Bonus and Promo Terms Explained for Ontario Bettors
This page explains common promotion language in plain terms so Ontario bettors can read offers more carefully. It is educational content, not betting advice and not a guarantee of outcomes.
Why Terms Matter in Ontario
Ontario's regulated market has matured quickly, and promotions can vary by operator and product. Our Ontario market report gives broader context on market structure, while this page focuses specifically on interpreting term sheets.
If you are new to reading odds and bet types, start with how to bet on sports first, then return to this glossary to evaluate offers with clearer expectations.
Common Bonus and Promotion Terms
Wagering Requirement (Playthrough)
The number of times you must wager bonus funds before they can usually be converted to withdrawable cash. Example: a $20 bonus with a 10x requirement can require $200 in qualifying wagers.
Why it matters: A lower requirement can mean fewer bets are needed before funds become eligible for withdrawal.
Minimum Odds / Eligible Markets
Promotions often count only wagers placed at or above a listed odds threshold and may exclude specific markets, bet types, or events.
Why it matters: If your selections do not match the term sheet, those wagers may not contribute to bonus progress.
Bonus Expiry Window
Many offers include a fixed period (for example, 7 days) to use bonus funds or complete wagering requirements.
Why it matters: Unused or uncleared bonus value can expire once the deadline passes.
Maximum Bet While Bonus Is Active
Some offers limit stake size during bonus play. Placing a higher stake than allowed may breach terms and affect bonus eligibility.
Why it matters: Checking stake limits helps avoid accidental breaches of promotion conditions.
Maximum Withdrawal From Bonus Winnings
A capped amount that may be withdrawn from winnings generated using specific bonus funds.
Why it matters: A withdrawal cap can materially change the potential value of an offer.
Compliance-Safe Reading Checklist
- Confirm eligibility criteria, including age and location requirements.
- Check if your intended sport, market, or bet format is included or excluded.
- Record expiry timelines and any maximum-stake conditions before wagering.
- Review withdrawal timelines and processing context in our fastest payouts guide.
- Use limit tools and support pathways on our responsible gambling page if betting stops feeling manageable.
Source Citations
These references informed the definitions and examples on this page. Dates below show when each source was last reviewed by our editorial team.
- AGCO Registrar's Standards for Internet Gaming
Reviewed March 1, 2026
- iGaming Ontario (iGO) Player Information
Reviewed March 1, 2026
- Ad Standards - Canadian Code of Advertising Standards
Reviewed March 1, 2026
- Government of Ontario - Gambling and Lottery Information
Reviewed March 1, 2026