How to Gamble Online Legally in the United States

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The legal gambling landscape in the United States has changed significantly in recent years. While a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2018 led to the rapid expansion of sports betting—now legal in over three dozen states—the growth of online casino gaming has been much slower.

Currently, Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia allow residents and visitors to legally play online slots, blackjack, roulette, and other popular casino games. However, more states are beginning to recognize the benefits of legal online gambling, including stronger regulations, enhanced consumer protections, and a valuable source of tax revenue.

With gambling laws varying widely from state to state, understanding what’s legal—and where—can be confusing. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you navigate legal gambling in the United States, covering everything from online casinos and sports betting to state regulations and responsible gaming practices.

Then, once you have figured out the legalities in the state you’re in, the only thing left to do is get a glimpse of what NoDepositFan.org has to offer, pick your US no deposit bonus code and enjoy!

Where Can You Gamble

Despite online poker and casino games becoming legal in Nevada in 2013, followed quickly by New Jersey and Delaware, the expansion of online gambling in the U.S. has been slow. Only a handful of other states have joined the movement, with efforts to legalize online gaming facing significant obstacles, primarily due to concerns about job losses and the impact on brick-and-mortar casinos.

While it is only a matter of time before the US experiences a nationwide adoption of online gambling as states seek new revenue sources to offset declining federal subsidies, it is important to know where you can engage in online gambling legally. Here are the states that offer online gambling.

Michigan

In 2021, Michigan took a significant step by legalizing online gambling, including sports betting, casino games, and poker, and has been reaping the rewards ever since. In fact, the state surpassed $2.9 billion in iGaming and sports betting revenue, according to the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s (MGCB) end-of-year report. The additional tax revenue from this record-breaking year was allocated to various state initiatives, including over $500 million for the School Aid Fund, along with substantial contributions to First Responder and Agricultural Development programs, benefiting the state as a whole.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island's success story began in 2019 with the launch of online sports betting before expanding into online casinos in 2024. Although still in its early stages, the state has already demonstrated strong potential for long-term economic growth. In October, online casino players wagered over $75.1 million on slots and table games, making it the second-highest total to date, just behind September's $80.8 million. iGaming revenue also hit a new record in October, reaching $3.2 million—a 2.6% increase over the previous high.

Delaware

Delaware was one of the first states to embrace online gambling in the U.S., becoming an early adopter in 2012. It offers online sports betting, casino games, lottery, bingo, and poker under a regulated system. Since then, the state has continued to expand its online gambling offerings, with Delaware North recently partnering with Playtech and QCI.

New Jersey

New Jersey is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the U.S. online gambling market, having legalized the activity in 2013. This move cemented the state’s leadership role in the iGaming industry, creating a robust regulatory framework for online casinos, poker, and sports betting. Known for its innovative approach, New Jersey has consistently adapted to changing market conditions, setting a standard for other states to follow.

Connecticut

In 2021, Connecticut took a significant step by legalizing online gambling, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to the iGaming industry. This decision allowed for the legalization of online sports betting, casino games, and poker, reflecting the state's openness to innovation in the gambling sector.

Looking ahead, Connecticut is likely to continue expanding its iGaming offerings and refining its regulatory framework, embracing new gaming opportunities and collaborations with tech providers. This ongoing evolution in the sector could provide a boost to the local economy and set a benchmark for regulatory excellence.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania made a groundbreaking move by legalizing online gambling in 2017, unlocking a full spectrum of gaming opportunities. This bold decision reflects the state's progressive vision, recognizing the potential of iGaming not only as a substantial revenue stream but also as a way to modernize and elevate its gaming industry.

With a proactive approach to regulation, Pennsylvania is committed to maintaining a safe, fair, and transparent market for players. Looking forward, the state is on track to continue its growth, positioning itself as a key player in the iGaming space while ensuring sustainable success for years to come.

West Virginia

In 2019, West Virginia took a progressive step by legalizing online gambling expanding its gaming and entertainment landscape. The state allows online sports betting, casino games, and poker, signaling a strong shift toward embracing digital gambling.

Overall, West Virginia maintains a supportive stance on gambling, viewing iGaming as a valuable economic asset. Looking to the future, the state is focused on further growth in the iGaming sector. It’s expected to refine its regulatory framework, attracting more operators and expanding the variety of legal online gambling options available to players.

Ongoing Struggle

The growth of online gambling in the U.S. continues to face significant hurdles, particularly surrounding concerns about its broader economic impact. While online gaming has contributed substantial tax revenue, there is still skepticism about how it can benefit local economies beyond boosting state coffers. Critics question whether it can create jobs at the same scale as traditional casinos, leaving lawmakers cautious about supporting further expansion.

To ease these concerns, some have suggested that future legislation should include protections to ensure that retail casino jobs are not lost as online gambling expands. However, discussions between legislators, unions, and casino operators remain ongoing, with no clear resolution in sight. As a result, the future of online gambling remains uncertain in many states until these issues are addressed and a workable solution is found.