If you’re looking for the best bookies for betting payment methods, we’ve got you covered. Payments, both in and out of your betting account, should be easy to manage and fully secure, so that your money is safe at all times. The UK has a myriad of top shelf quality bookies, from the established brands with decades worth of experience, to the new betting sites that are fresh to the scene.
There are lots of different payment options to pick from, giving you all the flexibility and confidence you need to make those snappy deposits for your live bets, to cashing out the colossal sums of money made on your longshot accas. Whether you prefer using bank cards or have a handy eWallet to manage your finances, or use prepaid vouchers for the utmost anonymity, you have plenty of options about to pick from.
Rating Bookie Payment Methods
Many nuances can shape the way you deposit money into your betting account, and withdraw your hard fought winnings. While it doesn’t register as one of the first things punters look before opening an account at a bookmaker, the payment methods can be a make or break factor at your bookie of choice. You don’t want to sign up to a platform on the merit of their promotions and betting markets, only to find out later that your withdrawals take over a week to arrive, or worse, the bookmaker charges you for withdrawing your money.
At Betting Tools, we have reviewed all the major UK bookmakers and have tested their payment methods, noting any distinguishing features that we liked and those that we felt didn’t quite meet the industry standard. They include:
- Speed of the deposits/withdrawals and processing times
- Variety of betting payment methods offered
- Minimum deposit limits and withdrawals
- Charges and rollover requirements
- Betting payment methods security and authentication
Ideally, there should be little to no rollover requirements, no fees, and high security. For added measure, the minimum deposit and withdrawal limits should be set nice and low to accommodate anyone on a tight budget, and you should have a good, flexible, variety of payment options. We recommend looking for bookies that have at least 2 payment methods that are convenient for you, just as an added safety precaution.
Whether you are going to deposit a fiver every weekend for football betting, or bet with bigger amounts and more frequently, your chosen bookie must tick all the boxes and provide you with quick surefire betting payment methods.
Debit Cards
Without question, the most popular deposit method for betting online is with a debit card. This includes Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, virtual debit cards or even contactless debit cards.
Debit cards are fast and instant when you go to deposit with popular UK bookies. It is easy to set up, the licensed bookies use advanced tech to ensure that your details and transfers are fully secure, and debit card deposits generally tick the box where matched deposits bonuses are concerned.
You will also find depositing with a debit card for online betting comes with no cost, and with the instant withdrawals and the idea basically all of us have a debit card with a bank, this is unquestionably the most stress-free and simple way of depositing for online betting. We’re also yet to come across a bookmaker in the UK that doesn’t support debit card payments, unless you’re betting with a crypto-only bookmaker.
Pros:
- Offered at practically all bookies
- No internal fees
- Fast and direct deposits
- Accepted in most deposit bonuses
Cons:
- Some punters don’t want to use their personal bank details
- Withdrawal processing may take longer
Apple Pay and Google Pay
Apple Pay and Google Pay have emerged as top alternatives to straight bank card transfers, and they can be managed effectively from the comfort of your iOS or Android mobile devices. Popular bookmakers such as bet365 and Betfred take GPay or Apple Pay deposits, and these hit your account instantly, the same as bank card transfers. You don’t have to pay any fees using Apple Pay or Google Pay, but the only shortcoming is that these intermediaries can only accommodate deposits from your account, and they don’t handle withdrawals.
Why would you pick Apple Pay or Google Pay over bank cards? Well, these electronic payment intermediaries never share your card details. They can process payments using a unique account number, so your sensitive banking details are kept out of the formula. Plus, you can set up additional security measures such as 2FA, passkeys, or even biometric authentication.
If Apple Pay and Google Pay are set up on your Google Chrome or iOS/Android device, you’ll get effortless and safe depositing with some of the best UK bookmakers.
Pros:
- Swift and completely secure without sharing personal information
- Added security authentications can be set up
- Accepted at most bigger bookies and established brands
Cons:
- Cannot be used for withdrawals
PayPal
PayPal is arguably one of the biggest eWallets out there, and one that commands great trust in betting circles. A lot of the top UK bookmakers accept PayPal, and have shortened withdrawal processing times for PayPal payouts, making this a prime choice for UK punters.
