Wondering if online gambling is legal in your state? Looking for the best online gambling sites in the USA? TechNightOwl is here to help. We keep track of the ever-evolving legal status of online gambling across the nation, so you don't have to!
Feb 01, 2021 The retail sports betting portion launched on March 11, 2020, and online betting and online gambling both kicked off Jan. Pennsylvania is the fourth and biggest state to legalize and regulate online gambling. Sports betting (retail and online) and online casinos are all legal and live. There are other types of online gambling available as well. The PA Lottery offers online lottery games that play like scratch-off tickets. The fantasy sports industry is also allowed to offer online and mobile fantasy events. As of November 2019, online sports betting is up and running for PA customers with six online sportsbooks. The DSM-5 notes that gaming must cause 'significant impairment or distress' in several aspects of a person's life. This proposed condition is limited to gaming and does not include problems with general use of the internet, online gambling, or use of social media or smartphones. The proposed symptoms of internet gaming disorder include. Internet Gambling became legal in Colorado this year. Our bank is wondering how that affects our Reg GG Policy? Signed Reg GG Disclosure - Entity or Account Specific?. Is a Reg GG Disclosure that a customer signs meant to be entity specific or account specific? If Joe's Autos opens 4 accounts, do we need 4 Reg GG disclosures signed.
Our expert team also researches and explores all the current legal online casinos, compiling their findings here in easy-to-follow gambling site reviews. You can trust in us to provide everything you need to know about online gambling in the United States.
Your Resource for Safe, Legal Online Gambling and Sports Betting Sites
At TechNightOwl, gambling is our passion. From simple online slots to poker, we're experts in games of all types – and let's not forget sportsbooks. There's nothing quite like not just watching your favorite sports team, but also winning real money in the process!
Our team goes above and beyond to vet every gambling site we cover here. We make sure that each one is safe, legal, and not setting an unfair house advantage. Even better, we try the sites we review to ensure we can share the information you really want to know, from legal considerations to site functions. By doing your online casino and betting site research on TechNightOwl, you're not taking a gamble!
Is Online Gambling for Real Money Legal in the USA?
Yes and no—online gambling for real money is legal in the USA on a federal level, but at a state level, that's not always the case. Each state has its own regulations regarding which games and forms of gambling are legal, if any. State laws also don't prevent you from using international sites, so long as they are not on US soil.
The good news is that while online gambling was entirely illegal in America up until 2012, in just eight short years, that's changed dramatically. Twenty-two states now have some form of legal online gambling.
As of June 2020, five states are fully legal, so to speak, and allow online casinos, poker, and sports betting:
- Delaware
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- West Virginia
- Michigan
Nevada allows both poker and sports betting, but not casinos.
Sixteen additional states allow sports betting only:
- Indiana
- Iowa
- New Hampshire
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Montana
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Virginia
- Tennessee
- Arkansas
- New Mexico
- Mississippi
- Washington
- North Carolina
Exceptions to the Rules – Fantasy Sports and Online Lotteries
Fantasy Sports
Fantasy sports are handled a bit differently than gambling and sports betting because they are excluded from some legislation. Unfortunately, that makes their legality even more confusing.
Most daily fantasy sports (DFS) providers, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, legally operate in 43 states. DFS is illegal in Arizona, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, Washington, and Hawaii, which may soon change. Some providers also ban additional states. For example, Yahoo! Daily Fantasy Sports also does not operate in Delaware, Florida, Missouri, and Montana.
Online Lottery
Most US states offer some form of lottery, which is gambling of a sort. However, only a few give you the opportunity to play online, including Illinois, Georgia, Minnesota, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire.
Alternative premium resources sources for US Gambling:
Non US resources:
How to Tell if a Gambling Site is Legal in the US
On top of the ever-changing state-to-state legality of gambling in the United States, certain gambling sites also have restrictions. Most sites will have geo-based tracking and will let you know if they detect your location as an area they can't service, but that doesn't always happen.
There are two ways you can find out if a gambling site you're considering is legal in the US, or more accurately your state, the first is to look them up right here on TechNightOwl. We cover all the best online gambling sites in the USA.
If, by chance, the site isn't here, you can also scroll down to the bottom of the site and look for a regulatory body logo. If you don't see one at all, it's likely either not a legitimate site or one that's not legal in the United States.
Is Gambling Online Safe?
Legal online gambling sites are safe. They are regulated by the same entities as brick-and-mortar casinos and betting establishments and must meet all the same safety protocols and ethics codes. Those regulations ensure that all the games are fair, your money is secure, and that you actually are paid when you win.
However, as an illegal gambling site has no reason to follow those regulations—otherwise, they'd be legal—it is vital to ensure that you're playing on a safe, legal site. That's why we started TechNightOwl. Scam and unregulated gambling sites give the entire industry a bad name, and worse, they hurt people. We do everything we can to make sure that online gamblers like you have all the information they need to avoid those sites.
Gamble Responsibly
On the note of safety, when gambling online, you aren't physically looking at the money you spend—or lose—it can be easy to spend more than intended. Many players get caught up in the moment, and betting is fast online.
