Discover the 10 main types of reload bonuses, when to use them, how to claim them, extra tips, and solutions to common issues. Keep scrolling for more details.
What Is Reload Bonus?
A reload bonus is a promotional offer given to existing players who make additional deposits after their initial deposit. Casinos design these reload bonuses to encourage continued play and loyalty.
Typically, a casino offers a percentage-based match on the player’s deposit. For example, a 50% reload bonus up to $100 means if you deposit $200, you get an additional $100 as bonus funds (the maximum amount).
This bonus usually comes with wagering requirements, meaning you must bet a certain amount before withdrawing winnings. Reload bonuses are usually weekly, monthly, or part of special promotions.
How to Earn Casino Reload Bonuses
To qualify for these bonuses, players must deposit a minimum amount within a specific promotional period (e.g., 7 days). Many casinos also require players to opt in manually or enter a bonus code at the time of deposit.
Also, to fully benefit from a reload bonus, players must be aware of wagering requirements, which specify how many times you use the bonus to play before you withdraw it. Plus, remember to research different types of reload bonuses carefully.
10 Types of Casino Reload Bonuses
Casino reload bonuses come in 10 different types, such as match reload bonuses, loyalty rewards, weekly/monthly reloads, free spins reload (for slot games), cashback reloads, high-roller reloads, game-specific reload bonuses, and more.
Match Reload Bonus
The most common type of reload offer is a match reload bonus, which provides a percentage match on a player’s deposit (typically 25% to 100%, up to a set limit).
For example, a 50% reload bonus up to $200 means that depositing $200 grants you $100 in bonus funds, and the maximum bonus is $200. These bonuses are often available on specific days, such as “Weekend Reload” or “Midweek Boost,” and come with wagering requirements.
Loyalty Reload Bonus
Loyalty reload bonuses are exclusive offers given to regular or VIP players based on their activity and status within a casino’s loyalty program. These bonuses often feature higher match percentages, lower wagering requirements, or even no wagering at all.
At times, casinos offer these bonuses as a reward for accumulated points, meaning the more a player wagers, the better their reload bonuses become.
Weekly and Monthly Reload Bonuses
These are scheduled reload promotions that are available weekly or monthly. Weekly reload bonuses often require players to deposit on a specific day (e.g., “Friday Reload Bonus”), while monthly reloads offer better flexibility but require larger deposits.
The bonus amount, match percentage, and wagering terms vary depending on the promotions, which makes them a popular option for players who deposit regularly.
Free Spins Reload Bonus
Instead of bonus cash, this reload bonus grants free spins on selected slot games. For example, a casino offers you 50 free spins for a minimum deposit of $50.
The winnings from these spins are subject to wagering requirements, though there are still promotions that give players no-wager free spins (allowing players to withdraw winnings immediately). Overall, free spins reload bonuses are ideal for slot players looking to extend their gameplay without spending extra funds.
No Wagering Reload Bonuses
A no-wagering reload bonus allows players to withdraw winnings instantly without meeting any playthrough requirements. For instance, when a player receives a $50 bonus and wins $100, they have the option to cash out immediately without having to wager multiple times.
Nevertheless, these bonuses are less common and typically offer lower match percentages of bonus amounts compared to standard reload bonuses.
Cashback Reload Bonus
A cashback reload bonus returns a percentage of a player’s losses or deposits over a specific period.
For example, a 10% cashback bonus on losses of up to $200 means that when you lose $500, you receive $50 back as bonus funds or real cash, and the maximum amount you can receive is $200. We recommend these bonuses for players looking to mitigate financial risk.
High Roller Reload Bonuses
High-roller reload bonuses are designed for whales or high-stakes gamblers, providing higher bonus limits but requiring larger deposits to qualify. Here’s an example: a 100% bonus (up to $1,000) is only available to players depositing at least $500.
Since these bonuses often have lower wagering requirements compared to regular reloads, they are attractive to high rollers or those who frequently play with large sums.
Progressive/Tiered Reload Bonuses
The bonuses increase in value as players advance through a casino’s loyalty or VIP program. Casinos structure these bonuses in tiers to reward higher deposits with better bonuses.
For example:
- Tier 1: Deposit $50 – Get a 25% reload bonus
- Tier 2: Deposit $100 – Get a 50% reload bonus
- Tier 3: Deposit $200 – Get a 100% reload bonus
These promotions are best for loyal players who want increasingly better rewards over time.
