-
1
€10 No Deposit Bonus + 100% up to €100
Sign up for €10 and deposit for a €100 bonus
-
2
$2 in Sweeps Cash FREE PLUS $10 Bonus on Deposit
Social Casino with Gold Coins and Sweeps Cash
The New Dawn Of US Online Casinos?
Where would the worlds of casinos and slot machines be without Americans? We owe a lot to US casino pioneers, such as the original slot machines creator Charles Fay, for the popularity and growth of gaming. It seems so strange then that the western capital of capitalism has, until recently, been lagging behind its European counterparts when it comes to online betting and iGaming fun - mainly due to outdated legislation.
But this could all be about to change due to new political decisions that allow each state to freely act on its own sports gambling regulations.
We’re keeping a keen eye peeled for the best online US casinos that our readers can enjoy, so keep checking back with us!
Top US Sites
We’re hoping a windfall of new online US casinos appear within the next year as more individual states introduce bills to relax restrictions on online gambling.
Whatever happens, our job at NetEnt Casino is to stay on top of the latest and greatest news about all new US online casinos, what bonuses are available from whom, and why you should or shouldn’t choose a US online casino based on our stringent criteria.
Were all avid iGamers ourselves here at Netent Casino, so we know exactly what the players want and love staying on top of all the best offers. Keep checking here for the top rated US casinos that you should try.
US Casino Games
Just like modern day land-based casinos have different themes, names, and decors, online casinos do as well. Below are some of the best games available in the US online casinos.
-
Blackjack
It is also called 21. This game is also as old as gambling is. Actually, it is the most enduring table game in the world. This is a game where players play against a dealer and try to get to 21, or a number close to it without passing it. Players are dealt two cards after which they choose to stay or draw, provided the remainder is less than 21. Going over 21 means you forfeit the game.
There are several varieties of this game offered in the US casinos. The varieties vary depending on the payout and the rules.
-
Roulette
This casino game has been played since the 18th century in France. The term ‘roulette’ means ‘little wheel’ in French. This game is played with a small wheel plus a ball. Players usually bet on the number, a range of numbers, high or low numbers or red or black. The wheel usually has 38 numbered pockets with alternating red and black colors. There’s only 1 green and it represents a zero. When the dealer spins the wheel, the small ball flies through in the opposite direction and lands on a single pocket when the wheel stops. Where the ball lands is the outcome of the spin. In online casinos, the game is played through a graphic interface that mimics the physical wheel and a built-in RNG determines the result.
Video slots US
This is the largest offering at US online casinos. They are offered by different gaming software companies and some even feature cash prizes and bonus games.
Slot machines are also known as pokies, slots, and one-armed bandits. They have been around for quite a long time – probably as long as casinos have been. The modern-day versions of the slot machines are computers that use random number generators to determine the results of every spin. Most of the slot games require a player to push a button to spin the reels. However, a few still have arms on the sides as the old machines do. The idea of these slots is similar to the manual ones – to spin the reel and pray to God you get lucky.
Today there are slot games that have bonus games and others that are based on movies, music and TV series. Regardless of whether a casino is online or land-based, slots are the main games.
Live Casino US
These are simply table games that are offered in virtual reality. You will be seated on a table across a live dealer and other players at the same time. Live casinos give the feeling of being in a land-based casino.
After casino gamers craved for the gap between online and land-based casinos to be shortened, internet platforms have rolled out the Live Casino concept.
Online players are able to connect to live video streams of real-life dealers who draw, deal and interact as they would at a brick-and-mortar establishment.
NetEnt launched their Live Casino product in 2013, with NetEnt Mobile Live Casino following a few years later.
Jackpot slot Games US
This is a progressive jackpot that increases every time the game is played and the jackpot is not won. Many slot and video poker machines have progressive jackpots.
Whether you’re aiming for those multi-million wins or are content with smaller prize pools, NetEnt’s selection of local and networked jackpot games are second-to-none.
These titles are all progressive, meaning that the overall total keeps rising until one lucky player cracks it open.
These creations are also unique in the sense that they’re perfect for both the casual player and high rollers alike, with a history of life-changing sums bestowed in a matter of moments.
Table Games
This term refers to games of chance including craps, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. These games are played around a table and can be operated by either one or multiple live dealers. Some popular table games include:
- Craps – this is a dice game in which players bet on the outcome of every roll of the pair of dice and whether the player can repeat their previous result.
- Pai Gow Poker – this is a card game in which players have two poker-style hands and play to win against the dealer.
- Sic Bo – this is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of 3 rolled dices and whether the numbers are low or high.
- Baccarat – this is more of a game of chance. Players pick two hands that are closest to an eight.
Video Poker US
This is simply a casino game that is based on a 5-card draw poker. It is played on computerized consoles that resemble slot machines.
In addition to slot machines, online casinos also have video poker games. These machines also use an RNG to determine the value of cards. Many casinos offer traditional poker titles including Double Bonus Poker, Deuces Wild, and Jacks or Better. And, in recent years, 3 and 5 play video poker versions have been on the rise. Players love them because there is a chance they can win multiple hands simultaneously.
Classic Slots US
These are traditional slot games that are based on the first land-based casino slot games. The symbols used in these slots are unique. However, from time to time, you’ll come across some fruit-based symbols.
Scratch Cards US
The scratch cards are also known as scratchies or scratch ticket. They are small cards that are made for competitions and have a plastic strip that conceals pins – which can be revealed by scratching. Matching symbols win you a reward.
Why Play At US Online Casino Sites We Recommend?
It’s no secret that finding a good online casino since 2006 in the US has been an uphill task. This is because the laws governing the industry under the UIGEA changed in 2006. The UIGEA became stricter and forced the entire industry to change. Because of this, the best option American players have of landing the top and near perfect online casinos is by reading guides like those on this site. Our guides are dedicated to helping US players find the best casino match by doing the heavy lifting to weed out the below average casinos in the industry and shining a spotlight on the really great casinos.
But why should you hearken to the recommendations we provide? Well, there are a number of reasons. See the list below.
- First and foremost, we take time to sign up at each and every casino we review. We play games and generally take the site for a test run. And to ensure that you get the latest information, we are constantly updating and adding and pruning the guides. This way, you get information as it is on the sites.
- Second, we do our level best to ensure that we review online casino sites that provide US players with convenient withdrawal and deposit options. This is especially important to us because we know how frustrating it can be to not have a convenient method of depositing money and withdrawing wins. Actually, if a casino doesn’t have payment options convenient for the American punters, we cross it off our list. After all, it doesn’t make sense to sign up to a casino that you have to go through a lot of trouble to deposit with and get your cash or, worse still, fail to transact at all.
- We ensure that the online casinos are dedicated to ensuring fair play and that they have reasonable wagering requirements for their bonuses.
- We only recommend online casinos that are open to the US market. By so doing, we ensure that the customer support phone number is toll-free and is accessible 24/7.
- We pick online casinos that offer a range of slots including 3 reel slots and video slots, progressive jackpots, roulette, blackjack, and video poker.
What Makes A Good US Online Casino?
Now, you already know that online casinos are not equal. There are several factors that set them apart. So what this means is that a good and attractive website doesn’t always equal a good online casino. Good casinos are a collection of several factors including:
- Licensing and jurisdiction
For any casino to qualify as the best in the US, it has to adhere to the rules of licensing bodies in the US (more on this later). Any casino that meets these rules becomes legal and open to US players.