Always gamble responsibly, and keep in mind that you are still gambling with real money. Know when to cut your losses or walk with your winnings and be aware of gambling addiction symptoms. Gambling can be fun and even very lucrative. At TechNightOwl, we'd like it to stay that way for you.
Types of Legal Gambling in the US
Remember that not all the options listed here are legal in all 50 states unless you opt for a website outside the US.
Casino Games
You can play a range of casino games in the US, including card games like Baccarat and Blackjack, as well as slots and table games like Roulette.
US gambling sites also offer live casino games such as Live Roulette and Live Blackjack. With these games, you play in a real-life casino via a video stream. You can place bets remotely using your phone or computer.
The best online gambling sites use modern, high-tech software to deliver your favorite games and ensure you have the best experience gambling online. While you can try most online games for free to make sure they meet your needs, free games generally don't allow you to win real money.
Poker
If you're wondering why states break legal gambling into three classifications—casino, poker, and sports betting—when poker is offered at casinos, it's because the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 excluded 'skill games.' This point also applies to Fantasy Sports, that's how they scored an exception and became legal in 43 states.
Many poker fans assert that poker is indeed a game of skill—including the Poker Players Alliance (PPA), which has fought hard to legalize real money online poker sites. However, the US Department of Justice flip flops a bit over whether they consider it a game of skill or chance, as it involves both. That's why poker is not legal in as many states as Fantasy Sports but isn't lumped in with casino games either. It gets its own gambling 'category' legally.
That said, in states where online poker is legal, you'll find a wide range of online casinos and even sites dedicated solely to playing poker to suit your needs.
Sports Betting
Until recently, legal sports betting in the US was only available in a few states, most notably Nevada. Today, in addition to the states listed above, numerous others are working towards fully regulated sports betting.
This is attributable to the Murphy v. NCAA Supreme Court ruling in 2018, which laid a foundation for legal sports betting in the United States. Sports betting includes both online and mobile betting.
Online betting may include a wide range of events, including bets on NFL, NBA, college football, NHL, and MLB games. You may even get the opportunity to bet on non-sports events such as the Academy Awards — popularly known as 'specialty betting.'
Fantasy Sports
Fantasy sports allow you to create your own dream team from real players. Your team's performance is then measured based on those players' stats in real life. Your team competes against other Fantasy Sports player's teams, and just like regular sports betting, you can place bets on who will win, among other things.
The Best Online Gambling Sites in the USA (2020)
To get the best gambling experience, you need to find the best gambling sites. You want a site that is user-friendly and offers fast payouts. Note that as US-based gambling sites are few in number at present, and you can only bet within state lines with those sites, some of the options below are not in the US, but they do all allow American players.
Here's a look at some of our top picks: Chumba Casino, LuckyLand and DraftKings.
Advantages of Online Gambling
While the most obvious advantage of online gambling is accessibility – not every town in the United States has a casino nearby – it also offers a range of other benefits.
Ability to Play Games Instantly
Whether you have 5 minutes at a bus stop or you're at home relaxing, you can play online casino games anywhere, anytime, instantly. There's no travel, dealing with other patrons, or waiting to cash in your chips.
Attractive Bonus Schemes
Land-based casinos rarely offer bonuses or rewards, and often jackpots are only available on select games. Bonus programs are one of the biggest advantages of online casinos. They are a great way to improve your chances of a big payout.
Most online gambling sites offer match deposit bonuses, bonus spins, and other bonus offers. If you're just getting started with online gambling, you can expect a range of bonuses and rewards in the form of welcome packages for new customers.
Better Odds
Return to Player (RTP) is usually higher in US online casinos compared to their land-based counterparts. That's because the operating costs of online casinos are much lower than brick-and-mortar casinos.
Those lower operating costs allow online casinos to offer a better RTP – and that means better odds.
Variety
Online gambling platforms give you access to a vast selection of casino games and sports events with just a few clicks on your PC or smartphone. If one site doesn't have what you want, there are plenty of options out there. With a brick-and-mortar casino, you're limited to what your local casinos decide to offer.
Customizable Experience
Perhaps the best thing about gambling online is that you can find the right site for your needs. Gamblers have different betting and playing preferences, and one site can't meet all those needs.
Odds and Ends – Online Gambling FAQ
Can I access casino games on my phone?Yes. Many US gambling sites have a mobile-friendly platform that allows you to load casino games through your phone's browser. While some offer a limited selection of games, many are comparable to the site's desktop version.
Do I have to download software to play?You don't need to download software to enjoy online gambling or sports betting. Virtually every US gambling site offers a web-based instant play platform to load games through your web browser. Some options do also offer software downloads, but they aren't universally mandatory.
What payment options do I have?Most US online casinos accept deposits and withdrawals through credit cards and various e-wallets, such as PayPal. Payment methods vary by casino.
Where can I play casino games for free?You can play your favorite online casino games for free anywhere in the US. However, most of these games are just for fun or practice and don't involve any cash winnings.
