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Matched Betting Calculator – Work Out Your Lay Stake Instantly

Use our free matched betting calculator to quickly calculate your lay stake, reduce qualifying losses, and maximise profits from free bets. Whether you’re new to matched betting or experienced, this tool makes the process quicker and easier.


How to Use the Matched Betting Calculator

Follow these simple steps to work out your lay stake:

  • Enter your back stake – This is the amount you are betting with the bookmaker.
  • Input the back odds – The odds offered by the bookmaker for your selection.
  • Add the lay odds – The odds available on the betting exchange for laying the same selection.
  • Include commission (if applicable) – Some betting exchanges charge commission, so add the percentage if required.
  • Click ‘Calculate’ – The calculator will instantly show the correct lay stake to place at the exchange.

This ensures you fully cover your bet, minimising any losses and securing a risk-free profit where applicable.


Examples of Using the Calculator

✅ Example 1: A Qualifying Bet

A bookmaker offers a £10 free bet if you place a £10 qualifying bet.

  • Back bet: £10 at 2.00 odds
  • Lay odds: 2.02 at the exchange
  • Lay stake: £9.90 (calculated for minimum loss)

Your qualifying loss is small, allowing you to profit fully from the free bet.

✅ Example 2: A Free Bet (Stake Not Returned)

A bookmaker gives you a £20 free bet to use on any market.

  • Back bet: £20 at 5.00 odds
  • Lay odds: 5.10 at the exchange
  • Lay stake: £15.69 (to lock in profit)

Using the calculator ensures you extract maximum value from free bets.


FAQs – Matched Betting Calculator

❓ What is a lay bet?
A lay bet is when you bet against an outcome happening at a betting exchange. This allows you to cover your back bet at the bookmaker.

❓ What is a qualifying loss?
A small, planned loss when placing a bet to trigger a free bet or offer.

❓ How does the calculator help with free bets?
It works out the perfect lay stake to maximise profit from stake-not-returned (SNR) free bets.

❓ Which betting exchanges can I use?
Popular options include Betfair Exchange, Smarkets, Matchbook, and BETDAQ. As a BYB Reload Group member you can claim 0% commission at BETDAQ!


Why Use This Matched Betting Calculator?

  • Fast & accurate calculations – No manual maths required.
  • Works for normal bets, free bets & risk-free bets – Calculates qualifying bets and stake-not-returned free bets.
  • Saves time – Place bets quickly with the correct lay stake.
  • Beginner-friendly – Simple, easy-to-use interface for all levels of experience.

Use the calculator now to lock in risk-free profits and get the most out of your matched betting!