Best Pay By Phone Betting Sites in the UK
Pay By Phone allows UK players to deposit at their favourite bookmaker via their mobile device.
Initially emerging in the early 2010s, players could only fund their accounts via mobile carrier billing services (Boku and Payforit). Bookies charge the deposit to your phone bill or pay-as-you-go balance, eliminating the need to share bank details.
Today, the definition has extended to include mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. This offers utmost convenience with a service regulated by the UKGC and backed by secure mobile networks.
So, how exactly does Pay by Phone betting work and which bookies offer Pay by Phone payments to UK players?
#AD 18+. New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Min Deposit £10. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Account & Payment method restrictions apply. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. T&Cs Apply 18+. UK & IRE customers only. 1/5 Odds. 20+ must run for 6 places. Applies to Each-Way Market only. Race will revert to normal place terms if criteria not met. Antepost/void/combined odds/bets placed after the off/bets in-running don’t qualify. Acc & Payment restrictions apply. T&Cs apply.
#AD 18+ New customers only. Register, deposit with Debit Card, and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get £30 in Sports Free Bets & £20 in Bet Builder Free Bets within 24 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply
New customers can sign up using bonus code GG365, bet £10 and get £30 in Free Bets. Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration Required. This code is for marketing and tracking purposes only. #Ad.
18+. Play Safe. From 00:01 on 18.10.2022. £30 bonus. New customers only. Minimum £10 stake on odds of 1/2 (1.5) or greater on sportsbook (excluding Virtual markets). Further terms apply. #ad
#AD 18+ Use WELCOME15 under My Bonuses within 7 days of registering. To qualify, place a min £10 bet from your cash balance at odds of EVS or higher—only your first bet counts, and it must not be voided or cashed out. Once settled, receive 3 £5 free bets: one for an accumulator (min 4 legs at 2/5 odds per leg), one for any sportsbook market at EVS or higher, and one for a Sub Cover market, also at EVS or higher. Full T&Cs apply.
#AD 18+ | New Players Only. Min £10 qualifying bets stake not returned. Free bet – one-time stake of £30, min odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wager the winnings. Wager from real balance first. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Max conversion: £200. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply | begambleaware
New Players Only. Minimum stake £ 30, minimum odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wagering the winnings from the free bet. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Free bet is valid for 7 Days from issue. Max conversion: £200. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Limited to 1 sport & 5 casino brand/s within the network. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits.Full Terms apply.
#AD 18+ Opt-in Required. New Players Only. Min £25 qualifying bets, stake not returned. Free bet – one-time stake of £50, min odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wager the winnings. Wager from real balance first. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Max conversion: £200. Free bets and Bonuses are valid for 7 days. Limited to 1 sport & 5 casino brand/s within the network Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply.
How Pay by Phone Betting Works
Pay by Phone, in the traditional sense, allows players to make deposits using either their next phone bill or their Pay As You Go (PAYG) balance.
There are a handful of carrier billing solutions (Boku, Payforit, etc.), though they all follow a similar pattern. To make a deposit using Pay by Phone, follow the step-by-step guide below:
- Choose Pay by Phone or Boku at checkout.
- Enter your mobile number.
- Receive an SMS to confirm.
- Funds are added instantly to your betting account.
- Payment added to next phone bill (or deducted from PAYG credit).
For example, a player could make a £10 Betano deposit via Boku, which will appear on their next EE or O2 bill.
Pay by Phone deposit limits are enforced across all UK bookmakers, typically either £30 or £40 per day. It’s for this reason that traditional Pay by Phone deposits are best suited to casual and low-stakes bettors.
Note: Withdrawals cannot be made via Pay by Phone. Users must instead choose bank transfer, PayPal, or debit card.
Variants Beyond Carrier Billing
The rise of Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay has introduced a new layer to Pay by Phone deposits. Although never part of the original design, these mobile wallets do technically fall under the same category – although they do differ slightly:
- Apple Pay: Allows bettors to make instant deposits via their iPhone or iPad by using Face ID or Touch ID for authentication. It securely tokenises card information, ensuring smooth, private deposits on most UK betting apps.
