How to gamble online in the US? The ultimate guide by Digimagg

For beginners delving into the realm of online gambling with real money, the sheer multitude of platforms available can feel daunting. Navigating through the options, ranging from various wagering opportunities to diverse games and enticing bonuses, can seem like a formidable task.

This guide was specifically crafted to alleviate such concerns. It covers everything from comprehending different types of gambling to facilitating deposits, providing a comprehensive resource for those venturing into online gambling and beyond.

Here are some key points to note about online gambling in the US:

• Regulation of US online gambling occurs at the state level.
• Over 30 states have implemented regulations for online sports betting.
• Seven states have established regulations for online casino gaming.
• Offshore gambling platforms are operational in nearly every state.
• These offshore operators are licensed by international gaming authorities.
• The minimum age requirement for online gambling typically ranges from 21 years old (with exceptions where it's 18 on certain sites).

Selecting the right gambling site amidst the multitude of options, including both state-sanctioned and offshore operators, can be quite challenging. Initially, you must determine your preference for online gambling and then embark on the quest to find a reputable platform.

Consider the following criteria when evaluating an online gambling site:

• Officially licensed by a recognized gaming authority, such as the Michigan Gaming Control Board for state-licensed sites or the Curaçao Gaming Control Board for offshore operators.
• Provides accessible customer support, whether through live chat functionality or phone assistance.
• Positive feedback from customers, which can be gleaned from Google reviews or comprehensive assessments by gambling experts, like the team at Techopedia.
• Regular promotions beyond just the initial welcome bonus, as ongoing offers become increasingly valuable over time.

With these considerations in mind, let's delve into the various types of online gambling.

Types of gambling online

To gain insight into online gambling, it's prudent to understand the array of gambling products at your disposal. Below, we provide further elucidation on the varieties of legally sanctioned online gambling options accessible in the US.

Sports wagering

Sports betting involves placing monetary bets on the results of sporting events. Premier online sportsbooks typically offer comprehensive coverage of major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and even international sports. Moreover, they often facilitate wagers on specific player performances, commonly referred to as proposition bets or prop bets.

Casinos games

Online casinos provide a wide array of games akin to those found in traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. This encompasses slot machines, table games, and video poker. Additionally, there's an expanding niche for live dealer games, where casinos stream table games with real dealers in real-time. Leading live casinos also feature interactive game shows like Deal or No Deal.

Sweepstakes and social casinos

Sweepstakes and social casinos present appealing alternatives to conventional online casinos. In social casinos, players can engage in familiar casino games using Gold Coins (GC) or Sweepstakes Coins (SC) instead of actual currency. These coins can be redeemed for various rewards, and in certain instances, SC can even be exchanged for real money.

Poker 

Although video poker is a common offering across many online casinos, online poker presents a distinct experience, involving virtual tables where players compete against each other. As a game reliant on skill, proficiency in poker is essential before venturing into online matches.

Horse race wagering

Engaging in online betting on horse racing entails predicting the race's outcome. Options typically include betting on a horse to win or to place, indicating it finishes either 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. For newcomers, mastering the intricacies of horse racing betting, particularly its terminology, may require some initial research and study.

Lottery

Lottery draws stand as the predominant and most accessible form of gambling in the US. Present in 45 states, major lottery draws such as Powerball are often shared among multiple states. Getting started with online lottery gambling in the US is uncomplicated: simply visit your state lottery website and follow the provided instructions.

Daily Fantasy Sports

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) betting is widely accessible across numerous states and entails participating in events by constructing your own team within a specified budget. Your assembled team then competes in a league against teams crafted by other participants, with prizes awarded based on your team's performance relative to the opposition.

To discover the regulated choices accessible in your state, refer to the state table provided later in this guide.

Managing finances is crucial when it comes to online gambling. After all, you require actual funds to partake in gambling activities, and naturally, you'd want to access your winnings if luck is on your side. Most legitimate online gambling platforms provide a selection of the banking methods outlined below.

