Sports betting sites and casinos in the UK are known for having very varied offerings. This applies both to the range of sports on offer, the free bets available and the payment methods accepted. As of April 2020, licensed UK betting sites have implemented strict regulations to include the prohibition of credit card use, to ensure responsible gambling and not allow people to spend money they don't physically have.

Despite there being no credit card gambling UK sites, there is a wide range of options available to UK punters, including debit cards, e-wallets, Pay By Phone, and paysafecard. Once you sign up at one of the recommended betting sites at Bookies.com, you’ll be able to choose your payment method, avail of your free bet offer and start betting. The best online casinos also have a number of different payment methods for you to enjoy in place of credit cards. 

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Alternatives to Credit Cards at Betting Sites and Best Online Casinos

Debit Cards

Debit cards remain one of the most popular payment methods among UK bettors due to their widespread acceptance and ease of use. They offer a direct link to your bank account, allowing for seamless deposits and withdrawals. Debit card transactions are processed swiftly, ensuring instant access to funds for football betting activities. Despite being known previously as only a credit card company, Mastercard debit cards provide a service you can use. In fact, there are a huge number of Mastercard casinos that can be found here.

Debit cards are the most widely-accepted payment method at betting sites, and will generally avail of free bets and betting offers for new customers. The security measures provided by debit card issuers, such as two-factor authentication and fraud protection, add an extra layer of safety to your transactions.

E-Wallets

E-wallets have gained huge popularity in recent years, offering a secure and efficient means of managing your funds at UK betting sites. These digital wallets, such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller, provide instant deposits and fast withdrawals, making them particularly appealing for those seeking quick access to their winnings. There are also an increasing number of Apple Pay casinos, Google Pay casinos and Trustly casinos providing people with convenient and secure methods of withdrawing and depositing.

It’s worth noting that some betting sites exclude selected e-wallets from availing of sign up offers and other betting offers. These may include enhanced odds and free bets, so make sure you read the terms and conditions of the welcome offer so you aren’t missing out.

Pay By Phone

Pay By Phone is a payment method that’s a convenient option for punters who prefer mobile transactions. This method enables you to fund your betting account using your mobile phone bill or prepaid balance. It eliminates the need for credit or debit card details, enhancing security and reducing the risk of unauthorized transactions. 

Pay By Phone is especially suitable for those who prioritise simplicity and accessibility, particularly while engaging in football betting on the go. Like credit cards, Pay By Phone may offer the option of adding your deposit amount onto your phone bill, so it is a realistic alternative for customers looking to pay later. 

Paysafecard

Paysafecard is a secure and prepaid payment method that allows users to purchase vouchers or digital PINs, which can then be used for online transactions. This method offers a way to make purchases or deposits without the need for a bank account or credit card, ensuring anonymity and control over spending.

It is not possible to withdraw to Paysafecard, so if this method is used for deposits, an alternative will need to arranged for withdrawing from your betting account. 

PayPal

PayPal is used as a safe and secure method of paying for many things online. While it has previously been associated more with online shopping, there are an increasing number of PayPal betting sites allowing the payment method. With it, you can make quick, secure and convenient payments into your chosen betting sites. It is also one of the quickest withdrawal methods available to users.

Verification at Betting Sites and Online Casinos

As part of UK Gambling Commission regulations, new customers may be obliged to provide verification documents after they have signed up at a sports betting site. This is done to ensure the customer is legally old enough to bet, and to confirm that the payment method being used belongs to the customer. 

While a number of cases of using a payment method belonging to someone else will be innocent enough, and done with their consent, betting sites have no way of differentiating between these cases and fraud. As such, all payment methods used at UK betting sites must belong to the account-holder.

Can You Bet with a Credit Card?

As credit cards are no longer accepted at licensed UK betting sites or casinos, alternative payment methods play a crucial role in enhancing the overall betting experience. Debit cards offer simplicity and speed, while e-wallets provide privacy and convenience. Pay By Phone is ideal for mobile bettors seeking easy transactions, and Paysafecard ensures anonymity and budget control. 

Whether you're looking for the best football betting site or to take advantage of free bet promotions, the variety of payment methods available ensures that everyone can find a suitable and secure option to fund their betting account.