Until recently, online poker was a bit of a Wild West. Unlicensed sites would pop up, then disappear with little fanfare or notice. Fortunately, things have changed and regulated online poker is now available in a growing number of states. With a few precautions, you can play at the best online poker sites without fear of losing your hard-earned cash.
First and foremost, it’s important to find a site that is licensed and regulated in your state. This will ensure that your money is safe, secure and not intermingled with operator funds. You will also be able to withdraw your winnings easily and quickly. Many sites even offer a paper check option to make the process even easier.
Then, there are the bonuses and promotions that a reputable poker site offers. While they may not be the first thing you think about, they can greatly enhance your experience and give you an edge over the competition. These benefits can be anything from a free account to cashback and tournament tickets.
Another factor to consider when choosing an online poker site is the table software and user interface. You want a clean, easy to use platform that doesn’t distract you from your game. You should also make sure to look at the minimum deposit requirements and wagering rules of a poker site before making a deposit.
Finally, it’s important to choose a poker site that offers secure and reliable payment processing options. You don’t want to lose your hard-earned money because of a rogue employee or a scammer. While this type of scandal used to be a regular occurrence in the online poker world, it has become close to impossible when players stick with regulated, licensed sites.
With so many factors to consider, finding the right online poker site can be a difficult task. However, with a little research, you can avoid the pitfalls and find the site that’s right for you. With so much to gain, it’s worth taking the time to make the right choice.
When it comes to multi-state online poker, New Jersey and Pennsylvania were the first to launch regulated sites in 2013. In 2017, the Garden State joined the MSIGA along with Delaware and Nevada, which allows for shared player pools. Michigan and West Virginia are also considering joining the agreement, which would significantly expand the available player pool in the US.