Progressive Jackpots: How They Work and What to Expect

Progressive jackpots can change a life in one spin. But the odds are long, and the rules can be tricky. This guide makes it simple. You will learn how the pot grows, how the game picks a winner, what the risks are, and how to play in a safe, legal way. No hype. Just clear facts and simple steps.

What is a progressive jackpot?

A progressive jackpot is a prize that grows over time. Each time people bet on the game, a small part of each bet goes into a shared pot. When someone wins, the pot goes back to a start amount (the “seed” or “reset value”) and starts growing again.

How it is not the same as a fixed jackpot: a fixed jackpot has the same top prize all the time. A progressive keeps rising until it hits.

• Seed/reset value: the amount the pot returns to after a win.
• Contribution rate: the percent of each bet that feeds the pot (often around 1–5%).
• Network: some pots grow across many casinos at once.

Types of progressive jackpots

Standalone

One machine or one game client only. The pot grows from players on that single game. These hit more often than giant network pots, but the prizes are smaller.

Local (in-house)

Many machines or games inside one casino or one brand share the pot. Prize size is mid-range. Hit rate is also mid-range.

Wide-area (networked)

Many casinos and many players feed one huge pot. These can reach very large sums. Wins are rare, but the top prize can be life-changing.

Must-drop / daily / mystery jackpots

Some jackpots must pay by a set time (for example, “must drop today”) or before a set amount. These prizes are smaller, but odds to hit rise as the deadline or cap gets close.

Examples you may see in different markets (availability depends on laws):

• Mega Moolah (wide-area; provider group now known as Games Global) — see Games Global.
• Divine Fortune (often local in some markets) — see NetEnt by Evolution.
• Megabucks (wide-area, land-based) — see IGT.

How progressive jackpots work

Seed value and who funds it

The game starts with a base pot after a win. The seed can be paid by the game provider or the casino brand. A higher seed makes the game more “newsworthy,” but it does not mean higher odds for you on each spin.

Contribution rate and growth

A small cut of each bet feeds the pot. Simple example: if the bet is $2 and 2% goes to the pot, then $0.04 adds to the jackpot on that bet. Across thousands of players, this makes the pot grow fast. On a busy network, the meter can jump every second.

Caps and overflow

Some pots have a cap. If the pot hits the cap, extra funds may go to boost the next seed or spill into a lower-tier pot. Rules vary by game. Always check the game info screen.

How the game picks a winner (RNG)

Wins come from a random number generator (RNG). This is math code that picks results at random. The pick does not “remember” past spins. A machine is never “due.” For fairness testing, look for independent labs like eCOGRA and GLI, which test RNGs and game returns.

Triggers and bet rules

• Some jackpots trigger in a bonus game or wheel.
• Some trigger at random on any spin.
• Some need max bet or a side bet to qualify. Others are “proportionate,” meaning smaller bets can still win, but chance may scale with bet size. Always read the paytable.

RTP, hit frequency, and volatility

RTP (Return to Player) is the long-term payback percent over a huge number of bets. It is not what you will get in one session. In progressive games, part of the RTP is in the base game (small wins). Part is in the jackpot that one player may hit. This makes the game “high volatility.” You can have long dry spells, then a big hit. Hit frequency (how often any win lands) can be low, so bankroll planning matters.

For an overview of testing standards for fair and open play, see the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority.

Odds and what to expect

The odds to win the top pot are very long. Think of a huge raffle with millions of tickets in the drum. Most sessions end without a big win. That does not mean the game is “tight.” It means the prize is rare by design.

• Expect many small or no wins in a row.
• Do not chase losses. The next spin is not more likely to hit.
• See the jackpot as a bonus dream. Play for fun only, not income.

Bankroll and play tips

Read the paytable first

Open the info screen. Look for:

• Do I need max bet or a side bet to qualify?
• How many jackpot tiers are there (Mini, Minor, Major, Grand)?
• What is the seed value? Any cap? Any must-drop rules?

Size your budget

• Only use money you can afford to lose.
• Pick a session limit for time and cash. Stop when you hit it.
• Choose a bet size that lets you play many spins. High volatility needs a deeper buffer.

Bonuses and jackpots

Many casinos exclude progressive bets from bonus play or from wagering rules. Some allow the game, but cap wins. Read the bonus terms. If unclear, ask support before you play.

KYC and payout process

Big wins need ID checks (KYC: Know Your Customer). You may need to send an ID, a bill, and payment proof. This is normal and part of anti-fraud and anti-money laundering laws. For why checks are needed, see the UKGC’s guidance on identity checks. Network jackpots are often paid by the game provider, not the casino. The time to pay can vary by site and by your country.

