

Claim Process: Join the casino’s VIP programme, accumulate loyalty points through regular play, and advance through the tier structure to unlock these bonuses. For instance, reaching the Platinum Tier at Casino X will grant you a 20% cashback bonus and 10,000 loyalty points.

Is the VIP programme available to regular players?
Yes, regular players can join by meeting minimum play or deposit requirements.

High Roller Bonuses

High rollers benefit from exclusive bonuses like personal account managers, higher deposit limits, and luxury gifts. To qualify, players need to deposit and wager significant amounts regularly.

Example:

Casino K:
200% match bonus up to $5,000 for high rollers
Casino L:
Luxury gift upon depositing over $10,000 in a month

Claim Process: Register at the casino and make a substantial deposit (e.g., $5,000 or $10,000) to qualify for high roller bonuses. For instance, if you deposit $5,000 at Casino K, you’ll receive a 200% match bonus, giving you a total of $15,000 in your account.

Do high rollers qualify for exclusive bonuses?
Yes, high rollers receive personalised and higher-value bonuses.

Game-Specific Bonuses

Game-specific bonuses are tailored to specific casino games, such as slots and table games. They often include free spins, deposit matches, and cashback bonuses.

Example:

Casino W Slot Bonus:
50 free spins on "Mega Moolah"
Casino X Table Game Bonus:
100% deposit match up to $300 on blackjack

Claim Process: Register at the casino and make the minimum required deposit (e.g., $10 or $20) for the specific game bonus. For instance, if you deposit $20 at Casino X, you’ll receive a 100% match bonus of up to $300 for blackjack or 50 free spins on “Mega Moolah.” at Casino W.

Do slot bonuses work the same way as table game bonuses?
No, slot bonuses usually include free spins, while table game bonuses are often deposit matches.

Seasonal and Holiday Bonuses

Seasonal and holiday bonuses are special promotions offered during holidays and festive periods like Halloween, Christmas and New Year’s. They typically include free spins, deposit matches, and cashback bonuses.

Example:

Casino Y Christmas Bonus:
100 free spins + 200% match up to $400
Casino Z New Year's Bonus:
75% match up to $500 + cashback rewards

Claim Process: Register or log in to the casino and make the minimum deposit (e.g., $20). For instance, deposit $50 at Casino Z during the New Year’s promotion to receive a 75% match bonus up to $500 plus cashback rewards.

Refer-A-Friend Bonuses

Refer-a-friend bonuses encourage new sign-ups by rewarding players for each successful referral. You receive a reward when a referred friend signs up and makes a deposit. The rewards often include cash bonuses or free spins.

Example:

Casino F:
$25 bonus per friend referred
Casino J:
50 free spins for each referral

Claim Process: Invite friends to register using your unique referral link. You’ll receive the bonus once your friend signs up and makes a deposit. For instance, refer a friend to Casino F, and once they deposit, you’ll receive a $25 bonus.

Cryptocurrency Bonuses

Cryptocurrency bonuses are exclusive rewards for players using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. With growing popularity, cryptocurrency users often receive higher deposit matches and free spins.

Example:

Casino M:
150% deposit match up to 1 BTC
Casino N:
200 free spins for deposits over 0.5 BTC

Claim Process: Register at the casino and deposit using your preferred cryptocurrency. For instance, deposit 0.5 BTC at Casino N to receive 200 free spins, or deposit 1 BTC at Casino M to receive a 150% match bonus.

Are there exclusive bonuses for cryptocurrency users?
Yes, many casinos offer higher deposit matches and free spins for cryptocurrency deposits.

Mobile App-Specific Bonuses

Some casinos offer exclusive bonuses for players using their mobile apps. These bonuses may include welcome bonuses, free spins, and deposit matches.

Example:

Casino R:
100% match up to $200 for first-time mobile app users
Casino W:
50 free spins exclusively for mobile app players

Claim Process: Download the casino’s mobile app and log in to your account. For instance, if you deposit $20 through the app at Casino R, you’ll receive a 100% match bonus up to $200. At Casino W, you’ll receive 50 free spins exclusively for mobile app players.

Are mobile app bonuses different from desktop bonuses?
Yes, mobile app bonuses are sometimes higher or include exclusive free spins.

