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DE Lay the Odds
“Lay the Odds” means adding an odds bet behind a Don’t Pass or Don’t Come wager once that wager has a point. For Don’t Pass, this happens after the table point is established. For Don’t Come, it happens after the bet moves to a number and sets its own point. It’s a common option in craps because it lets you increase your action on the “don’t” side without changing the basic flow of the game.
What “Laying the Odds” Means
On the “don’t” side, you win if a 7 appears before the point repeats. Laying the odds is an additional wager placed alongside your Don’t Pass or Don’t Come bet to increase your payout. Because you’re backing the more likely result (a 7 before the point), lay odds payouts are set so you typically risk more to win less.
When You Can Lay Odds and How It Works Step-by-Step
In craps, you can add lay odds only once your wager has a point working against it. The maximum amount you can lay depends on the table’s odds limit.
Follow these simple steps to place lay odds the right way:
- Place a Don’t Pass bet (or a Don’t Come bet).
- A point is established for your wager (for example, 9).
- Add lay odds behind your bet.
- If 7 shows first, you win the base bet and the odds bet; if the point hits first, you lose both.
Lay Odds Payouts
Lay odds payouts are based on the point number, and they’re written as “win X for every Y you lay”. Here are the most common ratios:
- Against 4 or 10: win $1 for every $2 you lay.
- Against 5 or 9: win $2 for every $3 you lay.
- Against 6 or 8: win $5 for every $6 you lay.
For example, against 4, you might lay $20 to win $10 on the odds portion if 7 rolls before 4\. Against 6, you might lay $24 to win $20. Some online craps games may suggest amounts that match the ratios cleanly.
Why Players Use Lay Odds
Players use lay odds because it’s a straightforward way to add to a Don’t Pass/Don’t Come position without spreading money across higher-edge side bets. It won’t guarantee a win, but it can be a more efficient add-on than many “extra” wagers.
Keep these quick pointers in mind before you add lay odds:
- Keep your base bet manageable and add odds only if your bankroll allows.
- Check the table’s maximum odds limit before placing lay odds.
- If you see a separate “Lay” option on the layout, read the rules to confirm it’s not a different bet type.
FAQ
Can I lay the odds before a point is set?
No. Lay odds are added only after a point number is established.
Is laying the odds the same as a Lay bet?
Not always. Laying the odds usually means odds behind Don’t Pass/Don’t Come, while a Lay bet can be a separate wager with its own rules.
Why do I have to risk more to win less?
Because you’re backing the more likely outcome (a 7 before the point).
How much can I bet as lay odds?
It depends on the table’s odds limit, and online craps games usually show your maximum when the option becomes available.
