States with active real-money online poker
| State | Legal since | Active operators | Multi-state pool? |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 2013 | WSOP/888poker, PokerStars NJ, BetMGM Poker | ✓ MSIGA |
| Pennsylvania | 2019 | PokerStars PA, WSOP PA, BetMGM Poker PA | ✓ MSIGA |
| Michigan | 2021 | PokerStars MI, WSOP MI, BetMGM Poker MI | ✓ MSIGA |
| Nevada | 2013 | WSOP.com, BetMGM Poker NV | ✓ MSIGA |
| West Virginia | 2020 | WSOP WV, BetMGM Poker WV | ✓ MSIGA |
| Delaware | 2013 | WSOP DE (state lottery) | ✓ MSIGA |
States with legal framework but no active sites
| State | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | Legal, not launched | Framework exists, tribal negotiations ongoing |
| Rhode Island | Legal, not launched | Casino gaming launched 2024, poker separate |
| Maine | New 2026 | Became latest state to launch real-money poker January 2026 |
What is the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA)?
The MSIGA is a compact between states that allows licensed poker operators to pool players across state borders. Without MSIGA, each state would have its own isolated player pool — making it hard to run games at any stakes around the clock. With MSIGA, a player in New Jersey and a player in Michigan can sit at the same virtual poker table.
Currently five states are full MSIGA members: NJ, PA, MI, NV, DE, WV. This shared player pool makes games run significantly better at off-peak hours compared to single-state poker.
Top online poker operators in legal US states
- PokerStars — Available in NJ, PA, MI. Largest player pool, widest game selection. Best for tournament players.
- WSOP.com / 888poker — Available in NJ, PA, MI, NV, WV, DE, ME. Part of MSIGA. Good cash game traffic.
- WPT Global — WPT branded poker available in legal states. Growing presence in US market.
- BetMGM Poker — Available in NJ, PA, MI, WV. Part of MSIGA pool.
FAQ
Can I play online poker for real money in the US?
Yes, if you are physically located in one of the 6 active states: NJ, PA, MI, NV, WV or DE (plus ME and possibly CT/RI in 2026). You must also be 21+ and have a verified account.
Can I play against players from other states?
Yes, if both states are part of the MSIGA compact. NJ, PA, MI, NV, WV and DE all share player pools through MSIGA, meaning you can play against players from any of those states simultaneously.
Is it illegal to play poker online in non-legal states?
Federal law (UIGEA 2006) does not prohibit players from playing — it prohibits financial institutions from processing gambling transactions. Prosecution of individual players is essentially unheard of. However, playing on unlicensed offshore sites carries risks.
When will more states legalize online poker?
Online poker legalization tends to follow iGaming legalization. States most likely to add online poker next include New York (if iGaming bill passes) and Indiana. No new states are expected in 2026.