If you are wondering if online poker is legal in the United States, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll discuss the benefits of playing online poker compared to live poker, UIGEA restrictions on payments to online poker sites, and how to deposit money to an account. Read on to learn more! After all, the poker room of your dreams is waiting! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, online poker can help you win big.
Legality of online poker in the United States
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 made online poker sites illegal to operate in the United States. While some poker sites did leave the United States in the wake of the legislation, some still remained. In 2011, the Department of Justice seized several major poker sites on charges of bank fraud and money laundering. These sites disappeared from the United States. However, the U.S. government reversing the 2011 guidance has led to new debates over legality. The U.S. government is attempting to regulate poker, so this issue is not completely resolved yet.
Benefits of playing online poker compared to live poker
The benefits of playing online poker over live poker include greater game variety. Online poker offers the advantage of a variety of tables that players can join simultaneously, thus increasing the chances of winning and losing. Live poker, on the other hand, is limited to one table per player. Thus, if you’re new to poker, online poker is probably the better option. Online poker also offers the benefits of game control and lessened panic.
UIGEA restrictions on transactions to online poker sites
UIGEA – or the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act – is a federal law that prohibits businesses from accepting financial transactions from unregulated online gambling operators. Passed in 2006 as part of a port security measure, the UIGEA effectively put an end to the U.S. online poker industry. While the act has impacted many online poker sites and the industry as a whole, it has also had a negative impact on a few of its biggest competitors.
Depositing money to an online poker account
You can deposit money to an online poker account with any of several methods. You can use a credit or debit card. Echecks work just like regular checks but they take a few days to clear the bank. When you use an echeck, make sure you have the correct address and attention and submit the form with the cash you want to deposit. Once your money has cleared, you will receive an echeck control number and money transfer number, which you should provide to the poker site. Usually, this transaction takes about 10 days to process, and the money is credited to your poker account instantly. Some online poker sites offer a bonus equal to the amount of your transaction fee.
Paying for your winnings
Often, you’ll be asked to provide proof of address to withdraw your winnings. This can be in the form of a utility bill or bank statement. Having a utility bill handy can also prove to the poker site that you’re who you say you are. Then, you can play poker for real money. Having the proper identification is important to ensure your safety. Fortunately, you can find many sites that accept credit cards, which will allow you to play for real cash.