Lay Bet Calculator

Calculate stakes and liability for lay bets on betting exchanges like Betfair

What is a Lay Bet?

A lay bet is when you bet against an outcome happening. Instead of backing a selection to win, you're betting that it won't win. This is only possible on betting exchanges like Betfair, where you're essentially acting as the bookmaker.

When placing a lay bet:

  • Your stake is the amount you stand to win if your lay bet wins (the selection loses)
  • Your liability is the amount you stand to lose if your lay bet loses (the selection wins)
  • Commission is charged by the exchange on your net winnings

Lay betting is a key component of matched betting strategies and hedging.

Enter decimal odds (e.g., 2.50)
This is the amount you want to win if your lay bet wins
Lay Bet Results
Lay Stake:
Liability:
If Lay Bet Wins (Selection Loses):
If Lay Bet Loses (Selection Wins):
Commission Paid (if Lay Wins):
Net Profit (if Lay Wins):
How Lay Betting Works

When you place a lay bet, you're betting that something won't happen. For example, if you lay Team A, you're betting that Team A will not win.

On a betting exchange:

  • Back bet: Betting that something will happen (traditional bet)
  • Lay bet: Betting that something won't happen (acting as the bookmaker)

Your liability is calculated as: Lay Stake × (Lay Odds - 1)

This is the amount you need in your exchange account to place the bet, and the amount you'll lose if your lay bet loses.