Explanation of Playthrough Requirements

Playthrough requirements, also known as wagering requirements, determine the amount of money a player must wager before withdrawing bonus funds. These requirements impact how quickly you can access your bonus winnings.

Wagering Requirements for Bonus Only:

A typical wagering requirement is a multiplier that ranges from 20x to 50x. For example, if you receive a $100 bonus with a 30x playthrough requirement, you must wager $3,000 ($100 x 30) before withdrawing any winnings.

Wagering Requirements for Bonus and Deposit:

Sometimes, the playthrough applies to both the deposit and the bonus. For example, if you deposit $100 and receive a $100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement on the deposit and bonus, you would need to wager $6,000 ([$100 deposit + $100 bonus] x 30) before you can withdraw your winnings.

Key Takeaways:

Bonus-Only Playthrough Example: $100 bonus x 30x wagering = $3,000

Bonus and Deposit Playthrough Example: ($100 deposit + $100 bonus) x 30x wagering = $6,000

Strategies on How to Meet Wagering Requirements

Players must meet wagering requirements for all bonuses before withdrawals are allowed.

Strategies to Fulfil Requirements:

  • Choose games with high contribution rates, such as slots that contribute 100%.
  • Avoid low-contribution games like blackjack and roulette, which typically contribute only 10% or less
  • Track your progress towards meeting the requirements.
  • Divide your bets into smaller increments: Instead of betting the full amount in one go, place smaller bets consistently. This helps you spread the risk and maintain your balance longer, increasing your chances of meeting the requirements
  • Prioritise bonuses with lower wagering requirements that is not higher than 20x.

Explanation of Casino Bonus Terms and Conditions

Bonus terms outline restrictions that apply to online casino bonuses.

Key Terms and Conditions:

  • Wagering Requirements: Playthrough is needed before bonus withdrawal.
  • Minimum Deposit: The smallest deposit required to claim a bonus.
  • Game Contribution Rates: The percentage each game contributes towards wagering requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

Each bonus may have specific eligibility conditions, such as geographic restrictions or new player status.

Example:

  • “Bonus available only for new players from New Zealand.”

Expiry Dates

Bonuses often include expiry dates, after which they become invalid.

Essential to keep in mind:

  • Track bonus expiry dates to avoid losing bonuses.
  • Set reminders or enable email alerts to stay informed.

Game Restrictions

Many bonuses come with game restrictions. Some games might have limited contributions or may not contribute at all towards meeting wagering requirements.

Examples:

  • “Bonus cannot be used on progressive jackpots.”
  • “Blackjack and roulette contribute only 10% to wagering requirements.”
  • “Live dealer games are excluded from bonus play.”

Game Contribution Rates

  • Different games contribute differently to wagering requirements. Slots generally contribute 100%, while table games often have lower contribution rates. Games like roulette and blackjack usually contribute less than 20%, which means you’ll need to wager significantly more on these games to meet the requirements.

Example:

  • Slots: 100%
  • Video Poker: 30%
  • Roulette: 20%
  • Blackjack: 10%

Key Takeaways:

  • Focus on Slots: Prioritise slots with a 100% contribution rate to meet the wagering requirement faster.
  • Check Contribution Rates: Always review the contribution rates before playing, as some games may not contribute at all.

Minimum Deposit Requirements

Deposit bonuses require a minimum deposit, usually between $10 and $50.

Bonus Codes

Some bonuses require specific codes to activate.

Example:

  • “Use code ‘WIN100’ to claim the bonus.”

Excluded Payment Methods

Some deposit methods may exclude players from claiming bonuses.

Example:

  • “Skrill and Neteller deposits do not qualify for the bonus.”

Withdrawal Limits

Bonus terms often restrict withdrawals, limiting the maximum amount. For example, if you win $2,000 from a $20 no-deposit bonus, the casino may impose a withdrawal limit of $500, meaning you can only withdraw up to $500 of your winnings.

Maximum Bet Limits

Maximum bet limits set a cap on the bet amount per spin or hand when wagering a bonus. Casinos set a maximum bet limit to prevent players from quickly fulfilling wagering requirements with a few large bets. However, these limits can hinder winnings by restricting players from placing higher-value bets that could lead to larger payouts.

Example:

  • “Max bet $5 per spin while wagering bonus.”

