A Guide To Matched Betting

A Guide To Matched Betting In December 2023

Matched betting, also known as back bet matching or lay bet matching, is a betting technique used by individuals to profit from free bets and incentives offered by bookmakers. Instead of relying on chance, this strategy utilises mathematical equations to ensure a winform every bet.

If you’re looking to understand matched betting, this is the article for you. Here’s why:

– You’ll learn about matched betting, how it works, and its history.

– This piece guides you through the pros and cons of matched betting.

– The article provides an analysis of the step-by-step to successfully implement match-betting.

– It will help you turn betting from a game of chance into a profitable venture.

– You will be empowered to take action and start your matched betting journey.

Topics that you will find covered on this page

Background of Matched Betting

Matched betting originated from the concept of arbitrage betting. When online bookmakers started offering free bets to attract new customers in the mid-2000s, its popularity in the UK rose. 

The introduction of betting exchanges like Betfair Exchange also made the process simpler.

The matched betting industry has grown immensely, now estimated that tens of thousands of people have turned to matched betting. This number is increasing due to the rise of matched betting services such as Profit Accumulator and Profit Maximiser.

Understanding Matched Betting

Matched betting involves making two bets, a back bet and a lay bet. Whereas a back bet allows you to bet on a particular outcome, a lay bet works to bet against this outcome. 

By using free bets from bookmakers, matched bettors create a situation where they win no matter the outcome.

For instance, if a bookmaker offers a free bet to new customers, a matched bettor would place a back bet on a team to win a football match using the free bet. 

They would then place a lay bet on the same team not winning on a betting exchange, consequently guaranteeing a profit regardless of the match outcome.

The Mechanics of Matched Betting

To get started with matched betting, you’ll need a few things. First, you’ll need to sign up with a bookmaker which offers a free bet. 

Furthermore, you’ll need to join a betting exchange to lay your bets. Lastly, a matched betting calculator will help you to calculate the correct stakes for your bets, therefore ensuring a profit.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to place a matched bet:

– Find a free bet offer from an online bookmaker.

– Place a qualifying bet to unlock the free bet.

– When the free bet is credited into your account, you can then place a bet using this free bet. 

– Use a matched betting calculator to work out the correct stakes for your bets.

– Wait for the event to finish, and collect your profit.

Risks and Benefits of Matched Betting

The main benefit of matched betting is that it’s a risk-free way of making money online. Since you’re placing bets on all possible outcomes, you’re guaranteed to make a profit. 

However, there are also risks involved. If a bettor makes a mistake when placing their bets, they could end up losing money. Furthermore, you could be gubbed by a bookmaker. Consequently, your account may be restricted from receiving promotions or free bets.

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Implementing Matched Betting Successfully

Successful implementation of matched betting requires a level of commitment and attention to detail. As mistakes can cost money, it’s essential to double-check all bets.

To help with this, a matched betting service could offer support. These services provide step-by-step guides, matched betting calculators, and software to find the best matched betting offers. In addition, they can maximise profits by offering support and guidance.  

Remember, matched betting isn’t a ‘get rich quick’ scheme. Rather, it requires time and patience. But with the correct approach and tools, it can be a lucrative way to make extra money online.

Bookmakers are increasingly using sophisticated techniques such as identity and duplicate account checks to identify matched betting activity. Therefore, remember to consider consider the following precautions:

  • Avoid signing up for multiple accounts on the same day or from the same device/IP address
  • Space out your promotions, whilst also regularly withdrawing funds
  • Avoid unusually large bets which could trigger fraud alerts
  • Never engage in bonus abuse or breach terms and conditions

Delving into Betting Sites

There’s a wide range of betting sites available, each offering different free bet promotions and odds. It is important to note that these sites are the fuel for matched betting. 

For instance, an online bookmaker like William Hill might provide a free matched betting site offer for new customers.

The appeal of these sites is in their deposit bonuses, providing rewards to users after depositing money into their betting account. 

These are rewards that betting sites give to their users when they deposit money into their betting. Typically, they are a percentage of the amount deposited and can significantly increase your betting profit.

However, bettors have to be cautious about bonus abuse. This is when a player violates the terms and conditions of a bonus offer, leading to the bonus and any winnings from it being revoked.  

Consequently, carefully reading the terms and conditions of bonus offers will help you to avoid this.

How Odds Influence Matched Betting

Remember that odds are a key aspect of successful match betting, as they determine the amount of profit you stand to make from a bet. Betting sites and exchanges typically display odds in fractional or decimal format.

As they are simpler to calculate and compare, decimal odds are preferred in matched betting. Lay odds, the odds you offer when laying a bet on a betting exchange, are also usually displayed in decimal format.

It is important to note that the key to maximising your matched betting profit is finding close matches between the back odds at the bookmaker and the lay odds at the exchange. Consequently, this minimises your qualifying losses, whilst also maximising your free bet profit.

Expanding Your Matched Betting Toolbox

Successful matched betting requires the right tools, including matched betting calculators, betting exchanges, and matched betting services. These tools can help you to find bet promotions, calculate your stakes, and track your profits.

