Choosing The Best US Online Casino
Finding the best online casino is always tricky – you’ll need to know what criteria you’re looking for in a casino website. You can rely on us here at CasinoGuide to point you in the right direction on your search for legal and regulated online casinos in the USA.
Is it legal to play at online casinos in the US?
The legal landscape concerning real money gambling is, to put it plain and simple, complex. Provided that your state of residence has legalized online casinos and / or sports betting, you won’t be able to gamble for real money online. Online casinos are legal on a federal level, since 2018. Since then, there have been several states who are in the process of passing a bill or legislation that makes online gambling for real money legal. There are some strict rules that apply for when a bill is passed though. For starters, an online casino can only operate if the server that hosts the website is located in a land-based casino. Hence why Atlantic City land-based casinos have made an appearance on the web. Think of Harrah’s, Borgata, BetMGM and Mohegan Sun.
States that have currently legalized playing at online casinos are: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Nevada. Modern geo-targeting measures are in place to restrict players from outside those states’ border from engaging in any real money gambling. While you won’t have a S.W.A.T. team breaking down your door when you do sign up from a non-legalized state, it is likely that the casino will simply block any payments made from your account. Signing up at an online casino is not an offense, but an online casino can face hefty fines if it accepts real money wagers from non-legalized states.
Real Money USA Online Casinos
Real money online casino play in the US is only legal in states which have regulated. If you are in one of these states, you can take your pick from the list above.
The United States has had a rocky past when it comes down to real money gambling compared to European countries and Canada. Whereas European and Canadian have been able to enjoy online casinos for years without any restrictions, the US only legalized online gambling in 2018.
However, while online gambling is legal on a federal level, a bill still needs to pass on a state-level in order for players to gamble online for real money. As of 2020 there are a handful of states that have succeeded in passing such as bill, with New Jersey being the most prominent one. Other states that have legalized online casinos are Pennsylvania, Delaware and Nevada.
If you are in one of these states, you can take your pick from the list above and enjoy playing at real money online casinos. Don’t worry, if your state has not legalized online casinos yet, you can take your pick from any of our sweepstake casinos – these casinos are completely legal throughout the United States.
US Online Casino Bonuses
Casino bonuses have always been a crowd pleaser for online gamblers. If you’re in a legal state and signing up to regulated online casinos in the US, you should definitely make sure to get the best signup bonus you possibly can. US online casinos, and indeed online gambling sites all around the world, are locked in a constant battle with their competitors for the loyalty of new players. That is why they try to win you over with enticingly generous welcome bonuses.
In typical American style, legal and regulated US online casino bonuses are much bigger and therefore better than they are in a lot of other countries worldwide. You will also find that there are multiple kinds of bonus offers available at legal online casinos in the US, even after signing up. Reload bonuses are a popular way for casinos to boost their player retention, or tempt back players who haven’t played in a while.
Bottom line: bonuses should be high in your decision-making process when searching through our selection of legal US online casinos in regulated states. Our list above only shows casinos where you can play legally (always do your own research to make sure) and displays some of the best US online casino bonuses you will find, and sometimes these are noticeably higher than those you’d get by going directly to the casino. You can find out more by heading to our dedicated online casino bonus page.
First Deposit Bonuses at US Online Casinos
The first deposit bonus, or welcome bonus, is usually what draws new players to sign up at the casino to begin with. Let’s face, we all love a good deal. A welcome bonus can be claimed after placing your first deposit to put some funds on your account. In order to meet players halfway, it is very common for online casino to double the deposited amount in the form of bonus funds.
An example would be 100% up to $100. This would mean that if the player were to deposit $100, the casino will put an extra $100 on top, giving the player $200 to play with. Sometimes, online casinos give players a entire welcome package, which consist of multiple deposit bonuses which are valid across the first to fourth deposits. These welcome packages are great to keep your bankroll topped up should your funds run low.
