This guide will provide you with all the information you need about playing online poker in Maryland. We have detailed reviews of the best poker sites in the state, as well as information about the laws and regulations governing online poker. We also share a few tips and tricks to improve your poker skills. What’s more, we provide you with the latest news and updates about the online poker industry in Maryland.
Maryland has a thriving online poker scene, with a variety of options for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone. So, keep reading to find out more.
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List of the Best Maryland Poker Sites
Choosing a reputable offshore poker site to play at that accepts players from Maryland can often prove challenging, but luckily, we’ve done the hard work of finding you the best offshore gambling sites. We’ve compiled a list of the best offshore casino sites that accept Maryland players so that you can play at legitimate offshore poker sites.
- BetOnline – The No1. Online Poker Site in Maryland
- Bovada – Low Wagering Requirements for Poker Bonuses
- Lucky Block – Most Generous Welcome Bonus Offered
- Everygame – Earn Daily Freerolls for Poker Tournaments
- SportsBetting.ag – Multiple Poker Bonuses to Choose From
- Ignition – An Array of Anonymous Poker Tables to Play at
- Juicy Stakes Poker – Earn Rakeback of up to 36%
The Latest Maryland Poker News
Gambling in Maryland’s land-based casinos has been legal since 2007. The state, however, remains illegal when it comes to online casinos and playing online poker. In 2023, Senators Ron Watson and Nancy King introduced SB 267 to address iGaming concerns. Online casino operators operating within the state will be able to receive licenses to operate iGaming through Maryland’s State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission under this bill.
The bill will be null and void if most Maryland voters oppose legalizing online casino gambling. In the event that the majority of voters support the referendum, iGaming would then become legal 30 days after the official vote tallies are announced. The upcoming vote is expected to take place in November 2024.
Reviews of the Best Online Poker Maryland Sites
Below is a review of the top seven poker sites we recommend in our Maryland online poker guide. The poker sites we’ve listed provide a wide variety of games, tournaments, promotions, bonuses, and features that make them highly regarded among Americans. The reviews below will help you gain a better understanding of which offshore poker sites are the most suitable for you to play at.
1. BetOnline – The No1. Online Poker Site in Maryland
- Payout Time: Up to 24 Hours
- Established: 1991
- License: Panama
- Headquarters: Panama
Our Verdict: (4.85/5)
Without question, an excellent casino to play poker at if you’re from Maryland is BetOnline, especially if you’re a newcomer when it comes to online poker. No matter how much poker knowledge and experience you have, BetOnline has incredible offers that you just simply can’t turn down. You are able to choose from a number of poker variations with large betting limits at BetOnline in Maryland.
The software at BetOnline has advanced significantly over time. This is why all of their online poker games have amazing graphics that make you feel like you are there in the middle of the action.
There are many reasons as to why BetOnline has ranked first on our list. One of those many reasons is that they offer casino software that you can download on a majority of iOS and Android devices. It’s an enormous convenience to be able to play your favorite poker games on mobile devices. We’ll go over each of BetOnline’s other features in more depth below.
Poker Game Variety at BetOnline: (5/5)
With wagers starting as low as $0.05, BetOnline features more than 18 various types of poker games for you to pick and choose from. You can choose from a wide variety of popular poker games at BetOnline, including Tri Card Poker, Texas Hold’em, Caribbean Stud, and many more. You have an abundance of other gaming options if you want to check out some of BetOnline’s other services! Countless thrilling casino slots, roulette, blackjack, and other games are all available.
Payment Options: (4.8/5)
You can select from a wide variety of payment options at BetOnline, including both cryptocurrency and conventional payment options. While Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are the most common forms of payment on the site, there are also a number of well-known conventional choices available, including credit and debit cards. The deposit limits range from $20 to $5,000 depending on your selected payment method. While BetOnline processes most payments in less than 24 hours, wire transfers in particular can take up to 15 days to complete.
