PENNSYLVANIA is one of the pioneers in legalizing online gambling as it first passed the bill to make it legal in 2017. However, it took until 2019 for PA online casinos to become available.
Online casinos offer a wide variety of virtual gaming experiences, including classic table games like blackjack and roulette as well as an extensive selection of slots and live dealer options. Whether you are a seasoned player or a curious beginner, PA online casinos provide plenty of endless opportunities for exciting gameplay right at your fingertips.
⭐Best online casinos in Pennsylvania
- DraftKings - Get 100% match up to $2,000
- BetMGM - 100% up to $1,000 plus $25 on the house
- BetRivers - Up to $500 bonus money on 1st deposit
How were online casinos legalized in PA
Online casinos were legalized in Pennsylvania through the gambling expansion bill in 2017. This legislation is known as Act 42 and authorized online casino gambling along with other forms of wagering, such as sports betting. The bill was signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf on October 30th, 2017 which made Pennsylvania the 4th state in the United States to legalize online gambling. This decision was driven by the state's desire to generate tax revenue from gambling activities and regulate the industry to protect consumers. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) was tasked with overseeing the licensing and regulation of online casinos within the state’s borders.
While the legislative portion was a speedy process, it took some time for the availability and infrastructure to catch up. June 1st, 2019 was the first time online sportsbooks became fully available with Sugarhouse Casino being the first to officially launch. BetRivers, BetParx, Unibet, FoxBet, DraftKings, and FanDuel all followed shortly. Pennsylvania taxes sports betting at one of the highest rates in the United States.
What are the legal requirements for joining online casinos in PA?
To join and use online casinos in Pennsylvania, there are a few legal requirements that players must meet:
- Age: Players must be at least 21 years old to participate in online casino gambling. This age restriction is consistent with the gambling age for land-based casinos in the state and the standard across the United States.
- Location: In order to utilize Pennsylvania casinos online, players must be physically located within the state’s borders. Geolocation technology is used to verify a player’s location before allowing them to participate.
- Identity verification: During the sign-up process it will be required for all players to undergo a verification process to ensure their identity and age. This usually involves providing personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of their Social Security numbers.
- Account creation: Players must create an account with the online casino of their choice. This involves following all steps in the sign-up process, choosing a username and password, and agreeing to the casino’s terms and conditions.
- Responsible gambling: Online casinos in Pennsylvania are required to provide responsible gambling measures to promote safe and responsible gameplay. This includes tools such as deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion options for players that may need assistance in managing their gambling activities. It is important to set limits for yourself and practice safe bankroll management when participating in sports gambling.
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📋 How we ranked Pennsylvania online casinos
While there is some individual preference that changes how a person rates a sportsbook, there are a few universal factors that are important when rating online casinos.
- Licensing and safety: It is important to ensure casinos hold valid licenses from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. This ensures security measures are prioritized and ensures a safe and trustworthy gambling environment.
- Bonuses and promotions: There are a variety of generous welcome bonuses and promotions that are offered by online casinos that often rotate in terms of their availability. This can play a significant role in luring in new customers by giving you additional credits to wager with. You also should be sure to keep an eye on promotions popping up in addition to welcome bonuses as they are often readily available and can give an edgw where you maximize earnings by giving you a chance to gamble with money you otherwise wouldn’t have.
- Selection of casino games: It is important to ensure the online sportsbook offers your desired casino games. This includes slots, table games, live dealer options, and specialty games. This also applies to sports betting as you must ensure the sportsbook offers your desired sporting events. There has been a massive growth in availability across all platforms but there is still variance depending on the sportsbook.
- Payment methods: The availability of diverse and secure payment methods is another important aspect. Pennsylvania casinos online that offer convenient and reliable options for deposits and withdrawals are much more user-friendly. The top online sportsbooks should offer a range of payment options including debit/credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.
