Short answer: Polymarket does not run a standing cash deposit-match in 2026. Instead, the program pays you over time through fee rebates, trader-rewards points, and topical airdrops for active users. If you trade often, the rebates can outweigh a one-off welcome bonus.
How to maximize value as a new user
- Sign up via a current referral link — some quarters include a small first-deposit credit.
- Turn on trader rewards in Settings after KYC. Rewards pay out automatically for filled limit orders.
- Concentrate first trades in deep markets — Super Bowl, Presidential, major weather — where penny spreads make 0% fees actually feel like 0%.
- Watch the Rewards tab for topical boosts during big events (election week, Oscars, World Cup).
Polymarket bonus vs Kalshi bonus
| Bonus type | Polymarket | Kalshi |
|---|---|---|
| Day-one cash bonus | Rare / small | Deposit-match (recurring) |
| Ongoing rebates | Yes (trader rewards) | Limited |
| Best for | Active traders, large size | Beginners, lump-sum deposit |
If you want a clear cash welcome offer, start with Kalshi's sign-up bonus. If you trade weekly and care about long-term cost, Polymarket's structure compounds in your favor.
Texas eligibility
Polymarket promos are available to all eligible US users, including Texas residents 21+. There is no Texas-specific restriction. See is Polymarket legal in Texas? for the legal framework.
Sources & references
More: How to use Polymarket · Polymarket fees · Polymarket taxes