What Are Casino Comps?
Casino comps are complimentary perks casinos give in exchange for your play. They can include free rooms, meals, show tickets, line passes, spa credits, resort fees waived, and even airfare or limo pick-up for high-value players.
Comps are not charity. They’re a return on your “theoretical loss” (often shortened to “theo”)—a statistical estimate of what the house expects to win from your play over time.
How Casinos Calculate Your Theo (and Comps)
Casinos use a formula based on your average bet, game speed, hours played, and the game’s house edge. Your players card and rating system track these factors.
Table Games (Typical Model)
- Average bet x decisions per hour x hours played x house edge = theoretical loss
- Example: $50 average bet at blackjack x 70 hands/hour x 3 hours x 1% house edge ≈ $105 theo
Slots and Video Poker (Coin-in Model)
- Coin-in x machine hold = theoretical loss
- Example: $5,000 coin-in on a machine with 8% hold = $400 theo
Typical Comp Rate Ranges
- Many casinos return about 20%–40% of theo in comps (rooms, food, and offers)
- Free play is often a smaller slice (for example, 5%–15% of theo), depending on property
Important: Each property’s math, rating accuracy, and policies vary. Some factor in win/loss volatility, game type, and trip “worth.”
Real-Life Example: A Weekend That Paid for Itself
On a recent Atlantic City trip, Aisha signed up for a player card and played $1 slots at a relaxed pace. Over two afternoons, she ran $6,000 coin-in total. With an estimated 7% hold, her theo was $420. Her comp value came in around 30% of that—about $125 in food credits and two comped midweek nights on her next visit.
She didn’t chase losses and kept to her budget, but still unlocked value. The key was consistent tracked play and asking a host to review her account at checkout.
How to Maximize Casino Comps Without Overspending
You don’t need to gamble more—just smarter. Follow these steps to get more from the same budget.
- Always use your players card. If the casino can’t track your play, it can’t reward it.
- Consolidate play into fewer properties to increase your “average daily value.”
- Maintain consistent sessions. Short, tiny-play days can lower your averages.
- Ask for a review. Before checkout, politely ask a host to evaluate discretionary comps.
- Mind the clock. Long sessions at a steady average bet often rate better than many tiny sessions.
- Avoid dead time. If you’re not playing, don’t leave your card in a machine—idle time can hurt rating speed assumptions.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do set a daily budget and walk away when it’s gone.
- Do verify your average bet with the dealer or pit when playing tables.
- Don’t hop machines constantly; short bursts can be underrated on some systems.
- Don’t split play across too many properties in one day.
Understanding Player Rewards, Comp Points, and Tiers
Most casino loyalty programs use tiers and comp points. Tiers unlock benefits like priority lines, late checkout, or better offers. Comp points accrue based on play and can be redeemed for food or free play, depending on the program. Check the earn/burn rates—some properties let points pay for tips and resort fees, others don’t.
If you’re new, ask the players club desk to explain how player rewards and status match programs work.
Common Complimentary Offers (and Their Fine Print)
- Free or discounted rooms (blackout dates may apply)
- Food and beverage credits
- Show tickets and event invites
- Resort fee waivers
- Transportation or airfare reimbursement for higher-tier guests
Most complimentary offers come with restrictions: advance booking, occupancy limits, or minimum play expectations. Always read the terms.
Slots vs. Tables vs. Poker: What Gets Rated?
- Slots: Typically rated most precisely via coin-in and machine hold.
- Table games: Rated by human pit personnel; verify your average bet and time-in.
- Poker: Often rated differently; comps may be hourly or lower since the casino’s edge is from rake, not house advantage.
Mistakes That Shrink Your Comps
- Forgetting your players card or not tapping in at tables
- Many tiny sessions across multiple casinos in a single day
- Large bets right before asking for a comp review (casinos look at averages)
- Leaving your card in an idle slot machine
- Assuming offers will last—most are dynamic and expire quickly
Responsible Play and Bankroll Tips
- Set a trip budget and daily limit; never chase losses.
- Break your bankroll into daily envelopes to avoid overspending.
- Use time limits and keep breaks scheduled.
- If gambling stops being fun, stop. Help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER (USA).
FAQs
Do I need to gamble a lot to get comps?
No. Even modest, consistent play can earn value. Comps scale with your theoretical loss, not just big wins or losses in one session.
Does making one small bet just to “trigger” an offer help?
Usually not. Very low-play days can reduce your average daily worth and hurt future offers. Consolidate play into meaningful sessions.
How long do comp points take to post?
Many programs post points immediately for slots and video poker; some table ratings finalize after your session or overnight. Check your account the next day.
Can I get resort fees waived?
Often, yes—either included in an offer or via host discretion based on your play. Policies vary by property and date.
Do comps affect my taxes?
Comps aren’t taxable income by themselves, but gambling winnings are. Keep records and consult a tax professional for your situation.
