Pay Jump
The increase in prize money between consecutive finishing positions in a tournament.
iGaming Journalist & Crypto Casino Analyst
What Is Pay Jump?
Pay jumps are often small near the bottom of the payout structure but grow dramatically near the final table, where the difference between finishing positions can represent life-changing sums. Significant pay jumps directly affect ICM calculations, since the value of chips is discounted relative to their cash equivalent as players approach a big jump. Understanding pay jumps is essential for making correct push/fold and calling decisions late in tournaments.
Examples
With a massive pay jump between 9th and 8th place, the short stack tightened up considerably to avoid busting on the bubble.
The pay jump from 3rd to 2nd was over $200,000, making players especially cautious three-handed.
Strategy Tips
Factor in upcoming pay jumps when deciding whether to gamble with a marginal hand, especially as a short or medium stack. Recognize that big stacks can exploit players tightening up before a large pay jump by applying extra pressure. Use ICM calculators to quantify exactly how much a pay jump should affect your calling and shoving ranges. Be aware that avoiding all risk near a pay jump can also be a mistake if it lets aggressive opponents run over the table unchecked.