If you’re considering gambling online, it’s important to understand the legalities involved. While the internet makes it easier than ever to place a wager, some states have strict regulations in place. Use our online legality by state guide to find out more.

The answer to “can you gamble online legally?” depends on where you live in the US. Gambling is a broad term that encompasses the ability to wager on events and games of chance, as well as skill-based games like poker and chess. Many online gambling sites offer free play games for players to try before they deposit real money, making it easy to practice your skills before investing any cash.

Some states have strict regulations in place that require licensed operators to provide a fair gaming experience. These laws are intended to prevent rogue operators from exploiting players, and they also ensure that a player’s privacy is protected. This is why it’s crucial to choose a legitimate and reputable site when gambling online.

In the past, many people used the Internet to circumvent state-level gambling laws, which were written before the World Wide Web existed. As a result, a number of online betting sites appeared that offered a way around government control and prohibition. However, the growth of the Internet prompted Congress and the Department of Justice to explore ways to regulate online gambling.

The most common form of online gambling in the United States is sports wagering. Twenty states currently allow residents to make sports bets through the internet. Some of these states have their own sportsbooks, while others partner with established online entities such as DraftKings and FanDuel. In most cases, these online betting sites are only available to residents of the state in which they’re located.

When it comes to other types of online gambling, the availability varies from state to state. Some have regulated iGaming, while others have only laid the groundwork for it. The following states have either launched regulated online casinos or are in the process of doing so.

Pennsylvania is the most recent state to roll out a full-fledged iGaming product, joining New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware in the regulated online casino space. More than ten safe and secure authorized online casinos are now available in Pennsylvania, with more on the way.

West Virginia also offers a limited number of regulated online casinos. The Mountain State’s five brick-and-mortar casino properties can host up to three skins each, allowing for 15 total iGaming options. Despite delays owing to COVID-19, Pennsylvania’s iGaming industry is quickly catching up with its New Jersey and Nevada counterparts.

When it comes to regulating online gambling, most states focus on responsible gambling initiatives and providing help for problem gamblers. These resources can range from education guides to links to support services. In addition, some online casinos have tools that allow gamblers to self-exclude themselves from their sites for a period of time if they think they are experiencing problems.