Explore the Safest Payment Methods for UK Betting Sites and Online Casinos
Many online payment methods are available to use at the best betting sites, but how do you decide which method is best for your betting needs? The experts at BettingOnline are here to help. In this article, readers can find all the information they need to know about the top payment methods available, including types, pros and cons, the top choices, and more. Some of the payment methods covered in this article include Visa, PayPal, Apple Pay, Paysafecard, Skrill, and more.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Online Payment Methods
Using a decent online payment method can make or break your online betting experience, which is why picking the right one is essential. When deciding, many factors should come into play, and each is important for different reasons. For starters, you want a method to ensure your data’s security so you can play without stress.
Another critical factor that will impact your online betting experience is the convenience of your chosen method; you want the method to be widely available and easy to use; otherwise, you will likely grow frustrated. Other factors that will affect your betting experience and should be considered are discussed later in this article.
Types of Online Payment Methods
- Debit Cards: This is the most commonly used method, as most adults across the UK already have access to one. This method is the slowest but is by far the most secure. It transfers funds from your bank account straight into the betting site. Examples include Visa and MasterCard.
- E-Wallets: An e-wallet is a digital wallet that allows users to make online payments without a physical card. It is an alternative to entering card information directly into the betting site. An e-wallet is one of the fastest payment methods; a popular example is PayPal.
- Pre-paid Cards/Vouchers: This online payment method involves loading funds from your bank account into the card/voucher and then inputting this information into the site. Paysafecard is a common example.
- Cryptocurrencies: Cryptocurrencies are digital currencies the bank does not control, and their value will change regularly. Users will purchase a certain amount and then use it for transactions, such as betting online. This method type is less commonly available but is great when you find it. Available options include Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum.
Top Online Payment Methods for Safe Transactions
1. Visa
Visa is an online debit card that is one of the most popular online banking services in the UK, which is why it is also one of the most widely available online betting sites. Visa is very well-liked because it is both convenient and highly secure. The only issue many bettors found is that transactions can take longer than other payment services, but this is expected from debit cards.
Pros | Cons |
Widely available | Debit cards tend to be slower |
Top security measures in place | |
Easy to use |
2. MasterCard
This is another debit card which is widely favoured at UK betting sites. Part of this is because most adults in the UK already own a MasterCard, and as such, it is highly convenient as users do not need to sign up for a new service. On top of this, it is widely available and easy to use. Our only gripe is that you do have to enter your card details into the casino, which is nerve-wracking to some.
Pros | Cons |
One of the most popular banking methods in the UK | Must enter your banking information straight into the betting site. |
Convenient and easy to use | |
Offers other services (e.g. Maestro) |
3. PayPal
PayPal is a digital wallet (aka e-wallet) that has become a household name in the UK and a widely used online payment method in the gambling world. Like Visa and MasterCard, it is found at most online betting sites. It is simple to use, and because it is a digital wallet, users do not need to enter their card information into the site. On top of this, a dedicated PayPal app allows you to manage transactions on the go.
Pros | Cons |
Offers a mobile app | Fees attached to some transactions |
Do not need to enter your card information into the casino. | |
Simple to use |
4. Skrill
Skrill (formerly known as MoneyBookers)is an online e-wallet owned and operated by the Paysafe Group (creators of PaySafeCard). It is also widely available at the top UK betting sites. This method offers various ways to send and receive money locally and internationally. Once your account is set up, Skrill will be extremely straightforward to use and provide speedy transactions. The only issue we found is that the verification process is quite long, usually taking up to 5 business days.
Pros | Cons |
Speedy transactions | Long verification process |
Very few fees applied | |
Available on iOS and Android |
5. Neteller
Neteller is an online e-wallet that also offers prepaid card services. It has operated for over 25 years and has quickly become a well-loved payment method within the gambling industry. Neteller processes payments from many banking institutions, such as Visa, MasterCard, Boku, Paysafecard, and Maestro (among others). There is also a dedicated mobile app, though transaction limits exist. Players will find Neteller at leading online sportsbooks including Betano, Betfred and BetVictor.