Customer Support: (4.9/5)
You are able to get the help you’re looking for from BetOnline in a number of ways. A detailed FAQ page dealing with many typical issues you could encounter is readily available. Additionally, they include an email address, a phone number, and a live chat option. When we used the live chat feature to put them to the test, the customer service agent we spoke to was very helpful and quick to answer any questions we had.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.7/5)
This offshore casino has a number of bonuses and promotions, such as sign-up bonuses tailored specifically for poker, reload bonuses, enticing deals, Sit & Go tournaments with prizes worth up to $1 million, and so much more. To reap the rewards from these benefits, be sure to utilize the BetOnline bonus codes when you make a deposit.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 100% up to $1,000 BOLCASINO $5 for $50 Rake $50 ✅ Crypto Reload Bonus 35% on every qualifying bonus up to $350 BOLCASINO 8x $20 ✅ Pros:
- Low Wagering Requirements
- $1 Million Guaranteed Tournaments
- Download Poker App
- No-limit Poker Available
Cons:
- Bonuses not Released All at Once
- No Popular e-Wallets are Available
2. Bovada – Low Wagering Requirements for Poker Bonuses
- Payout Time: Instant
- Established: 2011
- License: Curaçao eGaming
- Headquarters: Curaçao
Our Verdict: (4.73/5)
All Marylander gamers can play online poker at this superb offshore casino. Numerous entertaining poker tournaments and bonuses are offered. Additionally, you can find yourself having fun at one of the anonymous poker tables that are offered.
It may take a little getting used to the site’s navigation at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find using their UI is a piece of cake. The massive volume of customers who frequent the casino and sportsbook sections greatly increases the possibility that the games will pay out.
To say that we were saddened when we discovered that Bovada doesn’t offer any downloadable software would be an understatement. However, once we saw that they had optimized their site to function perfectly on all mobile devices, we were able to get past this fairly quickly.
Poker Game Variety at Bovada: (4.8/5)
The best way to practice playing poker and seeing which variation you’re better at is to first try out the demo versions of the different games. Four various poker games are available at Bovada, all of which can be played for free without putting any of your cash at risk. Additionally, numerous cash games, Sit & Go tournaments, and other options are available. At Bovada, Omaha and Texas Hold ’em are the two most played poker games on the site.
Payment Options: (4.5/5)
You can choose from a variety of cryptocurrencies and regular forms of payment at Bovada. Bitcoin, USDT, and Litecoin are a few of the more prominent and well-known cryptocurrencies that are offered on the website. The conventional payment options available include, among others, VISA, American Express, and MasterCard. Using any of the accepted payment methods results in immediate payouts and no extra transaction fees.
Customer Support: (4.7/5)
Numerous problems that players could run into whilst playing poker on the Bovada casino site have been addressed in the FAQ section. There are various means you can contact the customer support team should the need arise. Bovada offers both an email address and a live chat option. Additionally, a phone number is also provided that is available around the clock. When put to the test, the online chat support agent showed that they are capable of handling any problems that may arise, they were very friendly, and were very helpful in their responses.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.9/5)
Poker players from Maryland can benefit from a variety of benefits at Bovada Casino. You are able to get an advantage over a number of exclusive benefits by joining the VIP club that is solely open to Bitcoin members. Each poker player can participate in a variety of high-roller events, and there are $2 million guarantees that you can also look forward to each week. To be eligible for claiming your welcome bonus, you must enter your Bovada promo codes while depositing money into your casino account. Also, be sure to read all of the terms and conditions of the bonus.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 100% up to $500 CAWELCOME100 N/A $10 ✅ Crypto Casino Welcome Bonus 125% up to $3,750 CAWELCOME100 First Deposit: 25x | Following Two Deposits: 50x $10 ✅ Pros:
- Weekly $2 Million Guarantees
- Low Wagering Requirements
- High Rollers Tournaments
- Anonymous Poker Tables Available
Cons:
- No Downloadable Mobile App
- Low Withdrawals Limits
3. LuckyBlock – Most Generous Welcome Bonus Offered
- Payout time: Up to 48 Hours
- Established: 2022
- License: C.I.L (Curaçao Interactive Licensing N.V)
- Headquarters: Curaçao
Our Verdict: 4.70/5
In 2022, the refined, fairly recent online casino, Lucky Block, opened their virtual doors to gamers who enjoy playing online poker, and other exciting casino games. This gambling site only accepts cryptocurrency as payment. To make an account with Lucky Block, all you need to do is provide your email address and create a username for yourself, along with a strong password. Therefore, this is an ideal choice if security and anonymity are your top priorities when playing at online casinos.
