wageringterms.

Definition

Sticky Bonus

Also known as Sticky, Phantom Bonus, Non-Cashable Bonus

By Reviewed Editorial policy

In short

A sticky bonus can never be withdrawn itself, only winnings above it. When you cash out, the bonus amount is removed from your balance, which makes it worth considerably less than a non-sticky bonus of the same size.

A sticky bonus stays with the operator. You can play with it, and you can withdraw what you win above it, but the bonus itself is deducted when you cash out.

The arithmetic

Deposit £100 and receive a £100 sticky bonus. Balance: £200.

You clear the wagering requirement and have £350.

  • Sticky: withdraw £250, the £100 bonus is removed
  • Non-sticky: withdraw £350. The bonus has become real money

Same headline offer, £100 difference in outcome.

Where it hurts most

If you finish at or below the bonus amount, a sticky bonus is worth exactly nothing.

Clear the wagering and end with £120 against a £100 sticky bonus, and you withdraw £20, having deposited £100. The bonus provided playing time and no money.

This is the common outcome, because wagering requirements are calibrated so that most balances decline while clearing them.

Why they exist

A sticky bonus costs the operator far less than a cashable one, because the principal never leaves. It is effectively a loan of playing capital rather than a gift.

That makes sticky bonuses cheap to offer, which is why they are frequently attached to headline-grabbing match percentages. A 400% sticky bonus is less expensive to the operator than a 50% cashable one.

Identifying them

The terminology varies and is rarely prominent:

  • “Bonus is not cashable”
  • “Bonus amount will be deducted from withdrawal”
  • “Non-withdrawable bonus funds”
  • “Phantom bonus”

Some operators do not use any of these phrases and simply describe the deduction in the withdrawal terms.

Check whether the bonus is sticky before the match percentage. It affects value more than the size of the offer does, and a 50% non-sticky bonus is generally worth more than a 100% sticky one.

Common questions

What is a sticky bonus?

One that can never be withdrawn itself. Only winnings above it are yours, and the bonus amount is deducted when you cash out. Clear the wagering with £350 on a £100 sticky bonus and you withdraw £250.

How do I spot a sticky bonus?

Look for phrases like bonus is not cashable, non-withdrawable bonus funds, or a note that the bonus will be deducted from withdrawals. Check this before the match percentage, since it affects value more.

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