How We Check Online Casino Bonuses & Promotions

Online casino bonuses are a major factor when players decide where to play. But not all bonuses are what they seem. Some come with hidden terms that make it almost impossible to withdraw winnings. That’s why at Bright Side of News, we take a careful and technical approach when reviewing casino bonuses and promotions.

We don’t just look at the numbers, we analyze how fair and practical they are for real players. Below, we’ll break down our full methodology, explain how wagering is calculated, and show you the different types of bonuses we review.

Bonus testing is only one part of our assessment. For our complete scoring model, see how we review online casinos.

How We Review the Bonuses 

When evaluating a casino’s bonus or promotion, our review process focuses on transparency, fairness, and player value. We test every aspect based on real player experience and casino policy clarity. Here’s what we check in detail:

a. Wagering Requirement

The wagering requirement determines how many times a player must bet the bonus (or bonus plus deposit) before they can withdraw winnings.

Example: A 30x wagering requirement means if you get a $100 bonus, you must wager $3,000 before cashing out.

We review:

• Whether the casino clearly explains this rule.
• If the requirement is reasonable (we consider anything under 35x fair).
• Whether it applies to the bonus only, or both bonus and deposit.
• If different games contribute differently to the requirement.

We also test-play to ensure the casino actually tracks progress correctly in the wagering meter.

 

b. Contribution Rates

Not all games contribute equally to wagering requirements. Slots usually count 100%, while table games like blackjack or roulette often contribute less (e.g., 10–20%).

We analyze:

• Each game type’s contribution rate.
• Whether high-RTP or low-volatility games are excluded.
• Transparency in the casino’s terms.

A fair casino should provide a complete list of contribution rates. If not, we mark it down for lack of clarity.

 

c. Maximum Win/Cashout Limit

Many bonuses include a maximum win limit, which caps how much you can withdraw after meeting the requirements.

Example: You win $10,000 using a $200 no-deposit bonus, but the casino limits cashout to $2,000. That means $8,000 is forfeited.

We review:

• If the limit is clearly stated.
• Whether it’s reasonable compared to industry standards.
• Whether it applies to all players or only to no-deposit promotions.

This helps us determine if the casino’s bonus is genuinely rewarding or just a marketing trick.

 

d. Time Limit

Every bonus comes with a time frame to complete the wagering. Typical periods range from 7 to 30 days.

We check:

• The time allowed for completion.
• Whether daily or weekly restrictions apply.
• If uncompleted bonuses are automatically voided.

A fair bonus provides enough time for casual players to meet the wagering without feeling rushed.

 

e. Minimum Deposit/Maximum Bet

We also verify the minimum deposit required to claim the bonus and the maximum bet limit allowed while wagering.

For example:

• Minimum deposit: $50
• Maximum bet: $200 per spin

If a player bets higher than allowed, winnings may be voided. A rule some casinos hide deep in their terms. We test this to ensure players are properly warned and protected.

 

Wagering Requirement – How to Calculate

Understanding how wagering is calculated helps players see the true value of a bonus.

Bonus Wagering and Bonus+Deposit Wagering

There are two main types of wagering requirements:

• Bonus Only Wagering: You only need to wager the bonus amount.
  • Example: 30x bonus = $100 × 30 = $3,000 total wagering.
• Bonus + Deposit Wagering: You must wager both the bonus and deposit combined.
  • Example: Deposit $100 + $100 bonus = $200 × 30 = $6,000 total wagering.

We always note which type applies because it drastically affects how achievable the bonus is.

Calculation sample:

Let’s say you claim a $1,000 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement (bonus only).

• You must wager $30,000 in total bets.
• If you play a slot that contributes 100%, every $1 spin counts fully.
• If you play roulette (20% contribution), only $0.20 per $1 bet counts.

This means playing lower-contribution games will make it harder to clear wagering.

When we calculate, we simulate realistic play sessions to determine if the wagering can reasonably be achieved within the time limit.

