Betting referral bonuses have become an increasingly popular way for UK bookmakers to attract new customers in recent years. But what exactly are they, and are they really worth chasing? This article will provide an in-depth look at referral bonuses, how they work, the pros and cons, and tips for maximising their value.
What is a Betting Referral Bonus?
A betting referral bonus is an incentive offered by bookmakers to encourage existing customers to refer friends to open a new account.
The bonus usually consists of a free bet or deposit match credited to both the existing customer’s account and the account of the friend they referred. Here’s an example of how it works:
- John is an existing customer at Bookmaker X
- John refers his friend Mary using a unique referral code or link
- Mary opens an account at Bookmaker X using John’s referral details
- John and Mary both receive a £20 free bet bonus
This is a win-win situation. John is rewarded for referring new business and Mary gets a head start at the bookmaker with some free bets.
The Pros of Referral Bonuses
There are several advantages to betting referral bonuses for both the referrer and referee:
- Free bets – This is the main reward, giving both parties extra funds to bet with for free. Free bets allow punters to place risk-free wagers.
- Deposits matched – Some bookies will match a portion of the referee’s first deposit instead of or in addition to free bets. This doubles the referee’s bankroll.
- No deposit required – The referee can claim the bonus without any deposit, allowing them to try the bookmaker risk-free.
- Friends can try a new bookmaker – The referral gives the referee access to a new bookmaker they may not have tried otherwise.
- Can be repeated – Most bookmakers do not limit the number of friends referred, which means endless potential bonuses.
An Example Referral Bonus Table
| Referrer’s Bonus | Referee’s Bonus | Minimum Referee Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| £20 Free Bet | £20 Free Bet | None |
| 50% Matched Deposit Bonus up to £50 | £5 No Deposit Required | £10 |
| £10 Free Bet | 100% Matched Deposit up to £20 | £20 |
Potential Downsides to Factor In
While betting referral bonuses sound ideal, there are some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Rollover requirements – The free bets or deposit funds may be subject to wagering requirements before winnings can be withdrawn. This means the total bonus must be bet a certain number of times.
- Limited bet types – Free bets are sometimes restricted to certain sports or bet types and can’t just be withdrawn as cash. Always check the terms.
- Short validity – Free bets given as a referral bonus often expire within 7 days if not used.
- One bonus per referee – Most bookies restrict you to a single referral bonus per friend referred. You can’t refer the same person multiple times for repeat bonuses.
- Referee details needed – To claim their bonus, the referee usually needs to provide personal information and payment details during sign-up.
- Promotions change quickly – Referral deals can be pulled at any time. A great offer one week may disappear the next.
Tips for Maximising Referral Bonuses
If you want to collect betting referral bonuses, here are some tips:
- Target casual betting friends and family who aren’t already members at that bookmaker. Don’t spam everyone you know.
- Time referrals with major sporting events like Cheltenham or the Premier League restarting to increase sign-up incentive.
- Share the referral details prominently on social media and messaging apps around big games.
- Explain the key benefits like the no deposit offer simply and clearly. Emphasise the referee’s bonus.
- Frame it as doing them a favour by referring them to a good bookmaker offer. Don’t make it purely about your own reward.
- Check terms carefully and choose bookies with the most favourable rollover and expiration rules.
- Take advantage of recurring deals but beware limitations on referring the same person multiple times.
Are Referral Bonuses Worth It?
Whether or not chasing referral bonuses is worthwhile depends on the individual offer terms and your personal situation.
The bonuses can certainly give your bankroll a nice boost and offer free bets to try new strategies. However, some offers are more attractive than others once you read the fine print.
If you only bet recreationally or aren’t able to refer many people, the time investment to hunt down top deals may not pay off hugely. But for regular bettors who can promote to a wide social network, the cumulative value of multiple good bonuses may be well worth the effort.
Betting referral bonuses allow bookmakers to acquire new customers while rewarding existing punters. They provide a variety of free bets, matched deposit deals, and no deposit required offers.
All in all, referral bonuses are worth claiming selectively when their terms are favourable and you can promote them to enough new sign-ups to accumulate a decent bankroll boost. Take the time to understand the offers inside and out before chasing referrals. Don’t deceive your friend and tell them all the minuses they may face in a bookmaker, including gambling addiction.