How to engage in mobile gambling?

With the prevalence of mobile devices in our daily lives, it's no surprise that online gambling platforms have adapted accordingly. Essentially, this means that all your preferred gambling options are readily available on mobile.

Regulated online betting platforms and casinos

In the case of regulated online betting platforms and casinos, accessing them on mobile typically involves downloading an application from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. These mobile applications ensure a smooth gambling experience without sacrificing any features found on the desktop version.

Offshore online betting platforms and casinos

Accessing offshore online betting platforms and casinos is even simpler. You can navigate everything by directly opening the website on your mobile web browser. These offshore platforms are optimized to function seamlessly on mobile devices, eliminating the need for any downloads.

Ensuring safe online gambling

Maximize your online gambling enjoyment while prioritizing safety with these guidelines.

• Opt for licensed platforms – Choosing licensed gambling sites ensures heightened security and reliability. By selecting platforms regulated by recognized gambling authorities, you can trust in fair games and avoid issues like unjustified withdrawals.
• Familiarize yourself with games – Prior to engaging in sports betting or casino games, invest time in understanding the rules and intricacies of the activities. Utilize free practice options to hone your skills before wagering real money.
• Establish a gambling budget – Determine a financial limit that you can comfortably afford to lose as your gambling budget. Additionally, set daily or session-based restrictions to maintain control over your expenditures. Above all, adhere strictly to your budgetary guidelines.
• Explore promotional offers – While bonuses and promotions can add value to your experience, exercise caution by thoroughly reviewing the associated terms and conditions. Understand the requirements for clearing bonuses and assess wagering prerequisites beforehand.
• Know when to pause – Remember that online gambling serves as entertainment rather than a guaranteed income source. If you find yourself no longer enjoying the experience, take a break and return when you feel refreshed.

Is online betting legal in the US?

Navigating the legal landscape of gambling in the US can be complex, as different states enforce varying rules and regulations.

As of the current time, 31 states have implemented regulations for online sports betting, while seven states have established frameworks for real money online casino operations, often referred to as iGaming. Meanwhile, offshore gambling platforms have the liberty to operate in nearly all states across the US.

Where is online gambling governed in the US?

Refer to the table below to identify the regions where online gambling is subject to regulation within the US. Despite potential restrictions within certain states, offshore gambling platforms remain accessible in nearly every state, as they are licensed beyond US jurisdiction.

Promoting responsible online gambling

Online gambling operators prioritize responsible gambling and offer various tools and resources to assist users in managing their gambling activities. These resources often include information on healthy gambling habits and guidance on recognizing early signs of problem gambling.

Additionally, users have access to account management tools such as deposit limits, time restrictions, and self-exclusion periods, which aid in maintaining a healthy gambling balance and mitigating the risk of developing gambling-related issues.

While online gambling platforms offer support, individuals are encouraged to seek advice and assistance from official problem gambling organizations such as Gamblers Anonymous and the National Council on Problem Gambling for comprehensive support and guidance.

It is strongly advised to gamble responsibly and to avoid wagering more than what one can afford to lose. For further information, refer to our responsible gambling guide.

What are the optimal online gambling choices in the US?

Determining the best online gambling options is subjective and depends on various factors such as preferred gambling activities, desired promotions, and preferred banking methods.

Broadly, users have two main options: state-licensed gambling providers and internationally-licensed (offshore) gambling providers. Below, we outline the advantages and disadvantages of each option to aid in making an informed decision.

Pros and cons for state- Regulated gambling brands

Pros and cons for offshore gambling brands

As evident, the choice between the two options hinges on your online gambling preferences. If you seek region-specific betting opportunities, possibly featuring promotions tied to local casinos, then state-regulated platforms could suit your needs.

Conversely, if you prioritize competitive odds, a wider selection of casino games, and swifter payout processes, offshore platforms offer the optimal solution.