- Mobile application: It also is very important to have a user-friendly interface on the mobile app to give users the best experience possible when it comes to Pennsylvania online gambling. Having an available mobile app is a major advantage when it comes to this.
In-depth reviews of PA Online Casinos
1. DraftKings
DraftKings casino sign up offer
Get 100% match up to $2,000
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, MI, and CT. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
DraftKings is one of the most prominent gambling platforms available. Its sleek and user-friendly interface gives players the ability to navigate through a wide selection of betting options, casino games, and daily fantasy sports contests. DraftKings has especially embraced capitalizing on the market for fantasy sports and same-game parlays which they promote heavily. The sportsbook is also well known for its top-tier customer service, rapid payouts, and regularly available odds boosts and promotions.
Pros:
- Rapid Payouts
- Same-Game Parlays & Daily Fantasy Sports
- User-Friendly Interface
- Great amount of promos
Cons:
- Weak Welcome Bonus in Comparison to Competitors
2. BetMGM
BetMGM casino sign up offer
100% up to $1,000 plus $25 on the house
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, MI, and WV. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
One of the most widely recognized sports gambling companies, BetMGM has gained immense popularity since its creation in 2018. With its excellent navigation and layout, 24/7 customer support, and in-app live streaming options, BetMGM has many reasons why it keeps its loyal customers. There are also a number of live betting options within its sleek interface to ensure you don’t miss out on a wager even if it is past the game’s start. The secure, reliable, and feature-rich platform is a popular choice for both casual and seasoned bettors.
Pros:
- Extensive Live-Betting Options
- Established and Trustworthy Brand
- Competitive and Wide-Ranging Odds
Cons:
- Overwhelming Interface
3. BetRivers
BetRivers casino sign up offer
Up to $500 bonus money on 1st deposit
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, WV, and MI. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
BetRivers is another solid online sportsbook option that offers a seamless and enjoyable betting experience. Its intuitive interface allows users to navigate through a wide range of sports markets and betting options. It has become known for its strong security and also regularly rolls out favorable odds boosts and bonuses. BetRivers has made a consistent effort to focus on customer satisfaction and this is evident in the usage of the mobile app and online sportsbook.
Pros:
- Generous Promotions and Odds Boosts
- Strong Security
- Active live betting options
- Multiple payout options
Cons:
- Limited methods of withdrawing funds
How to register at PA online casinos
While the steps to register to Pennsylvania online casinos may vary depending on the sportsbook, here are the steps in the general process:
- Choose a licensed and reputable online casino: Research and select a trusted online casino that is legally authorized to operate in Pennsylvania and check your desired options for what to wager on.
- Visit the casino’s official website or mobile app
- Click the “Sign Up” or “Register” button
- Provide your personal information: Go through the registration steps which will include providing information such as your full name, date of birth, email address, residential address, and documents to confirm your identity.
- Create a unique username and password: Choose a username and password that will be used to log into your account securely. This should be a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that is unique to you.
- Agree to the terms and conditions: Read and agree to the online casino’s terms and conditions as well as any applicable privacy policies.
- Complete the registration process: You likely will have to confirm your email account and/or phone number by following a link or confirming with a code that is sent to you. This also could involve providing additional documentation such as a copy of your ID or proof of address.
- Deposit funds: Once your account is fully set up, you can choose to deposit funds into your casino account. Online casinos typically offer various payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers.
- Bet responsibly: At this point, you are free to search across all available wagers and make bets based on what you desire. It is important to demonstrate safe bankroll management and never risk more than you can afford to lose.
DraftKings casino sign up offer
Get 100% match up to $2,000
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, MI, and CT. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
Facts about online casinos in Pennsylvania
One of the driving forces of the legalization of PA online gambling was the benefits that it brings to the local economy. In addition to providing users with a way to feel more a part of the action while watching sports, there has already been some impressive revenue created through this new avenue.