Cashback Bonus Terms

Cashback bonuses return a percentage of a player’s losses. Terms include eligible losses and cashback percentages.

Example:

  • “10% cashback on losses up to $200.”

Sticky/Non-Sticky Bonuses

Sticky bonuses cannot be withdrawn and are removed from your account once wagering requirements are met. In contrast, non-sticky bonuses can be withdrawn after fulfilling the wagering requirements. 

For instance, if you receive a $100 non-sticky bonus and win $200, you can withdraw the entire $200 once the playthrough is complete. On the other hand, if you receive a $100 sticky bonus, the casino will deduct this amount from your winnings once the playthrough is complete.

Self-Exclusion and Account Suspension

Players on self-exclusion lists or with suspended accounts cannot claim bonuses.

Multiple Account Abuse

It is not allowed to use multiple accounts to claim bonuses. Only one bonus per household/IP address is allowed.

Bonus Stacking/Combining

Restrictions often prevent combining multiple bonuses.

Example:

  • “Cannot combine the welcome bonus with daily reload bonus.”

Document Verification

Players need to verify their identity before withdrawing bonus winnings.

Example:

  • “Provide government-issued ID before withdrawing bonus winnings.”

Inactive Account Clause

Bonuses may be forfeited if the account remains inactive for a certain period.

Example:

  • “Inactive accounts for 90 days will forfeit active bonuses.”

Progressive Jackpots Exclusion

Progressive jackpot games are often excluded from bonus play. They accumulate a portion of each bet made and can reach millions of dollars, which makes them highly attractive to players. Casinos tend to exclude them because they represent a high payout risk.

Example:

  • “Progressive jackpots do not contribute to wagering requirements.”

Bonus Abuse Policy

The bonus abuse policy defines actions considered abuse, such as low-risk betting patterns.

Example:

  • “Repeated low-risk betting patterns will be flagged as bonus abuse.”

VIP/High Roller Bonus Terms

High roller bonuses often have specific terms, including higher wagering requirements.

Example:

  • “High roller bonuses have a 30x wagering requirement.”

Real Money vs. Bonus Balance

Real money is used first, and bonus funds are used only after they’re exhausted. Casinos use this policy to minimise their liability, ensuring players exhaust their deposited funds before accessing bonus winnings. Any winnings from bonus funds will remain in the bonus balance until wagering requirements are met.

Loyalty/Reward Points

Loyalty programmes have specific terms for earning and redeeming points.

Example:

  • “Redeem 1,000 points for a $10 bonus.”

Time-Limited Promotions

Bonuses may be available only within specific time frames.

Example:

  • “Happy Hour bonus available only between 6 PM and 9 PM.”

Prize Draws & Tournaments

Bonus prize draws, and tournaments often have unique rules.

Example:

  • “Minimum bet of $10 required to qualify for the tournament.”

Free Spins Specific Terms

Free spins bonuses have rules for eligible games and withdrawal limits.

Example:

  • “Free spins available on selected slots only.”

Betting System Restrictions

Bonuses cannot be used with specific betting systems like Martingale.

Example:

  • “Using the Martingale system will void bonuses.”

Cross-Promotion Bonuses

Cross-promotion bonuses are valid across multiple casino brands under one group.

Example:

  • “Cross-promotion bonus available at sister casinos.”

Live Dealer Games Exclusion

Live dealer games might be excluded from bonus play. These games typically have a higher payout rate and offer a lower house edge than slots, making them less profitable for casinos. As a result, casinos tend to exclude live dealer games to protect their profit margins.

Example:

  • “Live dealer games contribute 0% to wagering.”

Understanding these terms ensures players make the most of their online casino bonuses and avoid pitfalls.

Claiming a Bonus: Step-by-Step Guide

To claim a casino bonus, players must follow specific steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully claim your online casino bonus:

  1. 1
    Sign Up or Log In:
    Create an account or log in to an existing one on your chosen online casino.
  2. 2
    Verify Your Account:
    Submit the necessary documents to verify your identity, such as a government-issued ID and proof of address. This step may vary depending on the casino.
  3. 3
    Choose Your Bonus:
    Go to the promotions page and select the bonus you want to claim. Common options include welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, and no deposit bonuses.
  4. 4
    Enter a Bonus Code (if required):
    Some bonuses require a specific bonus code to activate. Ensure you enter the code correctly to claim the bonus.
  5. 5
    Make a Deposit (if needed):
    Deposit the minimum required amount to qualify for the bonus. For example, a welcome bonus might require a deposit of $10 or $20.
  6. 6
    Claim the Bonus:
    Click “Claim Bonus” or a similar button to activate the bonus.
  7. 7
    Fulfil Wagering Requirements:
    Meet the playthrough amount before withdrawing bonus winnings.

