US Online Casinos: Expert Guide to Legal Real Money Online Casinos 2025

Yes, online casino gaming is legal in the U.S., but states have the ability to decide for themselves whether to legalize gambling online. Currently, seven U.S. states offer legal real-money casino gaming online.

When Did Online Casinos Legalize?

The pathway for legal online gambling sites in the U.S. was opened by a 2011 Department of Justice court ruling. In 2012 Department of Justice ruling, which allowed states to determine for themselves whether or not to legalize online gambling. Delaware became the first state to offer real money online casinos in 2012.

Where Are Online Casino Apps Legal?

The seven U.S. states where online casino apps are currently legal are New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island.

Who Regulates the Online Gambling Market?

Online gambling is regulated on a state-by-state basis by state regulating agencies.

Online casinos are digital platforms that offer casino games online. They provide convenient access to a wide variety of games, like online slot machines and video poker, accessible from any device with an internet connection. Reputable online casino sites are licensed and regulated, providing a secure gambling environment in legal states. 

How Do Online Casinos in America Work?

Online casinos in America use software with Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair gameplay across virtual slots and table games. Players deposit funds, select games and the RNG determines outcomes. Licensed casinos are audited to guarantee randomness and security. What they provide are a digital version of a retail location.

When reviewing and rating US casinos online, our process includes taking stock of a number of key factors. This includes looking at the welcome offer, existing promotions, user interface, licensing and more. 

1. 🏆 Best Bonus Offers for New Users: The top USA casinos online all offer strong welcome offers to help new casino players kickstart their account with an immediate boost or bonus.
2. 🏆 Existing Player Bonuses: Existing promotions are bonuses that are ongoing or available to all users. These types of promotions are the simplest way for users to continue stacking up profit as they play their favorite casino games.
3. 🏆 User Interface: Having a strong user interface makes it easy for users to navigate through the online casino, and overall improves the playing experience.
4. 🏆 Casino Game Selection: Excellent online casino sites will offer a robust selection of games. Our ratings take note of the number of casino games offered, the quality and the variety to ensure plenty of options. 
5. 🏆 Customer Support: Users want to know that they can get quick, trustworthy help. Each online casino site in this review offers a number of customer service avenues, however some more than others.
6. 🏆 Legally Licensed: All of the legal casino sites mentioned in this review have proper licensing in the respective US states they operate in to ensure safety.

At RotoWire's Casino Division, our ratings aren't based on hype or guesswork. They're built on real numbers, player info, and years of data collection was created by Luis Gonzalez, who has spent over five years analyzing casino bonuses, promotions, and player behavior. After reviewing thousands of offers across regulated U.S. markets, Luis realized that most casino "ratings" were vague and subjective. He set out to build a tangible, data-driven framework so players can see exactly which casinos deliver the best deals.

The result is our Core Casino Metrics — five clear measures that cut through marketing spin and give you the real value behind each offer.

Our Core Casino Metrics

TTMR (Time to Meet Rollover Ratio)

What it measures: How much time you have to clear a bonus compared to how tough the rollover is.
How it's calculated:

TTMR=Time Allowed (days)Rollover Requirement (x)TTMR = \frac{\text{Time Allowed (days)}}{\text{Rollover Requirement (x)}}TTMR=Rollover Requirement (x)Time Allowed (days)​

Why it matters: A higher TTMR means you have more breathing room to meet requirements, which is great for casual players who don't want to grind.

MBA (Max Bonus Amount)

What it measures: The maximum cash or credits a player can earn from a promotion.
How it's calculated:

MBA=Maximum Bonus Amount (cap set by the casino)MBA = \text{Maximum Bonus Amount (cap set by the casino)}MBA=Maximum Bonus Amount (cap set by the casino)

Why it matters: High rollers want to know the ceiling. MBA shows how much value is on the table if you're willing to deposit more.

TTCO (Time to Claim Offer)

What it measures: How much time new players have to claim their welcome bonus.
How it's calculated: We convert claim windows into a score from 0 to 1 (e.g., 1 day = 0.16, 30 days = 0.83, until first deposit = 1.0).
Why it matters: More time = more flexibility. New players don't want to feel rushed into claiming a bonus.

SERV (Slots Expected Realizable Value)

What it measures: The real expected dollar value of free spins or slot bonuses once you account for RTP and wagering.
How it's calculated:

For free spins: SERV=N×d×r(m+1)SERV = N × d × r^(m+1)SERV=N×d×r(m+1)

For slot-cash: SERV=B×rTSERV = B × r^TSERV=B×rT
Where N = spins, d = value per spin, B = bonus cash, r = slot RTP, T = playthrough, m = extra wagering on winnings.
Why it matters: SERV cuts through flashy "500 Free Spins!" offers and shows how much those spins are really worth.