Why can't I play games from certain developers?Games from some developers like NetEnt, IGT, and Microgaming, aren't available at many US online casinos. These developers only operate in licensed regions, and few casinos are licensed to offer these games in the United States.
Will I earn loyalty points?Some online casinos do offer loyalty programs like land-based casinos. In fact, some online options are run by brick-and-mortar casinos, and the points you earn online will apply if you visit in person too! Caesars is an example of a casino that offers online loyalty point accumulation.
Where do I get help if I have an issue with a casino?If you have an issue with a casino, try to contact their customer support team. If you can't find a solution, consider voicing your concerns at one of the reputable online forums. These forums usually work with casino management and can help address your problem.
What happens if I lose my Internet connection or get disconnected?Some gambling sites will automatically reconnect you right where you left off. In those that don't, there's usually a standard procedure detailed in the help section regarding what to do, and you'll get a refund. However, do not attempt to avoid losses by intentionally disconnecting if things are going badly. You may be credited a few times, but customer support will catch on, and eventually, you'll be banned.
Are online gambling earnings taxed?Yes. For in-person and online gambling, your net earnings are considered taxable income on your federal return. That applies whether you gambled at an international or US site. You may be asked for your personal information when you sign-up to meet US tax reporting requirements.
Most sites will send you a W2-G if your earnings exceed a certain threshold, but technically, you are supposed to report any earnings, whether it's $10 or $10,000. If you don't receive a form, you can report it under 'other income.'
As far as state income taxes, that varies by the state. Currently, in states with an income tax, only New Hampshire and Tennessee do not tax gambling earnings. Many states also don't allow you to deduct your losses from your winnings unless you file a schedule C and are a professional gambler.
If you have significant winnings online, we recommend working with a tax expert familiar with gambling income specifically to minimize your tax obligation.
Discover the Best Online Gambling Sites in the USA and More
Whew – that was a lot of information to cover – but there's a lot more. We've designed our homepage to be a quick crash course in the legality of online gambling in the US, types of online gambling, and the best online gambling sites, but you'll find all this information covered in-depth elsewhere on our site. Stick around and explore a bit. We promise you'll find everything you need to know about online casinos and betting sites in the US. If you can't find the information you need, feel free to contact us. We're always happy to help.
The Ohio legislature has really been slacking when it comes to gambling options in the state, and players have yet to actually benefit because of it. If you are going to play online, you will not have to stress too much about the law as there are actually none written specifically covering online gambling. Instead you will only have to worry about the possibility of losing, which is a possibility inherent to all forms of gambling. What we are here to discuss is the legalities of online gambling in Ohio, and we are sure you will find these to be in your favor.
Online Gambling Age For Ohio Residents
Ohio's government has not yet put together any regulatory oversight for online gambling, and this has been a cause of some confusion, as many OH residents believe that the state's basic gambling laws unilaterally apply to online gambling as well. This is not the case, however, and if you follow our advice, you will not encounter any trouble when you start to gamble over the Internet. This could change once any of the state's gambling laws change to reflect online gambling, but such a move doesn't seem to be a part of the state's to-do list at this time.
Ohio Online Gambling Laws
The gambling laws in Ohio may not seem very clear re what is legal or illegal. We are confident that the lack of any specific laws related to online gambling means that you will not get in trouble for playing your favorite for-money poker, casino, and sports betting games over the Internet. Ohio residents will find that there is no crime related to gambling online, provided that they stick to legal offshore betting sites and online casino services.
Indeed, as long as you do business with overseas gaming sites and restrict your action to solely that of an individual bettor rather than a gambling house operator or bookmaker, then you are free and clear to play as you please. You can verify this for yourself by consulting § 2915.01 and § 2915.02 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Gambling Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Many gambling sites exist that will accept you as an Ohio resident, it just depends upon where you look. If you look at the sites we have to show you, you will find that there are plenty of viable gambling opportunities out there. Residents of Ohio can turn to online sportsbooks, casinos, poker rooms, bingo halls, racebooks, and even the occasional lottery website, which is essentially the full gamut of gambling types available anywhere. Some sites even combine all of the above, which makes for a premier gambling destination. Below, you can find our list of the best 2021 online gambling websites for Ohio residents.
Bovada: Online Casinos And Sports Betting
On top of having sporting events for its fans to place their bets on, with the online casino on Bovada, there is nothing that you can't place a wager on your favorite online betting site. Having a live dealer there makes you feel as if you are actually at a casino! All the things you can do at a casino you can do on Bovada and all you will be doing are sitting at home on your computer or your mobile device. Already having mobile betting, being able to do casino online is a huge bonus for those players who have an interest in both sports and casino gambling. Make sure to sign up and check out all the betting options included the online casino. Go To Bovada!
50% - $250 BONUS!