- In 2022 sports betting generated more than $400 million in Pennsylvania
- The combined total gambling revenue reached $5.21 billion in 2022, nearly doubled from the previous year and led by revenue from table games and slots
- In June 2023 there was $164.3 million reported in revenue which is up 30% from last year indicating Pennsylvania’s online gambling continues to grow at a rapid rate
- Pennsylvania’s 36% tax rate for sports betting is the highest in the country
- Pennsylvania charges operators a one-time fee of $10 million for a sports betting license
💳 What payment methods are available at online casinos in Pennsylvania?
The payment methods at online Pennsylvania casinos can vary based on the sportsbook. However, there are a number of common methods that can be utilized:
- Credit/debit cards
- E-wallets (ex/ Paypal, Skrill, Zelle, etc)
- Bank transfers
- Wire transfers
- Check
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Are there live dealer games at PA online casinos?
Yes, there are live dealer games available at some online casinos in Pennsylvania. Live dealer games provide an immersive and authentic casino experience giving users the feeling as if they are at a live table given that it is real-time gameplay with human dealers conducting the games. Players can interact with the croupier and other participants through a live chat feature. Common live dealer games include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker variants. As the online casino industry continues to grow in Pennsylvania, the availability of live dealer games will continue to grow in availability. As it currently stands it is important to check based on the individual sportsbook as features vary between each.
🎰 What are the most popular slots among players in Pennsylvania?
Online slots are the biggest contributor of revenue in the state of Pennsylvania as it was responsible for $91.6 million in 2022. There are a number of popular slot games with new ones regularly popping up. Each web-based game has different stakes as you look at what you want to gamble on. There is an aspect of luck tied to slots that is not the case in other forms of gambling. Some of the most common available slot games include:
- Cleopatra
- Divine Fortune
- Gonzo’s Quest Megaways
- MGM Grand Millions
- Siberian Storm
- Wheel of Fortune Triple Gold Gold Spin
- Wolf Run Mega Jackpots
- Starburst
- Mega Moolah
While there is some form of hoping for the jackpot in each of these games, there is usually more to the wins and losses than just luck. It is worth trying different slot games to see what fits your preference and provides the best opportunities to win.
What types of bonuses can you get at online casino sites in Pennsylvania?
Capitalizing on casino bonuses is an important factor in maximizing profits and improving your overall experience. These regularly change within each sportsbook and these are the most common examples that are made available:
Welcome bonuses
Welcome bonuses are a common type of bonus offered with the goal of attracting new users. These typically provide a boost to the initial deposit made or offer a risk-free bet. Welcome bonuses are a great way to kick off your first sportsbook bet and give you added protection as you begin your betting experience. DraftKings and BetMGM are each known to offer intriguing welcome bonuses.
BetMGM casino sign up offer
100% up to $1,000 plus $25 on the house
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, MI, and WV. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
You can read Sean Bernard's full BetMGM sportsbook review here.
Matched deposit bonuses
Matched deposit bonuses are when the sportsbook matches a percentage of the user’s deposit to provide them with additional funds to wager with in addition to your own financial commitment. Several sources of Pennsylvania online gambling offer a 100% deposit match bonus up to a certain amount which allows you to double your money on the first deposit. This can significantly enhance your betting experience by providing extra funds and exploring a wider range of bets to increase your potential earnings. BetRivers offers deposit match bonuses regularly.
BetRivers casino sign up offer
Up to $500 bonus money on 1st deposit
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, WV, and MI. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
No deposit bonuses
No deposit bonuses are a no-strings-attached bonus which allows you the opportunity to wager with money directly from the PA casino or sportsbook. This can come in the way of free spins or free balance in exchange just for signing up for the casino. A no-deposit bonus is just like any other bonus but does not involve any risk on your end. There are typically restrictions on how you can withdraw winning or use the wagers but can improve your overall betting experience nonetheless.