Choosing where to play (safety, licensing, game list)

Pick licensed sites only. Look for:

• Clear license info from a top regulator, like the UKGC or the MGA, or your state regulator if you are in the US.
• Game testing seals from eCOGRA or GLI.
• Fast, clear payouts. Fair terms for jackpots. No hidden limits on big wins.
• Real support and strong payment options.

If you want a short list of sites we checked for license status, jackpot game line-up, and payout speed, you can compare them here: https://www.gamblingfellas.com/. We test terms for jackpot play and note any rules that might block a cashout. Disclosure: if you click a link there and sign up, we may earn a commission. This does not change our ratings or your price.

Progressive slots vs. progressive table games

Some table games have progressive side bets, like Caribbean Stud, Let It Ride, or some Blackjack side bets. The side bet is a separate wager. Part of that side bet goes to the pot. Odds for the top prize are also very long. If you like table games and want a shot at a progressive, keep the side bet small and think of it as a fun extra, not a plan to win money.

Famous jackpots: context, not hype

Big wins do happen. Some wide-area jackpots have paid very large prizes at land casinos (for example, Megabucks by IGT) and online networks (for example, Mega Moolah). These events make the news because they are rare. Use them as inspiration, not as a goal for your budget.

Myths vs. reality

• “The machine is due.” False. The RNG does not track the past. Each spin is random.
• “They hit more at night.” Not really. More players at peak times can make the meter rise fast, but your odds on each spin do not change.
• “You must always bet max.” Not always. Some games need max bet. Some do not. Read the rules in the paytable every time.

Responsible play and legal notes

Gambling should be fun, not a way to make money. If you feel stress, take a break. If it stops being fun, stop. Set limits. Never use rent or food money to play. If you need help, these groups can help:

• National Council on Problem Gambling (US)
• BeGambleAware (UK)
• GamCare (UK)

Only play where it is legal for you. Check local laws and age rules. If you win a big jackpot, taxes may apply depending on your country. In the US, see the IRS rules on gambling income. In the UK, players usually do not pay tax on winnings, but operators pay duties (see HMRC Gambling Duty). For other regions, check your local tax office or talk to a tax pro.

Key takeaways

• Progressive jackpots grow from a small cut of each bet.
• Odds for the top prize are very long; play for fun.
• Read the paytable: check eligibility rules, seed, and caps.
• Use a budget and set limits. Do not chase losses.
• Pick licensed sites with tested games and clear payout terms.

FAQs

How do progressive jackpots grow?

A percent of each qualifying bet goes into the pot. On busy networks, many small adds make the pot rise fast.

Do I need to bet max to win the jackpot?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some games need max bet or a side bet. Some scale your chance with bet size. Check the paytable before you play.

Are progressive slots’ RTP lower than regular slots?

Often the base game RTP is lower, but part of the RTP sits in the jackpot. Only the player who hits the pot sees that part. For most players, sessions can feel tighter due to high volatility.

How are big jackpots paid, and how long does it take?

For network pots, the game provider usually pays the prize. You must pass KYC checks. Time to pay depends on rules in your country and your casino’s process. Ask support for their payout timelines.

Are must-drop jackpots easier to win?

They must hit by a set time or amount, so chance can be higher when close to that point. But prizes are smaller than giant wide-area pots.

Can I improve my chances?

You cannot change RNG odds. You can choose clear rules, play when you feel fresh, use a budget, and stop when it is not fun. That is smart play, but not an odds boost.

How can I tell if a site is legit?

Check for a valid license from a known body like the UKGC or MGA. Look for testing seals like eCOGRA or GLI. Read terms for jackpots and payouts. If in doubt, use trusted review sources like https://www.gamblingfellas.com/.

Mini glossary

• RTP (Return to Player): The long-term percent a game pays back over many bets.
• Volatility: How wild the results can be. High volatility means long dry runs and rare big hits.
• Hit frequency: How often any win lands.
• Seed/reset value: The pot amount after a jackpot is won.
• Contribution rate: The percent of each bet that feeds the pot.
• Wide-area network: Many casinos share one pot.

Sources and further reading

• UK Gambling Commission — player information
• Malta Gaming Authority
• eCOGRA — testing and certification
• Gaming Laboratories International (GLI)
• National Council on Problem Gambling
• BeGambleAware
• GamCare
• IGT — Megabucks and other progressives
• Games Global — progressive networks (e.g., Mega Moolah)
• NetEnt by Evolution — progressive titles
• IRS — tax on gambling income (US)
• HMRC — gambling duty (UK, operator duty)

About the author

By Alex M., gambling researcher since 2016. I review slot RTP sheets, test payout flows, and check T&Cs for jackpot rules across licensed sites. I support safe play and clear info. Last updated: January 28, 2026.

Editorial note: We fact-check game rules and regulators’ pages linked above. Rules and availability change by country. This article is for information only and is not legal or tax advice.