Free bets are a popular promotion, but they come with specific conditions that must be met for the option to appear on your bet slip. Below, we outline the common reasons and solutions for this issue.
General rules for free bets
Free bets are tied to specific promotions and eligibility criteria. Common requirements include:
Minimum odds: each selection in your bet must meet the minimum odds specified by the promotion. For example, odds of 2/1 (3.0 decimal) or higher for most promotions, or odds of evens (1/1 or 2.0 decimal) or higher for certain offers.
Eligible markets: free bets may only apply to specific markets, such as accumulators (ACCA) or First Goalscorer bets.
Number of selections: ACCA free bets often require a minimum of three selections, each meeting the odds threshold.
ACCA free bet requirements
Placing an accumulator? Here's how to make sure your free bet option appears. For general steps on placing an ACCA, see How do I place an Accumulator sports bet?
Minimum selections: include at least three selections from different matches.
Odds threshold: each selection must meet the minimum odds requirement, typically 2/1 (3.0 decimal) or higher.
Independent odds: do not rely on combined odds to meet the threshold. Each leg must independently qualify.
Bonus bet eligibility and usage
Some promotions have additional restrictions:
Specific markets: for example, First Goalscorer bets must be placed directly from the market, not via Bet Builder.
Expiration: free bets often expire within a set timeframe, for example 14 days after being credited.
Stake returns: free bets only return profit exceeding the stake. The stake itself is not returned.
Troubleshooting missing free bets
If you have not received the free bet at all, rather than it failing to appear on your bet slip for a specific selection, see Why a promotion may not be available.
If the free bet option does not appear for a specific bet:
Check odds: ensure all selections meet the minimum odds requirement. Replacing non qualifying selections can resolve the issue.
Verify bet structure: confirm that your bet matches the promotional conditions, such as the number of selections and eligible markets. Also check for conflicting selections within your bet. For example, you cannot combine Liverpool to win the league and Liverpool to finish second in the same bet, as these outcomes cannot both occur.
Review promotion terms: some promotions, such as boosted odds offers, settle differently. Normal cash returns are paid first, followed by bonus credits.
5. Examples of common issues and solutions
Issue: free bet does not appear for an ACCA with Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Arsenal. Solution: replace Aston Villa, which did not meet the odds requirement, with a qualifying selection.
Issue: free bet does not appear for a First Goalscorer market. Solution: ensure the selection meets the odds requirement and is placed directly from the market.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your free bet option appears and is applied successfully.