Is Online Poker Legal in the US?

When it comes to online poker, there are dozens of poker sites to choose from. Which is best depends on several factors. Biggest sites typically have the most games and the most players, while smaller sites have fewer players but larger sign-up bonuses and player perks. Additionally, some sites offer a variety of poker variants, while others only offer Hold’em. Ultimately, you should play with a site that best matches your style of play.

One of the most important considerations in managing your bankroll is privacy. Online poker sites often require personal information such as your date of birth, social security number, and full name and address. You’ll want to protect these details from identity theft, which is a common crime in the United States. Using an IP PIN is also a good idea for life in general. However, the best way to learn how to manage your poker bankroll is to get a good strategy book.

Despite these efforts, there are still relatively few US-accepted poker sites. However, offshore sites have gained popularity and only a few states regulate the online gambling industry. Currently, Nevada, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York are the only states that regulate online poker sites, and West Virginia is expected to follow suit soon. There are also efforts to ban the online gambling industry entirely in the US. But, in the end, the question remains – is online poker legal in the US?

In addition to the popularity of online poker, there are a few other important considerations when choosing an online poker site. The age requirements vary from site to site. Most poker sites require that players be at least 18 years old, or the minimum age in your jurisdiction. However, if you are unsure about your age, a good place to start is a beginners’ table. This will help you get used to the game and make decisions faster.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a huge increase in online poker traffic. The virus has closed many live gaming venues around the world. Many unlicensed gaming venues have shut down. This sudden lack of live entertainment has caused casual players to turn to online poker. Some operators reported double or more traffic than usual. The biggest tournaments online draw a large number of players. It also helps that there are hundreds of different online poker sites that do not require physical space.

Despite these challenges, New York has a dedicated advocate for online poker in the state legislature. While a bill aimed at legalizing online poker was introduced each year since 2014, it did not pass the Assembly. The state Senate, however, voted in favor of legalizing online poker in 2017, while a House committee rejected the same proposal. So, online poker in New York has a strong chance of passing in the future. So, keep in mind that it is worth checking on the latest developments in the state.