No DE, MD, NJ, NY, NV
BetOnline: Future Bets On Ohio St. Repeat Attempt
An explanation of Ohio's state flag starts with the blue triangle, which represents the hills and valleys of Ohio's landscape, and the stripes are its roads, rivers, and streams. The 13 stars around the 'buckeye' of the flag represent the original states of the Union. If BetOnline had its own flag like Ohio, then it would probably boast a design representing its status as one of the original and best overall gambling sites in the betting community. Maybe it would be a great white with a razor blade (a sharp shark, get it?). At any rate, BetOnline is a legal betting site for all Ohio residents. BetOnline takes its players' respect and loyalty seriously, and that's why it's been around for decades. Operating out of Panama City in the Republic of Panama, BetOnline is among the most trusted overseas gambling sites in the US, with millions of members nationwide.
BetOnline is available to all OH bettors that are over the age of 18. Ohio residents have been enjoying BetOnline's many betting options for years, and those options have grown considerably over time. BetOnline offers the most comprehensive sports wagering options, live poker tables, casino games, and pari-mutuel racebook bets in the industry. Player testimonials speak for themselves, so raise your white flag and give in to BetOnline, simply the best and most original gambling destination on the Internet. New OH members who sign up ASAP can take advantage of BetOnline's 50% match bonus on their first deposit, which can be worth up to $1000 in free-plays. That's high roller territory! Go To BetOnline!
50% - $1,000
ALL STATES
| Rank | Casino | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100% Up To $3,000 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
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| 10 | 100% Up To $1,000 | Visit CasinoMax | ||
| Rank | Sportsbook | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
| 1 | 50% Up To $250 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
| 2 | 50% Up To $1000 | Visit BetOnline.ag | ||
| 3 | 50% Up To $1000 | Visit SportsBetting.ag | ||
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| Rank | Poker Room | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
| 1 | 100% Up To $500 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
| 2 | 100% Up To $1000 | Visit BetOnline.ag |
Online Casinos That Accept Ohio Residents
With Ohio online casinos, you will be able to play all of the games you wish, with variety that puts land-based options to shame. While they are not licensed by the state, these Internet-based gambling houses are still open to residents in the state of Ohio. We have tested over 100 casinos in our search for the very best, and we are sure that each entry on our final lists is a viable choice for your gaming needs. We chose only the best casinos with the highest payouts and most stable reputations, and if you sign up with the providers, we are sure you'll agree that they're the best in the business.
For OH residents, the cream of the crop in gambling sites are destinations like Lucky Red, Slots.lv, Aladdin's Gold, BuzzLuck, High Noon Casino, Manhattan Slots, to name just a few. These sites are all legal and certified for fair play by industry watchdogs, and they've each been in operation for decades.
Online Sports Betting Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Residents in the state of Ohio have access to a number of different sportsbooks, and these sportsbooks will offer you easy access to quite a few different betting odds. If you live in Ohio, we recommend the following sportsbooks: Bovada, BetOnline, SportsBetting, 5Dimes, BetDSI, and BookMaker. These are, without a doubt, the very best sports wagering sites for OH residents, and they have over a century of experience serving the Buckeye State between them.
These sites are focused primarily on their sportsbook products, but they each also offer comprehensive casino gaming, live poker rooms, and international racebooks for horseplayers. Best of all, you need only one membership account to access all of these great pastimes.
Online Poker Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Online poker is one of the most profitable forms of online gambling, and we can tell you that these poker sites offer some of the best options for OH players. If you decide to play with our favorite online poker rooms, you'll get easy deposits, and we can assure you that your safety is guaranteed. Best of all, we can promise you that a substantial amount of poker types and game variants are available.
As a matter of course, the best poker sites for live play seem to be at the aforementioned sportsbook sites (Bovada, 5Dimes, etc.), as these tend to focus more on real-dealer, multiplayer poker opportunities. If you'd rather play themed video poker, your best bets will be to use more casino-centric sites like Lucky Red and Slots.lv.
Online Bingo Sites That Accept Ohio Players
While a few bingo halls may be available in a land-based setting in Ohio, online bingo games are those you will want to turn to. These online bingo halls allow you to choose your own stakes, types of games to play, and even the progressive jackpots you want to try for, offering infinite versatility. If Bingo is your game of choice, we can give you a few solid recommendations for where to play. 5Dimes is fairly renowned for their bingo offerings, but Downtown Bingo is the ultimate bingo site on the Internet, and their daily bonuses make it easier than ever to play often and win big.
Is Online Gambling Legal In Ohio?
Ohio gamblers will find that, with the lack of any law related to online gambling codified in the state's legislation, you will not have to worry about anything other than playing your games. With no legal precedent showing that you are breaking the law by gaming over the Internet, you don't ever have to worry about being fined or arrested for using offshore gambling sites.
Just like most other states, online gambling laws in Ohio aren't very clear. But don't let this deter you! The simple fact is this: None of their gambling laws mention the act of using online sites, so the easy thing to surmise is that it's not illegal to gamble at offshore websites by state law. This is, in large part, because most states rely on the federal laws to cover their bases on the topic.
