Quick summary
An If Bet links multiple straight bets in a sequence—each subsequent bet only goes through if the previous one wins (or pushes). This structure gives bettors more control over risk compared to parlays, while still allowing for multi-leg betting. This guide explains how If Bets work, how they differ from other formats, and when to consider using them.
What is an If Bet?
An If Bet is a structured wager made up of two or more individual bets. Each leg of the sequence is only placed if the prior leg wins (or wins/pushes, depending on the variant you choose).
Example:
You bet on Team A to win. If that wins, you then bet on Team B. If Team A loses, the second bet is never placed.
This lets you:
- Limit your exposure
- Keep potential returns higher than betting individually
- Avoid the all-or-nothing risk of a parlay
How does it work?
You pre-select your bets and set the order.
- First bet is placed normally
- If it wins, the next bet in the sequence is placed
- If any bet loses, the sequence ends immediately
This helps prevent you from risking a full stake on bets that never get a chance to play out.
If Bet vs. Parlay vs. Straight Bet
Feature | If Bet | Parlay | Straight Bet |
|---|---|---|---|
Structure | Sequential, conditional | Combined, all-or-nothing | Single, independent |
Risk | Moderate | High | Low |
Payout | Moderate | High | Fixed |
Outcome Flexibility | Allows partial wins | No partial wins | One bet = one result |
Types of If Bets
1. If Win only
Each bet is placed only if the previous one wins.
Example:
- Bet 1: $50 on Team A at -110
- Bet 2: $50 on Team B at +120
If Team A wins, the second bet is placed. If Team A loses, the sequence ends. You only risk your initial $50.
2. If Win or Push
Each bet is placed if the previous one wins or results in a push.
Example:
- Bet 1: $50 on Team A at -110
- Bet 2: $50 on Team B at +120
If Team A wins or pushes (tie/no action), the next bet is placed. If it loses, the sequence ends.
When to use an If Bet
If Bets are ideal when you want to:
- Control bankroll exposure — you’re not risking the full stake on every bet
- Bet across events at different times — wait for one result before placing the next
- Avoid parlay risk — a loss doesn’t void all legs; it ends the sequence
- Focus on confident selections without committing large sums
Frequently asked questions
Can I place an If Bet across different sports?
Yes. Most sportsbooks that offer If Bets allow mixing sports, provided the events occur at different times.
What happens if a game is canceled?
If Win or Push continues to the next bet. If Win Only ends the sequence.
Are If Bets available for live betting?
Some sportsbooks support If Bets on live events, but availability varies.
Are they offered by all sportsbooks?
No. If Bets are more common at U.S.-focused or legacy sportsbooks. Always check the betting platform's options.
Are they better than straight bets?
They're not "better," but they offer structured risk management when placing multiple bets. You only commit more capital when you're already winning.
Do If Bets cost extra to place?
No. You risk only the original stake. No additional fees apply, but winnings are reinvested automatically if the first leg wins.
Learn More
To explore more risk-managed betting formats like teasers, round robins, and structured parlays, visit The Advantage, your hub for practical, math-first sports betting education.