Reload bonuses
Reload bonuses are offered to existing customers when they make deposits in your account after the initial sign-up. This provides users with an incentive for users to continue betting and depositing funds in their accounts as the sportsbook rewards customer loyalty by providing users with extra funds. Unibet is known to offer reload bonuses to active users.
Free spin bonuses
Similar to no-deposit bonuses, free spin bonuses allow users to capitalize on potential earnings without committing a penny of their own finances. This promotional offer gives you a predetermined number of free spins to use on a slot machine. Any winnings that come from this also tend to have restrictions on how you can withdraw and almost always require you to wager these winnings before being able to access them.
Are my casino winnings taxable in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you are responsible for paying taxes on your winning in Pennsylvania from all US online sportsbooks and casinos. This is the case across the entire United States as gambling winnings are generally considered taxable income that must be reported on your federal tax return. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) treats gambling winnings as taxable income regardless of whether they were obtained from a physical casino or online sportsbook. Some online sportsbooks may issue IRS forms for documentation on significant winnings, but it is advisable to consult with a tax professional for specific advice.
Are there mobile apps available for online casinos in PA?
Yes, there are mobile apps available for online casinos in Pennsylvania. Many reputable online casinos have developed mobile applications for iOS and Android devices to provide players with a convenient way to access casino games on the go. While these mobile apps are already widely available, this is only expected to grow and expand in the years moving forward. There are currently 20 available Pennsylvania online casinos with Bally Casino being the most recent after launching on June 8th, 2023.
What’s the best mobile app among PA online casinos?
There are pros and cons to each mobile casino, but DraftKings has a number of features that can distinguish it as the best PA online casino. DraftKings’ online casino offers $35 in casino credits after signing up and a 100% match bonus of up to $2000 or a deposit match of $100 in credits. In addition to the generous bonuses, DraftKings has a sleek user-friendly interface and a wide range of casino games to satisfy the desires of the user.
DraftKings casino sign up offer
Get 100% match up to $2,000
The above offers are available in the following states at present: PA, MI, and CT. 21+ New players only. Full T&Cs apply.
Our top 5 tips for playing at the best casinos in Pennsylvania
- Choose licensed and reputable casinos: Ensure that the online casino you choose is licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to ensure a safe and fair gaming experience.
- Check bonuses and promotions: Look for casinos with attractive welcome bonuses and other ongoing promotions. This can boost your overall bankroll and offer extra value which can maximize your overall winnings.
- Read the terms & conditions: It is important to read and understand the terms and conditions of bonuses, wagering requirements, and other important policies before using any offers and promotions. This can especially come into play when attempting to withdraw winnings as there are usually requirements put in place before you are able to access earnings from free bets or promotions.
- Explore game selection & try free games: Take advantage of demo and free play options to test games before wagering real money. This is an excellent way to get familiar with new games and strategies which could pay off in the long run. These are available more than people realize and are not utilized enough by users.
- Practice responsible gambling methods: Perhaps more than any other form of gambling, it is easy to get sucked into online casino games. Ensure you have a plan in place that includes deposit limits, time restrictions, and other self-exclusion tools. Never wager beyond your budget or risk more than you can afford to lose. This applies to any type of online casino gambling.
Read more articles from Sean Barnard
About the author
Sean Barnard
Sean Barnard has worked in sports media for the past five years. He has spent time as the 76ers Lead Writer for Philly Sports Network, Associate Editor at CluchPoints, Eagles Beat Reporter for YardBarker, and more. He also owns and operates his own Podcast Network called Pick Swap Media and is a radio host on Fox 102.5 The Gambler presented by iHeartMedia. Sean has written over 1500 articles and recorded over 500 podcasts and is just getting started. Based out of the Philadelphia region in the United States, Sean is a lifelong passionate sports fan who can be reached on Twitter at @Sean_Barnard1 where he rattles off basketball breakdowns and other news.
Responsible gambling
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
- National Council on Problem Gambling –
- Gamble Aware –
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 1-800-522-4700 or go to
