Withdrawals guide
Withdrawals and ID checks, explained.
Depositing takes seconds. Getting money out can take longer, especially the first time. This guide covers why betting sites check your identity, which documents they usually ask for, how long each payment method tends to take and what most often causes delays.
The basics
How a withdrawal works
The steps are much the same on most sites.
Request it
Open the cashier, choose Withdraw, pick a method and enter the amount. It has to be above the site's minimum and within its limits.
Pending period
Many sites hold the request for a short time, from a few hours to a couple of days, while it's reviewed. Some let you cancel it during this time.
Checks
The site confirms your account is verified, any bonus wagering is complete and the method is in your name.
Payment sent
Once approved, the money is sent. How long it then takes to arrive depends on the payment method.
Verification
Why sites check your ID
Licensed operators are required to know who their customers are. This is called KYC (know your customer), and it's part of their anti-money laundering (AML) duties.
Confirm your age
Sites must check that every customer is old enough to gamble, and photo ID is the usual way to prove it.
Confirm who you are
Checking identity stops people using stolen details, opening more than one account or claiming the same bonus twice.
Prevent money laundering
Operators must check that money going through an account is legitimate, and may ask more questions when larger sums are involved.
What you'll need
Documents usually asked for
Requirements vary, but these are the most common. Documents usually need to be clear, in colour, show all four corners and be in date.
| Document | What it proves | Common examples |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Your identity and age | Passport, national ID card or driving licence |
| Proof of address | Where you live | A utility bill or bank statement, usually dated within the last 3 months |
| Payment method proof | The method is yours | A card photo with the middle digits covered, an e-wallet account screenshot or a bank statement |
| Selfie or video check | You are the person on the ID | A photo holding your ID, or a short live check in an app |
| Source of funds | Where your money comes from | Payslips or bank statements, usually only for larger amounts |
Only upload documents through the site's own account area or verification partner, never by replying to an unexpected message.
When it's asked for
Some sites verify you at sign-up. Many ask before your first withdrawal, or once deposits or withdrawals pass a certain total.
How long it takes
Automatic checks can take minutes. Manual reviews often take from a few hours to a few days, longer if documents need to be sent again.
It can happen again
Sites may ask for updated or extra documents later, for example when an ID expires, you add a new payment method or your activity changes.
Payout times
How long withdrawals take by method
Rough ranges once a withdrawal has been approved. Add any pending period on top.
| Method | Typical time after approval | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto | Minutes to 1 hour | Depends on network traffic. Network fees may apply. See crypto betting. |
| E-wallets | 0 to 24 hours | Often the quickest non-crypto option. |
| Cards | 1 to 5 working days | Not every card can receive payouts, so another method may be needed. |
| Bank transfer | 2 to 5 working days | Can take longer for international transfers. Bank fees may apply. |
Typical figures only. Real times depend on the site, the payment provider, weekends and holidays.
What goes wrong
Common reasons for delays or rejections
Most problems come down to a few causes, and most can be avoided.
Account not verified
If verification isn't complete, the withdrawal waits until it is. Missing, blurry or out-of-date documents are a common hold-up.
Name mismatch
The name on your account, your ID and your payment method should all match. A different name, or a payment method belonging to someone else, will usually stop a payout.
Wagering not complete
If you've taken a bonus, its wagering requirements usually have to be met first. Free bet winnings may have their own rules, see free bets explained.
Different method
Many sites pay back to the method you deposited with, where possible. Asking for a payout to a different method can mean extra checks.
Limits
Sites set minimum and maximum withdrawal amounts, and often daily, weekly or monthly caps. Large wins may be paid in instalments.
Breaking the terms
Breaking bonus rules, such as the maximum bet, or holding more than one account, can lead to winnings being withheld.
Before you withdraw
Making withdrawals smoother
- Verify early. Upload your documents soon after you sign up, so you're not waiting when you want to withdraw.
- Use your own details. Sign up with your real name, address and date of birth exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Use payment methods in your own name, and expect to withdraw to the same method you deposited with where possible.
- Check the withdrawal terms before you deposit: methods, minimums, limits, fees and pending times.
- Finish or forfeit any bonus first. Check the bonus balance and wagering progress before you request a payout.
- Keep records of deposits, withdrawals and any messages with support, in case you need to follow up.
- Don't cancel and re-bet a pending withdrawal unless you meant to. Treat winnings you've decided to withdraw as already spent.
Good to know
Withdrawals and ID checks FAQ
Why do I have to send ID before I can withdraw?
Licensed betting sites have to confirm your identity and age and check for fraud and money laundering. Many do this before the first withdrawal rather than at sign-up, so it can feel sudden, but it is a standard requirement.
Can I avoid ID checks by depositing with crypto?
Usually not. Most sites still ask for ID before you can withdraw, whatever payment method you use. Paying with crypto changes how money moves, not the site's duty to verify you.
Why is my withdrawal still pending?
Most sites review withdrawals before sending them. Common reasons for a longer wait are incomplete verification, unfinished bonus wagering, a large amount or a request made at a weekend. Contact support if it goes past the time stated in the terms.
Can I withdraw to a different payment method?
Sometimes. Many sites pay back to the method you deposited with where possible, and only allow another method, in your own name, when that isn't possible, for example with some cards.
Are there fees on withdrawals?
Many sites don't charge, but some do for certain methods or for frequent withdrawals. Your bank, e-wallet or the crypto network may also charge its own fees.
Check you're eligible. Whether you can open an account, and whether online betting or a given payment method is allowed where you live, depends on local laws and each operator's own terms. Verification rules, limits and payout times vary between sites, so always read the operator's own terms before you deposit. This guide is general information only and isn't a recommendation. 18+ only. Please gamble responsibly, and see our responsible gambling page if it stops being fun.