Game-Specific Reload Bonuses
Unlike general reload bonuses, game-specific bonuses apply only to certain games, such as slots, blackjack, or live dealer games.
For example, a casino offers a 75% reload bonus up to $100, but only for slot games. Another provides a reload bonus for live dealer games but restricts bonus use to blackjack, roulette, or baccarat.
Overall, for those who prefer a particular game type, game-specific reload bonuses allow you to maximize rewards on games you already enjoy.
Payment Method-Specific Reload Bonuses
Casinos encourage players to use specific payment methods (especially cryptocurrencies) by offering exclusive reload bonuses.
Here’s an illustration: a casino offers a 15% reload bonus for deposits made with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin but not for credit card or e-wallet deposits. These bonuses also often allow for faster withdrawals since crypto transactions are processed quicker than traditional banking methods [ScienceDirect].
Once you determine which reload bonus types best suit your gambling strategy, make sure you use them at the right time.
When to Use Casino Reload Bonuses
Reload bonuses are often granted automatically when you make a qualifying deposit during a promotional period. Nevertheless, these bonuses still come with specific terms (wagering requirements, eligible games, expiry dates, etc.), so you should still time your deposits wisely to get the most value out of them.
Overall, the best situations to use a reload bonus effectively are:
- When the match percentage is high and wagering requirements are low (e.g., a 50% reload bonus with a 20x wagering requirement)
- During weekly or monthly promotions (e.g., every Friday)
- When you plan to play long enough to clear wagering requirements
- After a losing streak to recover losses
- When a no-wager or low-wager reload bonus is available
- When a reload bonus is game-specific and matches your playstyle
- When using a payment method that grants extra reload bonuses
Timing aside, you should also learn to identify the key distinctions between reload bonuses and welcome bonuses.
Reload Bonuses vs Welcome Bonuses: The Differences
The main difference is that a casino welcome bonus is offered only to new players when they make their first deposit, whereas reload bonuses are for existing players who continue depositing after the initial one.
Simply put, the welcome bonus is a one-time offer, typically the biggest bonus a casino provides, meant to attract new players. On the other hand, reload bonuses can be claimed multiple times, often on a weekly, monthly, or VIP basis, to keep players engaged.
On occasions, a reload bonus is part of a welcome package, where the casino offers bonuses not only on the first deposit but also on the second, third, or even fourth deposits. Nevertheless, regular reload bonuses are still available after you have used the welcome offer and serve as ongoing rewards.
| Welcome Bonus | Reload Bonus |
Who can claim it? | New players only | Existing players |
When is it available? | Activated on the first deposit | Can be claimed multiple times after the initial deposit |
Bonus type | Usually a match deposit bonus, sometimes with free spins | Match deposit bonuses, free spins, cashback, or other incentives |
Number of times it can be claimed | One-time offer | Multiple times (weekly, monthly, or on special occasions) |
Bonus size | Typically higher, e.g., 100% up to $500 | Usually smaller, e.g., 50% up to $200, but available more often |
Purpose | Attracts new players to sign up | Keeps existing players engaged and encourages regular deposits |
As you now understand how reload bonuses differ from welcome bonuses, let’s discuss detailed steps to claim them.
How to Claim A Reload Bonus
To claim a reload bonus, log in first, navigate the promotions, and then opt-in by clicking the button or entering the required bonus code. After that, make a qualifying deposit and check to confirm you have claimed the bonus.
Step 1. Log in to Your Account
First, visit the casino’s official website and sign in. Click on the “Log In” or “Sign In” button (usually located at the top-right corner of the homepage) and enter your registered email or username along with your password. Then, click “Submit” or “Login.”
Note: Those who don’t have an account yet must register first by clicking the “Sign Up” or “Register” button and following the instructions.
Step 2. Navigate The Promotions Section
After logging in, go to the promotions or bonuses section of the casino (often found in the main menu or as a banner on the homepage).
Look for an offer labeled “Reload Bonus” or something similar. Carefully read the details, including the bonus percentage (e.g., “50% reload bonus up to $200”), the minimum deposit required, and any restrictions such as eligible games or wagering requirements.