- Good software
A good US online casino should have thoroughly tested the software providing its games. The software should have quality gaming graphics, sounds, animation, themes and a couple of other gaming features. And given that the gaming software is the main driving force behind the casino, any glitches with the software will negatively impact the casino’s experience as a whole. With this in mind, it is clear why quality software is important, right?
Speaking of software, the company used should be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and eCOGRA (the international bodies that test RNGs of the software and verify their safety and fairness).
- Reliable and safe banking options
The US casino should have several payment options that are not only convenient but safe, secure, and fast. You don’t want to be stuck with long processing times or lose your money altogether.
- Bonus options
A good casino should be generous with its bonuses and promotions. Once you sign up, these are the features that will have you hooked and make the playing experience great and worthwhile.
- Live casino with real dealers
In the past couple of years, the appreciation of live casinos has been increasing steadily, mainly because they have high pay-outs and they bring the excitement of offline gaming into your home. US online casinos that have this option are a huge plus.
Tips For Playing At Top Online Gambling Sites
If you are ready to bet with real money on the US online casinos that we recommend, below are some tips to set you up for success from the get-go. Given that we’ve been testing US online casinos for a number of years now, you can trust that we have some invaluable tips. So without much ado, here is the list of tips to guide you through your US online casino experience.
- Once you sign up to any of the US online casinos that we recommend, you should set a spending/deposit limit first. This is important since it will help you remain in control of the amount of money you spend on the site.
- Once you make your first deposit, claim the welcome deposit immediately. These bonuses have a time limit within which you should have claimed them and have met the wagering requirements. Speaking of wagering requirements, make sure you read through the terms and conditions attached to the bonus you’ve just claimed. The wagering requirements will dictate the steps you need to take to withdraw the wins earned from the bonus amount.
- Ensure that you are comfortable on the website. At the very least, you should love the theme and outlook of the casino. Moreover, you shouldn’t feel as though you are being pressured to sign up or make a deposit.
- Before you upgrade to playing with real money, we recommend that you play the games in demo mode first. Have a feel and get comfortable with playing the game. Doing this will increase your chances of winning when you finally bet with real cash.
- Only put real money on the line when you’ve learned the rules and are feeling super lucky. And when you do start making deposits, start with the minimum the casino allows to test the waters first.
- Never chase losses made by making follow-up deposits. Take a break and return to the US online casino when you have come to terms with the loss.
- Choose to either play on mobile or desktop. Since the games are different, the experience is different as well.
Banking/Payment Methods At USA Online Casinos
Since the UIGEA was made law in 2006, depositing cash into US online casinos real money playing mode using MasterCard, Amex and Visa can be challenging. Because of the UIGEA, financial institutions have tightened their rules and regulations regarding these payments. What this means is that if you play in a casino that doesn’t have adequate payment options, your payment will not go through. Fortunately, when this happens the best US online casinos usually advise their players about alternative payment options. But not all hope is lost. There are still alternatives that players can take advantage of including Western Union, UnionPay, Debit Cards, and Prepaid Gift Cards.
- Credit Cards (MasterCard, Visa, and American Express) – these are by far the most convenient methods of banking for US players. Though there is still a chance that your credit card payment may be rejected, by choosing to play at any of the online casinos we recommend, you reduce those chances significantly.
- Western Union – this is one of the most reliable US payment options that you can use to withdraw and deposit cash into your online casino account. To use this option, you need to have a Western Union account. Once your account is active, you can start sending and receiving cash immediately. However, this method is not very popular because it is not as fast in comparison to other payment options. But, on the flip side, it’s one of the most secure banking methods.
- Bitcoin Cryptocurrency – in comparison to other payment methods, Bitcoin is quite new in the industry. But despite this, it has become one of the most reliable and efficient when it comes to online games and services. Players are in love with Bitcoin because it’s anonymous and transfers large amounts of money quickly and securely. On the other hand, operators love it because the payments cannot be charged back to the players like with credit cards. But on the flip side, some players may find it difficult to convert their Bitcoin wins into USD. Many online US casinos we recommend allow deposits via Bitcoin and withdrawal through ACH or check.
Best Online Casino Software Providers In The US Market
Casino Software providers are the backbone of the iGaming industry. They provide a service that supports the growth of online casinos in the US. Without them, we’d not see new casinos sprouting every other month. And while there are loads of casino software providers in the industry, we’ll only pick a few that make the biggest ripples and that have their hands in many online casinos in the US.
- NetEnt:
Well, of course, it’s NetEnt in the number 1 spot, who else would take the crown? After starting out in Europe 20 years ago, NetEnt has built a strong foundation as the leading provider of iGaming games across the world. Their diverse range of games, excellent customer campaigns, and creative entrepreneurial spirit has helped them become the successful company that they are today.
- Real Time Gaming (RTG)
This company was founded in 2006. It has since grown into one of the primary software developers in the industry. So far, it’s a crucial ingredient that any online US casino should have if they dream of achieving success. The software provider is known for its quality games and the unique experiences that its proprietary games offer.
- Rival Gaming
This company also opened its doors to the public in 2006. It has grown into a worthy RTG competitor in the US market. Rival Gaming has more than 100 unique slots titles. Some of these titles include Cleopatra’s Coins and Blazin’ Buffalo. These games have a unique and beautiful classic design. It’s also worth noting that Rival Gaming also came up with the iSlot concept which quite frankly is revolutionary.
- Betsoft
In the global online casino market, BetSoft is a leader. It is renowned for its HD 3D slot games which feature amazing graphics, animations, and impressive sound effects. Most players and techpreneurs in the industry have discovered that BetSoft has a vast gaming portfolio that every punter can enjoy.
Overall, the casino is respected and does a great job of delivering above expectations.
- Microgaming
It’s a brand that payers have become accustomed to seeing in the industry. It has built a solid and strong reputation for itself over the years. It offers impressive games with impressive quality. The games have great bonuses, big jackpots and, above all, quality graphics. With their superior quality, it’s easy to get sucked into the gaming world and forget everything else. Fun is an understatement when working with this company.
Aside from these gaming software providers, others include;
- Pragmatic Play
- IGT
- Playtech
- PlaynGo
- NextGen Gaming
- Aristocrat Technology
- Novomatic
Best Mobile Casinos In The US
The best thing about playing in online casinos is that they are well, online. This means that you only need a laptop or desktop and an internet connection to play. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home. Online casinos bring the thrill of Las Vegas from video poker, to slots, and Roulette to you. This is great.
But you know what is even greater? You can play online casino games when you are on the move. Yes, today, many online casinos are compatible with mobile devices. This means that you can not only enjoy the games in the comfort of your home but also when on the train, on the bus, at a local café – ANYWHERE!
Below are some of the top mobile casinos in the US that you should try out.
- Planet 7 Casino
Planet 7 is by far the hottest and popular online casinos in the industry. It features a wide variety of casino games and generous bonuses. Planet 7 is the real deal when it comes to playing in real money mode and winning big. It was started in 2008 and sports a bright and sleek site.
Most importantly, it features in excess of 250 games and a $4000 welcome bonus. So what’s to stop you from signing up?
- Las Vegas USA
Las Vegas USA says to hell with the phrase ‘what happens in Vegas – stays in Vegas!’ Well, it doesn’t say it out loud but the fact that it offers Vegas fun and thrill to players all over the world simply does away with its whole concept of secrecy. Since the casino was launched, it is reported to have paid out more than $17 million in winnings.
