What is Free Bet? Free Bet Explained in 2 minutes
Mike Goodpaster Last Verified
19/04/2026
As there is intense competition between many of the online betting sites you'll find on our page. In the race for new customers there is usually some kind of welcome offer connected with registering for a new account. Commonly this is in the form of a free bet.
Although there are different kinds of free bets – with their individual requirements - they are generally some kind of bet credited to your account that you do not have to pay for.
How are Free Bets used in Sports Betting?
To use online betting sites customers have to sign up for a new account and deposit funds to use as their stake. But the free bet welcome offers mean that these new customers get a chance to place a bet with no risk, as the money staked is not theirs. Our offers page lists all types of different promotions and bonuses available from operators like free bets.
There will usually be bonus requirements attached to this free bet but unless it is explicitly stated otherwise, they can be used anywhere in the sportsbook section of the site. It may be the case that the free bet must be used with a minimum odds selection but these restrictions will be outlined in the details of the welcome offer.
There may have to be an initial bet made, or a certain amount deposited into the new account, to qualify for the free bet but it is usually credited to the account immediately. However, it may be the case that there is a time limitation on the use of the free bet as well.
Did you know…
Authors who are named on the shortlist for a well-known sports writing award, one sponsored by a betting company, are given a free bet worth £1,000 in recognition. There is, of course, no guarantee that the bet will then go on to be a winner.
