What is a VIP / loyalty programme?
A VIP / loyalty programme is a bookmaker's or casino's reward system for regular customers. You earn points (sometimes called "coins" or "comp points") for every real-money bet you place. Points raise your tier and can be exchanged for bonuses, free spins or free bets.
Unlike a welcome bonus, a loyalty programme isn't a one-off — it runs over the long term. That is why understanding it properly matters more for active players than for newcomers.
The logic of a loyalty programme is simple: the operator wants to keep regular customers, so it returns a small share of turnover in the form of points and perks. For the player this is extra value, but it doesn't offset the operator's edge built into the bets themselves.
How points are earned
- Based on stake size — for example, 1 point for every set amount wagered.
- Based on game type — slots, sports and live casino may award points differently.
- Through missions — daily or weekly tasks (for example, betting on a particular tournament).
- Real-money bets only — bets from the bonus balance often don't earn points.
Tiers and what they give you
Many programmes have several tiers. The table below shows a typical structure — names and perks vary by operator.
| Tier | How you reach it | Typical perks |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Registration | Earning points, standard promotions |
| Middle | A certain number of points or turnover | Higher cashback rate, birthday bonus |
| High | Large turnover, regular activity | Better points exchange rate, faster withdrawals |
| VIP | By invitation or the highest turnover | Personal manager, individual bonuses |
As your tier rises, your cashback rate may increase too — this is the most noticeable practical benefit of a loyalty programme.
The promo code shop: swapping points for free bets
At some operators you can spend your accumulated points in a special "promo code shop". There you exchange points for codes for free bets, free spins or casino bonuses.
- Check your points balance in your profile.
- Open the promo code shop or the "Bonuses" section.
- Choose the reward you want: a free bet, free spins or a bonus.
- Exchange your points for a code and activate it on your bet slip or in the bonus section.
- Check the code's deadline and conditions (minimum odds, list of games).
How to judge the value of points
To work out the real value of a point, you need two numbers: how much you have to bet to earn one point, and how much bonus one point is exchanged for. For example, if you earn 1 point for every $10 wagered and 100 points can be swapped for a $5 free bet, the return is about 0.5% of turnover. That's a small figure — a loyalty programme is a useful extra, not a reason to play more. The logic is similar to wagering maths: always compare turnover with what you get back.
Using a loyalty programme sensibly
A loyalty programme works best for a player who plays regularly within their budget but never bets just to earn points. A few practical tips:
- Pick one main operator. If you spread your bets across many platforms, you won't reach a meaningful tier on any of them.
- Be selective with missions. If a task pushes you to bet more than usual, skip it.
- Spend your points in time. Points can expire, or the programme's terms can change.
- Compare the rates in the shop. The same number of points can buy rewards of different value; compare free bets, free spins and bonus money against each other.
- Scrutinise personal manager offers. VIP bonuses can have their own wagering too — always ask for the terms in writing.
Also, activate any free bet or promo code you get for your points following the steps in our promo code guide: checking the code's deadline and minimum odds in advance never hurts.
The 888Starz loyalty programme as an example
Under current terms, besides its casino package of up to €1500 plus free spins, 888Starz has a promotions and bonuses section for regular players. Check the points system, tiers and shop rewards on the 888Starz website — exchange rates and terms are updated from time to time. To compare operators on other criteria, see our comparison table.
Pros
- Extra return on your normal play
- Better cashback and service at higher tiers
- Exchange points for the reward you choose
Cons
- The return rate is small
- Keeping a tier requires activity
- It encourages you to bet more
