How to Pick an Online Casino

Online gambling is one of the fastest growing industries online. Many people might play slots or cards at a brick and mortar casino but they’re reticent about shelling over money online. Is it safe? Is it legal? There are several issues to consider.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access

1. Find a reputable casino. It’s a good idea to sign up with a casino that has been around for a while. New casinos can fold, meaning you can lose your deposit and winnings.
2. Look for a good payout percentage. This is the percentage of the number of games vs. the amount paid out. Make sure this payout percentage applies to the game you like best—poker, blackjack, etc.—and not just the site on the whole.
3. Find a casino with good customer support. This is a major bellwether of a quality online casino: if it has a good customer support system. There should be quick email correspondence or real time chat. You’re bound to have questions about payment, software, or something else.
4. Find a casino with a variety of games—especially if you want to play more than one type of game. If you’re only interested in poker, sign up with a poker-only site: they’ll attract the best players and have the best tournaments.
5. Look for sign up bonuses and other bonuses. Casinos might offer as much as $800 on sign up if you deposit a set amount of money. Look for loyalty bonuses that hand out bonuses for the amount of time you play. If you’re a high-roller, online casinos have been known to give away cars and vacations.
6. Find a good software package. You can download the demo and see if the site is user-friendly and looks good. You should be able to play a few rounds without making a deposit.
7. Find a casino with a good payment plan. You may need to set up a third party account. Some casinos will allow you to withdraw money directly from your bank account. Look for prompt payments on winnings.

Tips & Warnings

• Check online reviews and forums to see the ratings for all of the above. Keep in mind that some review sites may be affiliates of the casino they’re reviewing so they’re not quite impartial.
• Large casinos may connected to number of other smaller casinos, so if you sign up with one you’ll have access to a number of other casinos as well.
• Make sure online gambling is legal where you live. In the U.S., different states have different laws on the books regarding online gambling.
• Seek professional help if you have a problem with gambling addiction.