Deposits with PayPal for the UK bookmakers that do accept this method are free and instant. Similarly to Apple Pay and Google Pay, no bank or card information is transferred over to the bookmaker, as PayPal effectively acts as a middleman. There aren’t many downsides to using PayPal, but if we were to mention a few, one would be the limited availability of PayPal among smaller or newer bookmakers. Another is that occasionally the withdrawal or deposit limits for PayPal transfers may be set higher than bank card or other eWallet payments.
Pros:
- Globally renowned eWallet online banking service
- Offers speedy withdrawals with shortened processing times
- Easy to manage and retains anonymity
Cons:
- Not as common at newer or smaller sports betting sites
- The deposit/withdrawal minimum limits may be set higher
Trustly
A betting payment method that is becoming increasingly more popular in the UK is Trustly. This deposit method connects directly to your chosen bank, meaning you do not need to enter any card details when depositing. It involves you making a unique QR code from your online bank account, which you can then scan on a mobile device and send the money on through using Trustly.
This electronic payment service allows for speedy deposits, though in some cases, you may have to wait for a few hours for all the confirmations to be made. Trustly is useful for anyone who wants to keep their anonymity and the minimum deposit limits are usually set nice and low. Payouts are also relatively quick, with low limits, so Trustly is a good choice. However, it is nowhere near as widespread as, say, Google Pay or Apple Pay.
Pros:
- Smooth deposits and withdrawals with low limits
- You don’t share any of your banking details
Cons:
- Complex set up with QR code scanning and desktop/mobile dynamic
- Not one of the most widespread payment options at UK bookies
Neteller
Neteller is a fast, secure, and popular digital payment method, and another choice UK bettors can use at a wide range of online bookmakers. Just like Trustly and other electronic payment methods, there is an added layer of security, as you do not need to share bank details.
Pros:
- No internal fees
- Fast deposits and speedy withdrawal processing
- Accepted at numerous UK bookies and horse race betting apps
Cons:
- Generally not recognised for deposit bonuses
Paysafecard
Thanks to the anonymity and security of Paysafecard, this prepaid card allows bettors to fund a betting account with some of the best bookmakers in the UK completely stress-free. No card or bank details will need to be shared with the online bookmaker, as you simply enter the unique 16-digit code at checkout to deposit through Paysafecard.
On the other hand, this is a deposit-only payment method, meaning if you want to deposit and withdraw solely with the same betting payment method, you might want to consider another one of the options listed on this page.
Pros:
- Fast and low minimum deposits
- Completely anonymous
Cons:
- No withdrawals
- The maximum limit is constrained by the maximum voucher limits
Skrill
Although not as popular as Visa or PayPal, depositing with Skrill is accepted at most of the well-known UK bookmakers. Skrill offers a prepaid card, making it super easy to deposit and withdraw without having to transfer any cash directly to or from your bank. You do not need to enter any bank details, making it a safe and reliable e-wallet for online betting.
Skrill users also have the option to request Skrill Mastercards or Skrill Virtual Prepaid MasterCards (available in the UK and EMEA), which can be used just the same as regular bank cards. You can make deposits, hook them up to your Google or Apple Pay accounts, and manage your deposits. Then, withdraw to the same Skrill MasterCard. Whether you are withdrawing the minimum, or a hefty lump sum – won from a bet builder or acca, you can rely on Skrill to manage these transfers in lightning quick time.
Pros:
- Has MasterCard/Prepaid Virtual cards
- Accepted at the majority of top UK bookies
- Lots of functions outside online betting
Cons:
- Just like Revolut, PayPal, and other eWallets, Skrill requires downloading and setting up
Revolut
Another very popular multinational online bank is Revolut, and they are unquestionably one of the most well-known of its kind in the UK. A growing number of online bookmakers are accepting Revolut, as it comes in the form of a debit card. However, despite its popularity, few UK bookies accept Revolut as a betting payment method right now, so it might be worth finding another if you aim to sign up to a few bookmakers to claim a range of welcome bonuses.