Bonus Spins at US Online Casinos
Bonus Spins are a great bonus in order to familiarize yourself better with slots. Bonus Spins can never be used on live dealer games or table games, they are exclusive to slot machines only. In tandem with the first deposit bonus, online casinos usually throw in several hundred Bonus spins. Bonus Spins can be used on any slot of choice or on pre-selected slots, the casino will always specify how the spins can be used.
The casino can opt to credit the spins in one go, or spread them out of several days, supplying the player with a handful every day. Out of all the casino bonuses, bonus spins are a great way to take your favorite slot game for a test drive without having to spend any money.
Reload Bonuses
Reload Bonuses are the equivalent of first deposit bonuses, but for existing players. This type of bonus allows for players to jump back in for an extra bankroll boost when they need it. A reload bonus is trigger upon placing a deposit as an existing customer, either by selecting it at the cashier or using a promo code.
Cashback Bonuses
Cashback Bonuses offer a great relief for many casino players. Nobody likes losing, which is why this type of bonus is well received among fellow players. Cashback Bonuses are calculated in percentages and can be earned by playing real money bets. For example, a casino can give the player a cashback of 20% on all accumulated losses over a specified period of time. Alternatively, the casino can give a cashback bonus on one specific game, usually live dealer games as the stakes are higher.
Cashback Bonuses can be automatically credited on a player’s account once the requirements have been met. Sometimes the cashback will be locked on the players account until you redeem your bonus.
Refer a Friend Bonuses
Playing responsibly at online casinos is great fun, but playing with friends is even better. Many US online casinos want you to spread the word and get your friends to play with you. This is where Refer a Friend bonuses come in, you will receive a small amount of bonus funds when your friends signs up using a promotional code.
Popular Casino Games for US Players
If you have ever been to a land-based casino then you probably already know what tickles your fancy. If not, then let CasinoGuide help you on your way in finding which games you prefer. Many online gamblers prefer to play slot machines, whether they be classic slots or graphic-heavy video slots. This is because they’re easy to master and can be played at a low cost. Blackjack and Roulette are the two most preferred live dealer games, and while they require some mathematical skills, they mostly rely on pure luck for the player to win. If you’re looking for more skill-based games, then Baccarat and Video Poker are right up your alley. For instant wins, you might want to give bingo, keno or scratch cards a try.
Some online casinos in the USA offering real money games will also provide free games for you to play as well. These are a great way to try out a new game that you’re uncertain of, or want to learn the rules of. They are also useful for practicing new strategies that you may have learnt, without taking any risks. Of course, you also have the option to practice your favorite casino game right here at CasinoGuide thanks to our spectacular game library.
Real Money Slots
Some of our recommended online casinos have more than 1000 real money slots available. Slots usually make up the bulk of any online casino and are powered by skillful software studios such as NetEnt, Playtech, RealTime Gaming, Betsoft and Greentube Novomatic. Players can choose to play on 3-reel of 5-reel slots, each boasting their own unique features and graphics.
One thing to keep in mind when playing slots for real money is the RTP – Return to Player Percentage. This can range between 90% up to 99%, depending on the slot you’ve chosen. The higher the RTP, the more it will pay out in the long run. Every real money slot needs to state its RTP to inform the player what kind of payout they can expect, so make sure to check this before you give the reels a spin.
Progressive Jackpots for Real Money
Progressive Jackpots are a thrilling form of gambling entertainment. The communal jackpot pool can reach well into the millions of dollars. The current jackpot pool will always be displayed at the bottom of the thumbnail in the game library. Keep in mind that the higher the jackpot is, the higher your stakes are. Some of well-known progressive jackpot games are Mega Moolah, Divine Fortune and Arabian Nights. You’ll find all three of these games and more at any of our recommended USA casinos on this page.
Real Money Blackjack
Blackjack can either be played as a table game or a live dealer game online casino for US layers. Keep in mind that live dealer blackjack must always be played for real money, there is no free version available. Should you still want to practice this popular casino game, then opt for the free-to-play table version to hone your skills further.
