Ever wondered what happens if the outcome of a match or event gets updated after you have already been paid out, or lost, on your bet?
Things like VAR in football or a late appeal in a race can sometimes shift the picture after everything looked finished. With betting operators working under UK regulation, it is reasonable to ask what follows if the result you backed is not as final as it first seemed.
Below, we explain what settlement really means, what happens if an official result is changed later, and where you would potentially stand with features like cash out and payouts.
What Happens When A Bet Is Settled?
If you place a bet, it is settled once the bookmaker has an official result and applies the relevant market rules. After the final whistle in a football match, for example, most bets are confirmed within minutes. The same applies in racing, tennis, and other sports, with settlement based on recognised data feeds and event officials.
Settlement means the bookmaker has recorded your bet as a win or a loss and updated your balance accordingly. If your selection wins, the return is credited to your account or printed on your bet slip. If it loses, the stake remains with the bookmaker. Operators rely on official sources and the stated rules of each market, such as whether extra time counts or whether a statistics-based market uses the governing body’s numbers.
There can be short delays if there is a review under way or if the official result has not been confirmed. Bookmakers will normally wait for the first valid, official declaration for that market before settling.
If you decide to try your hand at sports betting, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
What Happens If The Result Changes After A Bet Has Settled?
If an official result changes after a bet has been settled, UK bookmakers usually do not adjust the settlement. They use the official result available at the time and do not reopen markets if outcomes are later amended.
Horse racing illustrates this clearly. If a horse is first past the post but later disqualified, settled bets generally remain unchanged. Some operators may offer concessions, such as paying both the original and amended results, but this is optional and not a regulatory requirement.
In football, VAR decisions are typically resolved before the final result, so settlements usually reflect the correct score. In other sports, rare post-event disqualifications or appeals may occur. Unless there is a clear settlement or market error, settled bets are not normally revised.
If you believe a bet was settled incorrectly according to the official result at the time, contact customer support to review the market notes. If unresolved, the case can be escalated to an approved alternative dispute resolution service, which will consider the operator’s published rules and relevant regulations.
If A Bet Has Settled Can You Cash Out?
No. Cash out is only available while a market is live and before the bet has been settled. Some bookmakers provide this feature on selected events, allowing users to close their bet early for an offered amount that reflects 
the current state of play. Once the event concludes and the bet is settled, the cash out option is no longer available, as there is nothing remaining to close.
Some sites may also offer partial cash out or auto cash out features for certain markets. These operate in a similar way but are only accessible while the event is ongoing. Availability depends on the sport and the specific market, and not all bets will qualify, so it could be wise to review the website or app’s terms for each event.
Can A Bookie Refuse To Pay Out?
Bookmakers are expected to pay valid winnings promptly. However, there are circumstances where a payment may be delayed or declined under the operator’s terms and relevant regulations.
Verification is the most common reason for a delay. Withdrawals may be paused until age, identity, address, or payment details have been confirmed. In some instances, additional information about the source of funds may be requested, particularly for larger or unusual transactions.
A bookmaker may also void a bet or refuse a payout if there has been a breach of rules or an issue with the market. Examples include clear pricing errors, bets placed after the outcome was effectively known, evidence of prohibited activity such as match manipulation, or misuse of promotions.
If you disagree with a decision, you could raise a formal complaint with the bookmaker, allowing them to review the bet history and market rules. If the issue remains unresolved, an approved dispute resolution service can provide an independent review.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.