Legal and Regulated Online Gaming in Pennsylvania
Welcome to PA Gaming Review, your home for honest reviews and leading industry news on the PA online gambling industry.
At PA Gaming Review, you can discover all of the online gaming opportunities available within the state. For every operator, including Pennsylvania online casinos, you will learn what they have to offer. The honest and unbiased reviews include information about games, payment methods, promotions, bonuses, rewards, bet types, and more.
The governor of Pennsylvania signed the online gambling bill in 2017. In 2018, the PA online lottery was launched. By 2019, the rest of the gaming sites were ready, and sportsbooks, casinos, poker rooms, and daily fantasy sports became available to online players. All of the reviews on this site focus on 100% legal and safe operations.
Players can find many quality online gambling operators in the Keystone State, whether their preference is casino, online poker, or sports betting. Our detailed reviews and regular news updates dig under the surface, however, to provide the reader with finer detailes and help them pick an operator that fits their expectations and gaming preferences the best.
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Latest PA Online Gambling News
Read the latest online gambling news from Pennsylvania.
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Exclusive Guides to PA Online Gaming
Learn about legal, regulated online casino, sports and poker in Pennsylvania with our exclusive, in-depth player guides.
Types of Online Gaming Available in PA
Online Casino
The first PA online casinos offering slots, table games, and other betting opportunities, launched in July 2019. Initially, there were three online operators. They were soon joined by another two casinos in November of the same year. 2020 and 2021 saw even more options go live for Pennsylvania players.
Today, the online casino industry in PA is strong offering a wide selection of online slots, table games, video poker and other popular casino games across a number of online casino sites.
Every site provides something slightly different. You will find various progressive slots, rewards schemes, and live dealer games; there is something for everyone, so it is just a matter of finding what suits you best.
Online Sportsbooks
If sports wagers are your style, then the long list of Pennsylvania online sportsbooks will appeal to you. Many operators combine their efforts and offer several gambling activities, meaning you can access casino games, sports bets, and daily fantasy sports or poker in the same place.
The first two sports betting sites launched in June 2019 and several more joined them in the following months. There are now many more online sportsbooks giving PA players access to sports wagers over the internet and on their phones. The list includes some big names, such as FanDuel and FOX Bet, as well as those that locals will be familiar with, such as BetRivers and Parx.
Online Poker
Out of the states where online gambling is legal, the Keystone State has the largest population. That fact made Pennsylvania online poker an overnight success when it launched in 2019. The first operator was PokerStars and it held a monopoly in the state for the first year of operation.
However, in 2021, two new poker rooms were ready to launch, giving PA players a choice for the first time. BetMGM Poker and Borgata Poker arrived. Both part of the partypoker network, they improved the poker scene by sharing a player pool. Hot on their heels was the big brand name WSOP, bringing the total number of poker sites to four.
Each online poker room runs cash games, tournaments, and special online series events. You will find different poker variants, promotions, and software at these sites, so the reviews can help you pick your best option.
Fantasy Sports
DFS or daily fantasy sports were often a gray area when it came to their legality. They resemble traditional fantasy sports, where players pick and manage a team over the course of a sports season, however, they take place over shorter periods and involve paid entry to contests, which gives you the chance to earn points and win money. PA daily fantasy sports were included in the 2017 bill, giving them a clear legal status when run by licensed and regulated operators.
In 2018, DFS launched in Pennsylvania, where the legal age to participate is 18. As it is a slightly different form of online gambling, it did not take as long for operations to be set up, and many sites focus primarily on daily fantasy sports.
There are several live legal operators in PA including well-known names in the business like FanDuel and DraftKings. You will also find fantasy picks available at Monkey Knife Fight, Yahoo Fantasy, and The Sports Hub.
Online Lottery
The online gambling bill that was passed in 2017 encompassed several activities. Besides casinos, sportsbooks, poker rooms, and DFS, it made the Pennsylvania online lottery possible.
