The broad steps for claiming a bonus are similar everywhere, register, verify your details, deposit if the offer requires one. The part that actually varies, and catches people out, is whether you need to actively opt in.
Opt-in versus automatic
Some bookmakers credit a welcome bonus automatically the moment you register or make a qualifying deposit, no extra step needed. Others require you to actively opt in, sometimes by entering a promo code at signup, sometimes by ticking a box before your first deposit, sometimes via a specific button in your account after depositing. If you miss the opt-in step on an operator that requires it, the bonus simply doesn't apply, and it usually can't be added retroactively.
The general steps
- Register an account and complete any required verification
- Check whether the offer needs a promo code or an explicit opt-in, and complete that step before depositing if so
- Make a qualifying deposit, if the offer requires one, checking the minimum deposit amount
- Confirm the bonus has been credited to your account before you start betting
- Check the wagering requirement, minimum odds and expiry window, covered in our guide on how betting bonuses work, so you know what's needed to actually withdraw any winnings
Where to check for a specific operator
Each bookmaker's ClubPlay review page lists its current welcome bonus and any bonus code under the Welcome Bonus section, but the opt-in mechanism itself can change, always confirm the exact claim process on the operator's own site before depositing.