Skill means nothing if you go broke. That’s the hardest lesson in poker.
Countless talented players have “busted” their accounts not because they played bad cards, but because they managed their money poorly. This guide isn’t about GTO or check-raising—it’s about survival. Bankroll Management (BRM) is the only safety net you have against variance.
1. What is Bankroll Management?
Your bankroll is your ammo. If you run out of ammo, the war is over. In simple terms, BRM dictates how many Buy-ins (BI) you need to safely play a specific stake level.
Even the best players in the world suffer massive “downswings” where they lose 10 or 20 buy-ins in a row due to pure bad luck. Proper BRM ensures you can absorb those hits and keep grinding.
2. 2026 Bankroll Requirements Cheat Sheet
We use “Buy-ins” (BI) as the standard unit. For example, if you play NL10 ($0.05/$0.10), one full Buy-in is $10.
| Game Type | Conservative | Aggressive | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Games (NLH) | 40-50 BI | 30 BI | Standard for pros minimizing risk of ruin. |
| Omaha (PLO) | 80-100 BI | 50 BI | Variance is massive; you need deeper pockets. |
| Tournaments (MTT) | 100-200 BI | 100 BI | Expect long stretches without a significant cash. |
3. The Traffic Light System
Use this simple visual system to check the health of your poker economy instantly.
Bankroll > 50 BI. You are comfortable. Focus entirely on making the best decision (EV+) without worrying about the money.
Bankroll = 25-30 BI. If you hit a downswing here, you risk dropping into the danger zone. Tighten up your game or consider moving down.
Bankroll < 20 BI. Drop stakes immediately. Do not try to “chase losses” to get back to even. Swallow your pride to protect your remaining capital.
4. How to Move Up Stakes (Shot Taking)
You shouldn’t wait until you have 100 Buy-ins to move up. Strategic “Shot Taking” allows you to test the waters at higher stakes aggressively but safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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