- Google Pay: Links directly to your debit or credit card through your Android device, enabling quick, one-tap deposits for betting. It offers fast, secure transactions supported by major UK bookmakers, with Google’s integrated encryption ensuring protection.
- Samsung Pay: Operates similarly to Apple and Google Pay, allowing quick mobile deposits through NFC or biometric verification. It accepts both card and wallet payments on compatible Samsung devices, enabling fast, secure transactions for UK users.
Deposit speed (instant) and bonus eligibility (good) remain the same for both Boku (etc.) and mobile wallets. It’s the safety, security and deposit limits that offer the main differences.
By using biometric verification and encryption, digital wallets offer stronger KYC than traditional Pay by Phone methods. Deposit limits are also much higher, with bookmakers typically allowing 4-figure deposits from the digital mobile wallets.
Why UK Punters Choose Pay by Phone
Pay by Phone is chosen by UK players for one reason more than others: convenience.
Whether it’s a Boku or Apple Pay deposit, convenience is the number one reason that players choose Pay by Phone over the alternatives. Players can both make deposits and verify payments from a single device; there’s no need to dig around to find card details, and deposits are made instantly – ideal for time-sensitive and in-play wagers.
The privacy offered by traditional Pay by Phone methods is another key draw for some players. Those who prefer to keep gambling transactions hidden can do so with a Boku or Payforit deposit. This can be particularly helpful before extensive credit checks (e.g., mortgage applications).
The daily spending cap, typically £30 or £40, depending on the bookmaker, can be another key advantage for some players. The strict deposit limit can help prevent overspending, making it great for those looking for additional levels of control (used alongside the responsible gambling tools available at each bookie).
Ultimately, Pay by Phone is best suited to casual, mobile-first bettors or those with limited access to cards. For example, an O2 customer making quick in-play bets during a football match (watching in the pub) with no access to their wallet (they’ve left it at home – it’s a cashless world after all!).
Of course, Pay by Phone isn’t a standalone solution, and there are some trade-offs. Withdrawals aren’t supported, some bonuses may not allow Pay by Phone deposits, and the deposit limit isn’t for everyone.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at which UK bookmakers handle Pay by Phone best, and what sets them apart.
Top 10 Pay by Phone Betting Sites in the UK
We’ve taken into account all UK bookmakers that accept Boku, Payforit, or other Pay by Phone deposits. Using the criteria below, we’ve evaluated each of the top bookies, highlighting their strengths:
- Speed: How fast deposits are processed and credited to your betting account.
- Reliability: Consistency of service, uptime, and customer trust in carrier billing performance.
- Bonus support: Whether Pay by Phone deposits qualify for sign-up or reload bonuses.
- Mobile user experience: How smooth the app or mobile site feels when funding your account or placing bets.
All of the bookies listed below are licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and offer safe, secure sports betting.
BOYLE Sports
A well-established UK bookmaker providing trustworthy Pay by Phone deposits and competitive odds.
- Strong Pay by Phone integration for small stakes.
- Minimum deposit: £5.
- Not bonus-eligible for some promos.
- Withdrawals must be made using alternative methods (debit, PayPal, etc.).
Betfred
A reputable high-street provider with a robust mobile platform and support for Boku mobile deposits.
- Accepts Boku for mobile deposits up to £30/day.
- Known for football and racing promos.
- Offers alternative withdrawal via bank transfer
Bet365
- One of the world’s largest sportsbooks, offering extensive markets and the quickest processing speeds available.
- Full Boku compatibility for UK players.
- Fastest processing speeds on the market.
- Pay by Phone deposits are usually eligible for bonuses.
William Hill
A premium UK bookmaker with a user-friendly app and support for both Boku and Payforit deposits.
- Supports Boku and Payforit deposits.
- Suitable for responsible betting due to low caps.
- Withdrawals via debit card or PayPal only.
Betgoodwin
A newer online bookmaker with modern design, mobile-first features, and Pay by Phone support.
- Newer operator supporting Pay by Phone and debit card.
- Emphasises quick top-ups during live events.
- Rewards regular users with mobile-exclusive offers.
