# What is a free bet? > A free bet is a stake an operator pays on stated conditions; bonus funds are a separate sum with wagering. How they differ and what the UKGC cap says. Source: https://eachwayatlas.uk/extra-places/what-is-a-free-bet/ Updated: 2026-11-07 A free bet is a stake that a bookmaker pays for you on stated conditions, while bonus funds are a sum added to your account that comes with a wagering requirement. The exact definition is in each operator's terms, which on 7 November 2026 are Not verified here. The Gambling Commission caps bonus wagering at 10 times. ## Facts to record We compare the definitions as the operators print them, and we quote them word for word with the date. **Free bet and bonus definitions, UK betting: operators' terms and LCCP SR 5.1.1 · status on 7 November 2026** | Item | What we record | Value on 7 November 2026 | |---|---|---| | Operator's definition of free bet | Quoted wording, three operators at least | Not verified | | Operator's definition of bonus funds | Quoted wording | Not verified | | Wagering cap, SR 5.1.1 | In force from 19 January 2026: 10 times at most, no mixed-product bonuses | Cap stated by the Gambling Commission; scope for free bets to be confirmed with a lawyer | **The short version:** the definition belongs to the operator's terms, and the cap belongs to the regulator. ## How the two differ With a free bet, the operator pays the stake. If the bet wins, you receive the profit, and your stake is not returned. With bonus funds, the operator credits an amount that you must bet a set number of times before withdrawing. That number is the wagering requirement. The practical effect is that a free bet is used once, while bonus funds stay in play until the requirement is met. **The short version:** a free bet is a single stake, and bonus funds are a balance with a condition. ## What the UKGC rule says From 19 January 2026, social responsibility code SR 5.1.1 limits wagering requirements on bonuses to 10 times and bars a single bonus from mixing betting, casino, bingo and lottery. Terms must also be clear, fair and easy to find. Details are on [the wagering cap rule](https://eachwayatlas.uk/extra-places/wagering-cap-rule/). We have not confirmed whether the cap applies to free bets, so we do not claim it. **The short version:** the cap is 10 times on bonus wagering, with its reach for free bets still to be confirmed. ## Example A £10 free bet is placed on a horse at 6/1, and it wins. The return is £10 × 6 = £60, because the stake is not returned. Bonus funds of £10 with a 10 times wagering requirement mean £10 × 10 = £100 of bets must be placed before withdrawal. The [offer turnover calculator](https://eachwayatlas.uk/extra-places/offer-turnover-calculator/) does the same sum for your figures. **The short version:** one is a £60 return on a win, and the other is a £100 turnover to clear. ## Where to go next If you plan to use a free bet each way, read [can you use a free bet each way](https://eachwayatlas.uk/extra-places/free-bets-and-each-way/). For any offer, [the list of things to read](https://eachwayatlas.uk/extra-places/offer-conditions-checklist/) covers the conditions in order, and [wagering requirement](https://eachwayatlas.uk/glossary/wagering-requirement/) defines the term. ## Before you bet 18+ only. Gambling can be harmful. National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7). More on [responsible gambling](https://eachwayatlas.uk/responsible-gambling/). ## How we checked We read the UKGC rule summary in our research notes on 6 November 2026. We have not yet read operators' definitions, and the application of SR 5.1.1 to free bets is a question for a lawyer. The examples are our own arithmetic. ## What changed 7 November 2026: page created with definitions, the cap and examples; operator wording pending. ## FAQ **Is a free bet the same as a bonus?** Not in the definitions we are checking. A free bet is a stake the operator pays, while bonus funds are an amount added to your account that carries a wagering requirement. **What is the UKGC limit on wagering?** Since 19 January 2026 the Gambling Commission caps wagering requirements on bonuses at 10 times, and bans mixing products in one bonus. Whether the cap applies to free bets is to be confirmed with a lawyer. **Do I get my stake back?** Normally not with a free bet, because the stake was paid for you. Read the offer to confirm.