Lucky Block provides a huge selection of well over 6,000 different online casino games in addition to being a top sportsbook with alluring sports prop bets. Moreover, they offer a fantastic mobile gaming platform so you’re able to game wherever you are and at any time of day.
Casino Game Variety at Lucky Block: 4.9/5
With Lucky Block’s collection of upwards of 6,000 casino games, the possibilities for fun are practically limitless. At Lucky Block, many poker games are readily available including a variety of video poker variations and about six tables for poker in the live casino section. Along with other options like Caribbean Stud and Joker Poker, you can play the classic Casino Hold ‘Em poker game. They also provide slots made by the biggest game providers, including Play’n GO, Hacksaw Gaming, and Pragmatic Play.
Payment Options: 4.6/5
Due to the wide selection of popular cryptocurrencies accessible, funding your Lucky Block account is really plain and simple. Dozens of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum, are available for you to make a choice from. The minimum deposit amount is 0.0001 BTC, while the minimum withdrawal amount is 0.0002 BTC. Moreover, there aren’t any bank charges or transaction limits to be worried about.
Customer Support: 4.7/5
The Lucky Block customer service team offers a fantastic live chat feature that is accessible 24/7 if you need to get in touch with someone directly. The welcoming nature and expertise of their customer service staff pleasantly impressed us. You can email them and utilize the live chat feature to get in touch with them. But we were disappointed by Lucky Block’s lack of phone support.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.6/5
Lucky Block offers the most generous welcome bonus when compared to all the other casino sites we’ve recommended in this guide. When signing up to Lucky Block, you’ll be eligible to claim a large welcome package that includes a deposit bonus and free spins. Thereafter, you can look forward to extra bonuses, deals, and perks such as reload bonuses. Just be sure to read all of the T&Cs to see whether or not there are any Lucky Block bonus codes that need to be used.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Casino Welcome Offer 200% up to $10,000 + 50 free spins N/A 60x (10% of bonus cash is available after every 6x wagering of the original deposit) $20 ✅ Pros:
- No Maximum Withdrawal Limit
- Buy Crypto on the Site
- Withdrawals Processed Quickly
- Very Generous Welcome Bonus
Cons:
- No Downloadable Mobile App
- No Telephone Support
4. Everygame – Earn Daily Freerolls for Poker Tournaments
- Payout Time: Up to 48 Hours
- Established: 1996 – Rebranded in 2022
- License: Kahnawake Gaming Commission
- Headquarters: Antigua
Our Verdict: (4.65/5)
Without the slightest doubt, the exceptional low-wagering casino games that Everygame provides are among its most noticeable qualities. The site also features a poker tutorial section to assist novel players learn the game.
Along with being able to download the poker room software directly from Everygame’s website, you can also use the instant play option. The welcoming appearance of the poker rooms and the diversity of tables with different design features improve your entire online experience.
When playing online poker at Everygame, you can get a rakeback of up to 35%, which is a major perk that is much appreciated by the vast majority of players. Using the built-in rakeback calculator, you can calculate how much money you’ll make given every potential combination of cards in a hand.
Poker Game Variety at Everygame: (4.7/5)
Despite the low wagering games in many poker rooms, high-stakes games are also available at Everygame. These, however, are exclusively accessible by invitation. High-stakes games are a terrific opportunity to quickly make an abundance of money and an abundance of cash and may be quite rewarding for competent players. However, they also demand a great deal of expertise and knowledge, as well as the capacity to control risk. These controlled games can only be accessed if you’re invited to play since prospective players must be screened before they can join.
