What Does Rakeback Mean in Poker?
Rakeback is a rewards system used primarily in online poker, where players receive a percentage of the rake (the fee taken by the poker room) refunded back to them. It helps reduce the long-term cost of playing and can significantly boost profitability—especially for high-volume players.
What Is Rake?
Rake is the small percentage the poker room takes from most pots in cash games or as a tournament entry fee. For example, in a $100 pot, the room might take $3 in rake.
How Rakeback Works
If your poker site offers 30% rakeback and you pay $200 in rake during the month, you’ll get $60 back—either as real money or site credits. This helps offset losses or boost your win rate.
Types of Rakeback
- Flat Percentage: A fixed % of all rake paid (e.g., 25%) is returned regularly.
- Tiered VIP Systems: Earn more rakeback as you climb loyalty levels based on volume.
- Hybrid Programs: Combine cashback with bonuses, tournament tickets, or loyalty points.
In-Game Example
You’re a mid-stakes online player who generates $500/month in rake. On a 35% rakeback deal, you receive $175 back. If you’re a break-even player at the tables, rakeback alone makes you profitable.
Who Benefits Most from Rakeback?
- Grinders: High-volume players gain more value from consistent cashback.
- Break-even Players: Can turn a 0% ROI into a profit just from rakeback.
- Multi-tablers: Players on multiple tables accumulate rake quickly and benefit more from returns.
Strategy & Tips
- Best Practice: Choose poker rooms with generous rakeback or loyalty programmes to increase long-term earnings.
- Common Mistake: Ignoring rakeback when choosing where to play—especially if you’re playing regularly.
- Pro Tip: Track your rake and rewards. Use rake calculators to forecast your earnings and optimise where you play.
Online vs Live Poker
- Online: Most online sites offer rakeback, either directly or through VIP systems. Some offer weekly or monthly payments.
- Live: Rarely available. Some casinos offer comps or food credits, but true rakeback is uncommon in live settings.
Alternative Names
While “rakeback” is the most common term, it may appear under loyalty programme names or cashback systems on different poker sites.
Glossary of Terms
- Rake: The commission the poker room takes from each hand or tournament entry.
- Grinder: A player who plays many hours or tables to generate consistent profit or rake.
- Net Win Rate: A player’s total profit/loss, often calculated after rake and bonuses.
FAQs
- Q: How does rakeback affect my win rate?
A: Rakeback reduces your cost of play, effectively increasing your win rate or reducing losses over time. - Q: How is rakeback paid?
A: Usually as cash or site credits—some sites also offer bonuses, tournament entries, or merchandise. - Q: Can I combine rakeback with other promotions?
A: Often yes, depending on the site. Check terms—some exclude players with certain rakeback deals from other promos. - Q: Is rakeback available at all poker sites?
A: No, it varies. Some sites no longer offer traditional rakeback and instead use point-based loyalty programmes.
Related Terms
- Rake
- Loyalty Programme
- Grinder
