Are online casinos legal in NY?

The current New York state constitution explicitly prohibits games of chance, which includes casino games, except for a limited number of commercial casinos and tribal locations permitted through specific exemptions. Nevertheless, this situation is likely to undergo changes in the near future.

It is unlikely that online casinos will be legalized in New York until 2025. Although legislation was introduced in 2022 by the state Senate and Assembly to legalize online casinos, lawmakers are currently prioritizing the authorization of online casino gaming for next year. Ideally, legislators aim to include the legalization of NY online casinos in the governor’s January Executive Budget.

When will online casinos launch in New York?

By successfully incorporating online casino gaming into the Executive Budget, lawmakers could pave the way for the legalization of New York online casinos by early 2025. Once the necessary regulations are established and the licensing process is finalized, the first authorized online casinos in New York might become operational later in the year.

Given the abundance of land-based casino brands, their numerous partnerships, and the substantial population of New York, it is highly unlikely that several online casino companies would not be eager to enter the market. Prominent online casinos like BetMGM, Caesars, Golden Nugget, DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers are expected to be part of New York’s online casino landscape whenever it becomes available. These platforms would likely provide players with a wide range of popular casino games, including online blackjack and online roulette specific to New York.

There are no firm decisions made at the moment. The bill is currently in its initial stages of the legislative process. Moreover, the deadline for the NYS budget is April 1, and the 2022 session concludes on June 2.

Interactive gaming bill details

To understand how New York lawmakers have dealt with the issue of legal online casinos, we can look at the most recent bills introduced by Sen. Joe Addabbo (S8412) and Assemblyman Gary Pretlow (A9436) in 2022. These bills are currently being considered in the New York Legislature, and here are some important points about them:

• There are no notable limitations on the games that would be accessible.
• Both commercial and tribal locations on land in the state can obtain licenses.
• Every casino has the authorization to provide two brands, also known as skins, under its license.
• In order to obtain their licenses, casinos are required to pay a fee of $2 million.
• If online operators prefer to use their own brand instead of their partner casino’s brand, they will be required to pay a licensing fee of $10 million.
• Playing at an online casino is subject to a 25% tax rate, which is higher than the tax rates on online casino play in New Jersey and Michigan, but significantly lower than Pennsylvania’s 54% tax rate on slot games.

New York online promotional sweepstakes social casinos

Many individuals residing in states where online casinos are still prohibited frequently engage in sweepstakes and social games on the internet.

How do these apps and websites, which closely resemble casino games and mimic casino apps, manage to operate legally in New York?

In the Empire State, online sweepstakes games are deemed legal due to the absence of a “consideration” requirement. These games allow you to participate without having to gamble any of your own money. While the websites do offer prizes of genuine worth, it is not obligatory to make any payment in order to be eligible for winning them.

NY players have access to three popular sites offering a wide range of casino-style games. From the comfort of their own homes, New Yorkers can indulge in table games and online slots to their heart’s desire across all three sites.

• Chumba Casino offers a wide range of casino-style games, including progressive jackpot slots, making it a great choice for those seeking variety. New players can take advantage of a special promotion, receiving Gold Coin and Sweeps Coin bonuses by clicking on the link provided on this page. It is worth noting that Chumba Casino operates as a social casino platform.
• Similar to Chumba, new players at LuckyLand Slots can receive 10 Sweeps Coins upon registering their account. Additionally, LuckyLand offers an Android app, catering to players who enjoy gaming on their mobile devices. However, iPhone users are currently limited to playing on their computers, although an app for them may be developed in the future. It is worth mentioning that LuckyLand operates as a social casino.
• Funzpoints is a renowned social casino that stands out for its games with low limits, allowing for extended gameplay. With a maximum prize of only $20, this platform is perfect for those who simply love playing casino-style games, regardless of winning real money.

New Jersey, Pennsylvania online casino options

It is not surprising that certain individuals residing in New York choose to engage in online casino games, often for monetary purposes. If you happen to visit New Jersey or Pennsylvania, you will have access to numerous online casinos.

Although Pennsylvania does offer a few distinctive brands, New Jersey boasts a more thriving market. Additionally, given that a larger portion of the New York population resides closer to the NJ border, our attention will be directed towards the online casino scene in New Jersey. Below, we have compiled a list of the top online casinos where you can enjoy real-money gambling in the Garden State.

Download real money casinos in NY and play in NJ

• The BetMGM Online Casino is a popular choice among online casino players in New Jersey. Offering a wide selection of over 220 games, functional apps, and integration into MGM’s iRewards program, it’s no wonder players flock to this operator. New players are rewarded with site credit upon signing up and can also enjoy an introductory offer that matches their initial deposit up to $25.
• Caesars Online Casino offers a wide range of options with almost 600 titles available on its platform, including live dealer games. New users can enjoy a registration bonus of $10 in site credit, and first-time depositors receive a 100% match up to $2,000.
• DraftKings Online Casino is not just known for its daily fantasy and sportsbook options, but also offers a remarkable casino experience. With an array of live dealer games, slots, and table games, it encompasses all the features you would anticipate. As a newcomer to DraftKings, you can enjoy a generous offer of $35 in casino credit to test out the casino. Moreover, upon your first deposit of $5 or more, you are eligible for an impressive 100% deposit match up to $2,000.
• The Golden Nugget Online Casino outshines all other online casinos in New Jersey, generating more revenue on a monthly basis. This impressive feat is not surprising considering the extensive collection of games available, boasting almost 800 titles. Yet, Golden Nugget continues to strive for excellence, offering enticing incentives. By simply signing up, you can receive $10, and upon making your initial deposit, you can enjoy a generous 100% bonus up to $1,500.

