Tournament Rebuy Issue

Tournament Rebuy Issue

Hi All,

I run a three table small tournament once a week with an option to rebuy one time up to the first break, (end of level 4). So far it's been fine, when people bust out they use their rebuy option and buy back in for a full stack.

Last week however a non regular bust out and said he wanted to wait until the break before doing the rebuy, (which was 15 minutes away). I said we normally rebuy right away so the chips are in play and they said that's not how the casino does it. The casino lets you rebuy right up to when rebuy ends.

I'm torn on this, I see our usual way of doing it and I see the alternative way that casino's do, and I cannot make up my mind. My regulars were NOT happy that I allowed them to rebuy 15 minutes later at the break, but I don't see why it would put the bust out p[layer at much of an advantage.

Any thoughts or experiences welcome.

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03 March 2025 at 07:31 PM
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4 Replies



My experience is that new guy is correct. Rebuys are allowed through the end of, what? The rebuy period.

I don't understand why either you or the other players would be bothered by someone rebuying later. Maybe player needed a break to get his head straight, or whatever. If I'm in the field, and someone suggests that they could use their rebuy later (i.e., for fewer big blinds), I'm all for it.


The casino way is standard. Of course you can certainly do it your way, as in busted out players must rebuy right away or leave the tournament for good, however if you choose to go that route, you have an obligation to announce it in advance since its a deviation from the standard.


There are many different types of rebuys. Some places required you to lose al your chips before rebuying, others allow you to rebuy anytime when your stack is equal to the starting stack or lower. To me , its a host thing to decide, the question was raised, which way do you want to do it?


Sounds like you know what the bulk player base wants. (Rebuys right away) Also sounds like that's what you want too. Make it a house rule and make it known up front. You are good to go.
Home poker doesn't have to equal casino poker. That's the fun of home games. It does make sense to let players know upfront what the differences are though.

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