VERIFIED BY: Elisabeth Galina
From instant e-wallets to classic Visa and Mastercard deposits, there are plenty of betting payment methods available to UK punters. Whether you’re the type who prefers speed, security, or simplicity, it’s all about finding a method that actually works for you.
Here’s a quick look at the most commonly accepted payment methods in the UK for online gambling. Scroll down for a full breakdown of each one, including their pros, cons, and what kind of punter they’re best for.
| Payment Type | Deposit Time | Withdrawal Time |
| Mastercard | Instant | 2-5 working days |
| Visa | Instant | 2-5 working days |
| Paysafecard | Instant | 3-5 working days |
| PayPal | Instant | 2-24 hours |
| Apple Pay | Instant | N/A |
| Google Pay | Instant | N/A |
| Trustly | Instant | 1-2 working days |
| Neteller | 1-4 Hours | 4-24 hours |
| Skrill | Instant | Up to 24 hours |
| Direct Bank Transfer | 1-5 working days | 1-5 working days |
| Cheque | 2-28 working days | 2-28 working days |
In the UK, credit card betting sites are officially a thing of the past. The UK Gambling Commission banned all credit card gambling in 2020 to help tackle problem gambling and reduce risky betting behaviours. That means even using a credit card through e-wallets like PayPal is restricted.
If you’re funding your betting account, you’ll need to use a debit card or another accepted method, such as PayPal, Trustly, or Apple Pay.
Debit cards are by far the most common way to deposit and withdraw at UK sportsbooks. They’re fast, secure, and easy to use, especially for punters who want a familiar, no-nonsense way to manage their bankroll. Since credit cards are banned, debit cards have become the go-to option for most UK bettors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Widely accepted across all UK betting sites | Withdrawals can take 2-5 working days |
| Easy to set up and use (most punters already have one) | Not ideal for punters who want to keep betting funds separate from personal accounts |
| Instant deposits with no added fees |
Mastercard is one of the most trusted names in the world of payments, and it’s just as reliable when it comes to online betting.
Nearly all major UK sportsbooks are betting sites that accept Mastercard for deposits, and many also allow withdrawals directly back to your card. The low fees, instant processing, and widespread availability make it a very convenient choice.
What’s more, Mastercard offers prepaid card options, which are great for punters looking to stick to a set budget. These prepaid cards work like debit cards but are not linked to your primary bank account.
If you value speed, security, and accessibility, Mastercard ticks all the boxes.
When it comes to payment methods for online betting, Visa is the undisputed MVP. It’s accepted at virtually every licensed UK sportsbook, whether you’re using a debit card, prepaid card, or virtual card. This means no second guessing if your payment method will go through.
Visa’s massive global footprint translates into top-tier security and some of the fastest processing times in the game. Deposits are instant, while withdrawals typically arrive within 2-5 working days. And if something ever goes wrong? Visa’s 24/7 customer support has a reputation for being quick, helpful, and reliable.
Paysafecard is a top choice for punters who prioritise security and anonymity. Available in values ranging from £10 to £100, this prepaid voucher system lets you fund your betting account without ever needing to link a bank account or card. It’s ideal for low-stakes players, beginners, or anyone who wants to set firm limits on their spending.
Using Paysafecard at online bookies is incredibly straightforward: just enter your 16-digit code at checkout, and you’re good to go. But a major downside is that it’s deposit-only, so you’ll need to link a separate withdrawal method to get your winnings.
You can find plenty of bookies that accept Paysafecard, making it a great option for privacy-focused bettors who want to keep things simple and secure.
E-wallets are one of the most convenient betting payment methods around, especially if you’re already doing everything from your phone.
Whether you’re tapping in on the train or placing bets during halftime, they keep your info secure and make transactions a breeze. Many e-wallets are now accepted across betting sites that accept mobile payments, and they’re only growing in popularity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast deposits and super-quick withdrawals | Often excluded from welcome bonuses |
| Keep your bank details private from the bookie | You’ll need to verify your account before cashing out |
| Great for managing your spending on the go |
Online betting with PayPal is as safe and simple as it gets. It’s widely accepted at top UK sportsbooks, deposits instantly, and offers blazing-fast withdrawals, sometimes within 2 hours. What sets PayPal apart is its world-class fraud prevention and strict buyer protection policies, giving punters an extra layer of security.
