How to Use Top Up Bonuses Without Losing Money

A top up bonus gives customers extra balance when they deposit more, for example 5 percent extra on deposits over $50. Customers like it, and for you it means more money upfront and customers who stick around to spend their balance.

Why bonuses beat discounts

Lowering prices trains customers to wait for sales and makes your store look cheaper. A bonus keeps your prices where they are and only rewards people who commit more money.

Do the maths first

A bonus is paid out of your margin. If your average markup is 30 percent and you give 10 percent bonus, you still keep most of it. But if a service barely makes money, a bonus on top can push it into a loss. Keep bonuses well below your average margin.

A simple tier setup

• From $25. Small bonus, like 3 percent.
• From $100. A bit more, like 5 percent.
• From $250. The top tier, like 8 percent.

These are only examples. Base yours on your own margins.

Show it clearly

Customers should see the bonus before they pay. Mention it on the top up page, on your home page and now and then in your channel. A bonus nobody knows about does nothing.

Use it for timing

A limited weekend bonus can bring a burst of deposits. Don't run one every week, or customers will wait for it.

Watch for abuse

If someone tops up big, collects the bonus and immediately asks for a refund of their balance, your terms should say that bonuses aren't refundable. Write it down clearly.

Set bonus tiers in the admin of your telly.cat reseller store.

FAQ

What is a top up bonus?

Extra balance customers get when they deposit more than a set amount.

How big can a top up bonus be?

Keep it well below your average margin after payment fees and commission.