US Online Casino Bonuses: Complete Guide for September 2025

Introduction to Online Casino Bonuses

Online casino bonuses are promotional offers provided by gambling operators to attract new players and retain existing ones. In the regulated US market, these bonuses come with specific terms and conditions that vary by operator and state jurisdiction.

Unlike offshore casinos that may advertise unrealistic bonus amounts, licensed US online casinos offer legitimate bonuses that are regulated and guaranteed by state gaming authorities. This guide focuses exclusively on legal, regulated online casino bonuses available to US players in states with authorized online gambling.

Best Online Casino Bonuses September 2025

Top Welcome Bonuses

Best No Deposit Bonuses

Best Free Spins Bonuses

Types of Online Casino Bonuses Explained

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses are offered to new players making their first deposit at an online casino. These typically come as a percentage match of your deposit up to a specified maximum amount.

Example: BetMGM's 100% up to $1,000 means if you deposit $1,000, you'll receive an additional $1,000 in bonus funds, giving you $2,000 to play with.

Pros:

• Largest bonus amounts available

• Great way to explore a new casino

• Can significantly extend playing time

Cons:

• Usually have wagering requirements

• May have game restrictions

• Time-limited for clearing requirements

Best For: New players wanting to maximize their initial bankroll at a casino.

No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit bonuses are free funds given to players simply for registering an account, with no deposit required.

Example: DraftKings Casino's $50 free bonus allows new players to try games without risking their own money.

Pros:

• Risk-free way to try casino games

• No financial commitment required

• Potential to win real money without depositing

Cons:

• Lower bonus amounts than deposit bonuses

• Higher wagering requirements in some cases

• Maximum cashout limits

Best For: Players wanting to test a casino before committing funds.

Free Spins

Free spins bonuses award a set number of spins on specified slot games, either as a standalone offer or as part of a larger welcome package.

Example: Golden Nugget's 200 free spins on 88 Fortunes and Divine Fortune slots.

Pros:

• Focused on slot players

• Simple to understand and use

• Can lead to significant wins on featured games

Cons:

• Limited to specific slot titles

• Typically have fixed spin values

• Winnings are usually subject to wagering requirements

Best For: Slot enthusiasts looking to try featured games.

Reload Bonuses

Reload bonuses are offered to existing players making subsequent deposits after their initial welcome bonus.

Example: Caesars Palace Online offers weekly 50% reload bonuses up to $500 every Friday.

Pros:

• Extends the value for loyal players

• Often available on a recurring basis

• May have lower wagering requirements than welcome bonuses

Cons:

• Lower match percentages than welcome bonuses

• May require bonus codes

• Often time-limited offers

Best For: Regular players looking to boost their bankroll on subsequent deposits.

Cashback Bonuses

Cashback bonuses return a percentage of losses to players over a specified period.

Example: FanDuel's Play It Again offers returns 100% of net losses (up to $1,000) as site credit after the first 24 hours of play.

Pros:

• Provides a safety net for players

• Usually has low or no wagering requirements

• Guaranteed value even if you lose

Cons:

• Only valuable if you experience losses

• May be capped at a maximum amount

• Sometimes paid as bonus funds rather than cash

Best For: Players seeking reduced risk while trying a new casino.

Loyalty/VIP Programs

Loyalty programs reward ongoing play with points that can be converted to bonuses, free play, or other perks.

Example: BetMGM's M life rewards program allows players to earn tier credits and points redeemable for bonuses and real-world resort benefits.

Pros:

• Rewards consistent play

• Often includes both online and retail casino benefits

• Higher tiers provide increasingly valuable rewards

Cons:

• Requires significant play to reach higher tiers

• Point earning rates vary by game

• Some benefits may expire if not used

Best For: Regular players who want long-term value from their casino play.

Game-Specific Bonuses

Game-specific bonuses are tailored to particular casino games or categories, such as blackjack or live dealer games.

Example: DraftKings offers a weekly 20% live dealer cashback up to $100.

Pros:

• Targeted to your preferred game types

• Often have game-optimized terms

• Can provide value on games excluded from other bonuses

Cons:

• Limited to specific games

• May have higher minimum qualifying losses

• Often time-limited

Best For: Players who specialize in particular casino games.