The casino has a whopping $5000 welcome bonus and features more than 230 high-quality games. Many of these games are also available on mobile devices.
- Café Casino
Though this is a relatively new casino, it’s making huge ripples in the online casino waters. The casino opened in 2016 and has earned the trust of players in the few years it’s been operational. The casino is owned and operated by Lynton Limited which says a lot about the casino’s quality.
It offers players a generous welcome bonus of $5000, has a payout of 99% and has more than 400 games, many of which are available on mobile devices.
Other top mobile casinos that you should consider include;
- Slots of Vegas
- Dreams Casino
- Silver Oak Casino
- Coolcat Casino
- Raging Bull Casino
Functionality and Compatibility Of USA Online Casinos
Owing to tech advancements, and a couple of other factors, there has never been a better time to gamble online in the US than now. And given the many gambling avenues playing is bound to be a breeze. Like we’ve pointed out above, you can have the casino experience in the comfort of your home or while on the road. Online casinos and software gaming providers are constantly going out of their way to increase functionality and compatibility with mobile devices.
Currently, you can enjoy slots, roulettes, video poker, keno or bingo on your iPhone, Android device, windows phone, tablet and iPad and Blackberry devices. And here’s the kicker – games playable on mobile devices offer the same experience if not better compared to desktop and PC versions.
Safest Casinos In The United States
Before we recommend a US online Casino, and you inevitably fall head over heels in love with it, we ensure that the casino is safe and secure. The first thing we check for is safety, security, and licensing. We also check on the RNG test conducted by an independent third party company. Moreover, we check for SSL security and some form of data encryption that will have your financial and personal information safe.
In line with this, below are our top 3 safest US Online Casinos.
- Bovada
This casino was launched in 2011 and allows US players only. It is licensed by Kahnawake Gaming Commission (one of the most reputable and recognized regulatory body in the industry). Bovada has a strong security profile that stems from the fact that the uses RTG software and it has personalized SSL security. It offers a generous $3000 welcome bonus to the US players and its customer support is super responsive.
- Ignition Casino
We should point out that Ignition Casino is part of the reputable Bovada Group of online gambling sites that have grown into household names in the online casino industry. It is licensed by Kahnawake Gaming Commission and has Realtime Gaming as its software provider. RTG is a software company that pays keen attention to gaming fairness and security.
- LV
This online casino was established in 2013. It’s also part of the Bovada group. It is licensed in Canada and is super strict when it comes to providing impeccable player experience. Fair gaming and information security is not a problem that you should worry yourself over. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the casino only partners with payment options that are safe and secure including Bitcoin, Credit, and Debit Cards.
USA Casino Site Gaming - Pros & Cons
Before you jump into USA casino site gambling, it’s important to know what you’ll be going up against. This will help you go in with the foreknowledge of the industry and prepare you for success and even lower the risk of failure.
Below is a quick list of some of the pros and cons of US online casino gambling.
Pros
- Convenience
By a show of hands, how many of you can actually afford a trip to Las Vegas for a fun weekend? Not very many, right? And even if you can, planning such a trip requires time and effort. With online casino gambling, the fun comes to you. You don’t need to travel to enjoy your favorite casino games. As a matter of fact, you only need a desktop, pc or mobile phone and you are good to go. With these, you can grab a blanket, curl up on your comfy couch and bet away.
- Loyalty programs
This is one of the biggest advantages of online casinos in the US. The casinos are constantly running reward programs. They start from the time you sign up and make your first deposit. These programs are geared towards improving your experience and ensuring you always have some cash to keep you going.
- Payment options
When playing in land-based casinos, you might be limited in the number of payment options. Usually, land-based casinos accept cash or card. But with online US casinos, you have the option of using eWallets and cryptocurrency. However, note that the different options feature different payment times.
Cons
- Gambling scams and problems
Owing to the numerous online casinos available and the payment options available, developing a gambling problem is possible. As such, you need to be careful, self-aware and exercise self-control. Though many US casinos have taken steps to help prevent this from happening under their social responsibility sector, players still get addicted.
- No personal interaction
Playing online casinos in the comfort of your home may be convenient but it may also lack the pizzazz of doing it in a casino for real – fulfilling that fantasy of hitting it repeatedly big on the roulette table while surrounded by a crowd of admirers.
- Pay-outs can take ages
The biggest con of a number of US online casinos is the fact that pay-outs take a long time to complete processing. Most casinos have a 3-day waiting period. However, if you’d like to reduce this time, you can withdraw and deposit using e-wallets such as Neteller and Skrill.
Advantages of Playing At American Casinos Online Real Money
Let’s get right into it.
Thrill – like it or not, when there’s money on the line, you’ll get an adrenaline rush. This thrill turns the game into an actual adventure. The adrenaline coursing through your veins will heighten your senses and sharpen your mental abilities allowing you to play at your best.
Access to better games – unfortunately, in the free mode, there are only so many games you can play. The games may be limited as they are there to help you to learn and test the casino before deciding to bet using real money. In real money mode, you unlock a wealth of fun and exciting games.
Rewards and Casino VIP Clubs – when you use money in any of the US online casinos, you earn some loyalty points regardless of whether you win… The more money you bet, the higher you rise in the ranks. And each rank offers better rewards, conditions, bonus rollovers, prizes, and exclusive competitions.
Disadvantages Of U.S. Real Money Online Gambling Websites
You lose real money – unlike playing in demo mode, betting with real money means you stand to lose real cash. You have to be careful and strategic with how you play lest you go broke.
The thrill is addictive – over time if you are not careful, you might get addicted to having adrenaline coursing through your veins. When this happens every sense of strategic play goes out the window and you start playing without putting any thought into it.
Types Of Available US Casino Bonuses
Casino bonuses are a great way for players to earn free cash while testing out a site. On the flip side, some bonuses are designed to help you mitigate your losses. Below are the different types of bonuses available in US online casinos.
- Deposit Casino Bonuses
These bonuses are offered to players when they make deposits into their casino accounts. Many US online casinos require that the players enter a specific bonus code to claim the bonus. Examples of these bonuses include matching casino bonuses which are often displayed in percentage form and have a maximum cap. They apply to the first amount deposited by a player.
The other type of deposit bonus is the reload bonus. Like the matching bonus, the reload bonus is given in percentage form. However, it only applies to deposits made after the first deposit.
- General Bonuses
These bonuses are offered to players without the requirement of making a deposit. They are often attached to a set of conditions that players need to fulfill first. Examples of such bonuses include:
- Sign up bonus – this is also known as a no-deposit bonus. These bonuses are given in very small percentages. However, they are great for players to test the casinos and the games offered.
- Sticky bonus – these resemble sign up bonuses but have a slight difference; once a player completes a predetermined set of conditions, the player’s initial bonus is taken back by the casino.
- Referral bonus – this bonus is offered in two styles; in cash following a referral to the casino and a conditional cash bonus where the referred player has to make a deposit before you can earn the bonus.
- Ongoing Casino Bonuses
These bonuses are split into 3:-
- Cashback bonuses – these bonuses are designed to keep you wagering after losing in a game. The casino offers back a percentage of the loss made in cash.
- Random bonus – this bonus is unexpected. Casinos offer random bonuses to players who log in and pay a specific game.