That being said, laws like PASPA (the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992) have given players pause in the past. But even before PASPA was overturned by the US Supreme Court in 2018, all it banned was the operation of sports betting businesses inside of the United States (excepting Bovada). That is, PASPA never even mentioned the players or bettors themselves – it was only focused on operators and bookmakers working inside the country. OH's gambling laws are largely based on that approach, so as long as Ohio residents are using offshore online gambling sites, they are not breaking the law. Nobody has ever been arrested for using these sites, and nearly two million OH residents gamble with such services every single year.
Are Online Casinos Legal In Ohio?
Many people ask us, 'Hey, are online casinos legal in Ohio?' and we can simply say that if they're located overseas and outside of US jurisdiction, they absolutely are. Residents of Ohio will find the number of laws related to casino gambling are spare in general, so you should not have to stress too much about the trouble you could possibly get in, because frankly, there isn't any.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal In Ohio?
Residents of the state of Ohio no longer have to leave the state in order to participate in sports betting, as players can simply turn to the Internet. If you live in Ohio, you will find that there are many options available for betting on your favorite local, state, and national teams, as the Internet is full of different sportsbooks.
Of course, most of these sites haven't got the best reputations for fair lines and prompt payouts, so if you want to bet with the very best, you should stick with the sites we listed above: Bovada, BetOnline, 5Dimes, SportsBetting, BetDSI, and BookMaker. These sports betting sites cover a number of events, with more options than even the best Las Vegas sportsbooks.
Internet Gambling News
Is It Safe To Wager On The Buckeyes While Living In Ohio?
Online sports betting on the Ohio State Buckeyes is definitely a viable option for those who live near the campus or even in the state. Bottom line, there are several sports betting sites that allow residents from Ohio to join and wager on anything they want, including Buckeye football, basketball, and more.
Land-based casinos rarely offer bonuses or rewards, and often jackpots are only available on select games. Bonus programs are one of the biggest advantages of online casinos. They are a great way to improve your chances of a big payout.
Most online gambling sites offer match deposit bonuses, bonus spins, and other bonus offers. If you're just getting started with online gambling, you can expect a range of bonuses and rewards in the form of welcome packages for new customers.
Better Odds
Return to Player (RTP) is usually higher in US online casinos compared to their land-based counterparts. That's because the operating costs of online casinos are much lower than brick-and-mortar casinos.
Those lower operating costs allow online casinos to offer a better RTP – and that means better odds.
Variety
Online gambling platforms give you access to a vast selection of casino games and sports events with just a few clicks on your PC or smartphone. If one site doesn't have what you want, there are plenty of options out there. With a brick-and-mortar casino, you're limited to what your local casinos decide to offer.
Customizable Experience
Perhaps the best thing about gambling online is that you can find the right site for your needs. Gamblers have different betting and playing preferences, and one site can't meet all those needs.
Odds and Ends – Online Gambling FAQ
Can I access casino games on my phone?Yes. Many US gambling sites have a mobile-friendly platform that allows you to load casino games through your phone's browser. While some offer a limited selection of games, many are comparable to the site's desktop version.
Do I have to download software to play?You don't need to download software to enjoy online gambling or sports betting. Virtually every US gambling site offers a web-based instant play platform to load games through your web browser. Some options do also offer software downloads, but they aren't universally mandatory.
What payment options do I have?Most US online casinos accept deposits and withdrawals through credit cards and various e-wallets, such as PayPal. Payment methods vary by casino.
Where can I play casino games for free?You can play your favorite online casino games for free anywhere in the US. However, most of these games are just for fun or practice and don't involve any cash winnings.
Why can't I play games from certain developers?Games from some developers like NetEnt, IGT, and Microgaming, aren't available at many US online casinos. These developers only operate in licensed regions, and few casinos are licensed to offer these games in the United States.
Will I earn loyalty points?Some online casinos do offer loyalty programs like land-based casinos. In fact, some online options are run by brick-and-mortar casinos, and the points you earn online will apply if you visit in person too! Caesars is an example of a casino that offers online loyalty point accumulation.
Where do I get help if I have an issue with a casino?If you have an issue with a casino, try to contact their customer support team. If you can't find a solution, consider voicing your concerns at one of the reputable online forums. These forums usually work with casino management and can help address your problem.
What happens if I lose my Internet connection or get disconnected?Some gambling sites will automatically reconnect you right where you left off. In those that don't, there's usually a standard procedure detailed in the help section regarding what to do, and you'll get a refund. However, do not attempt to avoid losses by intentionally disconnecting if things are going badly. You may be credited a few times, but customer support will catch on, and eventually, you'll be banned.
Are online gambling earnings taxed?Yes. For in-person and online gambling, your net earnings are considered taxable income on your federal return. That applies whether you gambled at an international or US site. You may be asked for your personal information when you sign-up to meet US tax reporting requirements.
Most sites will send you a W2-G if your earnings exceed a certain threshold, but technically, you are supposed to report any earnings, whether it's $10 or $10,000. If you don't receive a form, you can report it under 'other income.'
As far as state income taxes, that varies by the state. Currently, in states with an income tax, only New Hampshire and Tennessee do not tax gambling earnings. Many states also don't allow you to deduct your losses from your winnings unless you file a schedule C and are a professional gambler.