Revolut also offer a gambling block, which means Revolut customers can block payments that are identified as gambling straight through their app.
Pros:
- Gambling block specifically for making deposits into bookie accounts
- Currency exchange and cryptocurrency purchasing options
Cons:
- Few bookies accept Revolut
Cheque
While using methods like debit cards for online betting are extremely popular, using a cheque as a betting deposit method is not. They have been pretty much replaced by electronic payment services and eWallets that can manage quicker and cheaper money transfers.
A cheque will sometimes take a few weeks to be processed, and the amount written down will take significantly longer to get into your betting account than other deposit methods. Sometimes, it can take up to 3-4 weeks.
Nevertheless, some online betting platforms will allow you to deposit with a cheque, but to get going quicker, you’re advised to use an electronic form of depositing.
Pros:
- Maximum limits tend to be much higher
Cons:
- Slower than other betting payment methods
- More hassle in comparison to eWallets or digital payment services
Klarna
You may have heard of Klarna, for its special Pay Later function that allows you to split your expenses into installments and pay them over time. Now, of the few online bookies that do accept Klarna, none accept this function – you cannot take loans or fund your betting with credit, which is illegal in the UK.
Klarna is a good alternative for anyone who wants to deposit and withdraw funds and retain their anonymity. It is a viable option, but we would only recommend it for people who already use Klarna for other purposes. Don’t go out of your way and set up a Klarna account just for sports betting, as there are few platforms that accept this payment method, and there are better betting payment options out there, such as Trustly, Skrill, or Neteller.
Pros:
- Anonymous and fast payment management
- Can be used for both deposits and withdrawals
- The minimum limits are set low
Cons:
- Few bookies accept Klarna
- Not worth downloading Klarna only for sports betting – there are better alternatives
Examining Every Aspect of Your Banking
The less you worry about your finances and how to manage your payouts, the better the bookie is. We are after those bookies that make topping up accounts and requesting withdrawals smooth and hassle free.
And for extra measure, they should provide at least 2 betting payment methods that are convenient for you.
Flexibility of Options
If there are only a few payment options provided, and there are any technical issues or difficulties on the provider’s end, then you could be looking at delayed deposits and extended payouts. Having at least 2 payment options to rely on is a must, if for nothing else than to avoid that worst-case scenario.
Deposit/Withdrawal Limits
The market average for minimum deposit limits is £10, though some bookies take deposits as low as £5. On the other end of the spectrum, withdrawals are generally set from £10, which is pretty affordable and should fit into virtually any punter’s budget.
Maximum deposits and withdrawals can vary based on who you are signed up at, but if you win a footie betting acca just short of £1,000, the withdrawal procedure should be straightforward. If your win is in the tens of thousands of pounds, you may have to break it up into numerous payment installments. Or, at the top UK bookies, high stakes punters can make special requests and the bookie operators can provide a few options.
Speed of Payments and Processing
Deposits are instant across virtually all bookmakers, as they only need the confirmation of your banking services and can then assign your betting account the money. If you are using bank wire transfers, it may take a little longer to confirm, and crypto deposits can take up to an hour, as they need network confirmations to be checked off.
When it comes to withdrawals, the waiting time can be divided into two areas. Withdrawal processing is the time a bookie spends checking your withdrawal request before confirming it. Then, the money is sent, and that time depends on the service you have chosen. PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and other eWallets can receive withdrawals within a day, whereas bank card transfers can take several working days.
The processing time for withdrawals will get shorter after making your first withdrawal. Once the bookie checks whether the holding account you are sending to is in your name, and cross references that with the deposit method, it should greenlight the transfer. It is illegal to send or receive money in an account that doesn’t hold your name, no matter whether you are using bank cards or eWallets. Unless, you use prepaid vouchers, in which case someone could buy the card for you, and you can use it to make a deposit.
Security Protocols
All UKGC licensed platforms use bank-level security, with superior data encryption and firewalls to protect your details against cyber theft or damages. To enhance your banking security, if you are using eWallets or intermediaries such as GPay or Apple Pay, you can set up two factor authentication measures. Alternatively, setting up PIN codes, passkeys or even biometric security measures can also improve your financial security.