Pros | Cons |
Receiving funds and paying online using Neteller is free. | Daily, weekly, and or monthly transaction limits. |
Compliant with PCI-DSS | |
Mobile app |
6. Trustly
Another e-wallet on our list is Trustly. This online payment service allows users to make payments from their online bank to their chosen merchant (in this case, a betting site) without inputting sensitive card information directly into the site. Customers do need to register an account to use Trustly. Some fees are attached to using Trustly, but these are very low compared to other online payment methods. Users can also find hardened data security.
Pros | Cons |
Hardened data security in place | Payment processing costs apply |
No registration required | |
Widely available |
7. Google Pay
The first mobile payment method on our list, Google Pay, is a digital wallet that allows users to store their banking information. This information can be used to make contactless payments online, in-store, and in apps. To use Google Pay, simply download the app, sign into your Google account, and add a payment method. However, it is essential to note that this method is only available on Android and iOS devices that run iOS 17.0 or higher.
Pros | Cons |
Can store other information, such as tickets | Unavailable on certain devices |
Removes the need for a physical wallet | |
Various security measures are in place. |
8. Apple Pay
Apple Pay is an alternative mobile digital wallet to Google Pay. It is available on iOS devices but cannot be used on Android. Apple Pay can be set up and used in the exact same way as Google Pay. It is very well-liked because it is convenient, easy to use, and has no fees attached. Customers can also receive rewards while using Apple Pay.
Pros | Cons |
A password, Face, Touch, or Optic ID are required to be used. | Not available on Android devices |
No fees attached to transactions | |
Widely available |
9. Paysafecard
Paysafecard is a prepaid card that can be used at online betting sites across the UK. This online payment method allows users to bet online using cash. To set up a Paysafecard, users must go to their nearest sales outlet and purchase a Paysafecard (10, 25, 40, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 & 175 GBP). The unique prepaid card code you have now received can be used to make payments online. It is important to note that the only way to purchase a Paysafecard is by cash at one of the outlets.
Pros | Cons |
Range of values available | Must go to an outlet to purchase one |
Offered at many online betting sites | |
Account lock available |
10. EcoPayz
EcoPayz is another prepaid payment provider available on many online betting platforms, though it is less common than other methods on this list. It offers its services on iOS and Android via a dedicated mobile app that allows users to manage their accounts from anywhere. EcoPayz is also available in 8 currencies and has various security measures in place, including two-step authentication.
Pros | Cons |
Two-step authentication | Fees are attached |
Users can enable push notifications | |
Over 20 years of experience |
What To Consider When Choosing a Payment Method
Choosing the proper online payment method is vital in making the most of your online betting experience. Below are the factors you should always consider when selecting a payment method.
Processing Times
First, whether you are using the payment method for deposits or withdrawals, it is essential to note the processing times enforced by the method. For example, some payment methods allow for instant transactions, while others take 3-5 business days. Deposits will always be faster than withdrawals. You must decide how long you are willing to wait for your deposit or withdrawal.
Fees
Next, consider all fees attached to transactions using your chosen payment method. Although these are never unreasonably high, you don’t want to be taken by surprise. Some fees will come attached to withdrawals, some to deposits, and others will apply to both. Be sure to do your research before using a method of payment.
Safety and Security
Your safety and security should be of the utmost importance to you, and as such, you should ensure that the payment method you plan on using has all appropriate safeguards in place. These safeguards include encryption, multi-factor authentication, fraud detection tools, security updates, PCI-compliant software, and card verification value (CVV). It is also essential to check the safety and security measures at your betting site.
Ease Of Use
When using an online payment method, you don’t want to have to go through various steps and hoops just to make simple transactions. This is why you should always consider how easy it is to use the payment method of your choice. The process should be quick and easy and require as few steps as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest online payment method?
The fastest payment methods are e-wallets such as Skrill and PayPal.
What is the most secure payment option?
Debit Cards are considered to be the safest method of payment, though they tend to take the longest to process.
Can I use credit cards to make transactions at UK betting sites?
No, using credit cards for deposits and withdrawals at UK betting sites and the best online casinos, whether for sports, casino, bingo, or any other type of betting, is illegal.
Do online payment methods charge fees?
Depending on the method and site you use, some online payment methods charge fees for transactions.