Kalshi Welcome Offer: Trade and Get a Bonus
Kalshi’s new user promotion is structured as a trade-and-get offer rather than a traditional deposit match. New users who register with a valid promo code, complete identity verification, make at least a $10 deposit, and settle at least $25 in total trading volume within 30 days of signing up are credited with a flat $25 in trading credit. The bonus is outcome-independent — it does not matter whether your initial trades win or lose, as long as you complete the required volume. This is a trader-friendly structure that removes the pressure to make your first trade a winner just to unlock the promotion.
Multiple affiliate partners carry different promo codes for Kalshi’s welcome offer, and the underlying bonus value is consistent across current active codes. The promotional campaign itself is ongoing with no fixed end date, though Kalshi reserves the right to adjust or discontinue it — note that once your $25 bonus is credited, it must be used within seven days or it expires, and it can only be applied to Kalshi’s Predictions product rather than withdrawn as cash. Always confirm the current offer details directly on Kalshi’s website or through a verified affiliate before signing up.
How to Claim the Kalshi Bonus
Claiming the Kalshi welcome offer is a straightforward process that takes about 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. Here is how it works.
First, visit Kalshi’s website or download the Kalshi app from the App Store or Google Play. Click the Sign Up button and begin the registration process. When prompted during sign-up, enter a valid promo code in the referral code field. The code must be entered at this stage — it cannot be applied after you have completed registration or made your first deposit.
Once your promo code is entered, you will need to complete Kalshi’s Know Your Customer (KYC) identity verification. This is required for all accounts under the platform’s CFTC-regulated status. You will provide your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number. You will also need to upload a photo of a government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport) along with a selfie. Kalshi uses a third-party verification provider and the process is typically fast.
After your identity is verified, fund your account with at least $10. Kalshi accepts ACH bank transfers (no fee), debit cards and Apple Pay (2% processing fee), wire transfers, and cryptocurrency including USDC, Bitcoin, Solana, and others. Bank transfers take several business days to fully clear, while debit cards and crypto settle quickly. Execute at least $25 in total trading volume across any eligible markets — sports, politics, economics, weather, or any other category — within 30 days of signing up, and Kalshi will automatically credit the $25 bonus to your account once the threshold is met.
State Availability
Kalshi’s welcome bonus is not available to users in all states. As of early 2026, the offer is restricted in Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, Nevada, and Ohio. These restrictions stem from ongoing disputes with state gaming regulators over whether Kalshi’s sports-related event contracts fall under state gambling laws. Kalshi’s CFTC-regulated status allows it to operate in most states, but certain jurisdictions have pursued legal action to limit its sports market offerings. If you are located in one of these states, you may still be able to open a Kalshi account and trade on non-sports markets, but the welcome bonus terms may not apply. Check Kalshi’s current terms and conditions for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements.
Referral Program for Existing Users
Kalshi’s refer-a-friend program allows existing users to earn bonuses by introducing new traders to the platform. When you refer a friend using your unique referral link or code, both you and the new user can earn a bonus once the referred user completes the required trading activity. The referral program’s exact bonus amounts and trading thresholds are subject to change — check the referral section of your Kalshi account for your personalized code and the current terms. There is no cap on the number of friends you can refer, making this a meaningful ongoing source of bonus value for active users with a network of potential traders.
Ongoing Incentives for Active Traders
Beyond the welcome offer and the referral program, Kalshi provides several ways for active traders to earn additional value. The Volume Incentive Program and Liquidity Incentive Program reward users based on their trading frequency and the quality of their order placement. Traders who place resting limit orders on eligible markets contribute to price discovery and market depth, and Kalshi compensates them for doing so. These programs run over defined periods, and bonuses are credited automatically based on a user’s share of total qualifying activity during the period.
Kalshi also pays variable APY on cash balances and open positions for accounts with a balance of at least $250. This interest accrues daily and is paid out monthly, giving longer-term traders a passive return on capital that would otherwise sit idle while tied up in futures-style contracts. The combination of low fees, transparent pricing, and these yield opportunities makes Kalshi a compelling platform for traders who plan to be active over time. For a full breakdown of the platform, including how the exchange works and a complete review of all its features, visit our Kalshi review page.
Responsible Trading
Kalshi provides a range of responsible trading tools, including voluntary trading breaks, self-exclusion options, and personalized monthly deposit limits that users can set and adjust themselves. Event contract trading involves real financial risk, and the CFTC requires Kalshi to make this clear to all users. Only trade amounts you can afford to lose, and take advantage of the demo account feature if you want to practice the mechanics before risking real capital.
