A worked example for stake-not-returned free bets, showing which inputs to check before using the matched betting calculator.
Written by Charlie Marsh, founder and editor of Matched Betting Trading. Last reviewed 18 April 2026.
SNR means stake not returned. In a free-bet workflow, that means the free-bet stake is not paid back with the winnings. This guide slows the example down so the calculator mode, lay stake, liability, and record keeping are checked in the right order.
Before opening the calculator, confirm that the reward is definitely stake not returned. If the terms say the free-bet stake is not included in returns, use the SNR-style calculator mode rather than treating it like a cash stake.
This matters because the exchange lay stake is designed around the reward mechanics. The wrong mode can make the outcome split look cleaner than it really is.
Check the free-bet wording on the live operator page.
Confirm whether the stake is returned or not returned.
Use the SNR mode only when the terms match that scenario.
Gather the calculator inputs
For a stake-not-returned free bet, the core inputs are the free-bet value, the bookmaker odds, the exchange lay odds, and the exchange commission. The calculator then estimates the lay stake, liability, and both possible outcomes.
Those inputs should come from the current live pages, not memory. If the lay price moves while you are preparing the bet, refresh the calculation before placing anything.
Free-bet value comes from the offer terms.
Bookmaker odds come from the bet you are considering.
Lay odds, available liquidity, and commission come from the exchange.
Read both outcomes before acting
A useful calculator result is not just the lay stake. Read the liability and both possible outcomes so you know what happens if the bookmaker selection wins or loses.
Then check the exchange order status after placing it. If the lay bet is only partially matched or left unmatched, the written calculation is no longer the full story.
Check the lay stake and liability together.
Read the win and lose outcomes before placing anything.
Record the actual matched price and final result in the Profit Tracker.
Free-bet SNR calculation checklist
Confirm the free bet is stake not returned.
Write down the free-bet value and expiry date.
Enter current bookmaker odds, exchange lay odds, and commission.
Check lay stake, liability, and both outcomes.
Record the matched lay price and completed result.
Relevant next step
Use the calculator after the reward wording and live inputs are clear. If the exchange order does not match cleanly, pause and read the unmatched-lay guide before changing anything.
Use this if the exchange order does not match cleanly after the calculation.
Important note
This guide is an educational calculator example. It does not guarantee any result and does not replace current bookmaker terms, exchange rules, liquidity checks, commission checks, or responsible bankroll decisions.
18+ only.
Offers and terms can change.
Use the responsible-gambling page if the topic stops feeling controlled.
This guide is an educational calculator example. It does not guarantee any result and does not replace current bookmaker terms, exchange rules, liquidity checks, commission checks, or responsible bankroll decisions.