10bet
Offers a wide range of sports markets, a smooth mobile interface and support for Boku deposits.
- Boku-supported deposits from £10.
- Pay by Phone deposits may not qualify for the welcome bonus.
- Smooth mobile UX, strong accumulator markets
Jeffbet
Designed for quick, low-stakes betting, perfect for casual users with Boku support.
- Accepts Boku deposits and quick SMS confirmation.
- Fast, reliable processing.
- The bonus is valid only if the first deposit is made via card.
Mogobet
You can deposit directly from your mobile phone bill with Mogobet.
- Boku supported direct from mobile.
- Mobile bill can be used to deposit directly onto their platform.
- Bonus is ineligible.
Betrino
Operator is mobile-centric, with most of their offerings centred around mobile experience
- Boku can be used with Betrino.
- Withdraw directly into your mobile bank.
- All payment processes are instant.
Comparison Table: 10 Pay by Phone Betting Sites
Prefer to compare the details of the best Pay by Phone betting sites side-by-side? Check out the table below for a complete comparison.
| Bookmaker | Deposit Method | Min Deposit | Max Limit | Bonus Eligible? | Withdrawal Options | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boylesports | Boku | £5 | £30/day | Partial | Bank, PayPal | Instant |
| Betfred | Boku | £10 | £30/day | Yes | Bank | Instant |
| Bet365 | Boku | £5 | £40/day | Yes | Bank, PayPal | Instant |
| William Hill | Boku | £10 | £30/day | Partial | Card | Instant |
| Betgoodwin | Boku | £10 | £30/day | Yes | Debit card | Instant |
| 10bet | Boku | £10 | £30/day | No | Bank | Instant |
| Jeffbet | Boku | £10 | £30/day | No (first deposit) | Card | Instant |
| Mogobet | Boku | £10 | £30/day | No | Bank | Instant |
| Betrino | Boku | £10 | £30/day | No | Bank | Instant |
Bonus Eligibility & Common Restrictions
Many UK bookmakers actually exclude Pay by Phone deposits from welcome bonuses. This is due to several reasons: anti-fraud measures, KYC compliance, or a lack of two-way verification.
For instance, Bet365 and Betfred usually accept Boku for bonuses, whereas Jeffbet and 10bet require a debit card for the first deposit to unlock the welcome offers. A practical workaround for successfully claiming the welcome bonus and using Pay by Phone would be to make an initial deposit via debit card, then use Pay by Phone for regular top-ups.
Ongoing promotions, such as price boosts, acca insurance, and loyalty points, generally do not exclude Pay by Phone payments. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions of the specific bookmaker or promotion to confirm.
How to Deposit Using Pay by Phone (Step-by-Step)
Depositing via Pay by Phone is quick, simple, and mobile-friendly, making it ideal for bettors wanting fast access to their accounts without entering card or bank details.
Follow the step-by-step guide below to deposit with Pay by Phone:
- Step 1: Log in to your bookmaker account.
- Step 2: Select Boku or Pay by Phone at the cashier.
- Step 3: Enter your mobile number and confirm via SMS.
- Step 4: Receive deposit confirmation.
- Step 5: Funds appear immediately; the balance is charged to the mobile bill.
For example, depositing £10 on Betfred via Boku will instantly credit your betting account with the deposit reflected in your next EE (or other mobile carrier) bill.
A maximum daily limit of £30 or £40 is typically enforced for Pay by Phone. It is therefore a good idea to deposit in smaller amounts to avoid exceeding this limit.
Pay by Phone vs Other Betting Payment Methods
Pay by Phone is ideal for casual, mobile bettors who place small-to-medium bets. For example, for small in-play football bets, Pay by Phone can be much quicker than pulling out a debit card mid-match.
High rollers tend to prefer alternative payment methods, such as debit cards or e-wallets, because they offer higher deposit limits.
Pay by Phone vs Debit Cards
Debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are the most popular deposit methods offered at UK bookmakers. Compared to Pay by Phone, debit cards provide higher limits, making them a go-to for high rollers. Initial deposits made with a debit card will qualify for almost every UK bookmaker’s welcome offer.