Step 3. Opt-in for The Reload Bonus Offer
Casinos usually require you to opt in before claiming a reload bonus. Click the opt-in button to activate the bonus if such a button is available.
Others ask for a bonus code, which is usually provided in the offer details. In that case, copy the code exactly as shown and enter it in the designated field during the deposit process. Check the bonus terms or contact customer support if you are still unsure whether a code is necessary.
Step 4. Make a Qualifying Deposit
Go to the cashier or deposit section of the casino and choose your preferred payment method. Type in the amount you wish to deposit and make sure it meets the minimum deposit requirement for the reload bonus. Plus, enter the bonus code in the provided field (if required) before finalizing the transaction.
Remember to double-check that the deposit method you select also qualifies for the bonus, as many casinos exclude certain payment methods (e.g., e-wallets) from promotions. Once you confirm everything, complete the transaction and wait for the payment to process.
Step 5. Confirm You Have Claimed The Bonus
After making your deposit, check your account balance or the “Bonuses” section to ensure the reload bonus has been added. Refresh the page or log out and back in if the bonus does not appear. When the problem persists, contact customer support through live chat or email and provide details of your deposit to resolve the issue.
For further insight, check the commonly available payment options for reload bonuses.
Payment Options for Reload Bonuses
As mentioned, not every deposit option qualifies for the bonus, so it’s important to check the casino’s terms before making a transaction. Below are the most common payment methods available for reload bonuses:
- Credit/Debit cards: Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express are widely accepted for deposits. Transactions are usually instant, though you should verify that the casino does not exclude card payments from bonuses.
- E-Wallets: Popular options like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller offer fast deposits and withdrawals. However, not every casino includes e-wallet deposits in reload bonuses, so be sure to check the bonus terms before using them.
- Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies provide secure and anonymous transactions with low fees. Crypto-friendly casinos (like Lucky Wins) allow reload bonuses on crypto deposits, but always confirm the terms first.
- Bank transfers: Direct deposits from your bank account are reliable but often slower than other payment methods. Though many casinos allow bank transfers for reload bonuses, keep in mind that processing times usually take up to 7 business days.
- Prepaid cards: Options like Paysafecard let you deposit funds without linking a bank account. However, while convenient, prepaid cards are frequently excluded from reload bonus promotions.
For more details on deposit options, visit our casino deposit & payment methods guide. Payment aside, let’s discuss other important factors to help you find the best reload bonuses.
How to Find The Best Reload Bonuses
To find the best reload bonuses, you should examine the bonus percentage and amount, wagering requirements, game contribution, bonus frequency, expiration period, eligibility, terms and conditions, and casino reputation.
Bonus Percentage and Amount
First, you should compare both the bonus percentage and the maximum bonus amount to determine the best deal.
A higher percentage means a bigger match on your deposit, while a large maximum cap allows for more bonus money. For example, a 50% reload bonus up to $100 isn’t necessarily better than a 25% reload bonus up to $200. Let’s say you deposit $700; then, you only receive $100 with the first option (maximum), while the second offer gives you $175.
Ideally, to get the most value from your deposit, look for reload bonuses with at least a 50% match and a maximum cap of $200 or more.
Wagering Requirements
Wagering requirements determine how many times you must bet the bonus amount before withdrawing your winnings. For example, when you receive a $200 bonus with a 25x wagering requirement, you must wager $5,000 first to receive the money.
The lower the wagering requirement, the easier it is to cash out. Overall, a 20x to 35x wagering requirement is considered reasonable, while anything above 50x makes it difficult to turn the bonus into real money. Also, always read the terms carefully to confirm whether the casino applies wagering to both the bonus and deposit amount (which increases the total required playthrough).
Game Contribution
Not all casino games contribute equally toward meeting wagering requirements.
Slots typically contribute 100%, meaning every dollar you bet counts fully. However, table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat often contribute much less, sometimes only 10%-20%. That means when you wager $100 on blackjack, and it contributes 10%, only $10 counts toward clearing the wagering requirement.
On occasion, casinos even exclude certain games (like live dealer games) altogether, so check the casino’s bonus terms and conditions to confirm your favorite games contribute a fair amount.
Frequency of Offers
A single reload bonus is useful, but a casino that offers regular reload bonuses gives you ongoing value.