Known as the iLottery, it was launched in 2018. It is available to players aged 18 and over in the state of Pennsylvania. The site offers opportunities to track your tickets and check the draw results. There are in-state and multi-state draws, but you need to buy tickets from a physical retailer, as they cannot be bought online.
The iLottery also provides instant win games. They include types of bingo, Slingo, and other fun titles. The operation is overseen by the PA House of Representatives’ Gaming Oversight Committee. Some of the proceeds go towards helping senior citizens in the state.
Pennsylvania Regulated Online Gambling: 100% Legal and Safe
Above all, you want your online gambling experience to be enjoyable. While many factors can affect that, choosing a site that is 100% legal and safe is one of the best ways to ensure that you feel comfortable. Safety is paramount, as is knowing that your personal details are private and protected, allowing you to focus on your games and bets.
Whichever kind of gambling activity you choose, you will benefit by finding a licensed and regulated operator. The Pennsylvania online casino reviews on this site provide information about the brand, its policies, and legal status. You can also read the handy guide below to understand the advantages of choosing a legitimate site and learn how to recognize one.
Why Choose a Legal Pennsylvania Online Gaming Site?
There are many benefits that you will experience when choosing a legal Pennsylvania online gaming site. Licensing and regulation mean that operators have to adhere to certain rules and meet particular standards.
A Secure Playing Experience
One of the things you can expect from a legal site is games that have been tested by the state authority. The PGCB audits the titles provided by operators to ensure that they are fair, which means you can rest assured that all licensed sites are not rigged in any way.
Whether you are reading a PA online poker review or are interested in casinos, you will notice that regulated sites are customer-focused. They include responsible gaming (RG) measures to keep the experience fun and casual and to enable those with a problem to get help. All licensed operators provide time limits, self-exclusion options, and access to support.
Player protection happens in other ways too. When you deposit at a Pennsylvania online gambling site, the funds are kept separate from the company accounts. It means your money will still be there when you come to withdraw, even if something happens to the business.
It is not only your funds that are protected. Legitimate sites use encryption technology and security software to ensure that personal details and your banking information stay safe. This ensures your identity and broader finances remain private. You can also expect a clear privacy policy, which sets out exactly how the company stores and uses information.
Part of the Community
A site that is licensed in the US is legal and recognized. It means it will have a base in the country, as well as a land-based partner in the state. That’s important because it means that the business is paying taxes in the state, which are used to benefit the community.
The gaming tax rate is quite high in Pennsylvania, which meant the Keystone State collected more gaming tax revenue than any other state in 2019. A large proportion of the amount goes towards schools. It supports education and also reduces the tax bill for property owners in PA.
Other uses of the tax revenue in Pennsylvania include funding responsible gambling and support programs. A portion also goes to law enforcement. The aim is to promote leisure activities while keeping the community safe. Besides the millions that go towards community benefits, money is used for economic programs. These include tourism projects, the horse racing industry, and the municipalities where casinos are based.
As there are land-based partners in the state, as well as the US headquarters, legal online gambling sites support the economy in other ways. Casinos, sportsbooks, poker rooms, and other operators create jobs for US workers.
How to Know if a Pennsylvania Online Gambling Site is Legal, Regulated, and Safe
By now, you will likely be convinced that a legal online gambling site is the best option. The next step is to understand how you can tell if a site has a license and is operating legally in the state. There are a few key ways to spot one, and reading the Pennsylvania online gambling reviews on this site, can also set your mind at ease.
If you are browsing a site for the first time, there are some signals that you can look for to determine whether it is legal and regulated. One of the simplest, which you can spot at a glance, is to see if it displays the gaming regulator seal, which is the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB).
The footer of an online gambling site is a useful place to look for other signs that it is a legitimate operation. Another place to check is the ‘About Us’ section. You should be able to find the land-based casino or state lottery that partners with the brand. Within these sections, you can also look for information about where the company can legally operate. Of course, Pennsylvania should be on the list.
Some more subtle signals that you have found a legitimate operator can be found on their websites, too. If it has headquarters in the US, you are off to a good start. Another positive point is if the site provides a phone number to contact customer service.
