Top Poker Legality FAQS & Answers

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Paige | January 2, 2023 | Updated on: January 8th, 2024


Top Poker Legality Questions & AnswersIf you’ve ever wondered where to play legal poker, then this guide is for you. We’ve answered every legal poker question fully to give American players what they need to know. After all, getting on the wrong side of the law is never a good time.

In the US, the 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Prohibition Act (UIGEA) will apply to any foreign operators for offering services illegally. These operators can face federal prosecution as a result of the law. Moreover, banks offering their services to these sites can also face federal prosecution.

So, if you’re interested in finding the best legal online poker rooms, we’ll answer your questions below.

Questions & Answers for Poker Over the Internet

Is playing online poker legal in the United States?

Yes, provided that your state has legalized online gambling and regulates sites. States like New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, Montana and Oregon have laws already. More states are expected to follow in 2024 and beyond.

What is the difference between regulated and unregulated online poker markets?

Regulated poker markets have some repercussions in place for sites that treat their players badly. Additionally, gamblers can contact the state to take action against these sites. However, unregulated markets have no protection in place. Should a site take you for a ride, there’s not much you can do.

What are my deposit options at an online poker site in a regulated market?

There are roughly four deposit options at regulated sites that can be used. These include Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin and Wire Transfers. These banking options operate in the US, so they will be offered because of the speed and security.

Questions & Answers for Poker Over the Internet

What are my withdrawal choices at an online poker site in a regulated market?

Unlike the deposit options, Americans can only use their debit or credit cards for withdrawals at legal poker sites. Bitcoin and Wire Transfers just take too long and the fees are a little high.

Why do some sites not allow players from specific states?

Due to the lawmaking process in the United States, federal bans have been lifted because they went against the constitution. This means that all states are now responsible for regulating gambling if they choose. So, your state might not have provisions yet and that’s why you can’t play poker online.

What are some of the pros and cons of unregulated vs. regulated websites?

  1. Pros of regulated sites: 100% legal for Americans and protection from fraud.
  2. Cons of regulated sites: smaller deposit bonuses, less players, smaller game selections.
  3. Pros of unregulated sites: bigger bonuses, more players, and more games.
  4. Cons of unregulated sites: tax dollars taken away from the state and no fraud protection.

What are the most popular poker variants being played online?

Our top picks, and the most popular, games are No Limit Texas Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha, Limit Texas Hold’em and Omaha Hi Lo. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with other games like Seven Card Stud or Caribbean Stud Poker. It’s up to you to choose the game you enjoy.

Is the unregulated poker market still worthwhile for professional poker players?

Speaking from a legal poker standpoint, no. Mostly because current laws can send professional poker players to jail for an extended time. So, that’s why we prefer to recommend lawfully protected poker sites instead.

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