Betting Payments

Explore the Best Betting Payment Methods for Online Gambling in 2025.

Gone are the days when placing a bet meant heading down to your local betting shop with cash in hand. Today, in the digital age, the world of online betting has exploded with a variety of convenient and secure payment methods. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a newcomer eager to explore online betting sites, there are numerous options for funding your account and withdrawing your winnings.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the most popular betting payment methods available to online gamblers in 2025. From traditional debit and credit cards to e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, bank transfers, prepaid cards, and even cryptocurrencies, each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. We’ll also cover some unique payment options that might surprise you. Some of these methods offer enticing bonuses, such as free bets for new customers, while others provide quick and easy ways to top up your account at any time.

Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about which payment method best suits your betting style, taking into account factors such as transaction speed, security, availability, and potential fees. Continue reading to discover the perfect fit for your needs, or click the links below to jump straight to detailed reviews of each payment option.

We’ve listed all the available and popular betting payment methods to ensure you have everything you need to enhance your online betting experience.

Best Online Betting Payment Methods

Check out the full betting payment methods today:

Debit Cards

Given the choice, most online betting sites and online bookmakers would prefer all customers to use a debit card to place their wagers. As they are linked to a bank, the funds are deposited instantly. This protects the bookmaker, who can rest assured that the transaction will not be revoked at a later date.

This method is arguably safer for punters as well. It’s easier to bet responsibly when you can only use money that is available in the here and now – no hedging on a line of credit, confident that a supposed sure thing will see you right.

Debit cards are widely accepted by all betting sites, as they are typically Visa cards. This makes them one of the most common payment methods out there in the world of online betting.

Using a debit card is also among the fastest ways to manage your deposits and withdrawals – certainly much swifter than bank transfers from the same account.

Credit Cards – No Longer Allowed as a Betting Method

Keep that MasterCard in your wallet – it’s no use on a betting site. As of April 2020, credit cards can no longer be used to gamble online. This also applies if you attempt to use a credit card through an e-wallet. You’ll need to find other payment methods from now on.

This legislation was introduced following advice from the UK Gambling Commission, which suggested that it made it too easy for problem gamblers to encounter trouble. If the money to bet is not in your current account, you’ll have to rely on free bets.

Paypal

PayPal is arguably the most well-known electronic wallet of its kind. Its omnipresent popularity means that PayPal is widely accepted by online betting sites, though there are always exceptions to every rule. Different sites have different regulations, so be sure to check the laws of your preferred purveyor. Debit cards can be linked to PayPal, though, keeping your payment one step away from your account statement.

Betting through PayPal tends to be more expensive, as the sites that accept this payment method are required to pay fees. This means that you’ll likely face certain restrictions if your betting site does accept PayPal. This includes a minimum deposit, and you’re unlikely to get any free bets or casino bonuses when you make deposits.

E-wallets – Skrill and Neteller

PayPal is not the only game in town when it comes to online betting using an e-wallet. You could also try your luck with Skrill or Neteller. These payment methods and e-wallets operate the same policies and restrictions as PayPal. You’ll need to ensure you have money in your electronic wallet or link a bank card before adding to your bet account.

One of the main reasons to make deposits to a betting account using an e-wallet is the one-step removal from your bank. Your statement will show PayPal, Skrill or Neteller as the vendor, not the online betting site itself. Additionally, the online betting company cannot access your personal information. This makes these payment options secure for punters.

Again, with Skrill and Neteller, you’ll need to deposit and withdraw using debit cards or a bank transfer – no credit cards will be accepted. As with PayPal, you’ll also likely find that any free bets or similar sign-up bonuses are off the table if you use these methods.

Apple Pay

Apple Pay is another form of electronic wallet widely accepted by most betting sites and online bookmakers. Naturally, you’ll need an Apple product, such as a MacBook, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch, to use this payment method. If you have such an appliance, you’ll be invited to create an Apple Pay account and add money for deposits or withdrawals to and from sites.

Apple Pay acts as an intermediary between you and the betting site or bookmaker, retaining one step of separation from your bank account. You also won’t need to fumble around for your card to enter security PINs or expiry dates. Your bet will be placed using the touch of a button. You may miss out on some free bets, but this is one of the easiest methods out there for managing your online betting account.

Bet Using Phone Bill

Phone bill is the latest method to take the online gambling world by storm. Unfortunately, not many major online betting sites accept this may of making deposits and withdrawals just yet, so you may need to shop around. Any money you spend on betting will be added to your monthly phone bill.