 

Types of Bonuses (Analysis)

Each casino offers different types of bonuses. We categorize and review them individually to help players understand their true value.

1. Welcome Bonus

This is the first reward offered to new players after their initial deposit. It’s often the largest promotion on a casino site.

We check:

• Match percentage (e.g., 100%, 200%)
• Maximum bonus amount
• Whether free spins are included
• The wagering requirement and validity period

A transparent welcome bonus clearly explains how it works before you deposit.

2. Free Credit Bonuses (free spin, free lottery ticket)

These are non-deposit rewards given as free spins, bonus credits, or tickets. We test their functionality and check if winnings from these freebies are subject to additional playthrough.

We check:

• Eligible games.
• Wagering attached to winnings.
• Expiration dates on free credits.

A fair free spin bonus has low wagering (10x–20x) and allows winnings to be used on multiple games.

3. No-Deposit Bonus

These are non-deposit rewards given as free spins, bonus credits, or tickets. We test their functionality and check if winnings from these freebies are subject to additional playthrough.

We analyze:

• Maximum cashout limits.
• Wagering difficulty.
• Verification requirements (KYC, phone/email confirmation).

Because no-deposit bonuses are often abused, casinos add strict conditions. We highlight those so players know what to expect.

4. Loyalty Programme

Loyalty or VIP programs reward consistent play. We review the level structure, point system, and real-world benefits such as cashback, gifts, or faster withdrawals. A fair program offers clear tier progression and transparent point conversion rates. We test if the rewards justify the spending required.

• Point accumulation rate.
• Conversion rate (points to cash).
• VIP levels and exclusive perks.

A well-designed loyalty program should reward consistent play, not just high spending.

5. Reload Bonuses

Reloads are given to returning players making additional deposits. They’re smaller than welcome bonuses but useful for long-term play.

We evaluate:

• Frequency of reload offers (weekly, monthly).
• Bonus percentage and cap.
• Whether terms are the same as the welcome bonus.

Fair reload bonuses should mirror the generosity of the initial welcome offer.

 

What an Unfair Casino Bonus Looks Like (Visual proof)

During our audits, we sometimes encounter promotions that look appealing but contain hidden traps. Common signs of an unfair casino bonus include:

• Extremely high wagering (over 50x)
• Hidden game restrictions
• Very low max cashout (e.g., $500)
• Unclear or missing terms
• Automatic voiding of winnings after minor violations

We document such examples with screenshots to help players recognize warning signs. Our mission is to expose manipulative tactics so you can choose only reputable casinos.

 

Conclusion

Bonuses are meant to enhance your casino experience, but only if they’re fair, transparent, and achievable. At Bright Side of News, we go beyond surface-level promotions. We dissect every rule, calculate real-world values, and test usability to ensure every bonus we recommend provides genuine value. Bonuses can encourage overspending. We always recommend reading our Responsible Gaming principles.

By following our methodology, you can confidently decide which bonuses are truly worth claiming and which ones to avoid.

 

FAQ

How do you confirm if a promotion is active or expired?

A: We double-check the casino’s website and contact their support team if needed. We only post live and updated promotions. This ensures that when you visit, you’ll get the same offer we reviewed, not an outdated one.

Do you check if a casino bonus is safe and legit?

A: Yes, we always check if the casino is licensed and uses secure payment systems. We never promote bonuses from unlicensed or risky casinos. Your safety comes first, so we only recommend offers from trusted platforms that protect your personal and payment data.

Which type of bonus is best for new players?

A: The Welcome Bonus offers the best value because it matches your first deposit, giving you more funds to explore the casino safely.

Can I trust the casinos you recommend?
A: Yes, you can. We only recommend casinos that are licensed, verified, and known for treating players fairly. We do not list any platforms that have reports of scams, delayed payments, or unfair rules.

Why are some bonuses better than others?
A: Not all bonuses are the same. Some have lower wagering requirements, while others offer bigger amounts or longer validity. We rate each bonus based on fairness, value, and ease of use.