Guaranteed (GTD) and overlay tournaments

A guaranteed (GTD) tournament has a minimum prize pool the site promises to pay. If the buy-ins don't reach the guarantee, the site pays the difference, which is called an overlay.

How it works

Prize pool = entries × the prize-pool part of the buy-in (fees excluded). If that is below the guarantee, the site adds the shortfall. On our site, "GTD per buy-in" is the guarantee divided by the buy-in, roughly how many entries are needed to cover it.

Worked example

A $109 event ($100 to the pool) with a $10,000 GTD needs 100 entries. If only 80 play, the pool would be $8,000, so the site adds a $2,000 overlay.

Strategy tips

Overlays are rare in popular events. Don't expect them, but watch registration counts near the start.
Odd start times and small sites are where overlays happen most.
Remember the fee isn't part of the pool when you estimate coverage.
Re-entries help events beat guarantees, which reduces overlay chances.
Our winner-prize estimates are based on the guarantee, so actual payouts depend on field size.

Common mistakes

Including the site fee in prize-pool maths
Assuming a big GTD means a soft field

🔎 Know who you're up against

Overlay events often attract regulars hunting value, so the field can be tougher than its size suggests. Looking up who's registered helps you judge whether an overlay is worth it or whether the table will be full of strong players.

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Find these tournaments

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FAQ

What is a guaranteed (gtd) and overlay tournament?

A guaranteed (GTD) tournament has a minimum prize pool the site promises to pay. If the buy-ins don't reach the guarantee, the site pays the difference, which is called an overlay.

What is an overlay in poker?

The amount the site adds when entries don't cover the guaranteed prize pool.

What does GTD mean?

Guaranteed: the minimum total prize pool.

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