If you have significant winnings online, we recommend working with a tax expert familiar with gambling income specifically to minimize your tax obligation.
Discover the Best Online Gambling Sites in the USA and More
Whew – that was a lot of information to cover – but there's a lot more. We've designed our homepage to be a quick crash course in the legality of online gambling in the US, types of online gambling, and the best online gambling sites, but you'll find all this information covered in-depth elsewhere on our site. Stick around and explore a bit. We promise you'll find everything you need to know about online casinos and betting sites in the US. If you can't find the information you need, feel free to contact us. We're always happy to help.
The Ohio legislature has really been slacking when it comes to gambling options in the state, and players have yet to actually benefit because of it. If you are going to play online, you will not have to stress too much about the law as there are actually none written specifically covering online gambling. Instead you will only have to worry about the possibility of losing, which is a possibility inherent to all forms of gambling. What we are here to discuss is the legalities of online gambling in Ohio, and we are sure you will find these to be in your favor.
Online Gambling Age For Ohio Residents
Ohio's government has not yet put together any regulatory oversight for online gambling, and this has been a cause of some confusion, as many OH residents believe that the state's basic gambling laws unilaterally apply to online gambling as well. This is not the case, however, and if you follow our advice, you will not encounter any trouble when you start to gamble over the Internet. This could change once any of the state's gambling laws change to reflect online gambling, but such a move doesn't seem to be a part of the state's to-do list at this time.
Ohio Online Gambling Laws
The gambling laws in Ohio may not seem very clear re what is legal or illegal. We are confident that the lack of any specific laws related to online gambling means that you will not get in trouble for playing your favorite for-money poker, casino, and sports betting games over the Internet. Ohio residents will find that there is no crime related to gambling online, provided that they stick to legal offshore betting sites and online casino services.
Indeed, as long as you do business with overseas gaming sites and restrict your action to solely that of an individual bettor rather than a gambling house operator or bookmaker, then you are free and clear to play as you please. You can verify this for yourself by consulting § 2915.01 and § 2915.02 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Gambling Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Many gambling sites exist that will accept you as an Ohio resident, it just depends upon where you look. If you look at the sites we have to show you, you will find that there are plenty of viable gambling opportunities out there. Residents of Ohio can turn to online sportsbooks, casinos, poker rooms, bingo halls, racebooks, and even the occasional lottery website, which is essentially the full gamut of gambling types available anywhere. Some sites even combine all of the above, which makes for a premier gambling destination. Below, you can find our list of the best 2021 online gambling websites for Ohio residents.
Bovada: Online Casinos And Sports Betting
On top of having sporting events for its fans to place their bets on, with the online casino on Bovada, there is nothing that you can't place a wager on your favorite online betting site. Having a live dealer there makes you feel as if you are actually at a casino! All the things you can do at a casino you can do on Bovada and all you will be doing are sitting at home on your computer or your mobile device. Already having mobile betting, being able to do casino online is a huge bonus for those players who have an interest in both sports and casino gambling. Make sure to sign up and check out all the betting options included the online casino. Go To Bovada!
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BetOnline: Future Bets On Ohio St. Repeat Attempt
An explanation of Ohio's state flag starts with the blue triangle, which represents the hills and valleys of Ohio's landscape, and the stripes are its roads, rivers, and streams. The 13 stars around the 'buckeye' of the flag represent the original states of the Union. If BetOnline had its own flag like Ohio, then it would probably boast a design representing its status as one of the original and best overall gambling sites in the betting community. Maybe it would be a great white with a razor blade (a sharp shark, get it?). At any rate, BetOnline is a legal betting site for all Ohio residents. BetOnline takes its players' respect and loyalty seriously, and that's why it's been around for decades. Operating out of Panama City in the Republic of Panama, BetOnline is among the most trusted overseas gambling sites in the US, with millions of members nationwide.
BetOnline is available to all OH bettors that are over the age of 18. Ohio residents have been enjoying BetOnline's many betting options for years, and those options have grown considerably over time. BetOnline offers the most comprehensive sports wagering options, live poker tables, casino games, and pari-mutuel racebook bets in the industry. Player testimonials speak for themselves, so raise your white flag and give in to BetOnline, simply the best and most original gambling destination on the Internet. New OH members who sign up ASAP can take advantage of BetOnline's 50% match bonus on their first deposit, which can be worth up to $1000 in free-plays. That's high roller territory! Go To BetOnline!