CAWSI (Casino App Weighted Sentiment Index)

What it measures: How strong a casino's mobile app is, based on both downloads and user ratings.
How it's calculated:

CAWSI=App Rating×log⁡(Total Downloads)CAWSI = \text{App Rating} \times \log(\text{Total Downloads})CAWSI=App Rating×log(Total Downloads)

Why it matters: A highly rated app with millions of downloads has been tested by more players — so it's usually more stable, secure, and user-friendly.

Why This Matters for You

By combining these metrics, we give players a transparent, data-driven picture of each casino. Instead of guessing which promotions are good, you'll know:

• How easy they are to clear (TTMR).
• How big they can get (MBA).
• How flexible the claim window is (TTCO).
• What slot bonuses are really worth (SERV).
• And how solid the mobile app is (CAWSI).

In this section, you'll discover top-rated online casinos and what they have to offer including their standout features, bonus offers and exciting game libraries. 

1. DraftKings Casino: Best Live Dealer Games

DraftKings Casino offers an excellent gaming experience with exclusive slots and seamless integration with the brand's sportsbook. Reliable payout speeds, a wide range of available games, and consistently high RTP values make this an excellent all-around option.

DraftKings Casino Pros

1. 🟢 DraftKings Casino has lower minimum deposits than key competitors.
2. 🟢 Users can access DraftKings Casino and Sportsbook through one account making the gambling experience seamless.
3. 🟢 Large range of table and live casino games.

DraftKings Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ No phone option for customer support, however live chat is available.
2. ⚫️ Fewer ongoing promotions that some competitors, though a larger welcome bonus offsets it.
3. ⚫️ Some withdrawal methods can take up to 5 days.

2. BetMGM Casino: Top-notch Game Library

BetMGM Casino is one of the best all-around online gaming platforms, with a huge selection of games available and solid RTP values across many games. They are known for their unique table games and huge variety of slots.

BetMGM Casino Pros

1. 🟢 BetMGM Casino has the best selection of progressive jackpots.
2. 🟢 Users at BetMGM Casino can choose from a large variety of deposit methods.
3. 🟢 MGM Rewards offers players with many perks through the loyalty program.

BetMGM Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ Withdrawals can remain pending for up to 5 - 7 days.
2. ⚫️ BetMGM Casino is only available in four US states, though more are expected to be added as the legal online casino market grows.
3. ⚫️ The customer support section could improve its navigation. 

3. FanDuel Casino: Leading for Login Bonuses

FanDuel Casino's polished user interface and excellent mobile app functionality help it to stand out. Smooth gameplay and fast withdrawals are standard here.

FanDuel Casino Pros

1. 🟢 FanDuel Casino has daily jackpots and login bonuses available for existing customers.
2. 🟢 Players can access FanDuel Casino and Sportsbook through one account.
3. 🟢 Withdrawal methods are approved quickly; within 1 to 2 business days.

FanDuel Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ Smaller selection of casino games, though plenty of table games are available.
2. ⚫️ The sign up bonus is slightly smaller compared to rivals, however it only takes a $1 wager to claim.
3. ⚫️ Offers a smaller range of withdrawal methods compared to rival casinos.

4. Fanatics Casino: Excellent Recurring Promos

Fanatics Casino features sports branding and focuses on high-quality games and unique player rewards, making it a stand-out option among online casinos.

Fanatics Casino Pros

1. 🟢 Fast and secure payments are available with super speedy withdrawals.
2. 🟢 Generous welcome offer getting new users.
3. 🟢 Customer support is available 24/7.

Fanatics Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ Fanatics Casino is currently only available in four legal states.
2. ⚫️ The game selection is slightly smaller than other more established online casinos.
3. ⚫️ Ongoing promotions are limited at the moment.

5. bet365 Casino: Great Range of Exclusive Games

Bet365 is a hit in the U.S. and overseas, thanks to its large game library and east-to-navigate design. This is a reliable platform that is worth adding to any gamer's shortlist.

bet365 Casino Pros

1. 🟢 bet365 Casino has a large number of exclusive casino games that were developed in-house.
2. 🟢 Complete selection of customer support options, including live chat, email, phone and FAQ section.
3. 🟢 bet365 Casino has great bonuses for new players.

bet365 Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ Website design could use improvement, however the app has an excellent user interface.
2. ⚫️ The app features fewer games than the website version, however still enough to have a robust casino experience.
3. ⚫️ More promos for existing users could be added to be more beneficial. 

6. Caesars Palace Casino: Best for Casino Rewards

Caesars Casino has a legendary rewards program and a high-performing app and website. Its broad game library and excellent promotions will keep you engaged for quite some time.

Caesars Palace Online Casino Pros

1. 🟢 Caesars has an exceptional customer service team.
2. 🟢 Caesars Palace Online Casino has a large selection of games from top software providers such as 888.
3. 🟢 The casino's interface have been updated and revamped for a better user experience.

