How to Play Online Poker for Money
Thousands of people play online poker for money each day, with over 15 million people in the world reportedly playing the game. That’s nearly two percent of the adult population! Players can play at multiple tables, and some sites have more than 40 available. Poker can take many forms, including cash games, tournaments, holdem, and omaha. Whatever your style of poker, you’re sure to find a game that fits your needs.
In addition to understanding the rules and strategies of the game, it’s also helpful to know how starting hands rank. For example, a pair of diamonds with an ace kicker is a straight flush possibility, but is being beaten by a pair of eights, a pair of kings, a set of twos, and a set of eights. Depending on the number of opponents, you can choose your starting hands accordingly.
US-based poker sites are still a relatively small portion of the industry, but they’re gaining in popularity, especially among players from states that have legalized offshore sites. As of today, only six states have fully regulated their online poker markets. Other states are likely to follow suit, as the revenue results in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania are significant. As more states become legal in this regard, there will be more players connecting through a multi-state network.
To deposit money into your online poker account, visit the poker room website and click the “join now” link. Then, you must verify your details. Then, you’ll be notified via email that you’ve been approved and received an account confirmation. Once you’re approved, you can fund your account and start playing poker! If you’re a beginner, join Bovada. You’ll be glad you did! The bonus money from Bovada and other sites is well worth it.
In November 2013, several online gaming sites launched, allowing residents of New Jersey to play. The biggest of these, Ultimate Gaming and Betfair, both shut down their operations, leaving players without funds. After these two companies were shut down, other online poker sites such as Borgata/PartyPoker were able to get the license and begin operating again. PokerStars followed in September 2015, with Pala Poker following in 2017.
Although online poker has existed in the US for decades, it’s still illegal in many states. Several states have either banned or limited the legality of online gambling, but the majority of regulated sites are based offshore and accept players from the United States without preselection. Many of these sites are fully licensed offshore and are as safe and secure as those within the US. While legal, only five states have publicly declared that online poker is legal in their jurisdictions.
Despite these challenges, the overall climate for online gambling is positive. Recently, the US Department of Justice reversed a 2011 opinion, and a lawsuit brought by the New Hampshire Lottery Commission won a favorable ruling in a US District Court. Now, the lawsuit is in the appeals process and could take many more years before a final ruling is reached. However, as of writing, this situation remains a work in progress and it’s a positive sign for the industry in the US.