- Loyalty bonus – this bonus is designed to encourage players to play for longer. However, they require the player to unlock a bonus by meeting a specific set of rules.
What Games Do US Players Like?
As an online casino enthusiast, you don’t want to be stuck with the same old boring games. You want something exciting to enjoy all day long. Games in the US online casinos are split into several categories as explained at the start of this piece. In these categories, there are a bunch of player favorites. Below are some of the favorite games in the industry.
Planet of the Apes Online Slot
The Planet of the Apes movie was massive all over the world. Following the release of the sequel between 2011 and 2017, NetEnt decided to make a slot after it. The game designed has 5 reels featuring images of the movie stars.
Turn Your Fortune was NetEnt’s first offering in 2019. This highly stylized Art Nouveau quickly became the year’s most popular NetEnt game and featured lots of free spin rewards for players. The game has two wheels – the main slot wheel and the Fortune Wins wheel, maximizing the number of Free Spins and re-spins you can win. It is an exciting game and will appeal to those players who like a classic-style slot, but with a little twist.
The Dead or Alive video slot takes you to the Wild West, with symbols of cowboy boots, cowboy hats, pistols, and so on. The Sticky Wilds feature provides attractive wins and earn you a fortune. With a striking Western theme and top features, we think it goes without saying why American players are fans of this one.
US Live Casinos
Live dealer casinos recreate the experience of playing with real-life dealers. They make you feel as though the dealer is right in front of you at the baccarat, blackjack, and roulette table and with other fun players around you. In the live casinos, you can chat with your dealer, see his reply and watch how the other players play their hand for a chance to categorize their style of play and stand a chance to win against them.
The software used in delivering live dealer games is designed to allow an interactive and life-like experience. This helps in increasing the satisfaction and pleasure obtained from the games. With that said, we should point out that the live dealer US games are the fastest growing division in the industry currently. This is because several software companies in the US have dedicated their time to developing live casinos only.
And here’s the kicker, like the slots games the live casino platforms are secure and safe. They are simply extensions of the standard online casino services and games.
Are there are benefits of playing live casino games? Yes, below are some of the advantages you stand to gain.
- No RNG – with live casino games you get to enjoy playing against a real dealer – one that uses real card games just like in land-based casinos. In the live casinos, there aren’t RNG games. As such your success solely depends on your gaming strategy.
- More Social – you can chat with your dealer and co-players. This makes the gaming experience more fun and social.
- Slower pace – since it’s exactly like playing at a land-based casino, the pace of the games are slow. And yes, this is a good thing since you have a little more time to observe and determine co-player styles and determine your next move.
The games you can enjoy in live casino mode include; Baccarat, Texas Poker Hold ‘em, Blackjack and Roulette.
History Of Gambling In The United States
Gambling in the US can be split into 3 phases. As you’ll see it’s an industry that has been laden with a lot of ups and downs and drama.
The early days
We should start by pointing out the fact that gambling didn’t originate in the USA. It came into the US with immigrants from Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world. Some immigrants from Puritan England (hardcore religious) banned gambling while others were more liberal and open to the idea. The frontier spirit and the innate desire to explore the world and new avenues have been compared to the gambling spirit. This is because they both have an element of risk-taking, expectations of getting high returns and last but not least, opportunism. And despite some communities blaming gambling for some of the problems it experienced, others used it to raise funds. The early gambling days lasted until the early 1800s when it was attacked by those who were against it.
Phase 2
This phase lasted for an entire century. It was caused by the exodus to the Gold Rush and the Wild West. 1849 – 1855 was the peak of the gambling resurgence. However, its popularity didn’t last long before the public turned against it and banned it. However, instead of dying out, it went underground and gamblers found ways to go around the law that targeted specific games. Different variations of the banned games were created.
During this time, the laws created were targeting professional gamblers. But despite the efforts of the then governments to muffle gambling, the laws set up were weak and weren’t enforced in the right way. However, in the early 1900s, stronger laws were passed and law enforcers were more vigilant. Penalties were issued to gamblers and entrepreneurs in the industry. This made it impossible for people to want to be associated with gambling and gamblers. But this only lasted until 1930 when there was another resurgence of the industry.
Phase 3
This wave started in 1930. It is so far the strongest wave. The state of Nevada legalized gambling in 1930. In addition to this, the Depression created an atmosphere that encouraged tolerance and the legalization of gambling, since many people saw it as a good way to help revive the economy. At the same time, the governments were running crackdowns on the illegal gambling rackets.
From this time, the industry has grown steadily. With the creation of the internet, gambling is more popular than ever before. In 2005, the industry was worth a whopping $30 billion.
Expert Reviews of Online Casinos In The USA
As seen above, the online casino space has changed numerous times. It has undergone radical changes over the years but it has since stabilized. And actually, for those who went through the dark ages, the regulated online gambling era is welcomed progress. But unfortunately, not everyone shares in the joy of online casino regulations.
You see, the regulation of online casinos has contributed to a spike in popularity and growth of the industry. Some experts and investors see this as a threat to the land-based casinos. However, this is not the case. Actually, land-based casinos can ride on the online casino industry and use the patterns to determine what the customer wants and then replicate it on their casino floors.
With casino regulations, gambling is still illegal in some states. But the good thing is that more and more states are loosening their laws on the industry. Once some states are comfortable with online gambling, more will follow and create a wave of online casino legalization. And while the US industry isn’t there yet, it is making strides in the right direction.
Our Selection of Desktop & Mobile Casinos USA
Here are a couple of the best online casinos overall on both Desktop and Mobile fronts.
Wild Casino
This casino is fairly new. But despite its young age in the industry, it is hot and out to draw blood. It is owned by Commission by which is the same group that owns and runs BetOnline (another great online casino). Being a new casino, players get to enjoy a lot of perks including a $5000 welcome bonus. Additionally, it has loads of payment options and supports live dealer games.
Speaking of games, Wild Casino supports Instant play which is also compatible with Mobile devices including Android, iOS, and Windows. And last but not least, the casino is licensed in Panama.
888 Casino
This casino was founded in 1997. It is by far one of the oldest casinos in the industry. It’s estimated to have more than 20 million customers. For a casino to have such a large following, it must be doing something right. Over the years, it has built a solid reputation, for reliability, security, and safety. And though it doesn’t have a generous welcome bonus as most casinos do, it has several promotions to keep payers entertained and hooked.
My Bookie Casino
This is a relatively new online casino. It was created in 2014. It is an online casino but also features racing and a sportsbook option. It has many casino games including table games, live dealer games, and slots. To reel in more players, the casino has a 150% welcome bonus capped at $750. The games it offers are available on mobile and desktop devices. These games are provided by BetSoft one of the largest companies in the industry.
Future Changes for the Real Money Online Casinos USA Industry
The online gambling industry has grown significantly over the past couple of decades and it’s not about to stop. In the next couple of years, we should expect changes in the industry. And if current trends and tech advancements are anything to go by, the future of online casino gambling is bright and massive.
Augmented Reality
This is slowly becoming a must-have feature in the US online casinos. This technology allows live games to be even more appealing and thrilling. With new technologies emerging, you can enjoy online games with real people in a virtual environment. You can almost feel your co-players in the environment. As this industry continues to grow, we are seeing the introduction of 360-degree experiences for customers. You can follow everything that’s happening on your table and make an informed and consistent decision. NetEnt has made some big steps in this area. Head to our live casino page to find out more!
