# What Is a Void Bet?

> What is a void bet? Why bets are voided, what happens to your stake, how a void leg counts as 1.00 in an accumulator and how long postponements wait.

Source: https://oddsclass.com/learn/void_bet/ · Publisher: OddsClass editorial team · Reviewed: 2026-11-06 · Language: en
> **Short answer:** A void bet is a bet the bookmaker cancels, so it is neither won nor lost. On a single bet, your stake is returned. In an accumulator, a void leg usually counts as odds of 1.00, and the rest of the bet carries on.

## Void bet example: Gor Mahia vs Tusker

Say you place a three-leg accumulator (one bet that links several picks). You stake (the money you bet) KSh 100.

| Leg | Selection | Odds (example odds) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gor Mahia to beat Tusker | 2.20 |
| 2 | AFC Leopards to win | 1.70 |
| 3 | Kaizer Chiefs to win | 1.60 |
| | **Total odds** | 2.20 × 1.70 × 1.60 = **5.984** |

If all three win, your return is KSh 100 × 5.984 = KSh 598.40.

Now say the Gor Mahia match is postponed and not replayed in time. Leg 1 is void and counts as 1.00:

- New total odds = 1.00 × 1.70 × 1.60 = 2.72
- Return if legs 2 and 3 win = KSh 100 × 2.72 = KSh 272.00
- Profit = KSh 272.00 − KSh 100 = KSh 172.00

The bet carries on, but the return is smaller. Check returns with the [payout calculator](https://oddsclass.com/tools/payout_calculator/).

## Why are bets voided?

Bets are voided when the bookmaker decides a bet cannot be settled fairly. The rules differ by bookmaker, so always read their terms.

Common reasons include:

- **Postponed match.** The match is not played on the planned date.
- **Abandoned match.** The match starts but stops early, for example due to heavy rain or crowd trouble.
- **Wrong odds.** The bookmaker shows a clearly wrong price by mistake, sometimes called a "palpable error".
- **Player does not play.** On a player bet, such as "first goalscorer", the player may not take part.
- **Rule breaks.** For example, the same bet placed many times to get around stake limits.

For an abandoned match, some markets may already be settled. A bet on "over 0.5 goals" could stand if a goal was scored before the match stopped.

## What happens to my stake?

On a void single bet, your stake goes back to your account. You get no profit and no loss.

| Bet | Stake | If won (example odds 2.40) | If void |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single on Kaizer Chiefs | R20 | R20 × 2.40 = R48.00 | R20.00 returned |

The refund is usually automatic. It can take some time to show, so check your bet history. If a refund does not arrive, contact the bookmaker's support.

## How does a void leg work in an accumulator?

A void leg in an accumulator usually counts as odds of 1.00. Multiplying by 1.00 changes nothing, so the leg simply drops out.

Here is a ₦1,000 double on Enyimba (1.90) and Remo Stars (1.40), both example odds:

| What happens | Total odds | Return on ₦1,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Both win | 1.90 × 1.40 = 2.66 | ₦2,660.00 |
| Remo Stars match void, Enyimba win | 1.90 × 1.00 = 1.90 | ₦1,900.00 |
| Remo Stars match void, Enyimba lose | — | ₦0.00 |
| Both matches void | 1.00 × 1.00 = 1.00 | ₦1,000.00 returned |

A void leg does not save a losing accumulator. If any other leg loses, the whole bet still loses. Read more in our [accumulator bet](https://oddsclass.com/learn/accumulator_bet/) guide.

## How long do bookmakers wait for a postponed match?

Bookmakers often wait 24–48 hours for a postponed match, but check your bookmaker's rules. If the match is played within that time, your bet usually stands.

If the match is not played in time, the bet is usually made void. Some bookmakers use a different time limit, or treat tournaments differently.

Example: you stake TSh 1,000 on Simba to beat Young Africans. The match is moved by one day. If your bookmaker's limit allows that, your bet stands. If the match ends 2–1 to Simba, you win as normal.

## Common mistakes

- **Thinking void means lost.** On a single, your stake comes back.
- **Thinking a void leg kills an accumulator.** It usually counts as 1.00, and the bet goes on.
- **Placing another bet on the replayed match too soon.** Your first bet may still stand if the match is played in time.
- **Not reading the rules.** Postponement, abandonment and player rules differ between bookmakers.

## Bet responsibly

Only stake money you can afford to lose. Set a deposit limit in your bookmaker account before you start. If betting stops being fun, read [where to get help](https://oddsclass.com/learn/gambling_help/).

## Related guides

- [What is an accumulator bet?](https://oddsclass.com/learn/accumulator_bet/)
- [How to calculate betting payout](https://oddsclass.com/learn/how_to_calculate_betting_payout/)
- [What is a bet slip?](https://oddsclass.com/learn/bet_slip/)
- [What is a single bet?](https://oddsclass.com/learn/single_bet/)
- [What is cash out in betting?](https://oddsclass.com/learn/cash_out/)