Your free bet has been credited — now it is time to turn it into real money. The process is almost identical to the qualifying bet, but because the stake is free, the outcome leaves you with a guaranteed profit.
SNR vs SR — check your offer terms
Before you place the free bet, confirm whether it is Stake Not Returned (SNR) or Stake Returned (SR). This affects which calculator mode to use and therefore which odds are optimal.
- SNR (most common): your stake is not included in the payout if you win. Use "Free Bet SNR" mode in the calculator. Target odds of 5.0–7.0.
- SR (rarer): your stake is returned alongside winnings. Use "Free Bet SR" mode. Lower odds are optimal — typically 3.5–5.0.
Step 1 — Choose a selection
Pick a selection in a popular Match Odds market. For SNR free bets, higher odds (5.0–7.0) give a better conversion rate. For example, a £30 SNR free bet at odds of 6.0 typically returns around £23–£25 in guaranteed profit.
Step 2 — Run the calculator
- Open the calculator and select the correct free-bet mode (SNR or SR).
- Enter the free bet value as the "Back stake".
- Enter the bookmaker back odds and exchange lay odds.
- Note the lay stake and the guaranteed profit figure.
Step 3 — Place the free back bet at the bookmaker
Add the selection to your bet slip. Look for the option to "Use free bet" or select the free bet token in the promotions section — the interface varies by bookmaker. Your stake will show as £0 deducted from your balance. Confirm the bet.
Step 4 — Lay the bet on the exchange
- Go to the exchange immediately after placing the bookmaker bet.
- Find the same selection and place a lay bet for the stake shown in the calculator.
- Confirm the bet and verify it is matched.
Step 5 — Collect your profit
Wait for the event to settle. One bet will win and the other will lose — but because your stake was free, the net result is a guaranteed profit. Withdraw or reinvest to continue with the next offer.
How to maximise conversion rate
- Use the calculator to compare several selections — pick the one with the highest guaranteed profit.
- Aim for a tight back/lay spread even at higher odds; a 0.1 spread at odds of 6.0 costs much less than at 2.0.
- Place free bets on events with good exchange liquidity so your lay bet matches instantly.
- Avoid each-way free bets unless you understand the additional complexity — stick to Match Odds markets for now.
What's next?
Congratulations on completing your first matched bet! Head to the offers page to choose your next bookmaker signup offer and repeat the process. Every new offer means more guaranteed profit.