Debit card deposits, however, are less private than Pay by Phone, which can prove to be a significant downside for some players.
Pay by Phone vs E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller)
E-wallets provide two-way transfers and higher limits than Pay by Phone deposits. However, e-wallets require a separate account, which must be set up and verified. Initial deposits made via Skrill or Neteller are unlikely to qualify for the welcome offer.
Withdrawals made via e-wallets are often quick, within a couple of hours.
Pay by Phone vs PayPal
PayPal provides comparable speed and security to Pay by Phone and is more likely to qualify for welcome bonuses. However, as with e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, etc.), it requires linking a bank or card account. Pay by Phone operates directly through your mobile number, removing the need to link other payment methods.
Pay by Phone vs Paysafecard:
Paysafecard is similar to Pay by Phone, offering a prepaid solution that provides anonymity. A Paysafecard, however, is not tied to your phone. A voucher must therefore be purchased, adding an extra step and removing some of the convenience of Pay by Phone.
Security, Limits, and Responsible Gambling Features
Pay by Phone deposits are secure and regulated, with carrier billing overseen by Ofcom and partnered with major UK mobile networks (including EE, O2 and Vodafone). All transactions are completed without sharing card or bank data, ensuring that financial data remains private and secure.
Most operators will enforce a daily deposit limit of either £30 or £40 to ensure safe spending. This doubles as a safeguard that can be used alongside the responsible gambling features offered by UKGC-licensed bookmakers.
There are no chargebacks or refunds available with Pay by Phone payments. Instead, players must contact the bookie’s customer service team for billing errors.
Drawbacks and Lesser-Known Issues
Although Pay by Phone is a convenient and popular deposit method in the UK, there are some drawbacks and lesser-known issues that players should be aware of.
The most prominent drawback to Boku and Payforit is the lack of a withdrawal option. Instead of a seamless two-way transfer, withdrawals must be made via bank transfer, debit card, or e-wallet.
Additionally, it’s not uncommon to hear of some networks blocking gambling-related transactions, leading to unexpected issues and deposit failure with Pay by Phone. This, combined with bill delays, can make Pay by Phone a confusing deposit method for some players.
The daily limit (£30 or £40) may also be a hurdle for some players – especially high rollers. A player betting £50 daily, or wagering larger sums on specific events (The Grand National, Cheltenham Festival, World Cup Final, etc.) may need an alternative payment method for greater flexibility.
Finally, bonus exclusions on the first deposit may require an alternative payment method to claim any available welcome offer. Our advice would be to use a debit card on the initial deposit before switching to Boku or Payforit for regular top-ups.
FAQs
Can I claim welcome bonuses if I use Pay by Phone to deposit?
Most betting sites will allow players to claim welcome bonuses with Pay by Phone deposits.
As always, it’s essential to review the specific terms and accepted payment methods on each site in the bonus terms and conditions.
What’s the difference between Boku, Payforit, and Apple Pay in betting?
Boku and Payforit offer traditional Pay By Phone deposits, adding the deposit value to your phone bill. Apple Pay differs in that it uses your linked debit cards for direct payments.
Can I withdraw winnings if I deposit via Pay by Phone?
No, Pay by Phone only allows deposits. You need to select another method, such as bank transfer or PayPal, to withdraw your winnings.
Are there daily or monthly limits on Boku deposits?
Yes, Boku generally caps deposits at £30 per transaction and £240 per month, though limits may vary by operator.
Which UK networks support Pay by Phone betting payments?
Most major UK networks, including O2, EE, Vodafone, and Three, support Pay by Phone betting payments.
Is Pay by Phone safer than using a debit card or PayPal?
Yes, Pay by Phone is often considered safer than using a debit card or PayPal to deposit. However, the alternatives offer increased customer protection options (e.g, refunds).
What happens if my phone bill payment fails or I cancel it?
If your phone bill payment fails or is cancelled, the deposit won’t reach the betting site, and your bet won’t be credited.
How do I track or refund a Pay by Phone deposit if I made a mistake?
Accidental deposits can be traced and refunded by contacting either your mobile network’s billing support or the betting site’s customer service.