Poker bonus

If you want to play poker online, you can expect to receive a poker bonus from the online poker room of your choice. Before you accept any bonus there are however a few things to keep in mind.

Wagering requirement

Virtually all poker rooms have a wagering requirement attached to their poker bonus to prevent you from simply cashing out the bonus without ever playing. A poker bonus will normally not turn up in your account until you have fulfilled the wagering requirement; partly or completely.

Before you accept any poker bonus, see if it is reasonable to assume that you will be able to fulfill the wagering requirement within the stipulated time frame. Also see if you can get at least part of your bonus, or of you will lose the entire bonus if you don't fulfill 100% of the wagering requirement on time. Some poker rooms will for instance give you the bonus in increments of $10.

No deposit bonus / first deposit bonus

Generally speaking, there are two main types of welcome bonuses in poker rooms: deposit bonus and no deposit bonus.

A deposit bonus is typically based on your first deposit, although some poker rooms will base your welcome bonus on several deposits, e.g. your first three deposits. The deposit is matched to a certain degree, e.g. 100% or 200% up to a stated maximal amount.

A no deposit bonus is a welcome bonus that you get simply for signing up, before you have made any deposit. These poker bonuses are usually smaller, e.g. €10.

Some poker rooms will give you a no deposit bonus and a deposit bonus.

Regardless of bonus type, there is normally a wager requirement.

Additional bonus gifts

As a new member, you will typically receive more than just a monetary bonus. Most poker rooms will hand out tickets to tournaments where you can win real money without having to risk any of your own, and it is also quite common for poker rooms to give you access to special beginner tournaments that are open for new members only.

Special offers and other promotions

Before you sign up with a poker room it can be a good idea to look beyond the welcome bonus and see what type of promotions and benefits you can expect to receive once you start playing. After all, you are only a new member for a very short time but (hopefully) an ordinary member for a long time. Picking a poker site with excellent promotions for all members, not just the new ones, can therefore turn out to be more beneficial in the long run.

• Are the deposit bonuses for non-new members?

• How generous are the free rolls?

• Are there interesting competitions where you can win attractive prizes without having to risk and arm and a leg to participate?

• Is there a loyalty program, and if so, are the conditions advantageous for you?

• What about the VIP program, is it reasonable to assume that you will qualify?

• Can you get rake back?