Caesars Palace Online Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ Some higher playthrough requirements, though still reasonable.
2. ⚫️ The Caesars app for casino and sportsbook are separate, however both have great interfaces and are easy to operate.
3. ⚫️ More ongoing promos could be added for existing users.

7. BetRivers Casino: Best for Payout Speed

BetRivers has many exclusive games and some that are tied to its retail casinos. Live dealer experiences shine here, and many player-friendly features are available to make your experience better.

BetRivers Casino Pros

1. 🟢 BetRivers Casino has a large game library with exclusive titles and progressive jackpot games.
2. 🟢 The app runs smoothly and efficiently, with filters and a search function.
3. 🟢 BetRivers is a safe and credible casino brand. 

BetRivers Casino Cons

1. ⚫️ The playthrough requirement for the deposit bonus can be difficult to satisfy for some users, though the $500 total makes up for it.
2. ⚫️ Some users report too many pop ups and ads on the app, however our reviewers did not experience this.
3. ⚫️ The overall design of the site and app could be improved for a better user experience.

The newest real-money online casino to go live in the U.S. is the Fanatics Online Casino. However, they most recently launched an app platform for users to use in May 2025. The newest casino to hit the market on line is Horseshoe Online Casino, which launched in October of 2024. Horseshoe Casino is backed by Caesars Entertainment, but it is a completely new online casino brand. 

Horseshoe Casino offers over 1,600 games, including live dealer options, and boasts a user-friendly experience. It also gives you access to the legendary Caesars Rewards program, and boasts RTPs in the mid-90% range, on par with other iGaming platforms.

A real-money online casino functions much like a traditional in-person casino, but online. You can wager and win actual cash, and these casinos operate with a license and follow state regulations. Sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, use virtual currency called "SC Coins" to play games, then have the option to redeem coins for cash prizes. Sweepstakes platforms are legal in most U.S. states because they aren't technically considered gambling. Real-money casinos, on the other hand, can only be accessed in certain states.

State-By-State Restrictions

It's a simple process to get started playing at the best online casino sites. All you have to do is follow these five steps: 

1. Choose A Trusted Online Casino: Find an online casino that is appealing to you. Keep in mind that you can sign up at more than one, which means you can also claim more than one welcome bonus.
2. Claim The Welcome Bonus: Click the green "Play Now" button next to the casino(s) you'd like to play with the get the best sign-up offer available.
3. Create & Verify Account: Go through the registration form that will appear after clicking the "Play Now" button. Input your personal details such as your name, address and the last four digits of your SSN (to verify your identity). Use the promo code at this stage, if it didn't automatically paste over.
4. Make A Deposit: Once you are registered, go to the cashier section and make a deposit with whichever method you prefer from the available list.
5. Play Your Favorite Games: Once you've made your first deposit, you can choose any of the real money casino games available.

One of the first things when choosing which online casino to play at is checking out what kind of bonuses are available. There are a number of different casino bonuses to choose from, and each casino chooses which type to offer both new and existing customers.

Here's a breakdown of the most common and rewarding bonus types:

• Welcome Bonuses: Kickstart your journey with casino credits, spins or bonus cash when you create a new account. 
• Deposit Match Bonuses: Online casinos match your deposit up to a certain percentage, effectively doubling your funds.
• Extra Spins: Spin the reels without risking your own money. Extra or bonus spins offer the chance to win real cash prizes on popular slot games.
• Cashback Bonuses: Receive a percentage of your losses back, providing a safety net and extending your playtime.
• Loyalty VIP Programs: Loyalty programs allow players to accumulate points that can be redeemed for cash, prizes and exclusive perks.

Top casinos in America offer a wide variety of games to suit every taste and skill level. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there's something for everyone, from high-energy slots to strategic table games and immersive live dealer experiences.

Online Slots

Online slots are the most popular casino games and it's easy to see why. They're simple to play, offer huge variety, and often come with exciting features like:

• Free spins
• Bonus rounds
• Wilds & scatters
• Progressive jackpots

Whether you enjoy classic 3-reel fruit machines or cutting-edge video slots with cinematic visuals, there's a game for you. If you want to improve your slot strategy, read our guide on how to win online slots.

Table Games

Table games offer a more traditional and skill-based casino experience:

Blackjack

Try to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. Learn basic blackjack strategy to boost your odds and enjoy a fast-paced, rewarding game.

Roulette

Place bets on numbers, colors, or ranges and watch the wheel spin. American, European and French versions of online roulette each offer unique odds and excitement.

Baccarat

A fast, elegant game where you bet on the player, banker, or a tie. It's easy to learn and ideal for quick, suspenseful rounds. If you're new to table games, learn how to play blackjack online or how to play baccarat online to get started.

