Bad-beat jackpot
A progressive prize funded by a small extra drop from each pot, paid out when a very strong hand — typically quad eights or better — loses at showdown. The loser takes the biggest share, the winner of the hand the next, and the rest of the table splits the remainder. Popular in North American card rooms, where jackpots often exceed $1 million.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bad-beat jackpot?
A prize paid when a very strong hand loses — typically quad eights or better beaten. The loser takes the largest share, the winner of the hand a smaller one, and the rest of the table splits the remainder.
Who pays for the bad-beat jackpot?
The players. A small amount is dropped from qualifying pots into the jackpot fund, so it is funded out of your own rake rather than by the casino.
Do both hole cards have to play?
Usually yes. Most rooms require both of the loser's hole cards to be used, and some require the hand to be shown down. The qualifying rules vary by room — read the posted terms before counting on it.