One of the final checks that you can make is to see if the brand recognizes customer loyalty with a rewards program. You can keep an eye out for recognizable names, too. If it works with PayPal, famous technology security companies, or partners with a state sports team, you can be confident that the site is legitimate.
For the ultimate peace of mind, you can check out the Pennsylvania online poker reviews here. They provide information about bonuses, rewards, and licensing, as well as ratings. All sites are licensed and regulated.
How to Get Started Gambling Online in Pennsylvania
Here at PA Gaming Review, you can learn everything you need to know to have the ultimate online gambling experience in the Keystone State. If it is your first time exploring internet gaming or you are signing up to a new site, this guide will take you through the process. For a seamless experience, follow these steps:
- Follow the link to register. Each review, whether it is PA online sportsbooks, casino, or DFS, has a link that will take you directly to the signup page for that operator.
- Create an account. To participate in any online gambling activities, you will need to have an account with the operator. If the site offers more than one service, for example, a casino and a poker room, you can use the same credentials for each. You will need to create a username and password. Personal information that you will require includes the last four digits of your social security number, your email address, home address, date of birth, and full name.
- To play poker, casino games, or place bets, the operator will need to know that you are who you say you are. Identity verification processes are an essential part of getting started. Providing the last four digits of your SSN is the first step. Before you deposit, you might also be asked to upload some photographic identification. It should match your account information and your payment details.
- Download the app. There are several ways you can access your online gambling site of choice. Most operators have mobile apps that you can download to access the same fantastic features from your smartphone or tablet.
- Register for bonuses. Each welcome package is different, but this is the perfect point in time to check what you need to do to claim the offer. Some sites award it automatically; others might require you to opt-in. On the promotions page and in these reviews, you can find out whether you need a bonus code or play a specific game to trigger the reward.
- Make a deposit. The final step before you can start playing is to add some funds to your account. When you make a deposit, make sure you add any bonus codes required. You should also check the minimum and maximum amounts for the welcome offer that you are claiming. From the cashier page, choose the payment method that suits you. Add any codes, select the amount, and once complete, you should see your balance updated instantly.
Responsible Gaming
Responsible gaming is a set of initiatives developed by gaming control boards, governments, and online gambling sites. It can be applied in many different ways by operators and external bodies. The aim is to prevent gambling problems and provide advice and support to those experiencing issues.
Most sportsbooks and casinos will have RG pages. Often, they will list external sources where players can get help. That could include the National Center for Responsible Gaming (NCRG), the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), or local bodies. Many have helplines as well as advice pages.
One core aspect of RG is to prevent underage gambling, which is why identity verification and proof of age are essential. It can also mean restricting marketing and notifications about gambling.
As well as promoting a fun experience, operators also include on their site, measures and controls that customers can use to manage the way they gamble. That could include deposits, wagers, and total daily limits to help you stick to your budget. Other tools include the option to pause your account and receive reminders of how long you have been playing. Players can also set limits for how frequently they can log in to their accounts.
Where to Get Help
If you want to find help or access the tools that your poker room or sportsbook provides, you can check their dedicated responsible gaming page. If you need more information, you can also check the help center or speak to customer support. The staff is trained to be knowledgeable and understanding when it comes to gambling problems.
For resources available in Pennsylvania, you can call the 1-800-GAMBLER number. Alternatively, the responsible play section of the PGCB site has access to online chat and text support. You can also find guides that help you determine whether you have a problem and what you can do about it.
You will also have access to links for support for you or a family member, including Gam-Anon, Gamblers Anonymous of PA, and addiction counseling services in the state. Additionally, it has information about self-exclusion. You can add yourself to a list, which prevents you from accessing gambling sites in the state. There are instructions on how to self-exclude and explanations for what it means.
Welcome Offers
Land-Based Casinos
Land-based casinos were established in the state long before the 2017 online gambling bill. They first emerged as ‘racinos’ in 2004, where racetracks, which were legal, were allowed to add slots and other games to their offering.
