Cashback: a partial refund that is not always cash

Cashback returns part of your net losses over a set period. At first glance it is the fairest bonus, because it requires no win and does not change the game. How good it really is depends on two details: whether it is paid as real money or as a bonus with wagering, and which games count in the calculation.

How it is calculated

The operator adds up your stakes and winnings over the period (day, week, month) and returns a percentage of the difference. At 10% cashback on a net loss of 100 you receive 10. Bonus money is often left out of the calculation, as are excluded games. The method is in the programme terms; check when the period starts and ends in the operator's time zone, because a late-evening deposit may fall into the next period.

Cash or bonus

Cashback paid as cash without wagering is a genuine discount on losses. Cashback paid as a bonus comes with wagering and all the restrictions described in the wagering guide. The difference in value is large: 10 without conditions is 10; 10 with 20× wagering is worth much less. Bonus cashback often also expires quickly.

Games and contribution

Some operators count only games that contribute to bonus wagering, others count all games, others exclude jackpot or live games. If you mostly play excluded games, cashback is worth less to you than the percentage suggests.

Cashback is not a reason to play

Because cashback returns part of a loss, it can create the impression that playing is cheaper. It is not. With a 96% game and 10% cashback you are still losing, only more slowly. Cashback is a welcome side effect, not a strategy.

Checklist

Percentage and calculation period.
Paid as cash or as a bonus.
Excluded games.
Any cap on the refund.

Frequently asked questions

Do I get cashback if I'm ahead?

No. Cashback is calculated only on net losses.

When is it paid?

After the period ends, as set out in the terms — for example the next day or on Monday.

Does bonus money count?

Often not. It is stated in the programme terms.

The size, terms and availability of bonuses depend on the operator, country and account, and they change. The version in the operator's own terms is always the one that applies.

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