Despite legal sports betting in upwards of 30-plus states, online casino gambling remains a bit of a gray area. With new forms of iGaming appearing all the time, it’s easy to become confused about what you can and cannot gamble on. This article will help you sort through everything to determine if you can wager legally on the internet and which sites are regulated.
Can I Gamble Online Legally in the US?
As the popularity of gambling on the internet continues to rise, state lawmakers have started to take notice. Some have even begun to regulate the industry. While the first wave of legal iGaming only included sports betting and some forms of poker, more recently casinos have been added to the mix. Whether you’re looking for a great place to play slots, blackjack, or poker, there are now plenty of options available. However, before you make a deposit, it’s important to check the laws of your state.
The first state to legalize online gambling was Delaware in 2013, followed by Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. West Virginia and Michigan soon joined the ranks, but iGaming has yet to launch in Rhode Island or Oregon.
In the meantime, residents of these states can wager at regulated casinos that are licensed to operate within their jurisdictions. These regulated sites are audited and tested for fairness, security, and player protection. They also offer a wide variety of games, bonuses, and promotions that aren’t found at unlicensed websites.
Those who want to gamble on the go can also use mobile apps offered by these regulated sites to enjoy a number of different games from the comfort of their homes. Many of these apps are free to download and feature some of the best casino games around.
If you’re unsure about what kind of gambling is permitted in your state, you can always consult our state-by-state guide to get the latest updates on the legal status of online gambling. As the industry continues to grow, more states will likely join the list of those where you can play for real money.
The biggest exception is Wyoming, which only allows sports betting at tribal casinos. Nonetheless, the presence of big names like BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings in the state could lead to more widespread legal casino offerings. Florida is another case in point, as it has legalized sports betting but still hasn’t gotten around to allowing online casinos. This may change once the Seminole Tribe and the state come to an agreement on the matter. In addition, daily fantasy sports aren’t explicitly prohibited by federal law but some states have interpreted it differently, creating a patchwork of rulings and rules across the country. Nevertheless, the momentum for legalizing online casinos has never been stronger.