How does a free bet differ from your own cash?
A €20 cash bet at odds of 2.50 credits €50 after a win: €20 is your returned stake and €30 is profit. After a loss, you lose your €20. A free bet’s face amount generally cannot be withdrawn before use. After a win, the operator may credit either the profit alone or the full payout.
| €20 stake, odds 2.50 | Credited after a win | After a loss |
|---|---|---|
| Cash bet | €50, including €30 profit | €20 of your own money lost |
| Free bet, stake not returned | €30 in winnings | €0 in winnings; free bet used |
| Free bet, stake returned | €50 in winnings | €0 in winnings; free bet used |
These are possible amounts for one winning bet, not the free bet’s guaranteed cash value. The chance of winning, permitted odds, wagering rules and any withdrawal cap affect its usefulness. A credited win may still be restricted.
What if you must first bet your own money?
A “risk-free bet” may require a cash bet that loses before a free bet is awarded. If you lose €20 cash and receive a €20 free bet, the original €20 has not been refunded as cash. The free bet is another conditional chance; its payout depends on the next result. Some offers pay compensation as bonus funds instead.
Calculate the possible loss on the qualifying cash bet separately from the free bet. Do not automatically subtract the advertised free bet amount from that loss.
Five checks before using it
- Is the stake returned on a win? The example credits either €30 or €50.
- What are the minimum odds and eligible markets? Your selection must meet the terms.
- When does the free bet expire? Check whether it can be split across bets.
- Do winnings have wagering or withdrawal limits? Use the wagering requirement guide if a multiplier applies.
- Must you qualify with a cash bet first? Treat that bet’s possible loss separately.
Compare bet payouts in the calculator →
Choose a free bet with or without the stake returned. Use €20 and odds of 2.50 to reproduce the example.
The figures are illustrative, not a rating of a particular promotion. Always check the operator’s terms, the stated reward form and TÄRING’s verification date.