Normally these credits are given to new players but now online gambling sites realize that they need to protect themselves from people who may have no real interest in gambling. To fight abuse of the bonus system online casinos have attached a number of terms and conditions to the bonuses they offer. These terms and conditions can often be somewhat complicated, especially to newcomers to online gaming. It's very important to understand the terminology online casinos use in their terms and conditions, otherwise it's easy to make mistakes and find that your winnings may not be valid.

Here are some of those terms which you should read through first before signing up

Bonus Maximum Limit - Almost all online casinos will limit or play a maximum amount on the bonus you can receive. So if the bonus states 100% to £100, this means the maximum bonus you can receive is £100 (if you deposit £100). You can deposit £20 if you like, but you will only receive 100% of your deposit, so only £20 in bonus money.

Type of Bonus

• No-Deposit Bonus - Some online casinos offer no-deposit bonuses to new players. These bonuses are great as you don't need to risk your own money to play at these online casinos. However, you will usually be required to make a deposit if you win and want to cash out your winnings. Many players don’t realize this until it’s too late.
• Pure Bonus – A number of online casinos offer pure bonuses to their players. A pure bonus is one you can withdraw in its entirety once you have completed the wagering requirement. So if you are offered a 100% to £100 pure bonus, you deposit £100, play with £200 and, once you have completed the wagering requirement, you can withdraw the whole £200 and your winnings. If the bonus terms don't use words like Play Money Bonus or don't specifically state that the bonus cannot be withdrawn, then you can be assured that the bonus is one you can withdraw completely after you have completed the wagering requirement.
• Play Bonus - Many online casinos offer play bonuses. A play bonus is a bonus you can use to win with, but you cannot withdraw the actual bonus. After you have finished the wagering requirement, you can withdraw your deposit and your winnings, but the play bonus will be removed from your account when you make your withdrawal. Some casinos return the play bonus to your account and you can keep on winning with it until you lose it, but you can never withdraw the actual play bonus.

Almost all of the bonuses offered by online casinos are great value for players and there is nothing wrong with trying out all the online casinos and taking advantage of their bonuses offers.

Keep in mind these companies are competing against each other so it may be an idea to shop around for the best bonus.

There are many fantastic casino bonuses out there for players to enjoy. Bonuses are a great way to gain some extra playing time on your favourite games and help you to win those few extra pounds. But make sure you know the score before playing the game.