Blackjack is easy to learn, but hard to master. However, this doesn’t mean that you should steer clear from playing this quintessential casino game. The game lends itself well to beginners and continues to be a challenge for veterans. It’s not easy to get bored of a thrilling round of blackjack.
You’ll find many different variants of the game at our recommended US casinos. Think of Progressive Blackjack, European Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, Pontoon, Spanish 21 and Blackjack Switch.
Real Money Roulette
Another popular casino game preferred by many gamblers, be it online or at land-based casinos. While roulette relies completely on luck to win, there are some tips and tricks than can help you increase your odds. When playing Roulette for real money, you want to make the most out of your budget. Opt for European Roulette in favor of American Roulette which eliminates the double 0, increasing your chances to win.
Other variants of roulette you’ll find at US online casino are French Roulette, Multiwheel Roulette, Premium Roulette, Double Ball Roulette and Mini Roulette.
Real Money Live Dealer Games
Since all legal US online casinos are owned by their land-based variants, it’s very likely that the live dealer games are hosted by their in-house croupiers. The game will be streamed from inside the land-based facility, which gives your that real immersive casino experience. Some US online casinos that offer this are Golden Nugget Casino and Sugarhouse Casino, so be sure to check them out.
Unfortunately, social casinos do not offer any live dealer games for real money.
Popular Software Providers for Us Players
There are some great software providers which supply their games to online casinos in the US. Most of these game studios have been around for decades, since they also create land-based slot cabinets which you’ll find in all the great Las Vegas casinos. Now they have digitalized these games so they can be played online, which leaves room for great innovative slot machines and table games.
Since the legalization of online gambling in 2018 many European-based software studios have also joined the ranks to supply their games. There is a whole new world of games to explore for players based in the United States, that’s for sure. Each software provider has its quirks and unique features to put themselves on the map.
Some beloved software providers among US players are IGT, Playtech, NetEnt, Novomatic, Scientific Games, Barcrest and RealTime Gaming. These providers all well known for enticing video slots, high-paying classic slots and table games.
Us Online Casinos on Mobile
For many players in the United States, a great mobile casino makes or breaks the deal. After all, you want to be able to play at your favorite casino anywhere, anytime. Which is why many reputable casinos either offer a mobile app or a completely optimized mobile website. These days, an online casino cannot have an excuse not to have one of those things.
When looking for a great US mobile casino, you’ll need to check for certain criteria.
- Navigation: Does the website navigate smoothly or does it feel cramped on smaller screen?
- Optimized games: Do the games load fast? Are they optimized for mobile use so they don’t drain your data?
- US mobile casino bonuses: Are there any mobile specific bonuses for players based in the United States? Do they give you free cash upon verifying your phone number?
- Security: When logging into your account on mobile, does the casino provide extra security when logging in? Is there a two-step verification process?
Real Money USA Online Casino Apps
US casino apps make sure you have Las Vegas in your pocket wherever you go. Many well-established online casino offer a downloadable app for easy gameplay on-the-go. These apps for available for iOS and Android and can be downloaded from the respective app stores. Many mobile casino apps even work perfectly on older smartphones as well, so it is recommended to download an app in favour of playing from your mobile browser in case you have one.
If an online casino has a mobile app available, they tend to heavily promote its use. You can find a link to the app store either from the main menu of the casino or near the footer. So save you the hassle of checking each casino for an app, we have compiled a handy list below:
Social and Sweepstakes Casino Mobile Apps
If you’re located outside of regulated states, you can download a social and sweepstakes casino app, which works just as fine as the real deal, because they are real deal! The following social and sweepstakes casinos offer this:
- Chumba Casino
- Luckyland Slots
Payment Options At US Online Casinos
Provided your state has legalized online gambling, you should be able to seamlessly place a deposit or withdraw your winnings. All of our recommended US online casino accept USD as a currency. Players based in the United States can likewise make use of local payment methods, as well as credit and debit cards. Many online casinos also accept PayPal as a form of convenience. You’ll definitely find the following banking methods that can be used for real money gambling:
- Visa and Mastercard: Debit and credit cards are the most commonly used for finding your account. Keep in mind that fees may be issued from your card provider when choosing this method.