Using Bonus Codes Efficiently

Bonus codes, also called promo codes, are used to claim bonuses. Players must enter these codes correctly to activate the bonus.

Definition and Purpose of Bonus Codes:

  • Bonus codes are alphanumeric strings that casinos provide for specific promotions. For example, SPINS70: “Get 70 free spins on Book of Dead with this code.” Another example: CASHBACK15: “Activate a 15% cashback bonus up to $200 using this code.

How Bonus Codes Work:

  1. Find the bonus code on the casino’s promotions page, on our website or in your email.
  2. Enter the code during sign-up or deposit 
  3. Claim the associated bonus.

Maximising Profits from Casino Bonuses

To profit and maximise your profits from casino bonuses, follow these tips:

  1. 1
    Opt for High-Percentage Deposit Matches:
    Choose bonuses that offer at least a 100% match on your deposit.
  2. 2
    Claim Free Spins Bonuses:
    Use free spins on high RTP (Return to Player) slots for better chances of winning.
  3. 3
    Leverage Cashback Offers:
    Cashback bonuses can offset your losses and increase your profit margins.
  4. 4
    Join a VIP Programme:
    VIP players enjoy higher cashback rates and exclusive bonuses.

Strategies to Maximise Casino Bonuses

Adopting profitable strategies can significantly boost your bonus winnings.

Profitable Strategies:

  1. 1
    Play High-Variance Games:
    High-variance games offer larger payouts but are riskier. Suitable for high rollers.
  2. 2
    Focus on Slots with High RTP:
    Slots with RTP above 96% provide a better winning edge.
  3. 3
    Avoid Low-Contribution Games:
    Avoid games like roulette or blackjack, which usually contribute only 10% to wagering requirements.

Maximising Free Spins and Deposit Matches

Free spins and deposit matches are valuable bonuses that can significantly increase your winnings.

Tips for Maximising Free Spins and Deposit Matches:

  1. 1
    Choose High-Percentage Deposit Matches:
    Opt for deposit bonuses offering at least a 100% match.
  2. 2
    Select Slots with High RTP for Free Spins:
    Use free spins on slots with high RTP, preferably above 96%.
  3. 3
    Avoid Low-Value Free Spins:
    Skip bonuses offering less than 10 free spins.
  4. 4
    Play slots with low minimum bet
    Playing slots with a low minimum bet is advantageous as it allows you to place multiple bets while stretching your bonus funds.

Advantage Gambling

Advantage gambling involves using strategies to increase your chances of winning.

Advantage Gambling Strategies:

  1. 1
    Bonus Hunting:
    Sign up for multiple casinos and claim their welcome bonuses.
  2. 2
    Matched Betting:
    Place opposite bets to guarantee a profit regardless of the outcome.
  3. 3
    Rollover Reduction:
    Select bonuses with lower wagering requirements.

Example:

Casino N:
"Claim a 100% deposit match with only 10x playthrough."

Who is Considered a Bonus Abuser?

Bonus abusers exploit casino bonus terms through unethical means.

Examples of Bonus Abuse:

  • Multiple Account Creation:
    Creating multiple accounts to claim bonuses multiple times.
  • Low-Risk Betting Patterns:
    Placing low-risk bets repeatedly to meet wagering requirements.
  • Bonus Stacking:
    Combining multiple bonuses that shouldn’t be combined.