The best casinos provide reload bonuses on a weekly or monthly basis – sometimes even daily for VIP players. Look for casinos that offer Weekend Reloads, Monday Boosts, or Loyalty-Based Reloads so that you have the chance to claim bonuses multiple times instead of just once.
We also recommend checking the promotions page or subscribing to casino newsletters to stay updated on the latest offers.
Expiration Period
Every reload bonus has an expiration period, which means you must use the bonus and meet the wagering requirements before the deadline. Casinos often require you to use the bonus within 7 to 30 days (or even more).
Overall, a longer expiration period gives you more time to clear the bonus without rushing. Bonuses that expire too quickly, on the other hand, force you to gamble aggressively and increase the risk of losing the funds before meeting the requirements.
Eligibility
Certain reload bonuses restrict players by country (e.g., excluding regions outside Europe). Others limit offers based on player level, with VIP or high-roller bonuses offering better rewards. Additionally, casinos also exclude specific deposit methods from reload bonus eligibility; for instance, Skrill and Neteller deposits are often disqualified from promotions.
Hence, before claiming any bonus, confirm that:
- The bonus is available in your country.
- It applies to your player level (regular players vs. VIPs).
- Your payment method qualifies for the bonus.
Look through the casino’s terms or contact its support team for confirmation if you are uncertain.
Terms and Conditions Transparency
A reputable casino should clearly outline all bonus terms, including wagering requirements, eligible games, expiration dates, and withdrawal restrictions.
Certain casinos hide important details in fine print or use vague wording, which leads to unpleasant surprises later. Therefore, make sure you understand the full bonus terms before depositing and avoid all casinos that lack transparency or make it difficult to access their bonus policies.
Reputation of The Casino
Lastly, reload bonuses are only available if the casino itself is trustworthy.
Licensed casinos regulated by authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or Curacao eGaming are generally safer.
Plus, you should choose casinos with a strong reputation, positive player reviews, and a proven track record of paying out winnings. Other plus points, like fast payouts, responsive customer support, fair bonus policies, etc., are also worth considering.
We also have extra tips to help you earn the most from your reload bonuses. Keep scrolling to check them out.
Tips to Maximize Reload Bonuses
To maximize reload bonuses, you must research the terms and conditions, choose high-RTP games, manage your bankroll, time your reloads, and stay loyal to casinos to progress with VIP programs.
Research The Terms and Conditions
As mentioned earlier, casinos often include specific rules that impact how easily you turn the bonus into real money. The most important factors to check include:
- Which game contributes to the wagering requirement
- Whether there are any restrictions or bet sizes
- How long do you have to use the bonus
Reach out to customer support if anything in the terms is unclear to ensure you fully understand the requirements and prevent any unexpected mishaps later.
Choose High RTP Games
The type of games you play with a reload bonus significantly influences your ability to turn the bonus into actual cash.
Specifically, choosing games with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage gives you much better long-term odds of maintaining your balance and clearing the wagering requirements. For instance, slots with an RTP of 96% or higher are ideal, as they theoretically return more money over time compared to lower RTP slots.
We suggest checking the details on the casino’s website or searching for verified RTP lists to identify which games have the best RTP.
Manage Your Bankroll
Effective bankroll management is crucial when playing with reload bonuses. It helps prevent reckless gambling and guarantees you maximize your playtime.
Set a clear budget for your deposits and stick to it rather than increase your bets impulsively or chase losses. Also, instead of wagering large amounts quickly, place smaller, consistent bets to stretch your bankroll and increase your chances of clearing the wagering requirements.
Time Your Reloads
Casinos frequently offer reload bonuses, but they do not always provide the same value. Strategically timing your deposits helps you take advantage of better offers.
For example, a standard 50% reload bonus increases to 75% or even 100% during promotional events, holidays, or weekends. Casinos also offer tiered reload bonuses, where depositing a higher amount unlocks a better reward.
Remember to plan your deposits accordingly if a casino offers multiple reload bonuses throughout the week. You should also check the casino’s promotions page regularly or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing out on such limited-time opportunities.
Stay Loyal
Many casinos reward loyal players with personalized reload bonuses that have better terms and higher rewards.
VIP programs and loyalty schemes are common examples since they often provide reload bonuses with lower wagering requirements, higher match percentages, and even cashback on losses.
