Online Gambling Laws in the US: What You Need to Know
Curious about where online casinos are legal in the US? There’s no simple answer. Online gambling laws vary by state —some allow online casinos, while others permit only lotteries, sports betting, or other forms of wagering. This page explores which states offer legal casino gaming and the various betting options players can look forward to online.
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Setting the Scene: A Quick History of US Online Gambling Laws
Online gambling laws in the US took a major turn in 2012 when a New York court ruled poker as a game of skill, not luck. This decision set the stage for the introduction of online gaming regulations. By 2013, players in Nevada, New Jersey, and Delaware could legally play poker and casino games online. The launch of legal real money online casinos in the US didn’t lag far behind. States like New Jersey required digital platforms to team up with land-based casino venues, ensuring proper regulation and oversight.
Then, in 2018, there was more big news. The Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), a federal law from 1992 that had restricted sports betting to Nevada. With that barrier gone, all states were given the freedom to legalize and regulate sports betting independently, leading to a rapid expansion of both retail and online sportsbooks.
Today, US gambling laws allow online poker, casino games, sports betting, lotteries, bingo, and daily fantasy sports—each regulated at the state level. States like Illinois, Maryland, and New Hampshire have proposed to legalize online casinos, indicating a broader trend toward acceptance of online gambling.
Legal Gambling States in the USA for Playing Casino Games
Though the majority of states offer forms of legal gambling such as sports betting and lotteries, playing at regulated online casinos remains off-limits for the majority of Americans. To date, only seven states allow legal gambling on casino games online. While numerous offshore casinos are a viable option for players, in some of these states, there are only or one or two one legal options for online casino play.
The legal gambling landscape in the US is constantly evolving, but here’s what it looks like right now:
Currently, there are seven states offering legal online gambling in the US. Below, we break down each legal gambling state’s journey toward legalization and the various casino games available to players.
The Future of Gambling Laws in the US
The landscape of gambling laws in the US is constantly evolving, with new legislation and industry trends shaping the future. As more states embrace the economic opportunities of online gambling, the expansion of legal online casinos, sports betting, and other forms of wagering is expected to continue.
More states considering online casino legalization
While gambling has seen rapid nationwide adoption, online casinos remain legal in only a handful of states. Legislative efforts in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and other jurisdictions suggest that more states may soon approve online casino gambling. If these states move forward, it could encourage others to follow, leading to broader legalization across the country.
Potential federal oversight
Although gambling regulation is primarily a state-level issue, there is ongoing debate about potential federal oversight—especially concerning consumer protection and responsible gambling initiatives. At this stage, a federal framework for online gambling seems far off. However, discussions about standardizing certain regulations could gain traction and change the landscape.
Stronger consumer protections and responsible gambling measures
As online gambling grows in popularity, concerns about addiction and problem gambling are gaining attention. Regulators are expected to introduce stricter player protections, including self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and mandatory responsible gambling tools. Some states may also require operators to contribute to problem gambling research and treatment programs in the future.
How to Find the Right US Online Casino For You
The best online casinos in the US means are fully licensed and comply with safety protocols that protect your personal and financial information. Although none of our top recommended gambling sites are not regulated at the state level like domestic platforms, they are safe and reliable platforms known for their impressive game libraries, secure payment options, and strong player protections. We have expertly researched online casino reviews to make choosing the right US gambling site for you much easier.
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Gambling Laws FAQ
The legality of real money gambling depends on which forms of wagering you want to partake in. Online casinos are legal in the following seven states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and West Virginia.
Yes, all gambling winnings—including those from online casinos, sports betting, and poker—are considered taxable income and these vary by state. You’ll need to report your winnings and your tax payments to the IRS when you file your annual tax return.
Online gambling laws in the US vary by state. As of now, seven states have fully regulated online casinos, while many others only offer lotteries, sports betting, and other games.
Using a VPN to access gambling sites in restricted states violates the terms of service of many online casinos. If detected, your account may be suspended, and winnings could be forfeited.
Since the 2018 repeal of PASPA, individual states have the autonomy to regulate online sports betting. Over 30 states have legalized it, but rules differ by state.
Yes, states regulate online poker, casinos, and sports betting separately. Some states legalize online poker but not casino games, while others allow both.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Gambling laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. We do not provide legal advice, and it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with local laws before participating in any gambling activities. We are not liable for any actions taken based on the information provided in this article. If you have (legal) concerns, please consult a qualified professional.