Virtual Reality
This is yet another tech invention by key players in the online casino industry. This technology allows players to feel their atmosphere in its entirety. SlotsMillion Casino was the first online casino company to incorporate the technology into their site (back in 2015). This technology is being taken up by many casinos. Overall, it has improved the engagement of players and lead to the improvement of real-time graphics.
Blockchain industry
This finance world is slowly but surely encroaching on the online casino world. As one of the most popular alternative currencies in the world, players and entrepreneurs alike have fallen in love with it. This is because it is secure and super-fast.
Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming is expected to grow exponentially as well. While it’s currently available, it has so much potential to be an even larger sector. In the coming years, it’s expected to blow up with more games available on mobile devices.
Live Gaming
As VR and Augmented reality grow, so is the gambling industry. Many players take advantage of unique opportunities to watch other gamers and their live performances.
Deposits & Withdrawals At US Online Casinos
Payments are super important in the US Online Casino world. They make or break the industry. Given the laws governing the industry, payment options are an issue in the US. The two main options are Visa and MasterCard. However, from time to time, they do get declined. When this happens, what other options can a player explore?
Here is a quick breakdown of the options they have.
Prepaid Credit Cards
These card types are bought from 7/11 stores, and gas stations. Over time, the brands have changed but the concept has remained the same. You simply hand over cash, pay a processing fee and get your Visa-branded card loaded with the amount you’ve handed over. The card is used like any other credit card. However, it’s important to inquire with your casino which credit card brand they prefer.
Money Transfer Services
These include Western Union the services don’t allow the direct transfer of cash into casino accounts. Instead, you transfer cash to an individual’s account. The details are provided by your casino complete with tracking information. And though transferring cash to a stranger might seem risky, Western Union is one of the most secure options there is.
Wire
This option is not always available. And quite honestly, they don’t make sense when you are only sending little amounts. This is because the charges can be super high.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin is no longer a currency for tech gurus only. The cryptocurrency has infiltrated every industry including online casinos in the US. The process is quite simple; you open a wallet, deposit cash into it from a bank account, or have someone with Bitcoins transfer some to you and then you are set to transact.
Other internationally accepted payment options include PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. These options are fast and have minimal fees in comparison to the other payment options.
Paypal
For secure, discreet and fast online payments, there’s nothing better than the original online e-wallet Paypal. This service is used by casinos all over the world and offers a top-quality way to deposit and withdraw into your casino accounts. The only downside is there are many casinos that don’t use this method and it is certainly not the most popular of casino payments.
Recommended Deposit Methods to Use At Casinos Online USA
It’s important that we mention not all payment options can be used to deposit and withdraw cash from a casino. That said, you need to check how the payment options are split between the two services.
Now, generally, when you are depositing cash, you’ll need to use a platform that deposits cash instantly. Some of the options that come highly recommended include; Visa, MasterCard, Bitcoin, Litecoin, VisaGift Card, and eWallets since they reflect almost instantly.
Of the above options, credit card payments make 90% of the total deposits. This is because it is easy to use and cheap. Additionally, the cash doesn’t take long to reflect in your account.
Can You Gamble Online In The United States?
This is a topic that is of interest to US citizens. Some aren’t clear on whether gambling is legal or not. But here’s the thing. Before we even proceed, you should know that gambling in itself is in no way or form prohibited by the US federal government. So can you gamble online in the US? Of course, you can. You simply need to know and understand the UIGEA law of 2006 (we shall look at this later in detail). But one of the provisions in this act pertains to wire Transfers. It states that no person should knowingly accept payments with an individual or a body participating in illegal gambling. The key point here is ‘accept’ money. It has no bearing on one’s ability to send cash.
So there’s a loophole when it comes to online gambling since many of the laws governing the industry were written before the advent of the internet. But here’s the thing – if you ever feel uncomfortable playing at an online casino in a state you are not quite sure if it’s legal to do so, you should research the county rules and see if it prohibits it. More to this, you should check if any person in the said state has ever been prosecuted because of it. This is important because some states have the laws but never enforce them.
With that said, we should stress that different states treat online gambling differently. As you’ll see in the next section, some have declared it illegal and others have legalized it. But even in those that it is illegal, there are some types of online gambling that are legal including poker and other casino games.
In What States Can You Gamble Online?
New Jersey
Currently, New Jersey is the leader in the online gambling space in the US. New Jersey passed its law legalizing online gambling in 2013. In 2013, it allowed Atlantic City casino to have internet gaming permits and have several online poker and online sites under the licenses they applied for. Today, there are numerous online casinos in New Jersey than in any other state.
Pennsylvania
This state legalized online casinos in 2017. There aren’t any online casinos that are active currently in the state since the official launch date for the legalization is July 2019. According to the law, 13 casino operators that plan to operate in Pennsylvania will apply for their licenses to offer online table games, slots, and poker. Each license will cost $4 million. However, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board offered a package for $10 million.
Delaware
Delaware was the very first state to legalize online gambling back in 2012. The market opened up in 2013 with a couple of sites operated through the state’s 3 casinos. Gamblers can find the online casinos at the sites for:
- Harrington Raceway
- Dover Downs
- Delaware Park
The sites offer roulette, slots, video poker, and blackjack games. And just like the state, the market is quite small. Last year in 2018, these 3 casinos earned about $2.6 in revenue. Of the 3, Delaware Park is the busiest and constantly outperforms the rest.
Nevada
You might think that being the capital of land-based casinos, in the whole of the USA; the Nevada state would have a larger footprint on the online casino world. But on the contrary, the state has a limited presence online. Actually, it’s online gambling footprint boils down to one poker site – WSOP. However, if the state can only handle a single casino, then WSOP is one of the best sites to have. It pools players from Delaware and New Jersey and creates a pool of opponents for great competition.
West Virginia
This was the 5th state to legalize online casinos in March 2019. The state authorized 5 casinos to continue with the development of casinos and poker apps. So you should expect West Virginia to have 5 online casinos in the near future. These include;
- Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack
- The Mountaineer Hotel Casino and Resort
- Mardi Gras Casino
- Hollywood Casino Charles Town
- The Casino Cub at Greenbrier Resort
These casinos don’t have a specific launch date. However, the regulations will launch sometime after 2020 so at the moment we are sure the launches cannot happen before this time.
Where Is Online Gambling Illegal In The US
As we’ve pointed out a couple of times now, gambling is in the legal grey area. While it is technically illegal in many states, the prosecution and actual conviction of the individual players is quite difficult since they are gambling in the comfort of their homes. Additionally, it’s also illegal for online casino websites to operate in the US. It is because of this that many of the servers and offices of the online casinos are hosted in other countries. There are over 70 countries in the world that allow these sites to set up shop. They include Australia, South Korea, Finland, Denmark, Germany, France, and some Canadian provinces.
When you register to online casinos, you will have to agree to some terms and conditions the sites present you with (unfortunately, very few people read through these conditions). Finding out whether gambling is legal or illegal in your state is usually up to you. But you are in luck; we’ve done the heavy lifting for you (well, somewhat since as earlier mentioned this is a grey area).
There are 5 states in the US that have taken the initiative to legalize online gambling. These states include;
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Mississippi
- West Virginia
Any other state is either on the fence or taking a firm stand against online gambling. So here’s what we recommend you do. Before committing to any online casino, check the rules in your county and if anyone has ever been prosecuted for online gambling.