The more frequently you play at a casino, the more exclusive offers you receive, including reload bonuses that are not available to regular players. You also have the option to exchange loyalty points for bonus funds, which give you extra playing power without requiring a deposit.
On the other hand, no process is 100% foolproof, meaning mishaps are still possible even if you strictly follow our instructions. But no worries; our team has researched three common issues regarding reload bonuses and ways to resolve them.
Common Issues and How to Solve
Here are three common issues: your bonus didn’t arrive, you can’t withdraw the winnings, or the bonus disappeared. You should check whether you have completed the necessary tasks, such as entering the bonus code or choosing an eligible payment method.
The Bonus Didn’t Arrive
There are possible reasons if you have deposited funds and the reload bonus has not been credited to your account.
First, check if you entered the required bonus code during the deposit process, as many casinos require this step for activation.
Next, verify whether you opted in for the promotion yet and check your deposit amount to ensure it meets the minimum bonus requirement. For example, the bonus cannot be activated when the casino specifies a minimum deposit of $20 and your deposit is only $19.50.
On occasion, the bonus is credited separately from your main balance, so go to the “Bonuses” or “Promotions” section of your account to see if it is stored there. Log out and back in, or refresh the page when you still don’t see the bonus.
You Can’t Withdraw The Winnings
The most common cause is that you haven’t met the wagering requirements yet. Go to the bonus terms section and check how many times you need to wager the bonus funds before withdrawal.
For those unsure how much progress you have made, many casinos provide a wagering tracker in the account section that shows your remaining playthrough requirement.
Another likely reason is that your chosen withdrawal method does not qualify for cashing out bonus-related winnings. Casinos usually restrict withdrawals via certain payment methods (such as e-wallets), especially if you already used them for deposits. In such cases, switch to an alternative withdrawal method like a bank transfer or debit card.
When you have met all the requirements but still cannot withdraw, check whether the casino has a pending processing time; withdrawals take between 1 to 5 business days to complete. Additionally, confirm that you haven’t exceeded the casino’s withdrawal limits.
The Bonus Disappeared
Your reload bonus vanishing from your account usually results from the fact that it had expired before you used it. As discussed, most casinos impose a time limit on bonus funds, often ranging from 7 to 30 days, after which the bonus is automatically removed.
To prevent that from happening, always check the bonus expiration period in the terms and make sure to use it before the deadline.
Another reason is that you violated the bonus terms, such as placing a bet higher than the allowed maximum while using bonus funds (e.g., a casino sets a maximum limit of only $5 per bet).
Review the casino’s bonus rules one more time if you suspect this is the case. We also recommend reaching out to customer support and asking for a transaction history review to clarify what happened.
FAQs
What are the advantages of reload bonuses?
One of the biggest advantages of reload bonuses is that they can be claimed multiple times. Many online casinos provide reload bonuses on a weekly, monthly, or even daily basis, unlike welcome bonuses, which are typically a one-time offer.
What are the wagering requirements for reload bonuses?
Casino bonus wagering requirements for reload offers range between 15x and 20x, which is generally lower than those attached to welcome bonuses. That means players must wager the bonus amount 15 to 20 times before converting it into real cash.
Are reload bonuses easy to claim?
Yes, reload bonuses are generally easy to claim. Most online casinos offer them as recurring promotions, meaning players can deposit to claim them regularly. A bonus code is sometimes necessary, but overall, the process is straightforward.
Do you need bonus codes to claim casino reload offers?
Not always. Some casinos (such as BetOnline) require entering a specific bonus code at the time of deposit. Meanwhile, others (like Sun Vegas) automatically apply reload bonuses to a player’s account when they make a qualifying deposit.
Are there mobile casino reload bonuses?
Yes, many mobile casinos, like LeoVegas, offer reload bonuses specifically designed for mobile users. These mobile reload bonuses function the same way as desktop bonuses but come with exclusive offers, such as extra fee spins on slot games.
Do reload bonuses apply to all players?
Yes, reload bonuses are generally available to all players who have made at least one deposit at the casino. Unlike welcome bonuses, which are exclusively for new users, reload bonuses aim to reward existing players for their continued activity.
Can I withdraw the bonus money from reload bonus deals immediately?
No, you cannot withdraw the bonus money from a reload bonus immediately. Like most casino promotions, reload bonuses come with wagering requirements that must be met before you cash out any winnings.