Risks Associated with Bonuses

Common Risks:

  1. Bonus Expiry:
    • Many bonuses expire if not used within a specific time frame.
    • Example: “A bonus expires after 7 days.”
  2. Wagering Requirements:
    • High wagering requirements can make bonuses difficult to withdraw.
    • Example: “50x wagering requirement.”
  3. Game Restrictions:
    • Some games are restricted and don’t count towards wagering requirements.
    • Example: “Progressive jackpots are excluded.”
  4. Maximum Withdrawal Limits:
    • Bonuses may have maximum withdrawal limits.
    • Example: “Maximum withdrawal limit of $500.”
  5. Excluded Payment Methods:
    • Deposits made via some payment methods may not qualify for bonuses.
    • Example: “Skrill and Neteller deposits do not qualify.”
  6. Bonus Abuse Policies:
    • Casinos have strict policies to detect and penalise bonus abuse.
  7. Gambling Addiction:
    • The temptation of bonuses can lead to excessive gambling and addiction. Always gamble responsibly and seek help if needed.
  8. Losing Own Deposit Money:
    • In chasing bonuses, players may lose their own deposited money due to high wagering requirements or risky bets.

Are Casino Bonuses Worth It?

Casino bonuses are worth it if players understand the risks and follow the rules to maximise their profits. Meeting wagering requirements efficiently and using suitable games are crucial for successful bonus use.

Do I need different strategies for each bonus type?

Each bonus type requires a unique approach. For instance, a no-deposit bonus may require careful game selection to maximise potential winnings, while a high-roller bonus demands significant deposits to unlock exclusive rewards.

Strategies for Different Bonus Types:

  1. Welcome Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Make the maximum initial deposit to unlock the highest match percentage.
    Example: Deposit $500 to receive a 100% match up to $500.
  2. Deposit Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Choose bonuses with low wagering requirements (20x or less).
    Example: Select a 30% deposit match with a 10x wagering requirement.
  3. No Deposit Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Use free bonus funds on high RTP slots (96% and above).
    Example: Use a $10 no deposit bonus on ‘Starburst’.
  4. Reload Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Plan deposits around the reload bonus days (usually weekly).
    Example: Deposit on Friday for a 50% reload bonus up to $100.
  5. Free Spins Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Maximize spins on slots with high RTP and low variance.
    Example: 50 free spins on ‘Book of Dead’ with an RTP of 96.21%.
  6. Game-Specific Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Focus on games with high contribution rates to meet wagering requirements faster.
    Example: Claim 50 free spins on ‘Mega Moolah’ or a 100% deposit match up to $300 on blackjack.
  7. Seasonal and Holiday Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Make deposits during festive periods to unlock higher bonuses and exclusive rewards.
    Example: Deposit $50 at Christmas to receive 100 free spins + 200% match up to $400.
  8. Cryptocurrency Bonuses:
    • Strategy: Deposit with cryptocurrencies to unlock higher deposit matches and exclusive free spins.
    Example: Deposit 1 BTC to receive a 150% match up to 1 BTC.

What casino bonuses are best for new players?

1. Welcome Bonus: 

Why? The welcome bonus typically offers a high deposit match percentage, ranging from 100% to 200%, along with free spins. This provides new players with substantial starting capital and opportunities to try out different games without risking too much of their own money.

  • Example: “Deposit $500 to receive a 100% match up to $500 + 100 free spins.”

This high deposit match percentage doubles a new player’s initial deposit, giving them more funds to explore the casino. The free spins allow them to try new slot games and potentially win more money.

2. No Deposit Bonus:

Why? A no-deposit bonus provides new players with a small amount of bonus funds or free spins without requiring any initial deposit.

  • Example: “Register and receive a $10 no deposit bonus or 50 free spins on ‘Starburst’.”

This bonus is best for new players who want to try out the casino without risking their own money and allows them to experience various games before making a deposit.

What casino bonuses are best for existing players?

1. Reload Bonus:

Why? The reload bonus provides a weekly or monthly deposit match for returning players, usually ranging from 50% to 100%.

  • Example: “Deposit on Friday to receive a 50% reload bonus up to $100.”

This bonus is perfect for existing players who regularly deposit and want to increase their playing funds. The consistent reload offers help maintain player loyalty and provide additional incentives for depositing.

2. Cashback Bonus:

Why? Cashback bonuses return a percentage of the player’s net losses over a set period, typically between 5% and 20%.

  • Example: “Receive 10% cashback on monthly losses up to $500.”

This bonus is ideal for existing players, as it offers a safety net by returning some of their lost funds, encouraging them to continue playing.

