Gambling Online: A Practical FAQ for Players

For those internet surfers who have an interest in gambling in the United States at online casinos, here is some information that should be read before placing any bets.

Q: Is it legal for American citizens to place bets or play for money at online casino websites?

A: This is probably the first (and most important) question that Americans need to ask.  There is no “Best” answer about that.  There are stipulations.  Because of very rigid laws about gambling online in the US, many online casinos choose not to accept American players.  However, the answer to this question is highly dependent on who you ask. There are many online site accept American players.  Those who want to outlaw American gambling say yes, but the bill actually only makes it unlawful for the financial institutions to transfer money to gambling sites. The players themselves may be not in the wrong, but the banks and credit cards are not allowed.  This makes it hard to get the money to the site in order to gamble there.

Q: Why do only certain online casinos accept American Players?

A: On October 13, 2006, a bill was passed by former President G. W. Bush.  The bill’s intention was to increase security for the nation’s sea ports, but at the very last minute the President added an amendment, called the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act,  that would allow the government to seize any money transferred unlawfully to out of country gambling facilities from areas in the United States that prohibited gambling.  The law was intended to take the money, not apprehend the players (which would be highly improbable.)  Many gambling agencies, scared off by this bill, decided not to take any money from Americans any longer.

Q: Which states have restrictions on gambling?

A: Currently, there are 11 states with gambling restrictive laws.  They are Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin.  If you live in one of these states, find out more details what the laws and restrictions are in your state.

Q: Where is there a list of online casinos that accept American players, and more information about this topic?

A: There is a list of the very best online casinos that accept American players at http://winvegascasino.com.  There is also a wealth of information there, in case there are more questions.