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A Guide to Online Casino Bonuses

Part of the online casino experience is claiming bonuses. These special rewards make your deposits go further by giving you more chances to play games; some of them even let you play for free. Just about every casino site has bonuses, though the availability, size and key terms and conditions vary from one site to the next. To give you an idea of what you can claim, below are summaries of some of the main bonus types you’ll come across at online casinos.

Welcome Bonus

This is a special reward that you can claim when you join an online casino and make your first deposit. There’s typically a minimum deposit amount required; £10 is the most common amount. Most welcome bonuses can give you bonus money, free spins or both. Some of them might even give you cashback or another type of reward. If it’s bonus money, the more you deposit, the more bonus money you receive (up to a limit). Free spins are for one or more select slots. As for cashback, you’re given a percentage of your losses within a certain time period as bonus money or cash.

Some casino sites give you bonuses for not just your first deposit, but also your second, third or even fourth. The exact terms for each deposit bonus vary, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand so you know what’s up for grabs.

No Deposit Bonuses

At some casino sites, there’s a no deposit bonus. This is so-called because you can claim it without having to make a deposit. The way it works is simple. All you do is create an account as a new player and opt in to the promotion. When you access your account, the bonus should be there waiting to be used. No deposit bonuses usually give you free spins or bonus money. Most of the time, they’re for new players only. However, some online casinos have promotions that let current members claim no deposit bonuses.

The advantage of a free welcome bonus no deposit required is that you get to play games and possibly win some real money without having to spend anything. Just like other promotions, the no deposit bonus comes with terms and conditions you should read before claiming the offer.

Reload Bonuses

Most online casinos have regular promotions for existing players. One of the most common types you’ll come across is the reload bonus. This is where you opt in and make a deposit in order to receive the reward, which is usually bonus money. Reload bonuses can be offered regularly, i.e. weekly or even daily, or every once in a while as part of a limited-time promotion. Sign up to the casino’s newsletter so you’re among the first to find out about reload bonuses and other special offers.

Loyalty/VIP Rewards

Quite a few casino sites have a loyalty scheme, VIP club or both. A loyalty scheme is designed to encourage people to keep playing at the casino and not spend their money elsewhere. You earn points when you play games for real money and when you’ve earned enough, you’ll reach a new tier. Each tier gives you a range of bonuses and unlocks some benefits. These can include free spins and bonus money offers, higher deposit and withdrawal limits, priority customer support and more.

As for VIP clubs, these are often invite-only. If you’re a frequent player and spend a decent amount of money, you may qualify for an invitation. VIPs have access to the casino’s best and most exclusive perks. These can include VIP-only promotions, personalised offers, invitations to real-life events and competitions with prize giveaways.