Online Casino Bonus Comparison Table

This comprehensive comparison helps you identify which bonuses offer the best overall value based on key metrics:

*Effective Value represents the estimated percentage of the bonus amount a typical player can expect to convert to withdrawable cash, accounting for wagering requirements and game restrictions.

Understanding Wagering Requirements

Wagering requirements (also called play-through or rollover requirements) specify how many times you must bet the bonus amount before winnings become withdrawable cash.

How Wagering Requirements Work

Example Calculation:

• You receive a $100 bonus with a 10x wagering requirement

• You must place bets totaling $1,000 ($100 × 10) before withdrawing winnings

• If you bet $10 per spin on slots, you'd need to play 100 spins to complete the requirement

Game Contribution Percentages

Not all games contribute equally to wagering requirements:

Wagering Requirement Comparison by Casino

Low Wagering vs. High Value Bonuses

Low Wagering Bonuses:

• BetRivers (1x requirement)

• FanDuel (1x requirement)

• DraftKings no deposit bonus (1x requirement)

High Value, Higher Wagering Bonuses:

• Caesars ($1,000 with 10x requirement)

• BetMGM ($1,000 with 15x requirement)

• Golden Nugget ($1,000 with 10x requirement)

Calculating Bonus Expected Value

The expected value of a bonus depends on:

1. Bonus amount

2. Wagering requirement

3. Game contribution percentages

4. House edge of games played

Formula:
Effective Value = Bonus Amount × (1 - House Edge)^(Wagering Requirement ÷ Game Contribution)

Example for $100 bonus with 10x wagering playing slots:

• Assuming 4% house edge on slots and 100% contribution

• Effective Value = $100 × (1–0.04)^(10 ÷ 1) = $100 × 0.96^10 = $66.48

Example for the same bonus playing blackjack:

• Assuming a 0.5% house edge on blackjack and a 25% contribution

• Effective Value = $100 × (1–0.005)^(10 ÷ 0.25) = $100 × 0.995^40 = $81.87

This demonstrates why game selection is crucial when clearing bonuses.

State-by-State Casino Bonus Guide

Michigan

Legal Since: January 2021
Regulatory Body: Michigan Gaming Control Board
Number of Online Casinos: 15
Standout Bonuses:

• BetMGM: 100% up to $1,000 + $25 free

• FanDuel: $1,000 Play It Again

• Golden Nugget: 100% up to $1,000 + 200 Free Spins

Michigan-Specific Rules:

• No restrictions on bonus amounts

• All major casino operators are present

• A competitive market leads to generous offers

More Information: Michigan Online Casinos

New Jersey

Legal Since: November 2013
Regulatory Body: New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
Number of Online Casinos: 20+
Standout Bonuses:

• Borgata: 100% up to $1,000 + $20 free

• Caesars: 100% up to $1,000

• Golden Nugget: 100% up to $1,000 + 200 Free Spins

New Jersey-Specific Rules:

• The most mature US online casino market

• The highest number of operators and bonuses

• Frequent exclusive promotions

More Information: New Jersey Online Casinos

Pennsylvania

Legal Since: July 2019
Regulatory Body: Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
Number of Online Casinos: 18
Standout Bonuses:

• BetRivers: 100% up to $250 (1x wagering)

• BetMGM: 100% up to $1,000 + $25 free

• Caesars: 100% up to $1,000 + $10 free

Pennsylvania-Specific Rules:

• Higher tax rates may affect bonus generosity

• Strong, responsible gambling requirements

• A mix of national and PA-exclusive operators

More Information: Pennsylvania Online Casinos

West Virginia

Legal Since: July 2020
Regulatory Body: West Virginia Lottery
Number of Online Casinos: 6
Standout Bonuses:

• BetMGM: 100% up to $1,000 + $25 free

• FanDuel: $1,000 Play It Again

• BetRivers: 100% up to $250 (1x wagering)

West Virginia-Specific Rules:

• Smaller market with fewer operators

• Similar bonus structures to other states

• Growing market with new operators entering

More Information: West Virginia Online Casinos

Connecticut

Legal Since: October 2021
Regulatory Body: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
Number of Online Casinos: 2
Standout Bonuses:

• DraftKings: $50 free + 100% up to $2,000

• FanDuel: $1,000 Play It Again

Connecticut-Specific Rules:

• Limited to two operators (tribal partnerships)

• Similar bonuses to other states

• Limited competition means fewer exclusive offers

More Information: Connecticut Online Casinos

Upcoming States

Rhode Island:

• Expected launch: Late 2025

• Likely operators: Bally's, IGT

• Anticipated bonus structure: Similar to Connecticut

Illinois:

• Legislation pending

• Potential 2026 launch

• Large market with significant bonus potential

New York:

• Online casino legislation under consideration

• Would become the largest US online casino market if approved

• Potential for market-leading welcome bonuses

How to Claim Online Casino Bonuses

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Welcome Bonuses

1. Select a Licensed Casino

   • Choose from our recommended operators

   • Verify the casino is licensed in your state

2. Register an Account

   • Click our exclusive link to visit the casino

   • Complete the registration form with accurate information

   • Verify your identity (SSN, DOB, address)

   • Create secure login credentials

3. Enter Bonus Code (If Required)

   • Look for the promo code field during registration

   • Enter the code exactly as shown

   • Some casinos apply bonuses automatically through our links

4. Make a Qualifying Deposit

   • Navigate to the cashier/banking section

   • Select your preferred payment method

   • Enter the minimum required amount (typically $10-$30)

   • Ensure your deposit qualifies (some methods may be excluded)

5. Claim Your Bonus

   • Bonus funds may be credited automatically

   • Some casinos require accepting the bonus in the promotions section

   • Check your bonus balance to confirm receipt

6. Meet Wagering Requirements

   • Play eligible games to clear the bonus

   • Track your progress in the bonus or account section

   • Complete requirements within the specified timeframe

7. Withdraw Your Winnings

   • Once wagering is complete, winnings become withdrawable

   • Request a withdrawal through the cashier

   • Select your preferred withdrawal method

   • Allow for processing time (typically 1-5 business days)

How to Claim No Deposit Bonuses

1. Register Using Our Links

   • Click through from CasinoBonus.com

   • Complete the registration process

   • No deposit required

2. Verify Your Account

   • Confirm your email address

   • Complete identity verification if required

   • Some casinos require phone verification

3. Enter No Deposit Bonus Code (If Required)

   • Look for the promo code field during or after registration

   • Enter code exactly as shown

4. Receive and Use Your Bonus
   Bonus should appear in your account immediately

   • Begin playing eligible games

   • Complete any wagering requirements before withdrawal

Mobile Casino Bonus Claiming Process

The process for claiming bonuses on mobile devices follows the same general steps, with these additional considerations:

1. App vs. Browser

   • Most casinos offer dedicated iOS and Android apps

   • Browser-based play works on all devices

   • Bonus terms are identical for the app and browser

2. Mobile-Specific Bonuses

   • Some casinos offer app-exclusive bonuses

   • Look for "mobile-only" promotions in the app

3. QR Codes and Deep Links

   • Scan QR codes for direct app download with a bonus applied

   • Use deep links to open specific bonus offers in the app

Common Claiming Issues and Solutions

Casino Bonus Terms & Conditions Explained

Key Terms to Understand

Wagering Requirement: The number of times you must bet the bonus amount before withdrawing winnings.

Game Contributions: The percentage each game type contributes toward wagering requirements.

Bonus Expiration: The timeframe in which you must complete wagering requirements.

Maximum Bet: The highest amount you can wager while using bonus funds.

Game Restrictions: Specific games are excluded from bonus play or wagering contributions.

Maximum Cashout: The maximum amount you can withdraw from bonus winnings.

Bonus Code: A specific code required to claim certain bonuses.

Minimum Deposit: The smallest deposit amount that qualifies for a bonus.

Excluded Payment Methods: Deposit methods that don't qualify for bonus offers.

Playthrough Order: Whether real money or bonus funds are used first when playing.

Red Flags in Bonus Terms

Excessive Wagering Requirements: Anything above 30x is considered high for US-regulated casinos.

Very Short Time Limits: Less than 7 days to complete wagering is restrictive.

