How to Claim an Online Casino Bonus

Last Updated on 19.08.2026

Casino bonuses are a great way to get extra value when playing online. But are there any pitfalls when you claim them? Of course, but no worries, we'll show you exactly what to do. This guide covers all the important details so you don't miss out on any rewards.

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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: Register at an Online Casino

You must register at a licensed casino before you can claim a bonus. Why? Bonuses are tied to your player account, and you can’t play for real money without a verified account. If you already have an account and want to claim a bonus, simply log in.

When you sign up, you’ll enter your personal details and verify your identity. Casinos must confirm that you’re 18 or older and will ask for a government-issued ID and proof of address.

The Account Information step of Betway's registration form
In the Photo: Betway collects your account details in step 3 of its four-step sign-up: a username, a password, and your email address. Note the minimum password requirements – 8 to 20 characters, with at least one letter and one number.

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 casino welcome bonus terms at Betway
In the Photo: The Bonus Wagering Terms of an Online Casino

Photo of Angelina Vodenicharova, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Angelina Vodenicharova Author and Casino Analyst
Our Expert’s Advice

“Always read the full terms before opting in. Check the match percentage and cap (say, 100% up to €250), whether a bonus code is needed, which games count towards wagering, and the playthrough requirement. Also, note the validity dates so the offer doesn’t expire on you.”

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. The bonus will have wagering requirements, time limits, and other conditions attached.

Step 4: Make a Deposit

You usually need to make your first deposit to claim a welcome bonus. Most other bonuses also require a deposit. Unsure how to do that? Then check our online casino deposit guide.

The deposit options at Betway
Choose your deposit method carefully – it can affect your bonus. Some casinos exclude certain options from welcome offers, so check the bonus terms first to ensure your deposit qualifies for the reward.

Photo of Angelina Vodenicharova, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Angelina Vodenicharova 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, such as Skrill and Neteller, from bonus eligibility.”

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. Always check the terms attached to the code – they may differ from the standard bonus T&Cs.

Entering the deposit amount at Betway
In the Photo: Note that before hitting Next, you also tick a box confirming you understand how customer funds are protected – a good prompt to check the fund protection policy in the T&Cs.

Photo of Angelina Vodenicharova, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Angelina Vodenicharova Author and Casino Analyst
Our Expert’s Opinion

“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 on fair terms – that’s when 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 cash and bonus balances on the Betway cashier page
Once your bonus lands, it shows as a separate Bonus Balance alongside your Cash Balance. Watch both closely – bonus funds typically carry wagering requirements and must be played through before they turn into withdrawable cash.

Step 7: Check for Further Bonuses and Promotions

The best online casinos we’ve tested offer various bonuses for regular players. Keep track of the promotions so you don’t miss out on any special offers. Remember: always check the full terms and conditions before deciding whether to claim any bonus.

The casino promotions at Betway
You don’t have to stop at the welcome offer. Filter the Promotions tab by “Casino” to find ongoing deals, such as weekend tournaments and jackpot games. Check back regularly so you never miss a limited-time promo.
Bonus offers aimed at Irish players are changing. Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Act restricts the inducements licensed operators can offer – VIP schemes and certain promotional perks are being phased out as GRAI licensing rolls out. Offers from internationally licensed casinos still work as described above, but expect terms to tighten over time.

Photo of Angelina Vodenicharova, Author on Online-Casinos.com

Angelina Vodenicharova Author and Casino Analyst
About the Author

With a background in marketing, Angelina has a keen eye for emerging trends and stays ahead of the curve on the latest game releases and payment innovations. Her expertise extends to the growing world of gambling apps, where her tech-savviness allows her to offer valuable insights on optimizing gameplay.