Broker assigns unrequested bonus to block withdrawal is a deceptive tactic where brokers credit a trader’s account with a bonus that the trader did not request, and then use this bonus as a condition to block withdrawals. The broker may impose wagering or volume requirements on the bonus, preventing the trader from accessing their own funds until these conditions are met, which may be difficult or impossible to fulfil.

Trusted brokers ensure that all bonuses are optional, fully disclosed, and do not hinder a trader’s ability to withdraw funds freely.

How brokers misuse unrequested bonuses to block withdrawals

There are several ways brokers exploit unrequested bonuses to block withdrawals unfairly.

Imposing withdrawal restrictions

Brokers may claim that the trader must meet specific trading volume or wagering requirements before they can withdraw their own funds, often attaching the bonus to the account without prior consent.

Excusing it as “standard practice”

Brokers often excuse the forced bonus assignment as part of their “standard promotion” or “account offer,” even though it was not requested or agreed to by the trader.

Changing withdrawal terms after bonus assignment

Once the unrequested bonus is added to the account, brokers may change the terms of withdrawal, imposing additional conditions or fees to prevent easy access to funds.

Targeting profitable accounts

This tactic is sometimes used on profitable accounts to reduce withdrawal opportunities, especially if the trader has made gains from market movements but cannot withdraw until the bonus conditions are met.

Impact on traders

When brokers assign unrequested bonuses to block withdrawals, it can cause significant frustration, financial strain, and a loss of trust.

Frozen funds

Traders may find their funds “locked” in the account due to bonus requirements, making it difficult to access capital for further trading or withdrawal.

Missed withdrawal opportunities

By preventing withdrawals until bonus conditions are met, brokers effectively stop traders from using their profits as they see fit, trapping them in the account with arbitrary conditions.

Increased emotional stress

Traders become frustrated when they realize that they are unable to withdraw their funds due to the imposed bonus requirements, leading to stress and confusion.

Loss of trust

This practice erodes trust between the broker and the trader, as it reflects a lack of transparency and fairness in the broker’s operations.

How to protect yourself

There are important steps traders can take to protect themselves from brokers who assign unrequested bonuses to block withdrawals.

Choose brokers with transparent bonus policies

Work only with brokers regulated by authorities like the FCA, ASIC, or CySEC. Trusted brokers such as Intertrader, AvaTrade, TiBiGlobe, Vantage, and Markets.com provide clear, optional bonuses with terms that do not prevent withdrawals or impose hidden conditions.

Understand bonus terms before accepting

Always carefully review the terms and conditions related to any bonuses, especially if they are automatically applied to your account. Ensure that no bonus is added without your consent.

Request a bonus removal

If an unrequested bonus is added to your account, request that the broker removes it immediately, especially if it is affecting your ability to withdraw funds.

Monitor account balances and withdrawal status

Regularly check your account for any bonus or restriction notifications, and make sure your ability to withdraw funds is not being affected by unrequested bonuses.

Escalate unfair bonus restrictions

If a broker adds an unrequested bonus and blocks withdrawals as a result, escalate the issue to their regulatory authority or compliance team, providing full evidence of the situation.

Reliable brokers for fair bonus management

Top-tier brokers offer clear and transparent bonus policies, allowing traders to accept or decline bonuses freely and ensuring that withdrawals are never unnecessarily restricted by bonus conditions.

By choosing brokers committed to fair and transparent bonus practices, traders can protect themselves from the risks when a broker assigns an unrequested bonus to block withdrawal.

If you want to learn how to trade with confidence and avoid manipulative broker tactics, explore our expert-led Trading Courses today.