How to Read a Betting Slip, Part by Part
A bet slip lists everything you are agreeing to before you confirm. Knowing each part helps you catch a wrong number before money is on the line.
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The parts of a slip
Each sportsbook lays it out a little differently, but most slips show the same pieces.
- Selection: the team, player or side you picked
- Market: the type of bet, such as spread, moneyline or total
- Line: the number attached, like -3.5 or over 48.5
- Price: the odds, like -110 or +150
- Stake: the amount you risk
- To win: the profit if the bet wins
- Total payout: profit plus your stake returned
- Bet ID: a reference number for that ticket
Live bets and cash out
A live bet is placed while the game is in progress. Its line and price change quickly, so the number on the slip can differ from the one you tapped.
Cash out is an offer from the book to settle a bet before it ends, for an amount the book chooses. The offer changes as the game changes, and it is usually lower than the full payout.
Check before you confirm, and after it settles
Before you confirm, read the line and the price, not just the team. A spread of -3 and a spread of -3.5 are different bets. Check the stake and the to win amount, and watch for a message that the line has changed.
After the game, open the settled bet and check the result against the final score. Look at the line, the price and the payout. A tie on the number is a push, and the stake is returned.
Keep your screenshots
Take a screenshot of the slip after you confirm it, with the bet ID showing. It helps if you ever need to ask support about a bet.
Bets can lose. Bettors must be 21 or older where betting is legal. If gambling is a problem for you or someone you know, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Questions
What is the difference between to win and total payout?
To win is your profit. Total payout is that profit plus your stake. A 10 dollar bet at +150 wins 15 and pays out 25.
What is a bet ID for?
It is a reference number for one ticket. Support teams use it to find your bet quickly.
Why did the number change when I tried to confirm?
Lines can move between the time you tap and the time you confirm, especially during live betting. Read the updated slip before you accept it.
More guides
For information and entertainment only. Bets can lose. 21+ only, and only where it is legal. If gambling is a problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER. See our responsible gaming page.