What is cashback?
Definition and example from our casino glossary.
Definition
Cashback returns a percentage of your net losses over a set period, paid as cash or as bonus funds depending on the terms.
Cashback refunds part of what you lost during a defined window, such as a day, a week or a month. The calculation is normally based on net losses: total stakes minus total winnings, sometimes after deducting any bonuses received. Percentages, minimum losses and maximum refunds vary widely between operators and loyalty levels. The key distinction is how the refund is paid. Cashback paid as real money with no wagering is a genuine reduction of the cost of play for that period. Cashback paid as bonus money carries wagering and is worth less. Some programmes calculate on total stakes instead of losses, which is closer to a rebate on turnover. From a responsible-gambling perspective, cashback can soften losses but should never be a reason to keep playing in order to earn it. A refund of part of a loss is still a loss.