How pay by phone casinos work
Pay by phone, also called mobile billing or carrier billing, charges your casino deposit to your mobile network. On a pay monthly contract it appears on your next bill. On pay-as-you-go it's taken from your credit. A payment provider sits between the casino and your network, and you confirm each payment by text, so nobody can charge your phone without having your handset.
In the UK you'll usually see one of three providers in the cashier:
| Provider | How you confirm | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boku | Reply to an SMS | The best-known name, now less common than it once was |
| Fonix | SMS code or reply | UK-based mobile payments firm used by several casinos |
| Siru Mobile | SMS confirmation | Seen at a number of UK and European casinos |
Deposit limits
Mobile billing has low limits, which is part of its appeal. Networks and providers typically cap gambling payments at around £30 a day, with a monthly ceiling as well. The exact limits depend on your network and account type. That rules it out for high-stakes play, but it's a good fit if you want a small, controlled deposit now and then.
Fees and bonus eligibility
Unlike cards and e-wallets, pay by phone can come with charges. Some casinos add a percentage fee to phone bill deposits to cover the provider's costs. Check the cashier before you confirm. Phone bill deposits are also commonly excluded from welcome bonuses, so read the offer terms if a promotion is the reason you're signing up.
Watch your bill. On a contract, deposits don't feel real until the bill arrives. Keep track of what you've spent, use the casino's deposit limits, and ask your network about spending caps or a gambling bar if you need one.
Withdrawing your winnings
You can't withdraw to your phone bill. Before your first payout, the casino will ask you to add and verify a bank account or debit card in your name. To avoid a delay when you do win, set this up when you register. See our verification guide for what's usually needed.
Who is pay by phone best for?
It suits players who want to keep bank details out of the casino altogether, deposit small amounts, or play mainly on mobile. It's less suitable if you want bonuses, larger deposits or a single method for paying in and out. In those cases PayPal or Apple Pay will serve you better.
How to deposit with Pay by Phone
- Choose Pay by Phone, Boku, Fonix or Siru in the casino cashier.
- Enter your deposit amount and your mobile number.
- You'll receive a text message asking you to confirm.
- Reply as instructed or enter the code you received.
- The deposit is added to your casino balance and charged to your bill or credit.
How to withdraw your winnings
Phone bill payments can't receive withdrawals. Add and verify a bank account or debit card in your name before you request a payout. Casinos usually ask for this as soon as you make your first withdrawal request.
Pay by Phone pros and cons
Pros
- No card or bank details needed
- Confirm by SMS in seconds
- Low daily limits help you control spending
- Works with pay monthly and PAYG
Cons
- Deposit only: you need another method to withdraw
- Daily limits are typically around £30
- Some casinos and networks charge fees
- Often excluded from bonuses
Pay by Phone vs other payment methods
| Method | Deposit | Withdrawal | Fees | Bonus | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Pay by Phone | Instant | Deposit only | Some casinos add a fee | Often excluded | 7.0 |
 Boku | Instant | Deposit only | Some casinos add a fee | Often excluded | 6.8 |
 Paysafecard | Instant | Deposit only | Inactivity fee after 12 months | Often excluded | 7.8 |
 Apple Pay | Instant | 1–3 days (to linked card) | Free | Usually | 8.9 |
 Google Pay | Instant | 1–3 days (to linked card) | Free | Usually | 8.7 |
Our verdict on pay by phone
Pay by phone is a convenient, private way to deposit small amounts, and the low limits act as a useful brake. Expect possible fees and bonus exclusions, and have a withdrawal method ready.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pay by phone bill at UK casinos?
Yes. A number of UKGC-licensed casinos accept phone bill deposits through providers such as Boku, Fonix and Siru Mobile.
How much can I deposit by phone bill?
Limits are low, typically around £30 per day, with a monthly cap. The exact amount depends on your network and the provider.
Can I withdraw to my phone bill?
No. You need to add and verify a bank account or debit card to receive withdrawals.
Does pay by phone work on pay-as-you-go?
Usually, yes. The deposit is deducted from your available credit instead of being added to a bill.
Are there fees for paying by phone at casinos?
Sometimes. Some casinos charge a percentage fee on phone bill deposits. Check the cashier before confirming.
