Free bets with no deposit in South Africa: what is real

"Free bet, no deposit" is one of the most searched betting phrases in South Africa. These offers are real, but they are rarely as simple as the advert. This post explains how to tell what one is really worth.

What bookmakers usually offer

• A sign-up bonus: a small free bet or bonus amount when you register and verify.
• Free spins: on some sites, a number of free plays on a game.
• Deposit matches: these are not no-deposit offers. You must put money in first.

Offers change all the time, and each site sets its own. We will not list amounts, because a list goes out of date fast. Look on the bookmaker's own promotions page.

The rules that decide the value

• The stake is not returned. If you win with a R 25 free bet at 2.0, you usually get R 25 of winnings, not R 50. The free stake is kept.
• Wagering rules. Bonus money often has to be bet a number of times before you can withdraw it.
• Minimum odds. Many free bets only count on odds above a set level.
• Expiry. Free bets often expire within days.
• Verification. You must usually pass FICA before you can withdraw anything.

Read the full terms. If you cannot find them, treat the offer as worth nothing.

Fake "free bet" pages

Pages promising free betting vouchers, voucher codes "for today" or free Betway PINs are usually fake. Real bookmaker offers live on the bookmaker's own site, inside your account. Never give your OTP or password to get a "free bet".

The no-deposit route most guides skip

There is another way to bet without putting in your own money: earn a voucher first. On Mocash you do surveys and offers for free and withdraw your balance as a 1Voucher, OTTVoucher or Hollywoodbets voucher. It is slower than a sign-up bonus and earnings are not guaranteed, but there are no wagering rules on money you earned. See free Betway voucher and free Hollywood voucher.

Bet only what you can lose

Betting is for adults 18 and older. Only bet money you can afford to lose, never money meant for rent, food or transport, and never chase a loss. If betting stops being fun, the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation runs a free, confidential helpline: 0800 006 008.

Mocash is independent and is not linked to, or paid by, any betting company named here.