Sticky bonus

Bonuses come in two main kinds. A cashable bonus turns into real money once you meet the wagering requirement. A sticky bonus, also called non-cashable, never does. A phantom bonus is the kind that is removed when you withdraw. Depending on the terms, a sticky bonus is either removed at cash-out or stays in the account for more play. You can only withdraw what is left above the bonus amount.

Example. You deposit 100 and get a 100 sticky bonus, so you start with 200. When you finish wagering, your balance is 350. You withdraw, this casino removes the 100 bonus, and you receive 250. Had your balance ended at 100 or less, there would be nothing to withdraw.

What people get wrong. The word is used in two ways. In the older sense above, the bonus itself can never be cashed out. Many casinos now say "sticky" for a bonus that is locked together with your deposit: until wagering is done, you cannot withdraw even your own deposit without losing the bonus. A "non-sticky" bonus keeps your deposit separate, so you can leave with real-money winnings before you touch the bonus.

So do not rely on the label. Read the terms for two things. Can the bonus amount ever be withdrawn? And can you withdraw your own deposit and its winnings before wagering is complete?