Many of these operators also choose to launch sportsbooks when legal in 2018. They were the precursor to the PA online sports betting that followed in 2019. There are 14 casinos in the state; some are racinos, some standalone, and others offer sportsbooks.
FAQs
What types of online gambling are legal in Pennsylvania?
In 2017, a bill was passed making several types of online gambling legal in the state. As a result, you can enjoy Pennsylvania online sports betting, casinos, poker rooms, lottery, and daily fantasy sports. Some operators offer two or more of these products from one site.
Do I need to be in Pennsylvania to play on Pennsylvania online gambling sites?
Yes. You might be able to register for an account when you are elsewhere. However, to deposit and play for real money, you will need to be within the state boundaries. Websites, desktop clients, and apps from legal sites use geolocation software to ensure that you are in Pennsylvania before you are able to place a bet.
Can I play on Pennsylvania online gambling sites if I am just visiting the state?
Yes. You do not have to be a state resident to make the most of what Pennsylvania online gambling sites have to offer. As long as you are located in Pennsylvania when you deposit and play, you can access the site. Visitors and residents can create accounts at the top casinos, sportsbooks, and more.
What is the minimum age to gamble online in Pennsylvania?
There is not one set minimum age for gambling activities in PA. If you want to participate in the online lottery or build a team for daily fantasy sports, then you need to be aged 18 or over. There is a different minimum age for casinos, poker, and sportsbooks. To register for an account at one of these operators, you need to be aged 21 or older.
Is it safe to gamble online in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Gambling online is safe in Pennsylvania as there are many legal and regulated sites where you can register. Using an illegal offshore operator could put you at risk, including the security of your data and your money. On the other hand, for licensed sites in PA, regulators ensure that the games are fair and players are protected.
How do Pennsylvania online gambling apps know my location?
When you use an online gambling app from a licensed operator in Pennsylvania, it uses geolocation software to determine your location. You can move around within PA when playing on your smartphone or tablet. However, you cannot use the app outside of the state as it has no legal jurisdiction there.
Does Pennsylvania have legal online poker?
Yes. There are four different options for playing poker online. The activity was made legal as part of the bill that passed in 2017. The first PA online poker site launched in 2019. Today, you can choose between PokerStars, BetMGM Poker, Borgata Poker, and WSOP.
Who regulates Pennsylvania online gaming?
Online gaming in PA is overseen by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). It was formed in 2004 to regulate racinos and standalone casinos. Its activities expanded to cover sportsbooks and then online gambling from 2017. It issues licenses, tests games, and audits sites to ensure standards are met.
Can I gamble online in Pennsylvania from my phone?
Yes. Casinos, sportsbooks, poker rooms, and daily fantasy sports sites all have apps that you can download to your smartphone or tablet. You can use the same account to access your balance and the betting features. The iLottery in Pennsylvania also has a dedicated app.
Is sports betting legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Sports betting became legal in Pennsylvania as part of a bill passed in 2017. Initially, sportsbooks could be found at land-based operators, usually through casinos. The first bet was placed in 2018. Online operations appeared soon after. Check out the PA online sportsbooks reviews to find a betting site to suit you.
What to consider when signing up to an online gambling site in Pennsylvania?
If you are ready to register for an account at your site of choice, there are few things to note. You need to be within PA to make a deposit and place bets. You will need to provide personal details, including your email address, phone number, address, date of birth, full name, and the last four digits of your social security number. Remember to check out the welcome offers first, so you know what to expect and how to claim them. You will need to upload a copy of your photo ID before you deposit.
How does banking work for Pennsylvania online gambling sites?
Each operator will have their own choice for payments, as well as policies and procedures. You can check those in the website footer, terms and conditions, or through the help center. Generally, you will have a choice of deposit methods, such as paying at the casino cage, credit or debit card, and e-wallets. Most sites require you to use the same withdrawal methods as you chose for the deposit and minimum amounts apply.