Are free spins winnings taxed in the UK?
No. In the UK, gambling winnings are not taxed for players, and that includes anything you win from free spins.
By Ryan Jessop. Updated .
Key takeaways
- Players pay no income tax or capital gains tax on gambling winnings.
- You do not need to declare free spins winnings to HMRC.
- Operators pay Remote Gaming Duty at 40% of gaming profits.
- Interest or investment income earned later on winnings can be taxable.
Why winnings are tax-free
Since 2001, betting and gaming duties in the UK have been charged on operators’ profits rather than on players’ winnings. So whether you win £5 from ten free spins or £5,000 from a bonus round, the money is yours without deduction or declaration.
What the operator pays
Online casinos pay Remote Gaming Duty on their gaming profits: stakes minus winnings paid out. The rate rose from 21% to 40% on 1 April 2026. From 1 April 2027, HMRC is also rewriting how free spins (to be called “restricted plays”) count for the duty; see our news story.
Where tax can apply
- Interest and investments. If you put winnings in savings or investments, the returns are taxed in the normal way.
- Inheritance tax. Large winnings form part of your estate like any other money.
- Professional gambling. HMRC treats most gambling as not a trade, so this rarely applies.
Keep simple records
You don’t need to report winnings, but a bank may ask where a large deposit came from. Keep the casino’s transaction history or withdrawal emails.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; your casino may run a lower RTP. Offer terms dated 9 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to declare free spins winnings?
No. Gambling winnings are not taxable for UK players, so there is nothing to declare.
Is there a limit before winnings are taxed?
No. There is no threshold: winnings of any size are tax-free for players.
Who pays tax on online slots?
The operator, through Remote Gaming Duty at 40% of gaming profits since 1 April 2026.