Am I Eligible To Get A USA Casino Bonus On Signing Up To An Online Casino?
Of course, you are. You see, the online casino industry is getting more competitive by the day. Every operator wants to get ahead and stand out from the crowd by offering promotions and bonuses that players cannot ignore. When these bonuses are offered, the player gets something extra in exchange for doing something such as signing up, making a deposit, being active on the platform or spending a specific amount of money.
So whether or not you are eligible to a particular casino bonus will depend on the prerequisites of the casino bonus. For instance to be eligible for a welcome bonus you first need to sign up to the casino and make the minimum deposit into your casino account (if it’s a no deposit bonus, you can claim the bonus directly). If it’s a referral bonus, you’ll earn it if you refer a friend to the platform and if it’s a cashback, you’ll automatically get to claim a certain percentage of your loss from the casino.
Do note that most casinos will have a code that you’ll have to use to claim the bonus after meeting the prerequisites of the bonus. But generally, the requirements aren’t hefty since the casino wants you to claim the bonuses.
Note: the bonuses aren’t in the form of cash and cannot be withdrawn. Only winnings from the cash can be withdrawn after meeting the wagering requirements attached to the bonus and promotion.
Where Can I Find The Best Online Casino Bonus USA?
Casino bonuses are many and varied. As we pointed out before, they come in different forms. However, in this section, we shall focus on casinos that offer the best welcome deposit bonus. Now, many players often assume that the best casino bonus is the biggest and the most generous. While at face value these bonuses are exciting and alluring, you should get in the habit of reading the fine print. It is always said that the devil is in the fine print. You’ll be shocked that some bonuses even dictate the payment method you should use. With that said, you should never make the mistake of getting caught up in the big print.
Here’s an example to put it into perspective. Say you come across a welcome deposit of 200% capped at $1500 with a wagering requirement of 65X and another 100% capped at $500 with a 30X wagering requirement. In this case, the latter is a better deal. In the long run, you’ll have to spend less to withdraw your winnings.
So which are the US online casinos with the best bonuses?
888 Casino – this casino comes with a 100% bonus up to $1500 welcome bonus. This bonus has a 30X wagering requirement attached to it.
SlotoCash Casino – this is quite a generous casino. It offers a whopping $7777 bonus. However, this bonus is spread out in 5 deposits. Each bonus stage has a wagering requirement attached to it. The highest wagering requirement is 30X on the initial deposit bonus.
Slots.LV – this is one of the best US online casinos. It offers a $5000 welcome bonus spread out over 9 deposits. To claim the bonuses you need to use bonus codes. The bonuses have a 35X wagering requirement.
Where Can I Find A New Online Casino USA
Online casinos are popping up right left and center. With every new month, there are a couple of new online casinos fighting for your attention. Usually, during this competition, the casinos offer good bonuses with lenient wagering requirements and a bunch of other promotions as well. Generally, the terms are great and you stand to benefit a lot.
But the question is, how do you get to learn of their existence? Well, lucky for you we are here. We take the liberty of reviewing new casinos as they are released. We have professionals who keep their ears on the ground and are constantly on the lookout for new casinos.
The casinos we list and review on our site have passed our tests. This means they are licensed and we’ve determined they are safe and secure for customers. So all you have to do is keep up with our site and you’ll be good to go.
Online Sweepstakes Casinos
While laws and regulations stop the US Casino market from flourishing properly, some casinos have managed to find ways around the top legislation in the form of online sweepstake casinos.
Otherwise known as ‘social casinos‘, the gaming side of these sites is integrated with social media and it also uses Sweepstakes/Sweeps Cash and virtual gold coins that players can purchase as well as win from contests and claim from special offers.
While you are playing for real money by buying and cashing out the in-game currency, you’re never technically wagering real money. Therefore, these casinos are able to operate legally while still giving players a great real casino experience.
Interested? Then check out our review of Chumba, one of the hottest sweepstake casinos out there.
Which Online Casinos Have The Fastest Pay-Outs in USA
When we are looking for the best US online casino to recommend it to our readers, we check if the casino has easy and fast cashouts, deposit and withdrawal process. In our experience, a casino might have great promotions and bonuses but, if it takes ages to withdraw your winnings, then you won’t have a great experience in the casino.
As experts in the industry, we have come across a list of online casinos that have super slow withdrawal processes. And at times the casinos even default on the payment. Some of these casinos include:
- 21 Duke
- Bella Vegas
- Casino States
We don’t want you to and in these casinos. Our aim is to get you playing in the best online casinos in the US. In this light, here is a list of some of the online casinos that have fast payouts. Do note that fast casino pay-outs means that the casino is strong and reputable in the industry.
Spin Casino – this casino has a payout percentage of 97.35% and has a payout speed of between 1-3 days. It has a wide range of games (over 655 quality games) and multiple banking options.
JackpotCity Casino – this casino pays out withdrawals between 1 and 2 days and the payout rate is 98.10%. It has more than 630 games to enjoy including live dealer games. Additionally, it has multiple banking options including Paypal.
Betway Casino – the pay-out speed is 1-3 days. The casino is recorded to have a payout percentage of 98.16%. You can enjoy over 100 games and live betting in the casino.
To hit the fast pay-out, you also have to use the right payment option. Of all the payment options available, the eWallets are by far the fastest. The payments reflect almost immediately. EWallets include Neteller, Paypal, Skrill, and Instadebit.
On the other hand, credit cards are relatively fast. Withdrawals can take a couple of hours though many casinos take between 1 and 5 days to complete processing the payments. The next payment option in terms of speed is Bank Wire transfer followed by Check which is the slowest.
How Do I Know A Real Money Online Casino USA Site Is Secure When I Gamble Online?
When you join an online casino and decide to wager with real money, you will be putting your financial and personal information on the casino. As such, you need to be sure that the casino is safe and secure – that it will not disclose your information to any third party. Though there are some casinos that have been reckless in the past, the good news is that there are some that have upped their game and placed stringent security measures in place for your protection.
So now the question is, what makes the casino secure? Well, the first thing that you should be on the lookout for is the encryption technology used. This technology makes it harder for hackers to access information in the casino database. The online casino shouldn’t have anything less than 128-bit SSL data encryption. Anything less than this will not offer the utmost security.
Additionally, you should note that the role of keeping you safe doesn’t only lie with the online casino. It’s also the responsibility of the banking options especially when it comes to deposits and withdrawals. Some of the best and highly recommended casinos have easily accessible financial histories. This way players are able to conduct site audits whenever they deem necessary.
So what should you be on the lookout for? Easy, privacy policy and the eCOGRA seal of approval. Every online casino in the US needs to have a privacy policy laid out on the site for its customers to read through. Usually, this policy is located at the bottom of the page. Review the policy and see to it that it’s going to protect your personal and financial information. On the other hand, the eCOGRA seal of approval can be found at the bottom portion of the homepage. This seal of approval means that the company has been tested and approved by the reputable eCOGRA testing agency.
Is There An Age Restriction When Gambling At Real Money Online Casinos In America?
Given that online gambling is potentially addictive, there are laws in the US that dictate how old one should be before they can indulge in online gambling. But, just like the alcohol age limit, different states have their own cutoff ages. But generally, it’s either 18 or 21 for the states that allow online gambling. However, some states like Alaska, Kentucky, and Florida don’t have a gambling age limit.