Payment Options: (4.6/5)
Everygame accepts a respectable selection of cryptocurrencies in addition to the conventional payment methods that can be used to make deposits and withdrawals. Amongst some of the most popular options, include VISA, MasterCard, MuchBetter, Litecoin, and Bitcoin. Bitcoin allows for immediate deposits and quick payouts that come with zero transaction fees. However, the fees and transfer delays associated with the alternative payment methods could be significant.
Customer Support: (4.6/5)
Should you face any challenges while gambling at Everygame, you can get in contact with a support agent by using the live chat option. Email is another way to get in touch with the assistance team. Each of our inquiries received a prompt, thorough response from the customer support agents.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.7/5)
At Everygame Casino, you may benefit from a range of bonuses and promotions, such as a sizable welcome bonus, cashback bonuses, reload bonuses, and no-deposit bonuses, just to name a few. Utilize the appropriate Everygame bonus codes to receive the aforementioned benefits.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS1 30x $25 ✅ Cashback 35% Cashback on your deposit INSIDERS1 10x $25 ✅ Pros:
- Low-wagering Poker Games
- Beginner-friendly Poker Casino
- Earn Up to 35% Rakeback
- Daily Freerolls Offered
Cons:
- High-stake Games by Invite Only
- Bonuses Paid Out In Increments
5. SportsBetting.ag – Multiple Poker Bonuses to Choose From
- Payout time: Up to 10 Business Days
- Established: 2011
- License: Panama Gambling Commission
- Headquarters: Panama
Our Verdict: (4.52/5)
Despite being mostly known for their sportsbook, Sportsbetting has a renowned and well-liked poker room as well. They provide a wide range of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and several others. Their competitions are exemplary, and the awards are plentiful. It’s an exceptional site to play poker at because of the inviting, pleasant vibe there.
Players of different levels of expertise can choose from a number of poker games available on the site. Signing up to Sportsbetting.ag will give you access to a modern, user-friendly poker site, a generous welcome bonus, and a number of other appealing features.
The vast majority of iOS and Android devices are compatible with Sportsbetting’s dedicated mobile app. Overall, our experience playing poker at Sportsbetting.ag was exceptional. Online poker players in Maryland that sign up with Sportsbetting.ag are not going to regret doing so.
Poker Game Variety at Sportsbetting.ag: (4.5/5)
There are many different poker game variations available on Sportsbetting. Although Hold’em and Omaha poker variants make up a large portion of the games in Sportsbetting’s poker room, limit Hold’em is also available. Due to the set betting restrictions, Limit Hold’em is a game that involves clever decision-making on the part of those who play. You must estimate their chances of winning and place your bets accordingly. For seasoned poker players searching for a challenge, it is a fantastic game. You’ll also find 32 Card Draw, Americana, and 7 Card Stud among other alternatives.
Payment Options: (4.3/5)
As an online hybrid casino, Sportsbetting allows you the freedom to choose between using traditional payment options and cryptocurrencies to complete transactions. The maximum amount you can deposit at Sportsbetting varies based on the payment method you use but won’t exceed $500,000. Wire transfers are the only option available without a maximum deposit limit.
Customer Support: (4.9/5)
Should you require help, Sportsbetting.ag offers helpful and timely customer care via email and live chat. Three email accounts are available to you, one of which is reserved solely for poker-related issues. Additionally, they provide a phone number that is always open for urgent questions. They also offer a thorough FAQ website for customers to quickly get solutions to their questions.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.4/5)
Pop Points, Free Rolls, Prom Buck, and substantial welcome bonuses are just a few of the incentives that Sportsbetting.ag offers their customers who play poker. Use the appropriate Sportsbetting.ag bonus codes when making your deposit to claim your bonus.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 100% up to $1,000 SB1000 $5 for $50 rake $50 ✅ 1st Time Crypto Bonus 100% up to $1,000 SB1000 14x $20 ✅ Pros:
- Multiple Poker Bonuses
- 24/7 Phone Support
- Guaranteed Poker Tournaments
- Limit Hold’ em Available
Cons:
- High Fees for Credit Cards Transactions
- Few Withdrawal Options Available
6. Ignition – An Array of Anonymous Poker Tables to Play at
- Payout time: Up to 5 Days
- Established: 2016
- License: Curaçao eGaming
- Headquarters: Curaçao
Our Verdict: (4.47/5)
Ignition Casino is rated as our sixth-best online poker room for Maryland players for several reasons. Players of various skill levels can participate in an assortment of poker tournaments, cash games, and Sit & Go events.
