How a sticky bonus works
A sticky bonus, also called a non-cashable bonus, stays in your balance for betting only. When you withdraw, the casino removes the bonus amount and pays the rest.
Example: you deposit $100 and get a $100 sticky bonus. After wagering, your balance is $500. You can withdraw $400, because the $100 bonus is deducted.
How a non-sticky bonus works
A non-sticky bonus, sometimes called a parachute bonus, is kept in a separate bonus balance. You play your real money first. If you win before it runs out, you can withdraw your real balance and forfeit the bonus, with no wagering.
Once your real money is gone, the bonus comes into play with its wagering. Clear the wagering and the bonus winnings turn into cash.
Side by side
| Sticky | Non-sticky | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus withdrawable | No, deducted at cash-out | Yes, after wagering |
| Your deposit | Tied to the wagering from the start | Free to withdraw until the bonus is in play |
| Early win | Still locked by wagering | Withdraw and drop the bonus |
| Best for | Long sessions with a bigger balance | Most players |
Variations to look for
- Phantom bonus: the bonus disappears from your balance when you request a withdrawal.
- Bonus credited after wagering: you wager your deposit first, then the bonus is added and stays.
- Time-limited bonus: unused bonus money expires after a set number of days.
Look in the terms for phrases such as "bonus funds are non-withdrawable" or "real money is wagered first". Our guide to new casino terms explains each clause.