About the Bonus
BetRivers Sportsbooks' $500 Second Chance Bonus Bet promotion provides new users with an opportunity to receive a bonus bet matching their first wager's stake (up to $500) if it loses. This offer is available to bettors in Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, and is aimed at reducing the risk associated with the first wager. While the promotion is straightforward, understanding its terms is essential to determine its value and practicality.
Pros & Cons
How to Claim
Claiming the "2nd Chance Bet Up to $500" welcome offer from BetRivers is a straightforward process designed to welcome new users with a risk-free initial bet. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure you successfully claim your bonus:
- Create Your Account
- Visit BetRivers: Visit the official BetRivers Sportsbook.
- Enter Required Information: Fill in the necessary details such as your name, address, email, and any other required personal information to complete the account registration process.
- Verify Eligibility
- Age and Location Verification: Ensure you are at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Pennsylvania, or Virginia. The platform may require documents or use geolocation technology for verification.
- Make Your First Deposit
- Access the Deposit Section: Once your account is set up, navigate to the deposit section of the BetRivers platform.
- Enter the Promo Code: When making your first deposit, use the promo code SPORTS to activate the welcome offer.
- Deposit Requirements: deposit the minimum $10 or more).
- Place Your First Bet
- Select a Sport: Choose the event you wish to bet on.
- Comply with Odds Requirement: Ensure your bet meets the odds requirement of -200 or longer. For parlays, each leg must meet these odds as well.
- Finalize Your Bet: Place your bet with real money as your first sports wager.
- Claim Your Bonus Bet (if Necessary)
- Wait for Bet Settlement: Your first bet will need to settle. If it results in a loss, you move to the next step.
- Bonus Bet Credit: Within 24 hours of the losing bet settling, a Bonus Bet matching your stake up to $500 will be credited to your account.
- Expiration: Remember, the Bonus Bet expires 30 days after being issued, so plan to use it within this timeframe.

Our BetRivers Sportsbook review aims to provide you with a fair and factual assessment. We advocate for responsible gambling—set personal boundaries, play mindfully, and reach out for support if gambling becomes a concern.
Wagering Requirements and Terms
- Minimum first deposit of $10 using the code SPORTS.
- Only the first real-money wager qualifies.
- Bonus Bets must be used on wagers with odds of -200 or longer (e.g., -100, +150). For parlays, each leg must meet this requirement.
- Bonus Bets cannot be cashed out or combined with other promotions.
- Only winnings from the Bonus Bet are withdrawable; the bonus amount itself is not included in returns.
Responsible Use of the Bonus
- Start with manageable stakes: Avoid wagering the maximum bonus amount unless it fits within your budget.
- Utilize smaller, strategic bets: Divide the bonus into multiple bets to explore more opportunities and reduce risk.
- Focus on longer-term bets: Consider sports markets with odds close to -200 to maximize your potential returns responsibly.
- Avoid high-risk behaviors: Refrain from attempting low-risk arbitrage or betting solely to exploit the promotion, as these practices can void eligibility.
Is BetRivers' $500 Second Chance Bonus Bet Worth It?
BetRivers’ $500 Second Chance Bonus Bet is a decent option for new users looking to reduce risk on their first wager. However, the lack of stake return for Bonus Bets and restrictions on their use may limit its attractiveness for some bettors. Responsible betting strategies, like managing stake sizes and focusing on optimal odds, can help maximize the promotion's utility without promoting excessive gambling behaviors.