Sticky Bonus vs Non-Sticky Bonus: What It Means (With Simple Examples)

Casino bonuses aren’t all the same. Two of the most important types you’ll see are sticky bonuses and non-sticky bonuses. The difference affects what happens to your bonus funds and winnings when you withdraw—and it can change whether a bonus is actually worth claiming.

This guide explains sticky vs non-sticky bonuses in plain language, shows simple examples, and helps you decide which type is better for your playstyle.

What is a sticky bonus?

A sticky bonus is a bonus where the bonus amount is “attached” to your account and usually cannot be withdrawn. When you withdraw, the casino typically removes the bonus and may remove winnings generated from the bonus portion (depending on the rules).

Think of it like this:

• Your deposit is yours.

• The bonus helps you play longer.

• But you generally can’t withdraw the bonus itself.

Sticky bonuses are common with:

• No-deposit bonuses

• Some matched deposit promotions

• Some promos that offer higher bonus amounts but stricter withdrawal rules

What is a non-sticky bonus?

A non-sticky bonus (sometimes called “cashable” or “separable” bonus) is a bonus where the bonus funds are not permanently attached to your account in the same way.

With a non-sticky bonus:

• You typically play using your own cash balance first.

• The bonus may remain available while you wager.

• If you withdraw (depending on the casino rules), you often keep what’s in your withdrawable balance, while the bonus might be removed.

Non-sticky bonuses are commonly considered more player-friendly because they usually offer more flexibility.

The easiest way to remember the difference

• Sticky bonus: bonus sticks to your account; withdrawing usually removes it (and may impact winnings)

• Non-sticky bonus: bonus is more separated; withdrawals are often more flexible

But the exact behavior depends on the casino’s bonus wallet rules and terms.

Simple example: sticky bonus vs non-sticky bonus

Let’s use the same numbers:

• Deposit: $100

• Bonus: $100

• You win: $60

• You haven’t finished wagering requirements (important)

Example A: Sticky bonus

With many sticky bonuses, if you withdraw early:

• Casino may allow you to withdraw only your deposit-related portion (rules vary)

• Bonus gets removed

• Winnings connected to the bonus may be removed or reduced

Result: you may lose the bonus value when you withdraw.

Example B: Non-sticky bonus

With many non-sticky bonuses:

• You may be able to withdraw your real money (if allowed by terms)

• The bonus may be removed, but your cash winnings can be more protected (depending on wallet rules)

Result: typically less penalty for withdrawing, but still depends on the terms and wagering status.

How withdrawal rules differ (what actually happens)

Casinos manage balances in different ways, but common models include:

Model 1: Separate balances (cash + bonus)

• You have a real cash balance and a bonus balance

• Wagering may use one before the other

• Withdrawals may be allowed only from the cash balance

Model 2: Mixed bonus wallet

• Cash and bonus are blended

• The casino calculates what part of winnings is “bonus-related”

• Withdrawals can trigger bonus removal and winnings adjustments

Model 3: Withdraw cancels the bonus

Many casinos explicitly say:

• “Any withdrawal request will cancel the bonus and related winnings”

This is common for sticky bonuses and many no-deposit bonuses.

Pros and cons of sticky bonuses

Pros

• Often larger bonus amounts

• Can extend playtime significantly

• Popular for “try the casino” style offers

Cons

• More restrictive withdrawal rules

• Higher chance of losing bonus-related winnings on withdrawal

• Often paired with strict terms (max bet rules, limited eligible games, caps)

Sticky bonuses can be worth it if you’re planning to fully complete wagering and not withdraw early.

Pros and cons of non-sticky bonuses

Pros

• More flexible withdrawals (generally)

• Typically easier to understand for players

• Often less risk of losing winnings just by withdrawing

Cons

• Sometimes smaller bonus amounts

• Still can have strict terms (wagering, max bet, eligible games)

• Withdrawal may still cancel remaining bonus value

Non-sticky bonuses are often better if you want more control and less “surprise penalty” risk.

Which one is better: sticky or non-sticky?

Choose a sticky bonus if…

• You plan to complete wagering requirements fully

• You’re comfortable with stricter rules

• The bonus value is significantly higher and worth the commitment

Choose a non-sticky bonus if…

• You want flexibility and clearer withdrawal behavior

• You might withdraw before completing wagering

• You prefer lower risk of losing winnings due to wallet rules

How to spot whether a bonus is sticky

Look in the promotion terms for phrases like:

• “Bonus funds are non-withdrawable”

• “Withdrawal cancels bonus and winnings”

• “Bonus will be removed upon withdrawal”

• “Winnings from bonus funds may be forfeited”

• “Sticky bonus”

If the casino uses “cashable bonus” language, it’s often non-sticky.

Common mistakes with sticky/non-sticky bonuses

1) Claiming a sticky bonus when you want to withdraw quickly

Sticky bonuses are not ideal for quick withdrawals unless you clear wagering.

2) Not reading max bet and eligible games rules

Even non-sticky bonuses can be voided if you break max bet rules or play excluded games.

3) Assuming your winnings are fully withdrawable

Some casinos lock winnings until wagering is complete, even if the bonus is non-sticky.

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FAQ

What is a sticky bonus in online casinos?

A sticky bonus is a bonus that usually can’t be withdrawn and is typically removed (sometimes with related winnings) when you withdraw.

What is a non-sticky bonus?

A non-sticky bonus is generally more separated from your cash balance and usually offers more flexible withdrawal behavior, depending on the casino’s rules.

Which is better: sticky or non-sticky?

Non-sticky is often better for flexibility. Sticky can be better if the offer is large and you plan to complete wagering fully.

Can I withdraw with a sticky bonus active?

Sometimes, but withdrawing often cancels the sticky bonus and may remove bonus-related winnings. Always check the terms.

How do I know if a bonus is sticky?

Look for terms that say the bonus is non-withdrawable or that withdrawing cancels the bonus and winnings.