But generally, online casinos have their legal gambling age set at 21 years while online lottery games legal age is set at 18 years. For many US online casinos, you will have to provide your ID when you sign up. And those that don’t ask for any form of identification during sign up do so during the withdrawal process. They make sure that you cannot withdraw cash from your account before providing them with relevant identification documents.
And even if you manage to maneuver the checks and balances of the US online casinos, you’ll still get stuck with the payment option you choose since they too have a minimum age limit that they allow their customers to open accounts and even conduct transactions. Simply put, playing online games when you are underage will just be a pain in the behind – you won’t get your wins (assuming you manage to make deposits and wager).
Actually, some online casinos state that it’s a legal offence to participate in online gambling activities when you are underage. And anyone who is found aiding an underage to play at online casinos can be prosecuted. Also, underage players forfeit their wins when they are found out.
Will I Be Faced With Online Withdrawal Limits As An American Player?
Yes, US online casinos like casinos operating in other parts of the world have withdrawal restrictions. The restrictions are enforced in the form of a Time Limit or an Age Limit or even a combination of the two:
- Amount Limit – amount limits are when US online casinos dictate the amount of cash that you can withdraw in a single transaction. For instance, a US casino can set a limit of $5000. This means you cannot withdraw above $5000 in a single transaction.
- Time limit – a time limit is simply when an online casino limits the number of withdrawals you can make within a given amount of time. For instance, a US online casino might allow you to make a single transaction every week.
- Amount and Time Limit – this is the most common form of restriction among the US online casinos. The limit is simply a combination of the two. For instance, a casino can have it that you can openly withdraw $5000 in a week.
Usually, these limits aren’t a hindrance to having a good time in casinos since most players wager small amounts which result in small wins. However, for the players that wager high amounts, these restrictions become a real pain and inconvenience. High rollers bet huge amounts of money and in turn, win huge amounts of cash. This means that they would want to withdraw large amounts of money at a go.
However, to mitigate these situations, US online casinos often make special exceptions when it comes to high roller wins and withdrawals. However, some casinos require that these situations are handled on a case by case basis.
If I Win At An Online Casino, Will I Be Taxed?
Yes, whether your winnings are from an online casino or a land-based casino, your winnings are subject to federal income tax. Also, it doesn’t matter in which country the site is located, you will still have to pay your taxes.
While online gambling is still unregulated in most parts of the US, and online gamblers rarely receive their tax forms, taxes have to be paid.
So how do you report your wins? Well, the process you follow will depend on how you earn your wins. If you get a Form W-2G then this is what you will fill and present to the IRS when filing your taxes. Do note that your taxes should be filled before 15th of April. If this is not possible, then you should ask for an extension.
And in the event you don’t have this form, you will need to get a form 1040 and add your gambling wins in line 21. You should enter your total wins on this line.
Now, what if you make losses? Well, the US government is fair. When you are filling out the 1040 form, you should factor in your losses as well. Calculate your expenses for the bets and the wagers and any other expense that might need to be deducted. You’ll enter all the deductions on the Miscellaneous Deductions line of the Schedule A form. Noting down your deductions makes sure that you lower the amount of tax you pay on your gambling wins.
When filing your taxes, you will need to have the dates right, the location (but since its online gambling, the name of the site will do), the checks received and any other winning paperwork.
Are Different Currencies Offered At US Casinos?
You see, many of the US online casinos accept players from all over the world. For this reason, many of the online casinos we recommend on our platform support multiple currencies. But unfortunately, not all currencies in the world are supported. At the top of the list of supported currencies include EUR, USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, SEK, and NOK. But while these currencies are common in many US casinos, it doesn’t mean that all US casinos support them. As such, you should always do your due diligence and check if the casino supports the currency you transact in. And even if it does, the payment option should also support your preferred currency.
Bitcoin is also another form of currency that emerged in 2008. For a long time, very few people outside the tech world were using it. But slowly, the currency has spread into different industries including the US online casino industry. But even then, Bitcoin is still not very widely used and integrated in US online casinos. So before you commit to any casino and you intend to use Bitcoin for your payments, you need to first confirm.
Bitcoins are loved for a couple of reasons. First, they are fast and two, they are anonymous. Additionally, they are safe and secure. Unlike credit cards and debit cards, once the cash is sent the transaction cannot be reversed (online casinos love this).
If I Encounter A Problem Depositing Cash At A US Casino What Must I Do?
From time to time (though rarely), you might encounter problems with depositing cash into your US online casino account. Before you freak out, there are a couple of reasons why this could be happening. So, before you get in touch with customer care, do the following:
First, check whether you are meeting the minimum deposit requirement. Yes, US online casinos have minimum deposit requirements. For some, the minimum is $20 and for others, it’s $25. This amount varies widely. Also, it depends on the payment method you choose to use. Generally, eWallets have a lower minimum deposit in comparison to Visa, MasterCard, Western Union, and Bank Transfer.
Second, if you are using Wire Transfer, you shouldn’t expect the amount to reflect immediately. Actually, you should give it about 3 days to process and reflect. However, other payment methods take a shorter time – usually within 24 hours or a day.
Now, if the problem is not any of the above, then you should get in touch with the casino’s customer support. Explain the situation and they will provide you with the way forward. Usually, the support team will provide you with an alternative method as they try and fix the problem with your preferred payment option if any.
Also, be sure to contact the support team of the payment method you used. If you used can eWallet, like Paypal and Skrill, reach out to them and they will explain the problem. Usually, it’s a minor problem that can be solved in a few emails with the support team.
Should I Tip The Live Casino Dealers In The US?
On face value, the concept of tipping live casino dealers is quite simple. It is a fact that many online casino employees are paid relatively low wages. As such they would appreciate the tips offered every now and then. When you tip a dealer, it is more of a kind gesture than anything else. And in our view, this practice should be encouraged though it is not a must. The objective of playing at an online casino is to have fun. And while games form a big part of the experience, the live dealer contributes to the experience as well especially when he/she is social via the chat.
So how should you tip? Generally, there are two methods you can use to tip casino live dealers. You can choose to tip using your chips or offer a side-bet on their behalf.
When tipping from your chips, you simply pass the dealer chips and tell them it’s for them on the chat so that it’s not mistaken for placing a bet. On the other hand, when you choose to make a side-bet for them the winnings will go to them but they will not cover any losses sustained. At times dealers opt to store the side-bet chips for later. This is similar to what waitresses do when they accept an offer for a drink but take it later.
The best time to leave a tip is when you are leaving the table or when the dealer has just completed his shift and is clocking out. Also, you can opt to tip when you win big. This is true for all games including Blackjack, Roulette, and Craps.
And lastly, how much should you tip a live dealer? Well, since this is more of a kind gesture than a rule, you can tip any amount you please. However, we recommend you go for $5. But if you cannot afford this, set your preferred amount and tip it. However, you cannot tip low and you are placing insanely high bets. Always be considerate with the bets you place.
Online Gambling Laws In The United States
Though the online casino industry has grown exponentially over the years the world over, in the US market, it is somewhat complex. The US is famous for setting rules and regulations for every industry. And the worst bit is that these laws are constantly changing and being updated. For this reason, it’s important that you are up to speed with the US gambling laws and how they’ve changed over the years.