How online casinos work

Once you meet the minimum age requirement of 21 and are not listed on any gambling self-exclusion lists, you are eligible to participate in a sweepstakes site. However, before you can start, you must first create an account, complete the registration process, and deposit funds into it. Keep in mind that if you wish to engage in NJ casinos, you will need to physically cross the border.

How to sign up

Creating an account on an online casino is a simple and speedy process. The casino will guide you step-by-step, requiring a few essential pieces of identification information.

• Date of birth
• Email address
• Please provide the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• Legal name
• Mailing address

How to deposit

Once your identity is verified by the casino, the final step before starting to play is to deposit funds into your account. This can be done through one of the following methods available on the online casino platform.

• Payments made through ACH can be initiated using either a checking or savings account.
• Credit/debit cards
• Online banking
• PayNearMe
• E-wallets like PayPal
• If located in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, the casino cage.

Online casino apps vs. desktop

As mentioned earlier, online casino games can be accessed through a computer, which is the ideal method if you wish to enjoy the complete range of available titles. It should be noted that certain casinos do not offer their entire selection on their mobile apps. However, when it comes to convenience and mobility, nothing beats the mobile casino app.

When playing, your device’s geolocation technology will confirm that you are currently located within the state. Therefore, if you are installing an online casino app in NY, ensure that you grant permission for the app to access your location. If you choose to play on your computer, it is probable that you will need to install geolocation software to enable this feature.

Downstate NY casino expansion

Since 2016, four commercial casinos have been established in New York, but the issue lies in their location. All four of these casinos are situated upstate, far away from the heavily populated New York City region.

However, that will soon change.

New York is set to welcome three additional downstate NY casinos, thanks to the state budget signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul during the spring of 2022.

New York has the potential to generate a minimum of $1.5 billion immediately, as licensing fees for gaming facilities are priced at a minimum of $500 million each. By October 6, the New York State Gaming Commission must choose a board responsible for selecting the location of these gaming facilities. Once the majority of the six-member board is appointed, the NYSGC will then release a request for applications within the next 90 days.

Resorts World in Queens and MGM Empire City in Yonkers, both equipped with video lottery terminals, are highly likely to secure two licenses. These facilities have the advantage of being able to swiftly transition into fully operational casinos.

Regarding the third aspect, numerous well-known casino companies have emerged as strong candidates, alongside several potential locations.

Hard Rock, Las Vegas Sands, Bally’s, and Wynn have all shown interest in venturing into the New York casino market. Notably, Hard Rock and Las Vegas Sands have been associated with Citi Field, the New York Mets’ home stadium owned by Steve Cohen. There are discussions about the possibility of these companies opening a casino in Queens, New York.

Furthermore, there is a potential for the Hard Rock-SL Green casino project to be established at Times Square. Various other locations, such as Coney Island, Belmont, Midtown, and the East River, are also being considered. Additionally, lawmakers advocating for the South Bronx have begun efforts to promote the area as a potential site for a casino in downstate New York.

Land-based casinos in New York

Since the inauguration of the first Indian casino in 1993, New York has become a home to several Native American casinos situated on Seneca, Mohawk, and Oneida tribal lands. Furthermore, the state witnessed the establishment of four additional commercial casinos in upstate New York from 2016 to 2018.

Native American NY casinos

Visitors to upstate New York can enjoy numerous gaming opportunities at seven casinos that are owned and operated by Native American tribes.

Commercial casinos in New York

Currently, New York has four commercial casinos situated in upstate areas. However, due to a budget approved by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2021, the state of New York will soon grant licenses for three additional gaming establishments that will be located closer to, and possibly even within, New York City.

NY online casinos responsible gambling

Lawmakers and stakeholders need to focus on addressing the issue of problem gambling in New York, especially amidst the ongoing exploration of legal gaming expansion, including online platforms. It is crucial to prioritize the implementation of responsible gambling awareness initiatives, education programs, and increased resources for individuals struggling with problem gambling.

Once NY online casinos are launched, they are expected to incorporate responsible gambling features similar to those found in online sportsbooks in New York. These features may include options for users to set betting limits for a single session or a week, as well as the ability to voluntarily exclude themselves from betting apps. Moreover, dedicated helplines and resources will be accessible to individuals seeking assistance in overcoming their gambling addictions.

Sen. Joe Addabbo, a prominent advocate for expanding online gambling in New York, has emphasized that addiction poses the most significant obstacle to the potential approval of any legislation legalizing NY online casinos. In his previous bill, which did not successfully pass in 2022, he allocated an extra $11 million to address gambling addiction. Undoubtedly, the unrestricted availability of online gambling around the clock contributes to this concern. However, Addabbo’s objective is not only to establish online casinos in New York but also to regulate and enhance their safety for users within the Empire State.

Addabbo stated that he finds New York online casinos to be more complicated, and as a result, they will aim to allocate additional funds and collaborate closely with OASAS (Office of Addiction Services and Supports) to enhance their efforts in tackling addiction.

Likewise, during the 2022 Racing and Gaming Conference in Saratoga Springs, a panel stressed the inadequate presence of responsible gaming programs and funding to match the rapid expansion of the industry.

According to John Coppola, the executive director of the New York Association of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Providers, the current contribution of less than 1% of revenue toward problem gambling from online sports betting in New York is deemed as “absurdly inappropriate and unacceptable.”

David Donovan, president of the New York State Broadcasters Association, further emphasized the need for online gambling operators in the state to prioritize responsible gambling education and provide access to resources. He expressed the view that increasing the dissemination of information is preferable to limiting it, stating that there is a collective responsibility to educate the public.

Before the legalization of NY online casinos can occur, it is crucial for all parties, including lawmakers, operators, and potential users, to reach a consensus. Responsible gambling awareness and the knowledge of available resources must be shared by everyone involved in order to move forward.