Maximum Cashout Below Bonus Amount: Indicates limited withdrawal potential.

Game Exclusions for Popular Titles: May prevent playing your preferred games.

Bonus Funds Used First: Increases the risk of losing your deposit if wagering isn't completed.

High Minimum Withdrawal Thresholds: Makes it difficult to access smaller winnings.

Stacked Wagering on Deposit + Bonus: Effectively doubles the stated requirement.

Sample Terms Analysis: BetMGM $1,000 Welcome Bonus

The Offer: 100% match up to $1,000 + $25 free

Key Terms:

• 15x wagering requirement on the bonus amount

• 14 days to complete wagering

• $10 minimum deposit

• $5 maximum bet while wagering

• Game contributions: Slots 100%, Roulette 20%, Blackjack 20%

• No maximum cashout

• Bonus funds used before the cash balance

Analysis: This bonus offers good value for slot players with a moderate 15x requirement and a reasonable 14-day timeframe. Table game players face effective 75x requirements due to 20% contribution rates. The $5 maximum bet restriction means high rollers must place smaller bets than usual while clearing the bonus.

Sample Terms Analysis: BetRivers $250 Welcome Bonus

The Offer: 100% match up to $250

Key Terms:

• 1x wagering requirement on the bonus amount

• 30 days to complete wagering

• $10 minimum deposit

• No maximum bet restriction

• Game contributions: Slots 100%, Table Games 50%, Video Poker 10%

• No maximum cashout

• Cash balance used before bonus funds

Analysis: This bonus offers exceptional value with its industry-leading 1x requirement. Even table game players face only a 2x effective requirement. With no maximum bet restriction and a full 30 days to clear, this is one of the most player-friendly bonuses available. The cash-first playthrough order also adds significant value by protecting your deposit.

Expert Strategies to Maximize Bonus Value

Game Selection Strategy

For High-Value Extraction:

• Choose games with the highest RTP (Return to Player) percentage

• Focus on games with 100% contribution to wagering

• Avoid progressive jackpot slots (typically lower RTP)

Best Games for Bonus Clearing:

1. Blood Suckers slot (NetEnt) - 98% RTP

2. Starmania slot (NextGen) - 97.87% RTP

3. 1429 Uncharted Seas slot (Thunderkick) - 98.6% RTP

4. European Roulette - 97.3% RTP (with 50% contribution)

5. Jacks or Better video poker - 99.54% RTP (with reduced contribution)

Bankroll Management with Bonus Funds

The Optimal Approach:

1. Calculate the total wagering required

2. Divide by your average bet size to estimate needed spins/hands

3. Aim for at least 200+ game rounds to reduce volatility

4. Adjust bet size to approximately 0.5-1% of your total bonus bankroll

Example:

• $500 bonus with 10x wagering = $5,000 total wagering required

• $2.50 average bet = 2,000 spins needed

• This provides sufficient volume to approach theoretical RTP

When to Claim vs. When to Skip Bonuses

Claim When:

• Wagering requirements are 15x or lower

• You enjoy the eligible games with high contributions

• You have sufficient time to complete the requirements

• No maximum cashout restrictions exist

• The bonus has a cash-first playthrough order

Skip When:

• Wagering requirements exceed 25x

• Game restrictions prevent playing your preferred games

• Time limits are too short for your playing habits

• Maximum cashout is significantly below the bonus amount

• You're primarily a table game player facing low contribution rates

Tracking Bonus Progress

Most casinos provide:

• Bonus status page showing completion percentage

• Remaining wagering amount

• Time left before expiration

• Bonus funds balance

Manual tracking tips:

• Keep a spreadsheet of active bonuses

• Record completion percentage after each session

• Set calendar reminders for expiration dates

• Document games played and their contribution rates

Bonus Stacking Strategies

Multi-Bonus Approach:

1. Claim a no-deposit bonus first and complete the wagering

2. Withdraw any winnings

3. Claim the welcome deposit bonus

4. Complete welcome bonus wagering

5. Look for reload or cashback offers

Loyalty Program Integration:

• Earn loyalty points while clearing bonuses

• Schedule bonus clearing during point multiplier promotions

• Use loyalty points to extend playing time on bonus funds