What is Boku?
Boku is a mobile payments company that connects online merchants with mobile networks. At a casino, it lets you charge a deposit to your phone account instead of a card. There's no Boku account to set up. You simply enter your mobile number and confirm by text.
How a Boku casino deposit works
Once you've chosen Boku and entered your number, you'll get a text asking you to confirm the amount. Reply as instructed, usually just "Y", and the deposit appears in your casino balance. Pay monthly customers see the charge on their next bill. Pay-as-you-go customers have it deducted from their credit straight away.
Boku limits and fees
Daily limits are low, typically around £30, with monthly caps set by your network. That makes Boku a small-stakes method. Some casinos add a fee to Boku deposits, so check the amount in the confirmation text matches what you expected.
Where has Boku gone?
Boku used to be the default pay-by-mobile option at UK casinos. It has become harder to find in recent years, and many sites now offer Fonix or Siru Mobile instead. These work the same way: number, text, confirm. If a casino lists "Pay by Phone" without naming Boku, it's usually one of these. Our pay by phone casinos page covers all three.
Boku alternatives
- Fonix or Siru Mobile: the same phone-bill experience.
- Paysafecard: prepaid, private and good for a fixed budget.
- Apple Pay or Google Pay: one-tap mobile deposits with higher limits and usually bonus-eligible.
How to deposit with Boku
- Select Boku in the casino cashier.
- Enter your mobile number and deposit amount.
- Wait for a text message from Boku.
- Reply "Y" (or as instructed) to confirm the payment.
- Your deposit is credited instantly.
How to withdraw your winnings
Boku can't receive withdrawals. Add and verify a debit card or bank account in your name, and the casino will pay your winnings there.
Boku pros and cons
Pros
- Deposit with just your mobile number
- SMS confirmation adds security
- No bank or card details shared
- Low limits help with budgeting
Cons
- Deposits only
- Fewer UK casinos offer Boku than before
- Daily limits around £30
- Fees and bonus exclusions are common
Boku vs other payment methods
| Method | Deposit | Withdrawal | Fees | Bonus | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instant | Deposit only | Some casinos add a fee | Often excluded | 6.8 | |
| Instant | Deposit only | Some casinos add a fee | Often excluded | 7.0 | |
| Instant | Deposit only | Inactivity fee after 12 months | Often excluded | 7.8 | |
| Instant | 1–3 days (to linked card) | Free | Usually | 8.7 | |
| Instant | 1–3 days (to linked card) | Free | Usually | 8.9 |
Our verdict on Boku
Boku is quick and private, and its low limits are a useful safeguard. Fees, bonus exclusions and the lack of withdrawals make it a niche choice. Use it for small, occasional deposits, and pair it with a card or bank account for payouts.
Frequently asked questions
Do UK casinos still accept Boku?
Some do, though fewer than before. The casinos listed on this page accept Boku deposits.
How much can I deposit with Boku?
Boku deposits are typically limited to around £30 per day, with monthly caps set by your network.
Can I withdraw with Boku?
No. Boku is deposit-only. Withdrawals go to a verified debit card or bank account.
Is Boku safe for casino payments?
Yes. Each payment needs SMS confirmation from your handset, and no bank or card details are shared with the casino.