The fact that Ignition’s responsive website works on all mobile devices helps to make up for our disappointment in the absence of a mobile app that can be downloaded. We also praised Ignition’s excellent customer service and wide range of payment alternatives.
Poker Game Variety at Ignition: (4.6/5)
Ignition offers a wide variety of poker games, including Texas Hold ’em and Omaha, to name just a few. You should also be aware that Ignition hosts pot-limit tournaments. Along with instant payout poker games, there are many Sit & Go tournaments. Ignition’s anonymous poker tables are just another standout feature that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Payment Options: (4.4/5)
Cryptocurrencies are quickly replacing conventional payment options because of their dependability, anonymity, low transaction fees, and availability for both deposits and withdrawals. A relatively small amount of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash, are supported by Ignition. Payouts typically occur within 48 hours, which is a sufficient amount of time. Credit cards and bank transfers are other payments available. The disadvantage of these is that processing and payout can take up to five business days.
Customer Support: (4.5/5)
You’re able to get support by using the live chat feature at Ignition Casino. As an alternative, you can get in touch with the support team via phone or email. Many of the answers that you might be looking for may also be found in the helpful FAQ section.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.4/5)
Ignition Casino offers you a substantial welcome bonus when you register an account and make your first deposit. What’s more, only poker-related games are included in the bonus. Additional poker promotions include free rolls, rewards for royal flushes, and several crypto bonuses; just remember to use the Ignition casino promo codes to successfully claim them.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 300% up to $3,000 N/A 25x $20 ✅ Royal Flush Bonus Up to $200 N/A N/A $20 ✅ Pros:
- Multiple Poker Bonuses Available
- Anonymous Poker Tables
- Weekly Freerolls
- Telephone Support
Cons:
- Very Few Traditional Payment Methods
- No Mobile App
7. Juicy Stakes Poker – Earn Rakeback of up to 36%
- Payout time: Up to 6 Days
- Established: 2013
- License: Curacao (Dutch Antilles)
- Headquarters: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Our Verdict: (4.12/5)
To conclude our list of the best online poker sites available for Marylanders, we have Juicy Stakes. Juicy Stakes, despite being accessible to players worldwide, has many traits that lead us to believe that US players were the site’s primary target audience. Cash games, multi-table tournaments, Sit & Go tournaments, and many other thrilling benefits are available.
The site’s quick play or downloadable software interfaces work on computers and iOS and Android mobile devices alike. There are several events, enormous prizes, 24/7 customer support, and awesome promotions readily available.
Poker Game Variety at Juicy Stakes: (4.3/5)
On this site, Texas Hold’em and Omaha poker games are the most popular variations that are played by poker players. At the poker tables, bets of any value ranging between $0.02 and $20 are permitted. Another feature that attracts a lot of poker players every day is the Sit & Go cash games. No-Limit Hold’em is the most-played poker game at Juicy Stakes Poker.
Payment Options: (3.2/5)
Juicy Stakes’ payment options, in our experience, are quite constrained. Deposit options include eZeeWallet, Neosurf, VISA, MasterCard, and Bitcoin. The deposit amount limits, which range from $10 to $2,500, are staggeringly low. You can only withdraw your winnings via checks, bank transfers, and Bitcoin. We also thought the withdrawal limits, which vary from $100 to $2,560, were unreasonably low.
Customer Support: (4.6/5)
You are able to get in touch with Juicy Stakes’ customer service team via phone, email, or live chat if you have any queries or problems. Get the assistance you need, whenever you need it, thanks to their customer support team’s round-the-clock availability. They are also informed and courteous, so you can be sure to swiftly and easily acquire the information you are looking for.