A matched betting calculator is essential for working out the correct stakes for your bets. For evaluating the correct stakes of your bets, matched betting calculators are essential. 

Regardless of the outcome of your bet, they ensure that you make the same profit. It also helps you to calculate the lay stake needed to ensure a guaranteed profit.

Some bettors also use matched betting services such as Profit Accumulator. These services provide tools and guides to help you make real money from matched betting. They offer a free trial, allowing you to test their service before committing to a subscription.

"The main benefit of matched betting is that it's a risk-free way of making money online. Since you're placing bets on all possible outcomes, you're guaranteed to make a profit."

Exploring Best Matched Betting Sites

As sports betting continues to grow, so does the number of betting sites. As these sites compete for customers, they provide welcoming sign up offers and bonuses. For matched bettors, these promotions translate into potential profit.

The best matched betting sites tend to be those that offer a wide range of sports and betting markets, competitive odds, and frequent promotions. 

They also have user-friendly interfaces and reliable customer support. It’s important to remember that each bettor’s preference may vary, and what works best for one might not work for another.

Furthermore, remember that some betting companies maintain a negative attitude towards matched betting. For instance, some have restricted or closed accounts of those suspected of utilising matched betting. 

That’s why it’s crucial to spread your activity across multiple betting sites, betting on popular sports and events to blend in with the regular audience.

Understanding Matched Betting Basics

Betting Techniques and Strategies

Matched betting is just one of many betting techniques used by bettors to gain an edge over bookmakers. Other popular methods include arbing and value betting. These strategies differ from matched betting, despite also exploiting price differences. 

Arbing, short for arbitrage betting, involves placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event at odds that guarantee a profit. Alternatively, value betting finds and bets on outcomes which are priced too high by bookmakers. In the long run, these are consequently profitable. 

Another strategy is to bet on the opposite outcome of your original bet at a different betting site. This is known as dutching and can also guarantee a return when done correctly.

Although these techniques have the potential to be profitable, they require a good understanding of betting markets and odds. In addition, they also carry more risk than matched betting. Therefore, if you’re looking for a risk-free option, it’s recommended to stick with matched betting.

A Case Study On Making Matched Betting Work

To bring matched betting to life, let’s consider a real-world example. This case study should resonate with anyone who’s considered dipping their toes into the world of matched betting.

John is a sports enthusiast who recently stumbled upon an article about matched betting. John chooses to try out matched betting, as he is interested in the concept of transforming betting into a risk-free way to make money online. 

To begin, John researches the best matched betting site. He settles on a site that offers a generous matched betting offer to new users, involving placing a £10 bet and receiving £20 in free bets. To calculate the exact stakes required to make a profit, he uses a matched betting tool.

Next, John places his qualifying bet. He bets on a football match, backing one team to win at the bookmaker and playing the same team at a betting exchange. This is known as an opposite bet.  Consequently, John will not lose money, regardless of the final outcome. 

Once the qualifying bet settles, John receives his free bets. He places a matched bet, again backing and laying the same outcome. Alternatively, this time, he makes a profit. He repeats this process with several other bookmakers, slowly building up his profit.

In his spare time, John also tries his hand at casino offers. Although these come with more risk, he enjoys the challenge. He’s also careful to only bet money he can afford to lose.

Throughout his matched betting journey, John keeps an eye on his credit score. As he is aware that some bookmakers perform credit checks, he attempts to avoid his match betting negatively affecting his credit rating. 

Eventually, John becomes skilled at bonus hunting, always on the lookout for new sign-up offers and promotions. He diversifies into different types of bets, even trying out online casino games. 

By the end of his first month, John has made a tidy profit, alongside gaining a wealth of knowledge about the betting industry.

This example brings to life the potential of matched betting. With the right tools, strategies, and a pinch of patience, anyone can turn betting promotions into a steady stream of profit.

Managing Risks in Matched Betting

Key Takeaways and Learnings

In this article, we’ve explored the fascinating world of matched betting. Let’s summarise the key aspects and actions you can take to start your matched betting journey:

– Matched betting is a strategy which involves using free bets and promotions from betting sites to make a guaranteed profit.

– It’s crucial to understand the mechanics of matched betting, such as placing back and lay bets, to make the strategy work.

– Use a matched betting calculator or tool to calculate the correct stakes for your bets.

– Remember to keep a close eye on the best odds. To maximise your profit, make sure to find close matches between the back odds at the bookmaker and the lay odds at the exchange..

– Join a betting exchange. This is where you’ll place your lay bets, and is an essential part of matched betting.

– Understand the risks. Although matched betting is risk-free when done correctly, mistakes can cost money. Consequently, always double-check your bets.

– Use a matched betting service. These services provide tools and guides to help you make the most of matched betting.

– Lastly, remember that matched betting requires time and patience, meaning that you should not rush into placing bets. Take your time to understand the process and make sure that you’re comfortable with each step before moving on to the next.

The world of matched betting is waiting for you. Are you ready to dive in?

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Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

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