Additional Know How
Beyond the basics, there are other facets of online banking at bookies that you should be aware of. These range from the payment mechanics that bookies use, to their requirements where deposited money, or received bonus funds are concerned, to the legality of crypto assets in the UK and why credit cards are no longer accepted.
Closed Loop Deposits/Withdrawals
Most bookmakers use closed loop payment services, in which they send the money you deposit (and any winnings) back to you through the payment method you used to make the deposit. Now if you used a prepaid voucher, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or other intermediary that doesn’t support withdrawals, then you can pick between the withdrawal payment options provided.
Deposit Bonuses
Matched bonus offers, deposit bonuses, or even free bets that come as part of a deposit bonus are all subject to the terms of service at your bookie. For the most part, they are pretty straightforward in that you must make a qualifying deposit to unlock these rewards. Make a deposit of minimum X pounds, and then make a qualifying bet to unlock the bonus. If there is any qualifying bet that needs to be made.
But then, there are terms relating to the betting payment method you use to deposit your funds. Generally, to unlock matched bonuses, bookies require you to make bank card deposits, from holding accounts registered in your name.
Wagering Requirements
Free bets, bonus funds, and other promotional offers all have wagering requirements. Within the requirements, they can sometimes have a precondition that you must play through the funds a certain number of times to unlock any cashable winnings. For instance, you get a £10 free bet with a 1x rollover requirement. This is the best, as you only need to use the free bet once to unlock your winnings. But if the rollover is set at 2x, you would need to bet the money twice to receive any claimable winnings.
Wagering requirements can also encompass maximum win limits, conditions as to where you can use your free bets or cash bonuses, and various other terms. But wagering requirements may also be attached to regular deposits. This is to make sure there is no money laundering done through the bookies. It is mandated by gambling legislation. For punters, it just means that you need to be wary that sometimes you won’t be able to cash out money unless it has been used. Say you have £6 on your betting account and the minimum withdrawal is £10. You wouldn’t be able to top up £5+ and then withdraw the £11, as the money you just deposited has not passed the requirements.
Credit Cards Ban
Credit cards are a thing of the past with online gambling. As of 2020, you can no longer use a credit card with any UK bookmaker after the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) stopped accepting deposits with this method to further promote responsible gambling and eliminate any risky payments that people might not be able to afford.
Cryptocurrency Legality
Betting with crypto is certainly on the rise, with some bookmakers in the UK offering only cryptocurrencies as a form of depositing and withdrawing. There are a few crypto-only betting sites in the UK, such as BC.GAME, Vave and CryptoLeo.
Popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin are accepted for crypto betting sites, but most of the popular UK bookmakers currently do not accept cryptocurrencies as a form of deposit. There are a few that do, however, such as 888sport, who offer deposits with Bitcoin. Please note, if you come across a top UK bookie offering a welcome bonus and they offer both fiat and crypto payments, please thoroughly read the terms and conditions, as crypto may not qualify for the wagering requirement.
Picking the Best Betting Payment Methods Bookies
Choosing a bookie to bet at boils down to many different factors, and it is very much a personal decision. You may like the excessive horse race betting markets at one betting app, but prefer the regular free bet offers at the other. Diversity of betting markets and bonus size are the more eye catching features of any bookie, and the operators use these to attract new members.
But betting payment options are one of the critical factors that take your general experience to a whole new level. It doesn’t matter if a bookie has excellent live betting markets – if it doesn’t provide a convenient, and speedy, mobile betting payment method, then you won’t be able to top up your account to cash in on those valuable live bets.
Or, for any acca loving punters, if your Superfecta or 8-fold footie acca comes through, you need a reliable payment service to get those funds into your bank account swiftly and securely. A bookie that can tick all the boxes where money management is concerned will undoubtedly reward your trust, and make the betting promotions all the more accessible and valuable.
If you want to learn more about where to use PayPal or the top bookies that accept Skrill, be sure to read our reviews of the top UK bookies and get all the details on their offerings.