Poker

From Texas Hold'em to Three-Card Poker, online casinos offer multiple formats. Play against the house or in player-versus-player tournaments.

Live Casino Games

Live dealer games bring the energy of a real casino into your home. With HD streams, professional dealers, and real-time interaction, these games are as close as it gets to playing in Vegas:

• Live Blackjack
• Live Roulette
• Live Baccarat
• Game-show style games (e.g. Dream Catcher, Monopoly Live)

You can chat with the dealer and other players, which adds a social twist to your session.

Other Popular Casino Games

Looking to explore beyond the classics? Many online casinos also offer:

• Video Poker – Fast-paced poker-style gameplay with big payout potential
• Craps – High-energy dice game with complex betting options
• Keno – A lottery-style game for quick, casual play
• Sic Bo – An exciting dice game with roots in Asia

Do Online Casinos Offer Free Play or Demos?

Yes, most legal online casinos offer free casino games with demo versions of popular games like slots, blackjack and roulette. These allow you to test the gameplay, rules and features without wagering real money. Free play is typically available once you've created an account and can be a great way to get comfortable before making a deposit.

These are just some of the most popular options you'll find. Us at Rotowire have a thorough list of all the different online casino payment methods available today.

Which Casinos Withdraw the Fastest?

Some of the fastest withdrawal online casinos in the U.S. include DraftKings Casino, FanDue Casino, BetRivers, and Fanatics Casino. All of these platforms offer instant withdrawal options through methods like PayPal, Venmo, and online banking. Payout times vary by state and method, but these casinos consistently have the fastest withdrawal times.

To choose the best real money casinos online, you will need to consider whether they excel in key areas such as game selection, user experience, banking options, and customer support. Depending on your priorities, certain factors may outweigh others when considering different online casinos.

Expert & Expertise

At the end of the day, you are going to want to play on an online casino site with a user interface that you enjoy using. Many platforms offer mobile apps with modern-style designs, fast processing times, and a streamlined user experience. 

Safety

To play safely, consider choosing an online casino that meets the following criteria:

• Proper Licensing: Verify regulatory authority accreditation.
• SSL Encryption: Look for HTTPS and encryption standards that protect your data.
• Payment Security: Ensure secure deposit and withdrawal options.
• Reputation: Check independent reviews and community feedback.
• Responsible Gaming Tools: Look for deposit limits, self-exclusion and time management features.

Reputable casinos also display licensing details in the footer of their homepage.

Game Selection

Every online casino offers a different selection of games. Some casinos offer the same games, and this is because they utilize the same software providers. Some games are exclusive to specific casinos. Game quality, themes, reliability, and RTP percentage are determined by the software provider who develops the game. Some popular and reputable software brands include NetEnt, Microgaming, and Evolution. You can check into an online casino's list of software developers to ensure that they use reputable game providers.

Payment Methods

Most legal real money casinos in the U.S. offer a range of banking options, including e-wallets like PayPal and Vemno, ACH, prepaid cards, credit/debit cards, and more. Withdrawal speeds vary across states, platforms, and depending on the payment method used. Sameday withdrawals are available on most platforms, especially through e-wallet withdrawals.

Loyalty Rewards

Loyalty programs reward players who play at the same casino brand repetitively. Not all online casino brands offer loyalty programs, but some, such as Caesars, have excellent programs that really pay off for big players. 

Customer Support

Ideally, nothing goes wrong when playing at your favorite online casino. But in the case that you do need assistance, you want to be sure that the casino you use has real support agents ready and available to help. The best brands offer support via live chat, phone, and email, with 24/7 help available.

Highest Paying

The best payout casinos feature games with high Return To Player (RTP) values, and fast withdrawal methods. Some of the highest paying casinos are those that have high-RTP value games of various types, including slots, jackpot slots, and table games.

Responsible gambling is a crucial aspect of online casinos, ensuring players have access to tools that promote safe and controlled gaming. The safest online casinos provide features like deposit limits, self-exclusion options, reality checks and cooling-off periods to help players manage their gambling habits. 

Additionally, licensed casinos partner with organizations such as GambleAware, Gamblers Anonymous, and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to offer support and resources for those in need. 

Choosing a legally regulated online casino ensures player protection through secure transactions, fair play, and strict age verification measures, creating a safer and more responsible gaming environment.

RotoWire has been a trusted name in fantasy sports and the iGaming space since 1997. From breaking fantasy player news to in-depth legal online sports betting coverage, our team of experts now leads the charge in rating and reviewing the best online casinos for US players.

Our team of RotoWire experts diligently evaluates the top online casinos based on numerous ranking factors. These include user experience, bonuses and promos, game selection offered, and payout speed, providing you with actionable information to help you choose the right online casinos to meet your needs.