After discovering the potential of matched betting, many people wonder: can you do it long-term? The answer is both yes and no. Many have successfully engaged in matched betting for years, and there’s no reason you can’t do the same. However, it does get tougher and generally less profitable over time, and eventually, the money might dry up.
But don’t let that discourage you! Matched betting is a fantastic side hustle that can earn you thousands of pounds tax-free while it lasts, and there are several strategies to extend your profits.
What is matched betting?
Matched betting is a clever way to make money from bookmaker promotions. It involves placing two bets: a standard “back” bet with a bookmaker and a “lay” bet on a betting exchange. This method covers all possible outcomes, removing the usual risks associated with gambling. You use the bookmakers’ free bets, bonuses, and promotions to ensure a profit.
It’s advisable to use a trusted matched betting service or software to find the best opportunities and maximize profits. Matched betting is available to anyone over 18 in countries where betting is legal. However, if you have a history of gambling addiction or struggle with self-control, it’s best to avoid matched betting for your well-being.
Matched betting short-term: easy wins
In the short term, matched betting offers exciting opportunities for quick profits. The initial sign-up offers are incredibly lucrative, with bookmakers offering free bets and bonuses to attract new customers. There are over 50 different sign-up offers available, and most people can make around £500-£600 by working through them all in one or two months, depending on their time and starting bankroll.
Many people stop after these initial offers, which is a solid choice. An extra £600 can be great for a holiday, paying down debt, or boosting savings. However, if you want to continue beyond the sign-up offers, it is possible, but it gets more challenging.
Matched betting long-term: why does it get harder?
Gubbing
One of the first challenges is account restrictions, known as gubbing. As you accumulate wins, bookmakers might limit your betting options. While this can be a setback, there are ways to minimize the risk of gubbing and still profit from restricted accounts.
Advanced strategies
To maintain profits, you need to learn advanced techniques like 2-ups, extra places, acca insurance, and price boosts. These strategies take time to master and often require placing a large number of bets to keep the profit rolling.
Lower value offers
Sign-up offers are usually generous, but reload offers for existing customers are often lower in value, typically around £2-£3. Despite the lower value, completing many smaller offers can still add up to significant monthly profits.
Bankroll
Maintaining a decent bankroll is crucial for long-term success. You need funds to place bets and take advantage of opportunities. Reinvesting profits and managing your bankroll wisely is essential.
Industry changes
The betting industry is constantly evolving, and there may be fewer good offers over time. Bookmakers are becoming more cautious, and account restrictions are more common. It’s important not to rely on matched betting as a permanent income source.
Tips to stay profitable matched betting in the long term
Master advanced techniques
Explore advanced matched betting techniques like each-way betting, extra places, 2-ups, accumulators, dutching, and price boosts. You don’t need to master all of them immediately, but learning and testing different strategies can help maintain profitability.
Look after your accounts
Minimize the risk of gubbing by practicing careful mug betting, avoiding suspicious patterns, spreading bets across multiple bookmakers, and using various sporting events.
Grow your bankroll
Maintain a sizable bankroll to participate in as many offers as possible. Reinvest a portion of your profits and keep a reserve for potential losses.
Learn from the community
Stay updated with the latest strategies and techniques by joining matched betting forums and Facebook groups. Engage with the community to keep learning and adapting.
Casino
Explore online casino and bingo offers as additional revenue streams. Although less predictable, they can lead to significant wins over time.
Speed up!
Increase your efficiency by completing as many offers as possible without compromising accuracy. Using multiple monitors and larger screens can help speed up the process.
Be organized
Plan your betting activities, focus on high-value opportunities, and use matched betting services or software to streamline the process.
Positive mindset
Stay disciplined and patient during losing streaks. Keep track of your successes to stay motivated.
Matched betting long term FAQs
Is matched betting legal in the UK?
Yes, matched betting is completely legal in the UK. It leverages bookmaker promotions and doesn’t involve any illegal activities. However, always adhere to the terms and conditions of bookmakers and betting exchanges.
Can you make a full-time income from matched betting?
While you can earn a decent extra income, it’s generally not sustainable as a full-time job. Profits can vary, and there are risks like account restrictions. Some people do it professionally but often run multiple accounts, which is against terms and conditions.
How much can you make matched betting long term?
Earnings depend on the number of offers, your bankroll, and the time you dedicate. A casual bettor can realistically earn around £200 per month, while more dedicated bettors can aim for £400-£500. Some claim monthly profits of £1,000 or more, but this is challenging to achieve consistently.
Conclusion: matched betting long term
Matched betting can be profitable both short-term and long-term. While initial sign-up offers provide quick wins, long-term success requires mastering advanced techniques and adapting to industry changes. Treat matched betting as bonus income rather than a permanent solution, and approach it responsibly with realistic expectations. If you’re considering starting matched betting, I recommend Outplayed, where you could make up to £40 this weekend with a free trial.