Sports Betting
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What is Cash Out in Betting?

Cashing out a bet is a popular concept. We break it down for you with an exaplanation, reasons, and pros and cons.

Alyx Tzamantanis.
A. Tzamantanis

Last Updated: 2024-05-17

James Pacheco

5 minutes read

Cash out with money printed

Source: betmgm

Have you ever wanted to collect your winnings on sports betting before the end of the match? If so, cash out betting might be for you!

Today, we’re going to answer the question ‘what is cash out in betting’? We’ll tell you how it works and why it might be a good option for you. We’ll also explain when is best to cash out and the various pros and cons of this type of betting strategy.

Cash Out Meaning in Betting

Put simply, ‘cash out’ is a feature offered by many bookmakers that lets you settle your bets before the conclusion of an event.

It’s a cool and innovative feature that comes with many benefits, but it isn’t the right tool for everyone. So take time to consider if cash out betting is the best choice for you. 

How Does the Cash-Out Feature at Bookmakers Work? 

When you place a bet on an event, whether it’s on a horse race or a football match, the bookmaker will offer you the option to cash out your bet at certain points during the event.

The cashout amount is determined by a combination of factors, including the original stake, the current odds of the bet winning, and the likelihood of the event occurring.

Be aware that not all bookmakers offer cashout, so it’s important to check with customer services first if you want to use this feature. 

Reasons to Use Cash Out Bet

As mentioned, there are various perks to using using cash out betting. So let’s take a look at some in a little more detail.

  1. You can lock in profits: If your bet is currently winning but you're concerned that the tide may turn, cashing out allows you to secure a profit before the event concludes, regardless of the final outcome.

  2. Minimise losses: If your bet is losing, cashing out may allow you to minimise potential losses by recouping a portion of your original stake instead of losing the entire amount.

When to Cash Out in Betting

Depending on what sport you’re betting on, there can be some optimal times to cash out your bet.

  1. During in-play betting: Cashout is particularly useful for in-play or live betting, where odds and circumstances can change rapidly during the course of an event

  2. When you have an uncertain outcome: Consider cashing out when the outcome of the match is uncertain and you want to secure a guaranteed return rather than risking a loss.

Pros and Cons of Cash Out in Betting

Pros: 

  • Cashout lets you manage your risk by securing profits or minimising losses before the conclusion of an event
  • It provides flexibility to adjust betting positions based on changing circumstances during a match or event
  • Cashout offers the opportunity to lock in guaranteed profits, especially when the original bet is in a winning position
  • It provides peace of mind by ensuring a positive outcome regardless of the final result of the event
  • Cashout empowers you to make strategic decisions based on real-time information and market dynamics

Cons: 

  • Cashing out may result in receiving less than the potential winnings if the event ends up going in your favour
  • It can lead to missed opportunities for higher returns if the original bet would have won without cashing out
  • Cashout offers can fluctuate throughout the event based on changes in odds and game dynamics, making it challenging to time cashouts optimally
  • Some bookmakers may charge fees or apply penalties for using the cashout feature, reducing the overall profitability of the bet
Alyx Tzamantanis.
Alyx TzamantanisSports Betting Editor

With 10 years of experience in content writing, Alyx has produced countess guides, reviews and articles covering a wide range of topics in the iGaming industry. She loves anything to do with online casinos, as well as UK and international sports betting.