How to calculate your returns from a treble bet? Here is a simple guide

Understanding how to calculate treble returns helps you compare bookmakers, size stakes sensibly and spot value. This guide gives step-by-step calculations, clear examples using UK odds formats, and answers to common questions so you can check returns quickly before you place a bet.

The essentials first: A treble combines three single selections into one bet. If all three win, your stake multiplies by the product of the three decimal odds and you receive that full return. Trebles pay more than singles because the odds compound, but all three picks must win. Below you’ll find quick formulas, worked examples in decimal and fractional odds, how each-way trebles work, and simple rules to avoid mistakes.

Also read: What are the most popular horse racing bets in the UK?

What exactly is a treble?

A treble is a single bet made up of three selections. All three must win for the treble to pay. The stake is placed once and covers the combined market. Trebles are a type of accumulator (an acca), a treble is an acca of three picks.

Quick formula (decimal odds)

Use decimal odds for simple calculation. If your three selections have decimal odds o₁, o₂ and o₃, and your stake is S, then:

Return = S × o₁ × o₂ × o₃

Profit = Return − S

Worked example (decimal odds):
Stake = £10; odds = 2.00, 3.50, 1.80
Return = 10 × 2.00 × 3.50 × 1.80 = 10 × 12.6 = £126.00
Profit = £126.00 − £10.00 = £116.00

Also Read: Do you pay tax on sports betting winnings in the UK?

How to calculate if you have fractional odds (UK favourite)

Convert fractional odds (e.g. 5/2, 3/1) to decimal first:

Decimal = (numerator ÷ denominator) + 1

Fractional odds: 5/2 → Decimal = (5 ÷ 2) + 1 = 2.5 + 1 = 3.5
So fractional 5/2 becomes decimal 3.5 and you use the decimal formula above.

Each-way trebles, what changes?

An each-way treble is actually two trebles: one for the win part, one for the place part. You must stake for both. If a selection places but does not win, the place part may pay (subject to each-way terms) while the win part loses.

Example: £1 each-way treble (total stake £2). If the bookmaker pays 1/4 odds for places, convert place fractions to decimal first then calculate two trebles separately (win trebles use full decimal odds; place trebles use reduced odds), then add returns.

What about bookmaker commission, cash-out and bet rules?

Most UK bookies return your stake as part of the decimal return. Check whether offers like “free bet” pay stake back on a winning treble (some only pay winnings). Cash-out values depend on live market prices and may be lower than the true mathematical return.

Step-by-step checklist before placing a treble

1. Convert any fractional odds to decimal.
2. Multiply the three decimal odds together.
3. Multiply the product by your stake to get the return.
4. Subtract stake to see profit (if you need profit figure).
5. Check each-way terms if you’re betting each-way and factor in double stake.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using fractional odds directly without converting.
• Confusing “return” (includes stake) with “profit”.
• Forgetting each-way trebles are two bets (double the stake).
• Assuming cash-out equals mathematical return.

Extra example — fractional odds each-way treble

Selections: 3/1, 5/2, 7/4; stake = £2 each-way (£4 total).
Convert: 3/1=4.0, 5/2=3.5, 7/4=2.75 (decimals).
Win treble return = £2 × 4.0 × 3.5 × 2.75 = £77.00 (if all win).
Place trebles: convert place fraction (say 1/4) to decimals for each and calculate the place treble separately, add returns together and subtract total stake to get profit.

Responsible betting note

Betting should be seen as entertainment. Only use money you can afford to lose and set limits. If you feel betting is causing harm, seek help from GamCare or GamStop.

FAQs

What is a treble?

A treble is an accumulator of three selections. All three must win for the treble to pay.

How do I calculate returns from a treble?

Convert odds to decimal, multiply the three decimals together, then multiply by your stake. Return includes your stake.

How does an each-way treble work?

An each-way treble is two trebles, a win treble and a place treble, so you pay double the stake. Place terms vary by bookmaker.

Do I get my stake back if I win?

Yes, decimal returns include the original stake. Profit = return − stake.

Can one losing selection still return money?

Only if you bet each-way and the losing selection places (and place terms apply). Otherwise, all three must win for a standard treble to pay.

Are trebles a good value bet?

Trebles can offer big returns but they are riskier since all three picks must win. Use them selectively and manage your bankroll.