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ALL STATES
| Rank | Casino | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100% Up To $3,000 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
| 2 | 100% Up To $1,000 | Visit Ignition | ||
| 3 | 500% Up To $5,000 | Visit Slots.lv | ||
| 4 | 100% Up To $4,000 | Visit Cafe Casino | ||
| 5 | 200% Up To $2,000 | Visit SlotoCash | ||
| 6 | 200% Up To $1,000 | Visit Cherry Jackpot | ||
| 7 | 40% Up To $4,000 | Visit Lucky Red | ||
| 8 | 150% Up To $3,000 Read Review | Visit Las Vegas USA | ||
| 9 | 150% Up To $3,000 Read Review | Visit Sun Palace | ||
| 10 | 100% Up To $1,000 | Visit CasinoMax | ||
| Rank | Sportsbook | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
| 1 | 50% Up To $250 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
| 2 | 50% Up To $1000 | Visit BetOnline.ag | ||
| 3 | 50% Up To $1000 | Visit SportsBetting.ag | ||
| 4 | 50% Up To $1000 | Visit MyBookie | ||
| 5 | 50% Up To $300 | Visit Xbet | ||
| Rank | Poker Room | Highlights | Rating | Visit Site |
| 1 | 100% Up To $500 Read Review | Visit Bovada | ||
| 2 | 100% Up To $1000 | Visit BetOnline.ag |
Online Casinos That Accept Ohio Residents
With Ohio online casinos, you will be able to play all of the games you wish, with variety that puts land-based options to shame. While they are not licensed by the state, these Internet-based gambling houses are still open to residents in the state of Ohio. We have tested over 100 casinos in our search for the very best, and we are sure that each entry on our final lists is a viable choice for your gaming needs. We chose only the best casinos with the highest payouts and most stable reputations, and if you sign up with the providers, we are sure you'll agree that they're the best in the business.
For OH residents, the cream of the crop in gambling sites are destinations like Lucky Red, Slots.lv, Aladdin's Gold, BuzzLuck, High Noon Casino, Manhattan Slots, to name just a few. These sites are all legal and certified for fair play by industry watchdogs, and they've each been in operation for decades.
Online Sports Betting Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Residents in the state of Ohio have access to a number of different sportsbooks, and these sportsbooks will offer you easy access to quite a few different betting odds. If you live in Ohio, we recommend the following sportsbooks: Bovada, BetOnline, SportsBetting, 5Dimes, BetDSI, and BookMaker. These are, without a doubt, the very best sports wagering sites for OH residents, and they have over a century of experience serving the Buckeye State between them.
These sites are focused primarily on their sportsbook products, but they each also offer comprehensive casino gaming, live poker rooms, and international racebooks for horseplayers. Best of all, you need only one membership account to access all of these great pastimes.
Online Poker Sites That Accept Ohio Residents
Online poker is one of the most profitable forms of online gambling, and we can tell you that these poker sites offer some of the best options for OH players. If you decide to play with our favorite online poker rooms, you'll get easy deposits, and we can assure you that your safety is guaranteed. Best of all, we can promise you that a substantial amount of poker types and game variants are available.
As a matter of course, the best poker sites for live play seem to be at the aforementioned sportsbook sites (Bovada, 5Dimes, etc.), as these tend to focus more on real-dealer, multiplayer poker opportunities. If you'd rather play themed video poker, your best bets will be to use more casino-centric sites like Lucky Red and Slots.lv.
Online Bingo Sites That Accept Ohio Players
While a few bingo halls may be available in a land-based setting in Ohio, online bingo games are those you will want to turn to. These online bingo halls allow you to choose your own stakes, types of games to play, and even the progressive jackpots you want to try for, offering infinite versatility. If Bingo is your game of choice, we can give you a few solid recommendations for where to play. 5Dimes is fairly renowned for their bingo offerings, but Downtown Bingo is the ultimate bingo site on the Internet, and their daily bonuses make it easier than ever to play often and win big.
Is Online Gambling Legal In Ohio?
Ohio gamblers will find that, with the lack of any law related to online gambling codified in the state's legislation, you will not have to worry about anything other than playing your games. With no legal precedent showing that you are breaking the law by gaming over the Internet, you don't ever have to worry about being fined or arrested for using offshore gambling sites.
Just like most other states, online gambling laws in Ohio aren't very clear. But don't let this deter you! The simple fact is this: None of their gambling laws mention the act of using online sites, so the easy thing to surmise is that it's not illegal to gamble at offshore websites by state law. This is, in large part, because most states rely on the federal laws to cover their bases on the topic.
That being said, laws like PASPA (the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992) have given players pause in the past. But even before PASPA was overturned by the US Supreme Court in 2018, all it banned was the operation of sports betting businesses inside of the United States (excepting Bovada). That is, PASPA never even mentioned the players or bettors themselves – it was only focused on operators and bookmakers working inside the country. OH's gambling laws are largely based on that approach, so as long as Ohio residents are using offshore online gambling sites, they are not breaking the law. Nobody has ever been arrested for using these sites, and nearly two million OH residents gamble with such services every single year.
Are Online Casinos Legal In Ohio?
Many people ask us, 'Hey, are online casinos legal in Ohio?' and we can simply say that if they're located overseas and outside of US jurisdiction, they absolutely are. Residents of Ohio will find the number of laws related to casino gambling are spare in general, so you should not have to stress too much about the trouble you could possibly get in, because frankly, there isn't any.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal In Ohio?
Residents of the state of Ohio no longer have to leave the state in order to participate in sports betting, as players can simply turn to the Internet. If you live in Ohio, you will find that there are many options available for betting on your favorite local, state, and national teams, as the Internet is full of different sportsbooks.