If you’re using your phone bill as a payment method for online gambling, a company called Boku will act as a go-between. This is one to watch, as it will likely rise in popularity once some of the kinks have been worked out.

In the short term, one way around this is to link your Boku account to Neteller. As mentioned previously, most bookies accept e-wallets as payment options. You’ll have to pay a transaction fee, and the usual caveats about free bets (or the lack thereof) apply; however, it’s one way to make deposits and withdrawals using your phone bill.

Bank Transfers

Most sites will accept bank transfers (card payments) to top up the funds in your betting account. This payment method is far from the fastest, though. If you’re in a hurry to place your bet, most top online betting sites recommend using debit cards with your card details as the fastest payment method.

This can be a way to deposit sizable amounts into your betting account (sometimes referred to as a bank wire), though. Banks sometimes get suspicious of large card transfers made to sites and block the transaction when you enter your bank details. You’re more likely to bolster your betting accounts without having to discuss it with a call centre by making a bank transfer.

As you’re placing a large amount of money into a betting account this way, you’re also more likely to be treated to some perks. A free bet option may come your way if you use a bank transfer, ensuring that you can save money by spending it. Withdrawals will also be deposited directly into your current account, making this an excellent option for many.

Google Pay

Google Pay is a new way of paying for betting that some of the leading bookies are now starting to accept. Follow our links and discover which online bookmakers accept this payment method and offer a safe and secure service. It is excellent for instant deposits.

In Cash at Bookies

Naturally, the humble high street bookie will continue to accept cash for your betting. That’s the payment preference of many. Paying out is easier when there is cash in the till, and you won’t need to wait 24 hours or longer for your withdrawals to be processed and credited to your bank account.

If you build up an appropriate relationship with your bookmaker, you may even earn a free bet or free bets for your efforts.

On The Racecourse

You can also place your bets at a physical UK or Irish racecourse, taking in the thrill of the sport.

Card payments are widely accepted at these venues, and many will also accept Apple Pay and e-wallet transactions.

Cash, the oldest payment method of them all for betting, will also be welcome.

Does My Choice of Payment Method Impact Any Rewards?

It might, yes, with some online bookmakers. If you’re keen to gain free bets or a casino bonus by gambling online, ensure that your payment method of choice does not nullify these offers. Every betting site has different policies regarding payment methods, and those that accept a wide range of payments are now the most popular and common among new customers.

A convenient betting payment method is critical.

Betting Payment Options Facts- Other Betting Payment Methods

• There are various methods for depositing money into an online betting account.
• Credit and debit cards are the most popular methods of payment; however, there are several alternatives, including e-wallets, prepaid cards, and bank transfers.
• E-wallets are a popular alternative to credit and debit cards, offering several advantages, including faster transactions, increased security, and the ability to make both withdrawals and deposits.
• Prepaid cards can be a convenient option for individuals who do not have a credit or debit card or who prefer not to use their card to fund their betting account.
• Bank transfers are another popular method of payment; however, they can take several days to process.
• Many online betting sites offer bonuses and promotions for users who utilise specific payment methods, so it is worth checking the available offers before making a deposit.
• In the United Kingdom, the most popular payment method for online gambling is debit cards, used by 32% of gamblers.
• Credit cards are the second most popular method, used by 27% of gamblers.
• In the United States, the most popular payment method for online gambling is credit cards, used by 47% of gamblers. Debit cards are the second most popular method, used by 24% of gamblers.
• In Australia, the most popular payment method for online gambling is credit cards, used by 54% of gamblers. Debit cards are the second most popular method, used by 16% of gamblers.
• In Canada, the most popular payment method for online gambling is credit cards, used by 43% of gamblers. Debit cards are the second most popular method, used by 20% of gamblers.

Payment Methods for Online Betting Summary

There are a plethora of ways to deposit and withdraw funds to and from your online betting accounts, allowing new customers to consider their options and choose a deposit method that suits them best. In the age of the internet, new payment methods crop up all the time, and it’s never been easier to manage your money. Whether you’re keen to use a bank card (debit card), an e-wallet, arrange bank transfers or a combination of multiple payment methods, you’re sure to find a betting site that meets your needs.

When considering these payment options and popular methods, remember to take into account various factors, such as payment processing times, minimum deposit requirements, and ease of use. We explore all these details on the above pages, allowing you to make an informed choice.