- PayPal: A preferred method for depositing and withdrawing funds. Deposits are completed instantly and withdrawals can take up to only 24 hours. Definitely a gambler’s favorite.
- ACH Transfers / Online Bank Transfer: Payments made through bank transfer are reliable, but can be slow with drawing your winnings.
- Play+ Prepaid Card: A prepaid card which can be bought online or at a licensed vendor. Easy for depositing quickly and securely.
- PayNearMe: Players can top up their account through PayNearMe stations at 7-Elevens, CVS or other stores with a PayNearMe station.
- Courier Check: You can ask the casino to write you a check with your winnings. Checks are usually delivered between 10 and 14 days.
- Pay at the Casino Cage: You may also opt to pay at the cage located in the casino’s land-based facility, should the casino have one.
What Are Social and Sweepstake Casinos?
These social casinos offer all the great features of an online casino, but cannot accept any real money play. Social casinos offer a fantastic range of slot machines and table games, using virtual tokens or coins instead of real money. In turn, the player can play with virtual coins such as FREE Sweeps Coins and redeem their winnings as cash prizes and/or gift cards.
Coins can be purchased by the player through the cashier and one purchase usually gives you 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 coins. Many social casinos also offer the player FREE coins when signing up, it’s their form of a no purchase offer. On top of that, social and sweepstakes casinos usually have an active social media following and regularly host tournaments for players to earn more free coins.
Social and sweepstakes casinos are legal throughout the United States, with the exception of Washington State; where sweepstakes are illegal.
US Online Casinos With No Deposit Bonus
The biggest US online casino bonuses, like those listed above, are issued after you make your first deposit. As this is a clear sign that you intend to stay and play for some time, the casino has a good reason to keep you sweet with a large welcome bonus.
But what if you don’t want to make a deposit yet? That’s when you need US online casinos with no deposit bonuses. These are typically much smaller, often in the region of $5-50, but can provide a good way for you to get started if you are a beginner.
US online casinos with no deposit bonuses are also offering you the opportunity to get fully acquainted with them before committing any real money; which is no bad thing. If you’re willing to accept a smaller bonus in exchange for not depositing, then take a look at our list of the best no deposit bonuses available in your region.
Increase in Us Casino Bonuses Since Regulation
The recent years have brought a drastic reduction in US land-based casino revenue while online growth soared. Twinned with states like West Virginia and Michigan legalizing online gaming and loads of new casinos launching, in 2021, you can expect bigger and better bonuses from online casinos as the competition for customers in the states heats-up.
Will Casino Bonuses Be More Generous?
There are many ways that casino bonuses can be more generous. US Casino Bonuses are already showing this trend, with some US operators offering 1x wagering requirements (which was pretty much unheard of until this year), leading to fairer bonus terms and conditions. While other sites are upping their deals, offering welcome bonus cash matches up to $1000+, or hybrid deals that provide a cash match and other perks like bonus spins. Of course, that’s not forgetting that in 2021 most online casinos are also proffering no deposit deals!
Across the next year, bonuses will get bigger and better, following European trends towards greater excitement and engagement. Hence US players can look forward to more tournaments, contests, and in-game bonuses at the best US sites.
Cashing in Loyalty Bonuses at Land-Based Casinos
Instead of offering promotions based on giveaways, most online casinos have now upped this offer and created online loyalty clubs. These are integrated with the casino’s land-based operator to provide real-life resort discounts, casino trips, and online bonuses like bonus spins or free play days.
Essentially, the prize giveaways have leveled up and are now earned by collecting loyalty points instead of being based on luck-of-the-draw. This has diversified the range of bonuses you get at any one casino if you’re looking for a particular site to stick with and to rack up the loyalty rewards.
