Partial payout

In a casino context, a partial payout means that a large withdrawal does not arrive at once but is split into several smaller payments sent on different days, weeks or months. A partial payout most often occurs when a win exceeds the casino's periodic withdrawal limit. The term is also used when the player withdraws only part of the balance and leaves the rest in the account.

When a casino pays in parts

There are several reasons for paying in parts, and they are usually set out in the casino's general terms:

• Daily, weekly or monthly limit. If a win is larger than the limit, an amount up to the limit is paid out each period until the full win has been paid.
• Transaction cap. The casino or payment method does not allow more than a certain amount per transaction, so the request has to be split.
• Additional checks. For a large amount the casino may pay part immediately and the rest after checking the source of funds or other documents.
• Payment method restrictions. Some banks or e-wallets, such as Skrill, may set their own transaction or account limits.

Many casinos make an exception for progressive jackpots and pay them out as a single amount. As the rules vary, it is always worth checking the terms.

How a partial payout affects withdrawal time

Each individual part can move as fast as a normal withdrawal, but receiving the full amount takes longer. If the casino's weekly limit is small compared with the win, the last part may arrive only several months later. This means that a casino whose withdrawal time is usually short can become slow in the case of a big win.

During a partial payout the remaining amount stays in the casino account. During that time it is important that:

1. you do not use the money in the account to play again if your goal is to withdraw the win;
2. the next parts are not held up because a document expires;
3. you check that each part arrives at the agreed time.

In some casinos a pending part payment can also be reversed. If you want to avoid the temptation, read the term withdrawal reversal.

What to check in the terms

• What is the periodic withdrawal limit, and does it apply per day, week or month?
• Are jackpot wins exempt from the limit?
• Does VIP status or a higher account level raise the limit?
• Does the casino send the next parts automatically, or do you have to submit a new request for each part?

You will find a sample calculation of how a limit and partial payouts look over time for a big win in the post withdrawal limits: a sample calculation. The guide withdrawal limits gives a general overview.

Frequently asked questions

Is a partial payout legal?

Generally yes, if it is clearly stated in the casino's terms and the terms were known before playing. Casinos licensed in Estonia are supervised by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board, and the requirements derive from the Gambling Act.

What should I do if a part payment is missed?

Contact customer support, ask for a written explanation and save your transaction history. If the problem is not resolved, you can turn to the supervisory authority. What to document is described in the post how to document a withdrawal problem before complaining.

Do partial payouts have to be taxed?

Winnings from an operator licensed in Estonia or another EEA country are generally not taxable income for the player, regardless of whether the win arrives at once or in parts. See the term taxation of winnings and check the exact rules on the EMTA website.