US Poker Sites: Frequently Asked Questions
Finding US poker sites and international poker sites that welcome US players can be a challenge, thanks to the uneven crackdowns over the past few years. Since the passage of the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act) of 2006, many US sites have closed down and many non-US sites refuse to accept memberships from US poker players. The whole situation has left US gamers frustrated with unanswered questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about US player poker rooms.
Is It Illegal?
One of the biggest misconceptions about US poker sites is that it's illegal to play poker online for real money. In fact, it's perfectly legal for most US poker players to play poker online for real money. Only a few jurisdictions have made it illegal for individual players to play poker online.
Are There Any US Poker Sites?
There are many sites that are friendly to US poker players, but they can be difficult to find. Finding sites that accept and welcome US players can be tricky. The best way to find US poker player sites is to read online poker site reviews and look for online games that actively welcome players from the US.
How Do I Send Money?
The primary reason that many non-US sites don't accept US players is the difficulty of transferring money. Since 2006, it has become increasingly difficult for sites to withdraw money from US player accounts. In most cases, you won't be able to fund your account from your bank account or credit card. Visa prepaid debit cards are an option that may work, and some sites will accept PayPal, but it varies by site. Some online payment processors that do work are ePassporte, Moneybookers and eWalletExpress. Most online poker sites will accept funding via the well-known telegram company or MoneyGram. However, you may have to investigate the mechanism to do so.
Can I Withdraw Winnings?
If you're playing on a legitimate site, it will clearly state how to withdraw your winnings. The most common way is to request a check. In most cases, you must reach a payout threshold in order to request a withdrawal. When you make a request, the online US poker player room will issue a paper check and mail it to you. It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 8 weeks to receive your payout.
While there are few US sites, those that do welcome US players are very accommodating and provide exceptional customer service. Do your research, and you'll find any number of legitimate poker sites where US players can play safely and securely.
Is It Illegal?
One of the biggest misconceptions about US poker sites is that it's illegal to play poker online for real money. In fact, it's perfectly legal for most US poker players to play poker online for real money. Only a few jurisdictions have made it illegal for individual players to play poker online.
Are There Any US Poker Sites?
There are many sites that are friendly to US poker players, but they can be difficult to find. Finding sites that accept and welcome US players can be tricky. The best way to find US poker player sites is to read online poker site reviews and look for online games that actively welcome players from the US.
How Do I Send Money?
The primary reason that many non-US sites don't accept US players is the difficulty of transferring money. Since 2006, it has become increasingly difficult for sites to withdraw money from US player accounts. In most cases, you won't be able to fund your account from your bank account or credit card. Visa prepaid debit cards are an option that may work, and some sites will accept PayPal, but it varies by site. Some online payment processors that do work are ePassporte, Moneybookers and eWalletExpress. Most online poker sites will accept funding via the well-known telegram company or MoneyGram. However, you may have to investigate the mechanism to do so.
Can I Withdraw Winnings?
If you're playing on a legitimate site, it will clearly state how to withdraw your winnings. The most common way is to request a check. In most cases, you must reach a payout threshold in order to request a withdrawal. When you make a request, the online US poker player room will issue a paper check and mail it to you. It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 8 weeks to receive your payout.
While there are few US sites, those that do welcome US players are very accommodating and provide exceptional customer service. Do your research, and you'll find any number of legitimate poker sites where US players can play safely and securely.
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