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- Rakeback ≈ wagered × house edge × rakeback %.
- It reduces your expected loss; it does not remove it.
- Headline rates like "300%" or "1080%" usually come with caps, windows and conditions.
- Use the calculator to compare offers on net expected cost, not on the biggest number.
How to use the rakeback calculator
- Enter the total amount you expect to wager (in CA$ or site credits).
- Enter the game's house edge, for example 1% for crash, 6.67% for 15-slot roulette, 2% for many slots-style originals.
- Enter the rakeback percentage advertised.
- Read the expected loss before rakeback, the rakeback earned and the net expected cost.
The formula
Expected loss = wagered × edge. Rakeback = expected loss × rakeback %. Net cost = expected loss − rakeback.
Rakeback on this basis is a share of the house edge, not of your losses. If you wager CA$5,000 on a game with a 2% edge, the expected loss is CA$100. At 15% rakeback you receive CA$15 on average, leaving a net expected cost of CA$85. Some sites compute rakeback on actual wager volume at a flat percentage instead; the calculator offers both modes.
| Wagered | Edge | Expected loss | Rakeback % | Rakeback | Net cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA$1,000 | 1% | CA$10 | 15% | CA$1.50 | CA$8.50 |
| CA$5,000 | 2% | CA$100 | 15% | CA$15 | CA$85 |
| CA$5,000 | 6.67% | CA$333 | 20% | CA$67 | CA$266 |
| CA$20,000 | 1% | CA$200 | 50% | CA$100 | CA$100 |
Actual outcomes vary widely around these averages; one lucky session can leave you well ahead even after wagering CA$5,000, and an unlucky one can lose far more than the expected figure.
Reading rakeback offers
Site promotions differ. A few offers advertised through our links include 15% rakeback for 7 days with a 100% deposit bonus on Gamdom, a "300% rakeback up to $15,000" plus 50 free spins on 500Casino, 340% rakeback within a 1080% deposit bonus package on BC.Game, and a 20% rakeback boost on Rainbet. These are the sites' own advertised terms and often USD-denominated; US$1,000 is roughly CA$1,380. The percentages can apply to rakeback levels, to a bonus balance or to a specific period, so they are not directly comparable. Always check how the rakeback is paid (instant, daily, weekly), whether it is wagered, and the maximum.
Rakeback on a bonus balance
If rakeback is credited as a bonus with its own wagering requirement, calculate its true value by deducting the expected cost of clearing it. Our wagering calculator does this. For background on how rebates work, read what is rakeback and 500Casino rakeback explained.
Tips
- Compare net cost. A 10% rebate on a 1% edge game returns 0.1 cents per dollar wagered, while 5% on a 6% edge game returns 0.3 cents, yet the second game still costs far more overall.
- Beware volume pressure. Rakeback pays on wagering, which can encourage more betting than you intended. A CA$20 return on CA$2,000 of play is not a reason to play more.
- Match games to edge. Lower-edge games (crash, mines) cost less per CA$ wagered than roulette or slots. See the Mines simulator for how edge shows up.
Where to claim rakeback
Rakeback programs are available on many of the sites in our CS2 gambling site ranking. See the Gamdom promo page and 500Casino promo page for current offers and codes.
Rakeback does not make gambling safe or profitable. Only play with money you can afford to lose. Free confidential help: ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600; see responsible gambling. Not financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is rakeback?
Rakeback returns a percentage of the house edge on your wagers (or of the site's rake) as a rebate, whether you win or lose.
Does rakeback make gambling profitable?
No. Unless rakeback exceeds 100% of the edge, which is very rare, the game still has a negative expected value.
How is rakeback calculated?
Typically rakeback = wagered amount × house edge × rakeback percentage. Some sites use fixed percentages of wager or levels based on VIP rank.
Is a 300% rakeback offer real?
Headline figures often apply to a capped amount, a time window or a bonus balance with conditions. Read the terms and run the numbers.
Is rakeback taxable in Canada?
Tax treatment depends on your circumstances and how funds are held or converted. Speak to a tax professional.
Play responsibly: CS2 gambling is for adults 19+ (18+ in AB, MB, QC). Set limits, never chase losses, and use self-exclusion if it stops being fun. Free, confidential help: ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 or your provincial helpline — see our responsible gambling page.