Cash out, partial cash out and auto cash out explained

A popular betting feature, cash out betting has become a tool that many sports bettors have used to enhance their experiences. It allows bettors to settle any bets that they may have before the event reaches a conclusion, allowing them to take out some of the returns before it is all lost or won.

In this guide, the feature will be analysed in detail, highlighting exactly how they work and their pros and cons. It will also provide examples of how punters can expect to see them and what they should do if they wish to use this potentially handy resource based on their wagering preferences and style.

What is cash out in betting?

The cash out function is a feature some bookmakers will offer their members to allow them to settle a bet early. It gives bettors an opportunity to take control of their bets, giving them a chance to obtain a profit or cut any losses before losing their entire stake.

To understand how it works, the feature is designed to take into account the current odds of an outcome and the likelihood of that bet winning. A return, if available, will then be shown that can be obtained before the market closes.

The cash out feature can appear in three different forms:

• In full
• Partially
• Automatically

Why use cash out?

The cash out feature has become a divisive tool for many bettors, with many varying opinions about it.

Some do not like it because they do not like the potential returns that can be offered, whereas others will have a mantra that is along the lines of allowing a bet to play out, regardless of what happens. Others believe the tool is worth its weight in gold and is very valuable. 

It can be down to personal preference and betting style when choosing whether it works at an individual level. However, there are a few reasons why it is worth considering using it:

• Control Risk: Secure winnings or limit losses without waiting for the event to end.
• Flexibility: React to live game developments, like injuries or unexpected momentum shifts.
• Strategic Betting: Adjust your strategy based on real-time odds.

Cash out example

It can depend on the type of betting market that a wager is placed on in terms of its availability, but almost all markets will allow this feature to be used.

A typical example of a cash out bet for UK punters could be when wagering on the football. While many bookmakers will now pay out if a team goes 2-0 up, a cash out option will still exist for many types of bets, including on the full-time whistle.

For example, a bet may be placed on Team A to win at odds of 2.50. It doesn’t matter what the other team’s winning odds are regarding the cash out feature. If Team A leads 1-0 at half-time, punters can expect to see the return between the stake amount and the winning amount. It can depend on what is happening in the game at that point, as this can impact the amount offered. The more in control Team A is, the larger the potential return.

However, if a punter lets it run, the return can reduce the longer the game goes on. For instance, if Team B scored and made the game 1-1, this would reduce the likelihood of Team A winning, meaning it is less likely that the original bet comes in. A small profit may still be available at this point, but it will be much lower than what was offered at half-time.

If Team A go behind, a cash out may still be offered, but it will typically be lower than the initial stake. This is where many let the bet run to the end. Still, those who wish to limit their losses have an opportunity to withdraw something, should they wish to do so.

What is full cash out?

A full cash out allows bettors to settle their entire bet early. When doing this, the bet will be finished, regardless of what happens later in the event that has been wagered. Punters will receive the amount shown and will not be able to benefit from any additional funds if the initial bet turns out to be a winner.

For example, if a bettor wagered on Team A to win, but decided to cash out when they were 1-1, they would receive the funds showing at that point. They would not receive anything more even if Team A scored again, as the bet had been closed.

How does a full cash out work?

A bookmaker will provide a value that has been based on the live odds and the bettor’s original stake.

With live betting events, the value can continually fluctuate. It is very reactive to what happens, meaning punters may have to make quick decisions if they want to cash out at the right time. One moment can provide the largest return possible, but then something may happen that drops it in value and never recovers.

When should a full cash out be used?

A full cash out can be used by bettors who are looking to maximise or secure profit, or when they are looking to reduce the amount of loss that may be experienced.

Some will use the feature when unsure how the event will finish, but a profit is being shown. For instance, when Team A are leading but are showing signs of conceding because of the pressure they are under. Others will use it when their bet is likely to lose, but to keep part of the stake they placed, perhaps to place on another bet without losing all of it on the initial one.

What is partial cash out?

While it can be common for bettors to use a full cash out, some bookmakers make it possible for punters to make just a partial cash out. This is where an individual can withdraw just part of their bet, keeping the rest of it active. They often have the ability to pick and choose how much they want to cash out, allowing them to balance risk and reward.

