BACK/LAY CALCULATOR
How to use this calculator
Enter your bookie stake, the back odds, the exchange lay odds, and the exchange commission. The calculator tells you exactly how much to lay so your result is the same whether the bet wins or loses.
Use Qualifying bet for real-money bets (your stake is returned if it wins), and Bonus bet (SNR) for bonus bets where the stake is not returned.
A worked example
Say an Australian bookmaker gives you a $50 bonus bet.
The idea behind matched betting is to cover every outcome so you can turn part of that bonus into cash, rather than gambling it. You back a result at the bookmaker using the bonus, then "lay" the same result at a betting exchange (betting on it not to happen). That way you've got both sides covered.
The catch is getting the lay stake exactly right - too much or too little and your numbers don't line up. That's the whole job of this calculator: you enter the back odds, the lay odds and the stake, and it tells you precisely how much to lay so your result is the same whichever way the game goes. Done properly, you convert a chunk of that $50 bonus into cash.
Put your odds and stake in above to get your exact lay stake.
What most people get wrong about matched betting
First, the honest framing: this is not free money, and it is not risk-free. It's a disciplined, maths-based way to extract value from bookmaker promotions - and if you get a stake wrong, misread the odds, or the price moves before you place your second bet, it can cost you real money. The calculator removes the guesswork, but it can't remove the need to concentrate.
Second, it takes time and starting capital. You need funds on both the bookmaker and the exchange, you need to work through promotions methodically, and the value per offer is modest - this is a slow grind of small edges, not a jackpot.
Third, and most important for this site: this content is for an Australian audience. New Zealand's regulatory settings mean matched betting isn't something to pursue here, so everything on this page assumes you're in Australia and using Australian licensed operators. If that's not you, this one isn't for you.
This calculator and page are general information only and not financial advice. Everyone's circumstances will vary - always do your own research and consult your own financial professionals before making decisions.
Remember - this tool is specifically for matched betting. Matched betting is NOT gambling, and I do not endorse gambling in any way. If gambling is affecting you, in Australia call Gambling Help on 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.