3. Loyalty Rewards (VIP Programme):

Why? The loyalty rewards system offers points for regular play, which can be redeemed for bonuses, free spins, or merchandise.

  • Example: “Earn 1,000 points to redeem a $10 bonus, or reach the Gold Tier to receive 15% cashback + 5,000 loyalty points.”

Existing players benefit from cumulative rewards through loyalty programmes, providing them with exclusive bonuses, cashback, and personal account managers as they progress through VIP tiers.

Advanced Playthrough Techniques for High Rollers

High rollers use advanced techniques to meet wagering requirements faster.

Advanced Strategies:

1. Bet High Stakes on High-Variance Slots:

  • Higher variance slots offer bigger payouts but are riskier.

Example: “Bet $50 per spin on ‘Dead or Alive’.”

2. Choose Games with High Contribution Rates:

  • Opt for slots contributing 100% towards wagering requirements.

Example: “Play ‘Gonzo’s Quest’ with a 100% contribution rate.”

3. Avoid Low-Contribution Table Games:

  • Blackjack and roulette often contribute only 10% or less.

Example: “Roulette contributes only 20%.”

Using Alternative Payment Methods for Bonus Benefits

Alternative payment methods like eWallets and cryptocurrencies can offer exclusive bonuses. eWallets, such as Apple Pay and Skrill, process deposits and withdrawals instantly, while cryptocurrencies often qualify for higher deposit matches. For instance, Bitcoin deposits can earn up to a 300% match up to 1 BTC. Additionally, using alternative payment methods helps players avoid transaction fees, ensuring more of their money stays in their gaming account.

Augmenting Bonus Strategies for New Zealand Players

New Zealand players can maximise casino bonuses and profits with tailored strategies.

Use NZD-Friendly Casinos: Choose casinos accepting NZD deposits to avoid currency conversion fees.

Focus on NZ-Focused Casinos: Some casinos offer bonuses exclusively for New Zealand players.

Join Local VIP Programmes: VIP programmes offer cashback and exclusive promotions.

What Does Bonus Balance Mean?

A bonus balance is the amount of bonus funds a player has available for wagering in their casino account. These funds can only be used for wagering until the wagering requirements are met.

How to Withdraw Casino Bonuses

Players can withdraw casino bonuses once they meet the wagering requirements.

Step-by-Step Withdrawal Process:

  1. 1
    Check Wagering Requirements:
    Ensure that all wagering requirements have been met.
  2. 2
    Verify Your Identity:
    Submit required documents, such as a government-issued ID and proof of address.
  3. 3
    Request a Withdrawal:
    Go to the withdrawal section in your casino account and select your preferred payment method.
  4. 4
    Submit Withdrawal Request:
    Enter the withdrawal amount and submit your request.
  5. 5
    Wait for Approval:
    The casino may take up to 7 days hours to process the request.

Are Casino Bonuses Taxable?

Taxation requirements for casino bonuses depend on the player’s location. New Zealand residents generally don’t have to pay taxes on casino winnings. However, professional gamblers may be subject to taxes if gambling is their primary income source.

Avoiding Bonus Scams and Pitfalls

Players should be cautious of potential scams when claiming online casino bonuses.

How to Avoid Bonus Scams:

  1. Choose Legitimate Casinos: Check for a valid gaming licence from reputable authorities like the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or the UK Gambling Commission. For example, look for the MGA licence logo on the casino’s website. But don’t stop there. Go to the Licensee register website: https://www.mga.org.mt/licensee-hub/licensee-register/ to verify that the casino is really registered. 
  2. Read Terms and Conditions: Review the bonus terms carefully, focusing on wagering requirements and withdrawal limits.
  3. Avoid Unrealistic Bonuses: Be wary of bonuses offering exceptionally high deposit matches. For example, avoid 500% match bonuses with 50x wagering requirements.
  4. Enable Bonus Reminders: Legitimate casinos send bonus expiry alerts via email or SMS..
Lindsey Jones
Head Of Content

Lindsey is a passionate writer dedicated to sharing her knowledge about online gambling, specifically online casinos. Lindsey pays attention to detail and puts in the extra effort to bring readers the best and most accurate information possible. She has been an iGaming content writer for over 2 years and has written articles for many reputable sites including Business2Community, SportsTalkPhilly, ReadWrite, and Basketball Insiders.