Bonuses & Promos: (4.4/5)
You’ll find that “Poker” and “Casino” are both clearly divided into their own independent pages when you first visit Juicy Stakes’ website. These two groups each provide distinct advantages and distinguishing qualities. In addition to offering no deposit bonuses, the website’s poker section also offers daily free rolls, rakeback of up to 36%, and sizable welcome bonuses. Oftentimes, there are monthly promotions also available, so use your Juicy Stakes bonus codes and keep an eye on the Promotions tab.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Welcome Bonus 200% up to $1,000 N/A N/A $25 ✅ Casino Welcome Bonus 25 Free Spins N/A 30x $25 ✅ Pros:
- Rakeback of up to 36%
- Downloadable Poker Software
- Multiple Poker Tournaments
- Multiple-Stake-Level Poker Games
Cons:
- Very Few Withdrawal Options
- Transaction Limits are Low
More on gambling in Maryland…
Learn about all types of online gambling in Maryland in our expert guides below:
- Maryland Real Money Online Casinos
- Maryland Online Gambling
- Maryland Sports Betting Apps
- Maryland Lottery Sites
- Maryland Sportsbook Promos
- Maryland Sports Betting
FAQs
Is online poker legal in Maryland?
Can I legally play poker online in Maryland?
What is the most legit online poker site for Maryland?
What is the best online poker site for beginners from Maryland?
Is it safe to play online poker in Maryland?
Are the casinos accepting players regulated and licensed?
Comparing Online Poker Sites in Maryland
We know that trying to choose the best poker site in Maryland may be challenging, so we’ve gone ahead and compared the various casino sites side by side so that you can make an informed decision on which one will offer you what you’re looking for.
Poker Room Poker Bonus Promo Code Casino Poker Freerolls Qualifiers Guarantees BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 BOLCASINO 16+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Bovada 100% up to $500 CAWELCOME100 5+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Lucky Block 200% up to $10,000 + 50 free spins N/A 12+ ❌ ❌ ❌ Everygame 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS1 1+ ✅ ✅ ✅ SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 SB1000 10+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Ignition Up to $3,000 N/A 10 ✅ ✅ ✅ Juicy Stakes Poker 200% up to $1,000 N/A 10+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Is Online Poker Legal in Maryland?
Despite being known as the Free State, Maryland isn’t all that free when it comes to gambling laws. Playing online poker is technically illegal as there are no set regulations mentioning whether it’s allowed or not. Overall, gambling of any form is strictly prohibited by law unless it is permitted by the government. Maryland currently only permits digital table games, land-based slots, and horse racing.
While online poker may be seen as illegal throughout the state, residents may not be prevented from playing online poker as the laws don’t specifically deem it illegal. It is for this reason that many poker players from Maryland choose to enter poker tournaments, or just play a quick poker game here and there at offshore poker sites.
For this reason, we advise you to find out if the online casino you want to play at has a license from a reliable regulatory authority, like Curacao E-gaming Licensing Authority. All of the offshore poker sites we’ve recommended give you the chance to have a secure and reputable online poker experience.
Maryland Poker Laws
Online poker sites in Maryland aren’t allowed to operate within the state, but land casinos, horse racing, and state lotteries are permitted. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission oversees the state’s gaming activities and is responsible for regulating and licensing gaming operations. Additionally, the commission has the authority to issue fines and revoke licenses if any operators violate gaming regulations. There are several horse tracks located across the state that offer horse racing as legalized gambling. Racing is available both live and via parimutuel betting.
You’ll be pleased to hear that there are a few land-based casinos that offer poker rooms, one of which is a state-licensed casino. There are many different poker games available, such as Stud Poker and Texas Hold’em. You’ll find well up to 200 tables that offer exciting games such as blackjack, craps, and roulette depending on the size of the casino.
Offshore Poker Sites in Maryland
In the United States, Maryland is one of the few states to attempt to regulate offshore gambling sites. Bodog’s founder Calvin Ayre was indicted for illegal gambling and money laundering in Maryland in 2012. Calvin Ayre was finally found guilty of one misdemeanor charge in 2017 after the case was finally resolved.