Since PayPal acts as a middleman between you and the bookie, your bank or card info stays private, which is especially reassuring when gambling online. It’s also mobile-friendly and incredibly easy to use; just link your card or bank account once, and you’re set.
If you’re looking for a fast, reliable, and secure way to fund your betting account, PayPal remains the gold standard.
Apple Pay is all about speed and security. It’s one of the easiest ways to fund your betting account if you’re using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. With Face ID or Touch ID, you can deposit in seconds; no need to type in long card numbers or sensitive details.
The best part? Your actual card number is never shared with the betting site. Instead, Apple Pay uses a unique device account number and transaction-specific codes to keep your info locked down tight.
No passwords, no pin codes, no worries. Apple Pay is perfect for punters who want a frictionless mobile experience.
Google Pay is the go-to digital wallet for Android users, offering a quick and secure way to deposit funds at betting sites. Similar to Apple Pay, it allows punters to make payments using their smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet without ever having to share card details with the bookie.
Thanks to the method’s smooth integration and solid security, Google Pay betting sites are on the rise. Every transaction is encrypted, and authorisation is done through your device’s screen lock, whether it’s a fingerprint, pattern, or PIN.
If you’re an Android user who likes to bet on the go, Google Pay is a fast, fuss-free option worth checking out.
Trustly betting sites are becoming increasingly popular across the UK thanks to one thing: no intermediary needed. This payment method connects directly to your bank account, letting you make deposits and withdrawals without ever needing to enter your card or login details on the sportsbook.
It’s as fast as it is secure, with real-time transactions that rival e-wallets for speed, especially for withdrawals. Additionally, since Trustly doesn’t store your banking info, your data stays safe.
If you want bank-level protection without the wait time of traditional bank transfers, Trustly is one of the most efficient methods available today.
Fast, private, and widely accepted, Neteller has long been a top choice for UK punters who want speedy deposits and even faster withdrawals. Whether you’re placing last-minute bets or cashing out winnings, Neteller gets your money moving in minutes—not days.
What makes Neteller betting sites particularly appealing is the added layer of security. Since you don’t need to share bank details directly with the bookmaker, your personal data is shielded throughout the transaction.
Moreover, Neteller is accepted by most major bookies, including Bet365 and Betfred, making it a reliable option across the board.
For punters looking for a fast, flexible, and secure payment option, Skrill bookmakers are a solid choice. Known for its lightning-quick deposits and near-instant withdrawals, Skrill gives bettors immediate access to their funds, making it ideal for live betting or capitalising on sudden odds shifts.
While not quite as universally accepted as Visa or PayPal, Skrill is still supported by most major UK sportsbooks. On top of that, Skrill offers a prepaid card—a handy feature if you want to use your betting balance elsewhere without transferring it back to your bank.
With top-tier SSL encryption, Skrill keeps your data safe from start to finish. If you want to keep your bank details private while enjoying speed and control, Skrill is one of the most reliable e-wallets on the market.
MuchBetter is one of the newest names in the UK betting payments game, but it’s already made a big splash. Built specifically for mobile-first users, it’s an award-winning e-wallet that focuses on fast, secure, and flexible transactions.
What sets MuchBetter apart is its sleek mobile app and unique funding options, like prepaid vouchers and contactless cards. These give you the ability to separate your gambling budget from your everyday spending, helping you keep tighter control over your bankroll.
An increasing number of UK bookies support it, and withdrawals are often processed faster than traditional card methods. For punters looking for an innovative, app-based payment system, MuchBetter is absolutely worth considering.
While not as common as debit cards or e-wallets, a few betting payment methods offer extra flexibility for punters with specific needs. Below, we list some lesser-used but still relevant options you might encounter at select UK bookmakers.
Pay-by-phone bill betting allows punters to deposit using their mobile number, with the charge added directly to their phone bill or deducted from their prepaid balance. It’s a secure and private option; there’s no need to share banking details or card info with the bookmaker. That makes it ideal for players who prioritise anonymity and security.
However, despite being a handy tool, this method has mostly fallen out of favour and is now rarely supported by major UK bookies. Still, for those using niche platforms or looking for a no-bank option, it’s worth keeping in mind.
For punters who prefer a no-frills, traditional approach, direct bank transfer remains a secure and reliable method. It allows you to send money directly from your bank account to your betting account using a sort code and account number or through a bank’s online platform.
