If you live in the US, you may want to start playing online poker for real money. While there are very few regulated US poker sites, the numbers are growing each year. Most US online poker sites accept a variety of deposit methods, including bank transfers, e-checks, and third-party eWallets. Some even accept cheques in the mail. Whether you choose regulated or offshore sites, you should consider the level of security offered by each.
To play online poker for real money, you must first download the software required for the game. This software only requires a small amount of memory and shouldn’t take too long, even on slow Internet connections. Many poker sites also offer no-download versions of their software, but you won’t get all of the features offered by the download version. If you’re new to online poker, you may want to start at the beginner’s tables, which offer a level playing field and are recommended for new players.
Regulatory hurdles may be difficult to clear, but it’s essential for online poker to grow and prosper. Some states have passed legislation regulating the online poker industry, but others are still working on it. In the meantime, there are a number of offshore sites that are accepting US players. Online poker in the US is now legal in only a few states, and more states are likely to follow suit. If you live in the US, you should avoid offshore poker sites as these may not be regulated.
Legal issues are another concern. The US Department of Justice conducted an investigation into several US online poker companies in April 2011 that questioned the legality of the business model. The investigation never ended, and youStake even filed a lawsuit. The SEC didn’t find any fault, and the investigation was terminated without any charges being brought against the company. As a result, US players can’t play online poker legally. The US government is committed to protecting online poker from legal hassles, but they should not give up hope.
There are a variety of online poker sites available, each with different games and player pools. US-based sites tend to be more popular and offer more traffic. Typically, the larger US sites are the most popular and have the most players. However, if you want to enjoy the poker experience without paying real money, check out smaller regional poker sites. Those can be fun and involve tighter communities. You might even get lucky and win real money.
While legal US online poker isn’t black and white, the new forms of US online poker have been causing legal headaches for US players. Long-standing US gambling laws are being challenged in the courts. Many legislators are reconsidering decades-old laws on online poker as a way to remain competitive and generate revenues. You should always research your options before deciding to play online. It’s important to find a site that meets these standards.