Let’s start with the federal laws. When the online gambling industry first emerged, the government thought it wise to enact laws that every casino, land-based or online should adhere to. Some of the laws that were put in place were enacted before the internet was a thing. But despite this, the online companies that emerge still have to follow the laws. Here’s an overview of these laws.
Wire Act of 1961 – this law was passed in 1961. This was a couple of decades before the internet materialized and the thought of online gambling was hatched. But even then, this law has been used numerous times against the online casinos. The purpose of this law was to help the US states to enforce their gambling laws and to suppress gambling to organized events. A section of this law allows the government to apply the law to new industry online casinos.
The law states that any wager that that is placed through a wire communication shall be subject to this law. But in 2011 this law changed and it legalized some gambling forms that were once illegal. This means that games such as slots, bingo, lottery options and poker were legalized but online sports betting remained illegal. But this law does nothing to legalize online gambling.
Interstate Transportation of Wagering Paraphernalia Act – this law made it illegal for anyone to transport any paraphernalia, record, ticket, certificate, slip token, paper, writing or bill that’s used in bookmaking or for sports betting.
UIGEA – this law is quite different from the Wire Act since it doesn’t target players but instead, it goes for the companies supplying games and processing payments to and from the online casinos. The law doesn’t prohibit online gambling. However, it does prohibit online gambling companies from getting payments from individuals who violate the state and federal laws. Basically, it was created to curb money laundering and fraud.
However, prohibiting the acceptance of these payments affected players as well. When the law was passed, it became impossible for players to find the best casino sites that would allow them to play. To date, this is still an issue with offshore online casinos.
Other laws include the Illegal Gambling Business Act and the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act.
The UIGEA Law’s Impact On USA Online Casinos
When UIGEA law was passed, all the gambling sites that were listed on the London Stock Exchange were forced to stop accepting players from the US. For instance, PartyGaming, a popular company at the time dropped in stocks by 60% within 24 hours of passing the bill.
Poker companies reacted in a somewhat funny manner since as explained above, the UIGEA law didn’t explicitly touch on them. This means they could be referred to as sports betting as defined in the Wire Act of 1961. But despite this, the UIGEA law was used in 2010 and 2011 to shut down the online poker industry in the US. The government was able to do this because they leveraged on the state laws like New York which the Poker games violated since they were classified as a game of chance.
Restrictions For US Casinos & Other Entities That Accept Casino Game Bets
As we’ve pointed out before, there are states in the US that have legalized online gambling. While they are not many, it is a step in the right direction. The future is bright for the online casino industry in the US.
Currently, any online casino that is based in the US should be operating in New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware. The laws legalizing online casinos in Mississippi have not been legalized yet so this state has to wait any casino that operates outside of these states are operating illegally and run the risk of prosecution.
One might argue that they haven’t been any prosecutions so the chances of that happening are low. Well, while that is true, we believe in being on the right side of the law. In the event that the state governments or the federal government decide to conduct a crackdown, you don’t want to be one of the few who sustain losses in the process. Stick to what you know is right and wait patiently as the law takes it course. Many are bound to get on board so exercise your patience. If not, you can very well operate outside the US and still make profits within the legal frameworks of the industry.
Restrictions for US Online Casino Companies Operating From Outside the States
For the casinos that operate from outside the US, things are a little easier for them. They are within their legal right to accept US players. However, they too have to work extra hard to ensure that the payment options they offer are convenient and acceptable for the US market lest they go out of business.
So do they need to be licensed? Of course. In the US, there are 2 states that legally allow gambling and provide licenses to online casinos who wish to operate in the US. These licenses include the Nevada Gaming Commission which is offered by the state of Nevada. Players within Nevada can play online games provided a casino has this license.
Second, the New Jersey Casino Control Commission. This license applies to both Delaware and New Jersey states. But aside from these, the online casinos can also operate within the US with licenses from Curacao and Antigua Directorate of Offshore Gambling, UK Gambling Commission and Kahnawake. However, these casinos run the risk of being thrown out of the US with the latter licenses since they are not legally recognized by the gambling jurisdictions in the US.
Online Casinos US State Laws Summary
We are dedicated to ensuring that you understand the laws governing online gambling in the US. So just in case, you skipped the US laws section, here’s a quick overview.
The federal laws are divided into 3:
The Wire Act of 1961 – this law was passed before the creation of the internet. The law was created to help states enforce their gambling laws and to limit the gambling activities to organized events
The Interstate Wire Act – was designed to prevent the transportation of items that could be used in sports betting and bookmarking.
UIGEA – this law didn’t make online gambling legal. Also, instead of targeting players, it targeted online gambling and financial companies. The effect on these two key players inevitably affected the players. The players found it hard to find a company that would grant them access
Illegal Gambling Business Act – this law was passed to help to put an end to organized crime masquerading as gambling. Any gambling operation that operated for 30 days under 5 people and made more than $2000 after a few days and that is in violation of local or state laws is prosecuted. It includes any individual who works for the business including the owned
Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act – the whole purpose of this law was to ban sports betting on online platforms. It’s also known as the Bradly Act. It works along with the Wire Act to make it illegal for people in the US to place bets on some sporting events including basketball, baseball, and football over the internet.
Licensed And Regulated U.S. Casinos
Below are some of the best licensed US online casinos.
888 Casino – this is one of the casinos that can operate in New Jersey. It is considered to be one of the best casinos in the US. It has quality games and is licensed to operate in the US. To date, the casino has more than 20 million members in its database.
Bovada Casino – the name Bovada was derived from Bodog Casino. This is one of the more serious casinos in the industry. In addition to this, it is trustworthy just like the mother company is. Its managers have made the conscious decision of accepting US players. Bovada Casino is the only casino that operates in multiple states. It is available in Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey. It has in excess of 200 games including video 3D slots, blackjack, and roulette. It is powered by RTG one of the most popular gaming software companies in the industry.
Bwin Casino- this casino was launched in 2001. It is a popular online casino that accepts US players specifically those from New Jersey. However, it is licensed in Gibraltar and is owned by Bwin International Ltd.
Aside from the large variety of casino games that it provides, it also has a wide range of safe banking options. It is also available in multiple languages and can be downloaded to a mobile device which provides players with convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Are There Any Online Casinos In The USA?
Yes, while many US states aren’t yet accepting online casinos, there are a select few that are. New Jersey has a full regulated online casino market for example. Check out our US Casinos page to see more
-
Is It Safe To Play At A Non-USA Licensed Casino?
Yes, absolutely. Most great casinos won’t have US licenses because the US is still not properly regulated its online gambling market. We recommend always looking out for European licenses when deciding whether a casino is for you. If a casino has been given the thumbs up by the UK, Malta or Sweden then it’s certainly met the proper requirements.
-
Do Online Casinos Accept Bitcoin As A Deposit Method?
Yes, Bitcoin is a common deposit method for online casinos. Cryptocurrency and casinos have begun to mix together over the last 2 years and Bitcoin is now a staple of the top casino scene. Some online casinos even accept a full range of e-currencies. To find out more, check out our dedicated Bitcoin page.
-
Do Online Casinos In USA Offer No Deposit Bonuses?
Yes, in theory. No Deposit Bonuses are rare even across the rest of the world. As the US casino market hasn’t opened up yet there aren’t that many casinos yet and so the chance of find a sign up bonus is slim. As the market begins to expand over the next few years, we expect to see many more bonuses spring up