# Rule 4 and non-runners: how deductions reduce winning returns

> Rule 4 deductions explained: what a non-runner does to winnings on a horse-racing bet, with example figures.

Source: https://bookieledger.com/terms/rule-4/
Updated: 2026-11-07

A Rule 4 deduction reduces the winnings on a horse-racing bet when a runner is withdrawn after the bet was placed. Each operator publishes its own scale in its rules. In the example here, a €10 win bet at 4/1 (5.00) returns €50.00 with no deduction and €46.00 with an example deduction of 10 cent in the euro.

## What is a Rule 4 deduction?

A Rule 4 deduction is a reduction in winnings when a runner is withdrawn after bets were placed. It reflects that the field has changed.

Each operator publishes its own scale in its rules, so the size of a deduction is a question for the operator you use, not a fixed figure.

**Bottom line:** Rule 4 takes part of the winnings away when a runner is withdrawn late.

## How does a deduction change a return?

Figures below are examples and are not an operator's scale.

**Rule 4 example, €10 win bet at 4/1 (5.00), selection wins · Source · Checked 7 November 2026**

| Example deduction | Winnings before | Winnings after | Stake returned | Total return |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| None | €40.00 | €40.00 | €10.00 | €50.00 |
| 10 cent in the euro | €40.00 | €36.00 | €10.00 | €46.00 |
| 25 cent in the euro | €40.00 | €30.00 | €10.00 | €40.00 |

Check in the operator's rules whether the deduction applies to winnings only, as in this example, and whether ante-post bets are treated differently.

**Bottom line:** the deduction cuts the winnings, not the stake.

## Where do you find the rule?

The scale sits in the betting rules of the operator you use. We did not record any scale on 7 November 2026.

**Rule 4 wording and scale as published · Source · Checked 7 November 2026**

| Operator (candidate, licence to be confirmed) | Scale and conditions | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| bet365 | Could not be verified on 7 November 2026 | Operator rules page, URL to be recorded | 7 November 2026 |
| Paddy Power | Could not be verified on 7 November 2026 | Operator rules page, URL to be recorded | 7 November 2026 |
| BOYLE Sports | Could not be verified on 7 November 2026 | Operator rules page, URL to be recorded | 7 November 2026 |

Because the rule is applied after the race, find the wording before you bet, not after a runner is withdrawn.

**Bottom line:** each operator publishes its own scale, and we have not yet recorded any.

## Where to go next

- Read [each-way](https://bookieledger.com/terms/each-way/) settlement.
- Learn how a [starting price](https://bookieledger.com/terms/starting-price/) is used.
- See [horse racing](https://bookieledger.com/sport/horse-racing/) and the [terms hub](https://bookieledger.com/terms/).

**Bottom line:** each link stays inside this site.

## What changed?

No changes recorded since first publication on 7 November 2026.

**Bottom line:** this is the first version of the page.