How does a partial cash out work?

Using the example above, you may bet that Team A will win the match. Once the cash out is positive, you can take a small part of the bet back and secure part of its winnings. If you do, the remainder of the stake can be left to run as the bet will continue, although it will be scaled to the new stake.

Why use a partial cash out?

Using a partial cash out can provide bettors with benefits that a full cash out does not. It can offer the following:

• Risk Management: It allows you to secure part of your winnings while still chasing the full payout.
• Customisable: The cash-out amount can be adjusted to suit your confidence level in the bet.
• Hedge Strategy: It can be ideal for cautious bettors who want a safety net.

What is auto cash out?

Auto cash out is a feature that can be used to set a specific amount that is withdrawn when it is reached. The bet will be automatically settled once it reaches the threshold, allowing punters to enjoy the returns without having to do it manually.

How does auto cash out work?

Bookmakers make it very simple to use this feature. All you need to do is place the bet and then set the target value you have in mind (between the stake and the bet’s full return value).

Once it reaches this point, as part of the cash out feature, it will be automatically cashed out and placed into the user’s account. The bet will then be concluded, meaning any further events that occur are ignored.

Why should auto cash out be used?

Auto cash out can be beneficial to those who have busy schedules. If they have placed bets on events that occur overnight or have multiple events happening simultaneously, it can provide a level of control.

It can also allow bettors influenced by emotions to stick to a pre-determined plan, rather than being reactionary to what is happening and making potentially ill-advised decisions. Auto cash out can also ensure the best possible return is provided to those with a figure in mind, as it protects against the volatility that can be experienced regarding ever-changing returns.

Does every betting site offer cash out?

Although a popular betting feature, it is still possible to find sportsbooks that do not offer cash out options to their members. Almost all of the major sportsbooks in the UK do, with the feature having been the brainchild of William Hill in 2012.

Why do some bookmakers offer it and others not?

Several factors can be considered regarding why some offer the cash out feature and others do not.

It can depend on the size of the bookmaker and its policies, the markets they offer, and whether they offer live betting, as these are the markets where cash out options are more typically tied to.

Can I check to see if a bookmaker offers cash out betting?

It is possible to check if a bookmaker offers cash out betting by doing the following things:

• Researching whether the bookmaker offers it
• Checking to see if a bet type is eligible
• Look for cash out icons and indicators
• Ask customer support

How to cash out your bet

Using the cash out feature is very straightforward. You simply need to do the following (although platforms may vary slightly):

• Check Your Bet Slip: Log into your betting account and view your active bets
• Look for Cash Out Option: A Cash Out button or value will appear if available
• Select Full or Partial Cash Out: Cash out the entire bet or a portion
• Confirm: Verify the amount and confirm the transaction
• Funds Credited: The Cash Out amount is added to your account balance instantly.

Tips for cash out betting

The following tips are recommended to maximise cash out betting:

• Monitor Live Odds: Cash Out values fluctuate with game developments
• Check Fees or Terms: Some sites may have restrictions or delays
• Act Quickly: Values can change rapidly in live betting

Cash out betting markets

Although not all bookmakers will offer cash out betting, those that do may not always offer it on every single market.

Bettors will typically find the biggest sportsbooks offering cashouts on popular sports, but those that are more niche may not feature the option because of the coverage offered. Sports like football, tennis, cricket, and horse racing can feature cash out options across several different markets. However, smaller sports may have limited options or not feature any at all.

At the same time, there may be restrictions on cashing out, such as when using a bonus or placing wagers that involve more than one betting market (accumulators).

Pros and cons of using cash out in betting

Below is a table that represents the pros and cons of cash out betting:

Final thoughts

Cash out betting is a popular resource for many bettors in the UK. It can add excitement to wagers made, while allowing punters to have greater control and flexibility over the bets that they make.

Although divisive among many, it can be extremely beneficial when analysing your own betting style and preferences. You should consider these features and then apply the pros and cons to see if they suit you.

Make sure to check if your chosen bookmaker offers the tool and then use it wisely.