It’s an ideal option if you’re wary of using cards or e-wallets, but there are trade-offs. Bank transfers are slower than most other methods, with deposits and withdrawals typically taking anywhere from 1 to 5 business days.
Yet, it’s a trustworthy fallback when other options aren’t working or you’re moving more considerable sums.
Crypto bookmakers are becoming increasingly popular, especially for punters looking for anonymity, tighter security, and faster transaction times. Bitcoin remains the standout among all cryptocurrencies, thanks to its global recognition and private wallet system that puts complete control in your hands.
While most major UK bookies don’t yet support crypto deposits directly, you can still use partner cards like BitPay or Coinbase Card, which convert your crypto into fiat currency and are accepted anywhere Visa or Mastercard is. This effectively makes Bitcoin a widely accepted payment option, even if indirectly.
If you’re concerned about fraud or personal data exposure, crypto betting may give you extra peace of mind.
Yes, it still exists! While practically extinct at this point, cheque deposits are technically still accepted at a handful of long-established bookmakers—primarily for high-roller customers or under special request.
To use a cheque, you’ll need to mail it to the bookmaker’s listed address and wait for it to clear—usually 2 to 28 working days, depending on the brand That’s significantly slower than every other method, and it also leaves you open to postal errors or delays.
Still, if you’re old-school and prefer paper over digital or need to move a more considerable sum in a controlled way, a cheque might suit your needs. Just don’t expect speed or convenience.
When it comes to betting payment methods, safety is everything. Whether you’re depositing £10 or £1,000, you want to know that your personal info and funds are secure.
That’s why the best betting apps all follow strict identity verification and payment protocols to stay compliant with UK law and protect their users. Below, we’ll walk you through three key safety features you’ll come across at nearly every UK bookmaker.
KYC verification is a legal requirement that all UK-licensed bookies must follow. It ensures you’re of legal betting age (18+) and helps prevent fraud, identity theft, and money laundering.
Bookies use KYC checks to confirm that you are who you say you are before you can withdraw your winnings or, sometimes, even before your first bet.
A typical KYC process looks like this:
Until you complete KYC, your access to certain features, like withdrawals, may be restricted.
As part of the KYC process, you’ll be required to submit proof of ID. This is how bookmakers confirm your age, identity, and sometimes, payment method. The upload process is usually secure and can be completed directly through the bookmaker’s site or mobile app.
Here’s what you may be asked to provide:
All uploads are typically verified within 24–48 hours, though some sites offer instant approval via automated systems.
2FA is one of the simplest ways to level up your security when betting online. Instead of just logging in with your username and password, 2FA requires a second step, usually a code sent to your phone or email, before accessing your account.
It adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorised access, especially useful if you’re using public Wi-Fi or sharing devices. Most top UK bookies offer 2FA through:
It’s optional in most cases, but we highly recommend enabling it.
When choosing between betting payment methods, there’s more to consider than just what’s available. You’ll want to weigh a few key factors before deciding how to fund your account, such as safety, speed, ease of access, and potential bonuses, which we’ll cover in more detail below.
No matter how experienced a punter you are, security should always be your top priority. Every UK-licensed bookmaker must comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, which help confirm your identity and reduce fraud.
Your choice of payment method also matters. Options like PayPal, Visa, and Trustly offer built-in fraud protection and high-level encryption to protect your personal data and funds.
Avoid shady third-party processors or offshore sportsbooks that lack UKGC regulation. If a payment method or site feels sketchy, it’s best to walk away.
Speed is everything when it comes to funding or withdrawing from your betting account. Whether you’re chasing a last-minute bet or cashing out after a win, nobody wants to wait around for days.
E-wallets like PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill offer near-instant deposits and fast withdrawals, usually within a few hours. Debit cards and bank transfers tend to be slower, with withdrawals taking 2–5 business days on average.
If you value speed, opt for a method that gets your funds moving fast.
Not everyone is looking to punt hundreds of pounds on a single match. Whether you’re betting big or playing casually, it’s worth checking each method’s minimum and maximum limits. Some sites allow deposits as low as £5, while others may start at £10 or higher.
Just as important are fees. While UK bookmakers aren’t allowed to charge fees for deposits or withdrawals, some banking methods do, especially e-wallets and international transfers. Always double-check both the bookie’s and the provider’s T&Cs before confirming a transaction.
