Sometimes mistakes happen. So, it is not unheard of for people to be paid more than expected by a bookmaker.

So, what should you do if bookies paid out too much in error or paid twice?

Continue reading this post to learn what you should do and the implications of being paid too much.

What Happens If a Bookie Pays You Too Much In Error?

If a bookie pays you too much in error, the right thing to do is to alert the bookmaker. You do not have any legal rights to the extra money, as it was made in error. 

The bookmaker has every right to reclaim the money back, even if they learnt of the mistakes after a considerable amount of time has passed.

Basically, if a bookie pays you too much in error, they have made an administrative error and can claim back the extra money.

Can Bookies Take Money Back?

Yes, bookies can take the money back if it was paid in error. If the bookie is online, they can rectify the error by deducting the extra payment from your account. 

If it is a land-based bookie, they may add it to your account as a negative balance or request it directly.

Bookmakers often have methods and mechanisms set in place for such instances, so if you notice that you received more than you should have, it is likely the bookmaker has noticed too.

Is It Illegal To Owe Bookies Money?

No, it is not inherently illegal to owe bookies money. However, if you owe a bookie money, paying it back as soon as possible is best practice. Failure to do so may have unpleasant consequences. 

The consequences can range from closure or suspension of your account, legal action, poor credit history, or even a ban from other bookmakers or casinos.

Repaying your debts to the bookies is the easiest way to avoid any issues.

Payout Mistakes – Can You Keep The Money If You’re Overpaid?

If a bookmaker makes an error and pays you too much money, you may be tempted to keep it, but it is advisable to refrain from doing so and pay it back instead. Legally, the money does not belong to you even though it was paid to your account by the bookmaker, so promptly alert the bookmaker and pay the money back.

There have even been cases where the bookmaker has allowed punters to keep a portion of the excess money as a form of a goodwill gesture from their side. However, this is entirely at the bookies’ discretion and is an extremely rare occurrence. So don’t expect a reward for returning money that isn’t yours to begin with.

Remember, the money did not belong to you in the first place, and if you hadn’t returned it, you could have faced severe consequences.

In conclusion, the only thing you can and must do if the bookies paid out too much in error is to alert them to the mistake as soon as possible and not touch the money at all.