Free spins: value, games and winnings rules

Free spins are rounds on a slot that you do not pay for directly. They come with a fixed value per spin, a list of eligible games and rules on how the winnings are treated. On a betting-focused site they matter mostly as part of a combined welcome offer or a casino promotion, so this guide explains what to look for.

Spin value and game list

Every free spin has a fixed stake set by the offer. Twenty spins at a value of 0.20 units are worth 4 units of play — that, not the number of spins, is the real size of the offer. Free spins usually work only on named games; the spins appear when you open one of them.

What happens to the winnings

Winnings from free spins are often credited as bonus money with their own wagering requirement, sometimes with a cap on the amount that can be converted to cash. Other offers pay winnings as real money with no conditions. The difference is large, so check which kind you are getting.

Expiry

Free spins and their winnings typically expire after a short period. Unused spins disappear, and unfinished wagering on their winnings means those winnings are removed as well.

Free spins and your budget

Free spins can be a pleasant way to try a game, but they can also pull you into a longer session than planned. Decide in advance that free-spin winnings follow the same unit plan as the rest of your play, and do not top up a balance just to finish wagering.

Free spins inside a welcome package

Some welcome packages combine a deposit match with a batch of free spins, released in parts over several days. In that case each part may have its own expiry date and you may need to log in to activate it. If you mainly bet on sports, check whether taking the package locks you into casino wagering. A sports-only offer may suit you better even if it has no spins attached.

The short version

Check the spin value, the game list, how winnings are credited and the expiry date. The total value of the spins matters more than their number. The current amount, percentage and conditions of any promotion are set by the operator and shown in the promotion terms — check them there before opting in.

← All bonus guides · See also: No deposit bonus · Wagering requirements · Welcome bonus

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate the value of free spins?
Multiply the number of spins by the value of each spin. Twenty spins at 0.20 units are worth 4 units.
Are free spin winnings paid as cash?
It depends on the offer. Many credit winnings as bonus money with wagering; some pay cash. The terms say which.
Can I use free spins on any slot?
Usually not. Free spins are tied to specific games listed in the offer.

Other bonus guides

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