While welcome bonuses are standard, you may also find betting offers tied to specific payment types when reloading your account. These are called reload promotions, and while they’re more common at online casinos, you may occasionally see them at sportsbooks, especially around big events like the Champions League Final or Cheltenham.
For example, a site might offer an extra free bet if you top up using PayPal or Apple Pay. They’re rare but worth keeping an eye out for.
Pro Tip: At the end of the day, the most important factor when choosing a payment method is whether you have easy access to it. Whether it’s using your day-to-day debit card or giving yourself an extra layer of separation with an e-wallet, pick a method that fits your lifestyle and feels familiar.
Depositing and withdrawing your funds should be quick and painless, especially on the betting sites we recommend. Still, if it’s your first time, we’ve laid out the steps below so you know exactly what to expect before placing a single bet.
Getting started with online gambling deposits only takes a few steps. Here’s how to do it:
If you’re planning to claim a welcome bonus, make sure you’ve opted in and read the T&Cs before making your first deposit.
Getting your winnings should be just as easy, as long as you’ve verified your identity. Here’s how online gambling withdrawals typically work:
Some methods, like PayPal or Trustly, pay out within hours. Others, like bank transfers, might take a few working days.
We’ve tested every payment method you’ve seen on this page at the top-tier sportsbooks below, so you don’t have to. Each of these online betting sites is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, has responsible gambling protocols in place, and offers safe, secure banking options for punters of all types.
We’ve vetted them for reliability, payout speed, and ease of use, and yes, we’ve used these ourselves. Whether you’re cashing out a cheeky winner or topping up for the weekend, these sites won’t let you down.
Check the table below to see how each one stacks up:
| Bookmaker | Max Withdrawal | Payout Timing |
| BetMGM | £35,000 | 24 hours – 5 business days |
| 10bet | £50,000 | 1-2 days |
| Midnite | £5,000 | Within 48 hours |
| Parimatch | £30,000 | Within 48 hours |
| BetVictor | £500,000 | 40 minutes – 24 hours |
| bet365 | £2,000,000 | Within 24 hours |
| Betfred | £1,000,000 | Within 48 hours |
| talkSPORT BET | £50,000 | 1-3 business days |
| kwiff | £50,000 | 1-6 business days |
| Spreadex | £25,000 | Within 2 business days |
Ready to get started? Every bookmaker on this page offers secure, fast, and hassle-free betting payment methods, so you can focus on your bets, not your bank. Whether you’re depositing for the weekend or cashing out a big win, our trusted sites make banking a breeze.
Sign up today for any of the sites we’ve mentioned above and take advantage of smooth deposits, quick withdrawals, and top-notch promotions across the board.
Thank you for reading our UK betting payment methods guide! We hope you now have the information you need to not only fund your account, but to do it with a payment method that’s convenient and comfortable for you. If you have any payment-related queries before heading out, take a peek at our FAQ section below for some answers from our team of experts.
While all licensed UK bookies use secure payment tech, PayPal is often considered the safest method. It adds an extra layer of protection by keeping your banking details private and offers stellar fraud prevention on top of the bookie’s own security protocols.
Generally, no. Licensed bookmakers don’t charge fees for deposits or withdrawals. However, some banks or payment providers (like Neteller or Skrill) may charge small transaction fees. Always double-check with your provider before making a deposit or withdrawal.
No. Credit card betting is banned in the UK as of 2020. For a similar option, go with a debit card or e-wallet like PayPal or Skrill. Both give you fast access and strong security without the regulatory headaches.
All UK-licensed bookmakers must protect your data using SSL encryption, KYC verification, and secure payment gateways. Look for licensing info at the bottom of the page, and always choose trusted sites like the ones on this page.
Withdrawing is easy. Head to your account, select Withdraw, pick your payment method, and enter the amount. Ensure you’ve verified your identity (KYC) and met any bonus requirements before requesting a payout.
It varies by method. E-wallets like PayPal usually pay out within 24 hours, while debit cards and bank transfers may take 2–5 business days. Each bookie has different processing times, so be sure to check their terms.
Most UK bookmakers prefer or require you to withdraw using the same method you deposited with. But there are exceptions, especially with prepaid options like Paysafecard. Always review the site’s banking terms and conditions before you deposit.
Most UK sportsbooks set their minimum deposit between £5 and £10, depending on the method. Be aware that some promotions may require a slightly higher deposit to qualify for a bonus or free bet.
