If there is one common thread among all risk-free bet promos, it’s this: If the wager you place wins, then it’s like the promotion never existed. Betting sites will likely return the funds in the form of site credit, so always check the terms and conditions to fully understand the different risk free bet offers (more on that below). Generally speaking, sportsbooks define a risk-free bet as a promotion where the funds that you bet with will be returned to your account if your bet loses.
In this post, we’ll explain the nuts and bolts of risk-free bet promos, and why you’ll ultimately want to embrace volatility when claiming them. How much? Well, that depends on both promotional terms and the odds of the bets you place. The problem is the term “Risk-Free” is actually a bit of a misnomer, as bettors who partake in these promotions will always incur some risk. In fact, so-called “Risk-Free Bet” promotions are now the common first bet sign-up bonus among most books, replacing the once-popular deposit match and free-bet offers. Recreational sportsbooks love to lure customers with the promise of full refunds on losing wagers.