United States Live Casino Guide
7 States Legal (2025)The US online casino market operates on a state-by-state basis with no federal regulation. Currently 7 states have legalized online casinos, with more expected to follow.
Legal Landscape
State-Regulated. Online casino gaming, including live dealer games, is legal in 7 US states as of 2025. Each state independently regulates and licenses operators. Federal law does not prohibit online gambling but leaves regulation to individual states.
States Where Live Casino is Legal
New Jersey
LegalMost mature market, highest revenue
Pennsylvania
LegalSecond largest market by revenue
Michigan
LegalFast-growing market with tribal gaming
West Virginia
LegalSmaller market, 5 licensed operators
Connecticut
LegalTribal-state compact model
Delaware
LegalFirst state to legalize, state-run only
Rhode Island
LegalNewest market, launched March 2024
Key US Regulations (2025)
State-by-State Licensing
Each state has independent regulations. Operators must obtain separate licenses for each state they operate in. No federal online casino framework exists.
Geolocation Required
All players must be physically located within state borders to play. Advanced GPS and IP verification technology ensures compliance.
Age Verification (21+)
Unlike the 18+ minimum in most countries, US online casinos require players to be 21 years or older, verified through SSN and identity documents.
Responsible Gaming Mandates
All states require self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and cooling-off periods. Problem gambling resources must be prominently displayed.
Tax Reporting
Winnings over $600 (or $1,200 for slots) must be reported to the IRS. Casinos issue W-2G forms for significant wins.
Wire Act Interpretation
The 2011 DOJ opinion allows states to legalize online gambling. However, the Wire Act still prohibits interstate online casino play.
Popular Payment Methods
Restricted: Cryptocurrency is not accepted at any US-regulated online casino. Credit cards are blocked by most issuers.
Fast Payouts: ACH bank transfers and PayPal typically process within 1-3 business days. Play+ prepaid cards offer instant access.
States Expected to Legalize
Maine
Bill PassedLD 1218 signed into law, awaiting tribal compact
Expected: 2026
New York
Under ReviewMultiple bills proposed, significant revenue potential
Expected: 2026-2027
Illinois
Under ReviewiGaming legislation gaining momentum
Expected: 2026
Indiana
ProposedHB 1536 introduced but stalled
Expected: TBD
Massachusetts
Early StageSports betting success may drive iGaming push
Expected: TBD
Choosing a US Live Casino
State License Verification
Only play at casinos licensed by your state regulator (NJDGE, PGCB, MGCB, etc.)
Geolocation Compliance
Ensure you're physically in a legal state - VPNs are prohibited and will void winnings
Responsible Gaming Tools
Use deposit limits, loss limits, and self-exclusion options provided by all licensed sites
Tax Considerations
Keep records of all wins/losses for IRS reporting requirements
Warning About Offshore Casinos
Offshore casinos that accept US players from non-legal states operate illegally and offer zero player protection:
- No legal recourse for disputes or withheld winnings
- No guarantee games are fair or audited
- Risk of account closure and fund seizure
- Potential legal consequences in some jurisdictions
Find Licensed US Live Casinos
Browse our curated list of state-licensed operators legal in NJ, PA, MI, WV, CT, DE, and RI.
View USA-Friendly Casinos