Matched Betting – What is it?

WHAT IS MATCHED BETTING?

Matched betting is a strategy that has gained immense popularity among savvy punters and side hustle enthusiasts. Often described as “risk-free betting,” it’s a method that allows individuals to profit from bookmaker promotions regardless of the outcome of a sporting event or horse race. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or someone looking to dip their toes into the world of betting, matched betting offers a low-risk way to turn bookmaker bonuses into cash.

How Does Matched Betting Work?

At its core, matched betting involves placing two bets:

  1. A Back Bet: A bet placed on a specific outcome (Heads, on a coin flip).
  2. A Lay Bet: A bet placed against the same outcome (Not Heads, ie Tails on a coin flip) using a betting exchange.

By combining these two bets, you effectively cancel out the risk, ensuring that you don’t lose money, regardless of the result. The profit comes from the bookmaker’s free bets, bonuses, or promotions. All this and more is covered in our Matched Betting Basics course.


An Example of Matched Betting

Let’s say a bookmaker offers a $50 Bonus bet when you deposit and wager $50 of your own money. Here’s how you would use matched betting:

  1. Qualify for the Bonus Bet:
    • Place a $50 back bet on Heads at the bookmaker.
    • Place a corresponding $50 lay bet (Not Heads) at a betting exchange.
    • Zero loss means you unlock the Bonus Bet.
  2. Use the Bonus Bet:
    • Use the $50 Bonus bet on another event.
    • Place a matching lay bet at the exchange to offset the outcome.
    • The Bonus bet generates a guaranteed profit.

Why Is Matched Betting Popular?

  • Low Risk: When done correctly, matched betting eliminates the chance of significant losses.
  • Tax-Free Income: In countries like Australia and the UK, winnings from gambling are tax-free, including profits from matched betting.
  • No Prior Knowledge Required: Unlike traditional betting, matched betting relies on math, not luck or expertise in sports or racing.

Tools for Matched Betting

Matched betting can seem complicated at first, but tools and resources simplify the process:

  • Odds Matchers: Automatically find the best back and lay odds across multiple bookmakers.
  • Profit Calculators: Help you calculate exact stakes for back and lay bets to maximize profits.
  • Tutorials: Step-by-step guides help beginners get started quickly and confidently.

Matched Betting at Bonusbank

At Bonusbank, we provide everything you need to succeed in matched betting, including:

  • A comprehensive odds matcher for finding the best opportunities.
  • Easy-to-use calculators for tracking profits.
  • A community of like-minded members sharing tips and strategies.

Is Matched Betting Worth It?

Matched betting can be highly lucrative, especially when bookmaker offers are plentiful. Many Bonusbank members have turned it into a steady side hustle, earning hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month.

Ready to start matched betting? Join Bonusbank today and learn how to turn bookmaker promotions into tax-free profits. Betting smarter starts here!