How the Matched Betting Calculator Works
Matched betting is a technique that uses free bets from bookmakers and lays the same selection on a betting exchange, so that whatever the outcome your result is the same. It is not gambling in the usual sense — done correctly the outcome is locked in. This calculator works out the exact lay stake and shows your result whether the bet wins or loses.
Two modes
- Qualifying bet — a real-money bet you place to unlock a free bet. The formula minimises your loss so it is tiny and equal either way. Lay stake = (back odds × back stake) / (lay odds − commission).
- Free bet (SNR — stake not returned) — the free bet itself, where the stake is not returned with winnings. Lay stake = (back stake × (back odds − 1)) / (lay odds − commission). This locks in profit.
Worked example (free bet)
A $10 free bet at 3.00, laying at 3.20 with 2% commission: lay stake = ($10 × 2) / (3.20 − 0.02) = $6.29. You keep roughly $6.16 of the $10 free bet as guaranteed profit, whatever happens.
Key terms
Liability is what you risk on the exchange if your lay selection loses (i.e. your back bet wins): lay stake × (lay odds − 1). Commission is the exchange's cut of net winnings, typically 2–5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is matched betting?+
A technique that combines a bookmaker free bet with an opposing lay bet on an exchange so every outcome gives the same result, turning free bets into near-guaranteed profit.
What is a lay bet?+
A lay bet is betting against a selection on an exchange — you win if it does NOT happen. Laying the same selection you backed cancels out the risk.
What does SNR mean?+
Stake Not Returned. With a free bet the stake is not paid back with winnings, only the profit, which changes the lay stake formula. Toggle the Free bet tab for this.
Is matched betting legal?+
Yes, it is legal in most countries — you are simply using bookmaker promotions and an exchange. It is not tax-related advice; check your local rules, and bookmakers may limit accounts that do it heavily.