Rakeback Deals Explained for Poker Players

Rakeback deals are one of the most popular ways for online poker players to increase their profits. Understanding how rakeback works can help you play smarter, boost your bankroll, and maximise value from regular cash games. This guide explains rakeback deals, how they work, their benefits, strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

What Is Rake in Poker?

Before understanding rakeback, it’s important to know what rake is.

• Rake is the fee poker sites take from each cash game pot.

• It is usually a small percentage, often capped at a certain amount per hand.

• In tournaments, the rake is often included in the buy-in.

Rake exists to cover operating costs of the poker site.

What Is Rakeback?

Rakeback is a deal where a poker site returns a portion of the rake you paid back to you.

Key Features

• Usually a percentage of the rake, e.g., 20–40% or higher for VIP players.

• Paid weekly, monthly, or in real-time depending on the platform.

• Often used to reward frequent players in cash games.

Example:

• You contribute $100 in rake over a month.

• With a 30% rakeback deal, you get $30 back.

Types of Rakeback Deals

Standard Cash Back

• Players receive a fixed percentage of rake paid.

• Paid weekly or monthly.

• Simple and easy to track.

VIP or Tiered Programs

• Regular players earn points based on rake contributed.

• Points unlock higher rakeback percentages, exclusive rewards, or tournament entries.

Real-Time Rakeback

• Some platforms credit rakeback instantly as you play.

• You can use the bonus immediately for more cash games.

Third-Party Rakeback Sites

• Independent sites partner with poker rooms to offer higher rakeback deals.

• Players sign up via these sites to receive extra cashback on top of the poker room’s base offer.

Benefits of Rakeback

1. Boosts Bankroll

   • Rakeback adds extra value from every hand you play.

2. Reduces Cost of Playing

   • Makes cash games cheaper, improving your long-term profitability.

3. Rewards Regular Play

   • Frequent players are directly rewarded for loyalty.

4. Encourages Multi-Tabling

   • Higher rakeback deals make multi-tabling more profitable.

Strategies to Maximize Rakeback

Play Rake-Efficient Games

• Focus on cash games with reasonable rake percentages.

• Avoid games with high rake caps that reduce returns.

Be a Consistent Player

• Rakeback works best for players who regularly play cash games.

• Frequent play earns more cashback over time.

Combine With Other Promotions

• Use rakeback alongside welcome bonuses, reloads, or freerolls for maximum value.

Track Your Earnings

• Monitor rakeback payments to ensure they match the expected percentage.

Consider Multi-Tabling

• Experienced players can play multiple tables to increase rake contribution, and therefore rakeback, while maintaining skill advantage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Terms

   • Some rakeback deals have minimum play requirements or caps.

2. Chasing Rake

   • Don’t play weak games just to earn rakeback; skill should still guide your play.

3. Not Checking Platform Credibility

   • Only use trusted poker rooms or reputable third-party sites.

4. Neglecting Bankroll Management

   • Rakeback is helpful but cannot replace disciplined bankroll strategy.

Conclusion

Rakeback deals are a powerful way for poker players to increase profits, reduce costs, and reward consistent play. By understanding the types of rakeback, tracking your earnings, and applying strategic play, you can make every hand you play more profitable. Whether you’re a casual or professional player, rakeback is an essential tool for maximizing your online poker experience.