Did you know that while learning how to play Blackjack, you can actually get your OG bet back? Yes, it’s totally possible – all thanks to a resulting Blackjack push. This ties the game evenly, and you’re likely to get most of your wagers back. Keep on reading to learn all about this exhilarating strategy to the casino card game.
What is a Blackjack Push?

In the thrilling world of blackjack, rules might differ between land-based and online casinos, but when it comes to a “push,” the outcome is universal. In Blackjack terms, a Blackjack Push means a tie, and you get your original bet back—no harm, no foul, but the tension is real!
Here’s an example to help you better visualize it:
- You place a $20 bet on the blackjack table.
- The dealer deals two cards: one face-up and one face-down.
- You receive a 10 and a 6, totaling 16.
- The dealer’s face-up card is a Jack (worth 10).
- You decide to hit and receive a 2, bringing your total to 18.
- Now, you choose to stand with your hand.
- The dealer reveals their hidden card: a 4.
- With that, the dealer’s total is now 14.
- Since the dealer’s hand is below 17, the dealer must hit.
- The dealer draws a 2, bringing their total to 16.
- In this case, the dealer must hit again because their total is still below 17.
- The dealer draws another 2, ending up with a total of 18.
- Both you and the dealer have 18, resulting in a blackjack push. Your $20 bet is returned.
While your hand ties, remember—each player is playing their own battle against the dealer. Others might be walking away with wins or licking their wounds with losses, while your thrilling push kept the game alive!
How to Do a Blackjack Push

While not as common as other Blackjack side bets, the push side bet offers a thrilling opportunity for those seeking a thrill. It’s a separate wager that pays out if there’s a tie between you and the dealer!
Here’s how to perform a blackjack push in your favorite online casino:
- Place Your Bet. Start by betting on the table. You’ll receive two cards, while the dealer gets one face-up and one face-down.
- Build Your Hand. Try aiming for 21 without going over. Cards 2-10 are worth their face value, face cards are 10, and Aces can be 1 or 11.
- Hit or Stand: Decide whether to take another card or keep your hand.
- Dealer’s Hand. Once everyone’s done, the dealer reveals their hidden card. They must hit until their hand is 17 or higher.
- Who Wins?
- Blackjack: If you get 21 with your first two cards, you win big!
- Higher Hand: The hand closest to 21 without going over wins.
- Bust: If the dealer goes over 21, you win.
- Push: If you and the dealer tie, it’s a push (no one wins or loses).
Now, get ready to shuffle, deal, and see if you’ve got what it takes to be a blackjack champion!
The Blackjack Push Odds
Now, doing a blackjack push is probably one of the riskiest Blackjack strategies out there. But if you’re ready to beat the odds, it’s best to learn all about them. A push in Blackjack does happen about 8.5% of the time.
Here’s a breakdown of the odds:
- Naturals: It’s rare for both you and the dealer to get a 21 with your first two cards (only happens about once in 429 hands).
- Drawing to 21: More likely, you’ll both draw cards to reach 21 in a blackjack push. This happens around 2.3% of the time.
- Other Hands: Hands like 20, 19, 18, 17, and so on also have a chance to tie.
Factors Affecting a Blackjack Push
- Number of Decks: Fewer decks slightly increase the chance of a push.
- Dealer’s Rules: If the dealer hits on soft 17, you’ll see slightly more pushes.
- Your Strategy: How you play can affect the odds. For example, hitting on soft 17 or standing on 12 against a dealer’s 2 can reduce your chances of pushing.
Remember: A blackjack push is neither a win nor a loss. It’s like a breather in the game. While it’s not ideal, it’s better than losing. Now, go out to 12BET and improve your blackjack skills!
