Matched betting has emerged as a fascinating strategy for individuals looking to make a profit from the array of bonus bets and incentives offered by bookmakers.
This strategy capitalizes on bookmakers’ bonus bets and promotions to attract new customers or retain existing ones.
Sports bettors can secure a profit regardless of the result by betting on all possible outcomes of an event. It’s a process that sounds too good to be true, yet with the right approach, it’s entirely feasible. Trust us; we’ve done it and continue to do it.
We’ll break down the mechanics of matched betting, explain its legal and financial considerations, and provide tips for maximizing returns.
At its core, matched betting involves placing two bets: a “back” bet and a “lay” bet.
The back bet is placed with a sportsbook, betting on a specific outcome to come true. While on the other hand, the lay bet is placed on another sportsbook (sometimes bettors will use a betting exchange, but it’s not entirely necessary), betting against that outcome. This dual approach ensures that one of your bets will win regardless of the event’s result.
Guaranteeing a win is great, but your returns are not as high as if you placed both bets and won them both. This is always the case when you minimize risk.
The beauty of matched betting lies in the use of bonus bets offered by sportsbooks. Instead of risking your own money, you use the sportsbook’s bonuses to place your bets. This method drastically reduces financial risk, as you’re primarily playing with ‘free’ money.
However, to start matched betting, you’ll need an initial investment to cover the lay bets at the exchange. Once you’re set-up, the cycle of using free bets can continue with minimal personal financial input.
To help you understand how this betting strategy works, lets take a look at a real-world example.
We’ll use the Atlanta Hawks against the Charlotte Hornets. To keep things simple, we’ll place a bet on the moneyline – one team has to simply win or lose.
For our back bet, we’ll bet $100 on the Hawks. With the odds sitting at -258, we’ll walk away with $138.75. And for our lay bet, we’ll use the bonus cash to place $100 on the Hornets at another sportsbook at +210, which means if they win, we’ll have $310.
In this example, either team can win, and we will win. While we only bet $100 of our own cash, no matter the outcome, we’ll have either an additional $38.75 or $210. We can’t lose!
Of course, we’d love to win the more significant amount, but there’s zero chance of losing this bet.
Matched betting sits in a unique legal position. It’s entirely legal in regions where betting is allowed.
Bookmakers aren’t fans of matched betting because it leverages the incentives they offer against them. However, it’s not against the law. We never advocate for breaking the law in any manner.
The biggest risk comes from the potential of being “gubbed” by a sportsbook, which means they could limit or close your account if they suspect you’re matched betting.
This risk underscores the importance of being discreet and strategic in your betting activities.
From a financial perspective, matched betting is considered tax-free in many jurisdictions because it’s classified as gambling winnings, which are not taxable in places like the UK. However, in the US, and depending on your state, your winnings will be taxed. Be sure to check your local laws to understand your tax obligations fully.
To get started with matched betting, you’ll need to open accounts with multiple online sportsbooks and a betting exchange if you choose that route. The exchange is where you’ll place your lay bets, so having access to one with a wide range of options and low commissions is vital. You’ll also need a small starting fund to cover your initial lay bets.
You’ll also want to take advantage of sportsbooks with excellent bonus bets or, even better, deposit match bonuses. To help you get started, these are some of the best bonus offers from the top sportsbooks.
It’s essential to stay organized. Keep detailed records of all your bets, including dates, amounts, outcomes, and profits. This organization will help you track your success and ensure you’re managing your funds effectively.
You’re ready to jump in and get into match bets. We get it. It’s exciting, and we all love walking away with more cash than we started with. However, we do have some tips if you’re doing this for the first time.
Those tips and tricks will let you maximize the matched betting strategy and get you started on the right foot.
Matched betting offers a low-risk strategy to profit from the sports betting industry. However, it’s not without its challenges. The need for multiple accounts, the risk of account limitations, and the necessity of staying on top of numerous offers can be quite a task.
Yet, matched betting can be a lucrative endeavor with the right approach and tools.
The key to successful matched betting is knowledge and organization. By understanding the process, staying informed on the latest offers, and managing your bets effectively, you can confidently navigate the terrain of matched betting.
Happy Tuesday to all! We hope you’re fired up about the NBA playoffs that are…
Columbus is clinging to playoff hopes and enters Philly on fire. Here's our pick for…
If not for Sunday’s late-game heroics, Tuesday’s NBA postseason play-in game pitting the eighth-seeded Memphis…
The Padres are rolling and have the edge at home. Can they cover the run…
UFC 314 is stacked with action and betting value. Here are 5 sharp fighter prop…
UFC did not disappoint with the full card that UFC314 is set to deliver! Whether…
This website uses cookies.