Of course, most of these sites haven't got the best reputations for fair lines and prompt payouts, so if you want to bet with the very best, you should stick with the sites we listed above: Bovada, BetOnline, 5Dimes, SportsBetting, BetDSI, and BookMaker. These sports betting sites cover a number of events, with more options than even the best Las Vegas sportsbooks.
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Is It Safe To Wager On The Buckeyes While Living In Ohio?
Online sports betting on the Ohio State Buckeyes is definitely a viable option for those who live near the campus or even in the state. Bottom line, there are several sports betting sites that allow residents from Ohio to join and wager on anything they want, including Buckeye football, basketball, and more.
If we had to choose just one, we'd have to recommend SportsBetting, just because of their lifetime deposit bonus promo that all players get right now when they sign up. Plus, Sportsbetting.ag makes it very easy to use their site by having easy-to-read lines, a vast help section (for new bettors), and deposit methods that will work for anyone living in Ohio, regardless of their financial situations. And you will be happy to know that SportsBetting is located off of US soil and therefore is safe and legal for users in Ohio.
All that said, there is no reason to limit your options to a single sportsbook. By joining multiple books, you give yourself an immediate gambling edge, because you can effectively shop lines for the very best deal available on every bet you want to make.
Is Online Poker Legal In Ohio?
Residents of Ohio will find that online poker is legal in Ohio, based solely on the premise that that which is not illegal is in fact legal. Ohio residents have access to a number of types of poker, including Texas Hold 'em and various other popular games like Seven Card Stud, Omaha, Razz, HORSE, and the like.
Online Horse Racing Betting Sites
Online horse racing betting sites provide players with a unique gambling experience that could never be found at an actual live horse racing track. You are offered way more opportunities in the form of wager types and tracks you can bet on. You are also offered bonuses and rebates at the top sites, neither of which you could ever find at an actual track. Throw in the convenience that comes with placing your horse racing bets from the comfort of your own home (or from your mobile device while on the go), and it doesn't get any better. You will find the Internet's best racebooks at sports betting sites like Bovada and BetOnline.
Can I gamble on Horse Races in Ohio?
You can gamble on horse racing in Ohio, though if you are doing it within the state, your options are somewhat limited. There are several horse racing tracks in the state of Ohio that accept wagers for races, but it's important to remember that those tracks have seasons, and they do not run races year-round. If you are looking for a consistent option to bet on horse races in Ohio, then online racebooks have to be the way to go. As long as they operate outside of the United States, which all the top sites do, then you are safe to enjoy horse gambling activities at the sportsbook sites of your choice.
Mobile Gambling Apps In Ohio
Mobile gambling in Ohio is the future of gambling. Most wagering sites offer a mobile option that allows players to use their mobile devices to place their wagers. This adds even more simplicity and ease to the already convenient activity that is online gambling. When you gamble on your mobile, you will be offered all of the same opportunities that are on the actual desktop site, and you can even get special benefits or bonuses just for using that mobile outlet. Since there are no apps to download for mobile betting, anyone with an iPhone, iPad, Android device, Amazon Fire product, or Windows Mobile device can easily and efficiently access their favorite sites' mobile portals.
Ohio Betting FAQ's
Is fantasy sports betting legal in Ohio?
With the passage of HB 132 in December 2017, the Ohio legislature formally legalized Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) in the state. While DFS services are available in most states, the majority of those have no specific laws concerning the practice. Ohio, however, has made it clear that DFS sites and services are 100% legal in the state. With PASPA's elimination and this DFS precedent, it seems like only a matter of time before OH also formally legalizes full-blown online and land-based sports betting in the state as well.
What is live betting?
Live betting is offered at most of the top sportsbook sites, and it allows players to place bets on games or matches that have already begun. If you aren't as confident as you would like to be when deciding on betting on an event, you can wait and see how the momentum of the game is going before placing your wagers. It's kind of like hedging your bet in this regard, but live betting (aka in-game betting) can also allow you to wager on fleeting in-game events, like whether or not a pitcher's next toss will be a ball or a strike. These kinds of live prop bets have become extremely popular over the last few years, and all can be accessed by your mobile device anywhere you've got a reliable Internet connection.
Internet Gambling Companies
How old must I be to gamble online?
Most of the more popular online gambling sites require their players to be at least 18 years old, but players should check with their state gambling laws to see what their age requirements are if they have concerns. The legal gambling age in Ohio is 21 years old for casino gaming on land, but it is technically legal to wager online at offshore casinos and sportsbooks once you've turned 18.
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Will I go to jail for online gambling in Ohio?
Internet Gambling Near Me
Nowhere in the state of Ohio's statutes is there a law that says online gambling is a crime. Additionally, we have seen no evidence that anyone has ever been arrested for online gambling in the state. If you are really afraid of going to jail for online gambling in Ohio, you can relax - this is not a crime. Still, you can always consult a local lawyer to put any legal concerns to rest.
