You've probably seen the ads promising free casino games that pay real cash. For US players, this isn't a myth—it's a legitimate strategy to build your bankroll without immediate risk. The catch? You're not playing slots for free and magically getting money. Instead, you use casino bonuses, like no-deposit offers or free spins, to play real-money games without using your own funds. The winnings you generate from those free credits are yours to keep, after meeting the casino's playthrough requirements. It's the smartest way to test a new casino app like BetMGM or DraftKings and potentially walk away with hundreds of dollars you didn't start with.
How No-Deposit Bonuses Work for Real Money
A no-deposit bonus is your golden ticket. You sign up, verify your account, and the casino gives you a small amount of free cash or free spins—no deposit required. For example, Borgata Online Casino in New Jersey might offer a $20 no-deposit bonus. You can use that $20 to play any of their real-money slots. If you win $50 and the wagering requirement is 30x, you need to bet $1,500 ($50 x 30) before you can withdraw. It sounds high, but on slots with a 96% RTP, you'll likely retain a good portion. Always check the maximum cashout; sometimes it's capped at $100, meaning any winnings beyond that are forfeited.
Free Spins Offers on Registration
Free spins are even more common. FanDuel Casino often runs promotions like "20 Free Spins on Starburst" for new sign-ups. These spins have a set value, usually $0.10 or $0.25 per spin. Any winnings from these spins are credited as bonus money with their own wagering requirements, typically around 25x to 40x. The key is that these offers are attached to specific, popular slot games. You can't use them on table games. If you manage to hit a decent win from those free spins, you've effectively turned nothing into a real-money balance you can play with or withdraw.
Top USA Casino Apps with the Best Free Play Offers
Not all free play offers are created equal. The best US casinos provide clear terms and reasonable playthrough. BetMGM Casino frequently has a "$25 No Deposit Required" offer in eligible states, with a 1x playthrough—this is exceptionally low and a fantastic deal. DraftKings Casino often provides free daily fantasy sports tickets that can convert to casino credit. Caesars Palace Online Casino is known for its generous loyalty rewards, offering "Free Bonus Credits" to existing players just for logging in. For crypto users, platforms like Bitstarz offer no-deposit free spins for Bitcoin deposits. Always link your account to a real payment method like PayPal or a Visa card first, as you'll need it to withdraw your winnings later.
Understanding Wagering Requirements (Playthrough)
This is the most important detail. A "35x wager" means you must bet the bonus amount 35 times before cashing out. Let's say you get a $10 free chip and win $100. You must wager $3,500 ($100 x 35) before withdrawing. Games contribute differently: slots usually count 100%, while blackjack might only count 10%. So, a $100 blackjack bet might only clear $10 of the requirement. Look for bonuses with sub-30x wagering on slots. Also, check game restrictions; some bonuses can't be used on live dealer games or certain high-RTP slots. A 2023 industry survey showed that less than 15% of players successfully convert no-deposit bonuses into a withdrawal, primarily because they ignore these terms.
Strategies to Convert Free Games into Cash
To actually make money, you need a plan. First, target low-volatility slots with your free credits or spins. Games like Cleopatra or 88 Fortunes offer frequent, smaller wins that help you meet wagering requirements without blowing your balance. Second, never place maximum bets with bonus funds; it increases variance and can wipe you out fast. Third, keep a detailed record of your bonus balance versus your real cash balance. Most casinos use a "bonus wallet" system, and you forfeit the bonus money if you try to withdraw before clearing playthrough. Finally, set a realistic goal. Turning $5 in free spins into a $50 cashout is a huge win. Don't get greedy trying to hit a progressive jackpot with restricted funds.
FAQ
Are these free casino games really free?
Yes and no. You don't risk your own deposited cash upfront. The casino gives you a bonus (like $10 free) to play with. However, to withdraw any winnings from that $10, you must meet the attached wagering requirements. It's free to try, but you have to 'earn' the cashout by playing through the bonus amount a set number of times.
What's the best free sign-up bonus for a US player right now?
As of now, BetMGM Casino's $25 no-deposit bonus with only a 1x playthrough requirement is arguably the best. It's available in MI, NJ, PA, and WV. For sheer value, Caesars Palace Online Casino's $100 in site credits on a $10 deposit (effectively $90 free) is also top-tier, though it requires a small deposit.
Can I use PayPal to withdraw winnings from a free bonus?
Absolutely. Once you've met the wagering requirements, you can withdraw your real-money winnings to any approved method, including PayPal, Visa Direct, or a bank transfer. You must have already linked and verified your PayPal account during registration for it to be an available option at cashout.
Why did my winnings disappear when I tried to cash out?
This almost always happens because you attempted to withdraw before meeting the full playthrough (wagering) requirement, or you played a restricted game. The casino's system will automatically remove the bonus funds and any winnings generated from them. Always check your bonus status in the cashier section before requesting a withdrawal.