It is hardly surprising that many offshore sites choose not to offer their services to players from Maryland given the monetary damage and penalty that one of the peers suffered, even if the charges were dismissed and the Bodog domain which had been seized was recovered.
When it comes to playing poker online, your only option is to do so at offshore poker sites as there aren’t any state-regulated sites available. Each of the poker sites we’ve covered in this guide are offshore, fully licensed, and accepts players from Maryland. All of these casinos provide a variety of poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and more. You can also sign up for these online casinos when you are 18 years old.
History of Gambling in Maryland
Gambling has been prevalent in Maryland for a very long time. Let’s take a quick look at what’s happened over the years.
- 1743: The first American sporting organization was The Maryland Jockey Club, which was founded in 1743.
- 1940: Southern Maryland developed as a famous gambling tourist destination in the 1940s because it was the first state other than Nevada to legalize slot machine gaming.
- 1968: Maryland once again outlawed slot machines.
- 2008: Five casinos were allowed to open.
- 2021: Retail and online sports betting became legal when HB0940 was passed.
When Will Online Poker Be Legal in Maryland?
Maryland may find the legalization of online poker sooner than they’d expect. SB 267 has been brought forward to allow the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to issue casino licenses to online casinos. Without significantly delaying the prospective launch of an online casino, the legislature can revisit the issue in 2024 should the bill not get passed in 2023.
Although it’s uncertain whether the Maryland legislature would be interested in expanding gaming so soon following the legalization of sports betting, the possibility of tax revenue is an interesting opportunity that some lawmakers may take into account in the coming weeks and perhaps again in 2024.
Previous Online Poker Bills in Maryland
There hasn’t been much going around when it comes to gambling in Maryland. Despite this, SB 267 has recently been introduced to allow online gambling in Maryland. We can only hope that this online poker bill will soon be passed.
Tax on Online Poker Winnings in Maryland
When it comes to gambling in Maryland, there is a 24% federal tax on gambling winnings. Depending on your net income, Maryland’s state tax on gambling winnings ranges from 2% to 5.75%. Should online poker become legal in Maryland, we can only assume the same tax rate will apply. Despite this, when playing at offshore casinos, you won’t need to worry about paying any taxes on your poker winnings.
Regulated Poker Sites vs Offshore Poker Sites
Even though Maryland currently doesn’t have any state-regulated poker sites, knowing how these online poker sites differ from offshore ones is always helpful. While the similarities between the two are uncanny, there are a few noteworthy differences that’ll be in your best interest to know about.
- Taxes: All winnings made from state-regulated casino sites will be subject to tax. Should you choose to play at offshore casinos, you won’t be required to disclose any of your winnings and in turn won’t be required to pay tax on them.
- License: State-regulated casino and poker sites are governed by local laws, whereas offshore sites may operate under licenses from other countries around the world.
- Bonuses & Promotions: Bonuses and promotions should be taken into consideration because they are targeted toward both novice and experienced players. Offshore sites typically provide bigger rewards when compared to local sites that are governed by state laws.
Each jurisdiction in the US has its own gaming legislation. There are currently no poker sites with state licenses, as playing online poker in Maryland is illegal. However, we believe that Maryland’s restrictions on online poker will eventually be overturned. We need to know whether the events would be ring-fenced or have a shared player pool should Maryland legalize online poker.
Ring-fenced poker entails limiting players’ access to play outside of their own state. If the poker games are a shared player pool, then Maryland poker players can look forward to competing for that royal flush against other poker sharks not just from other states but other countries as well.
Several US jurisdictions officially authorize online poker, however, they are restricted to ring-fenced poker games. Given these details, it stands to reason that if online poker is made legal in Maryland, the state is likely to face a similar outcome.
How to Play Online Poker in Maryland
You must first register with the casino of your choice before you can start playing poker online in Maryland. Below are detailed steps that will show you how to successfully do so and start playing online poker in Maryland. The steps involved are pretty much the same for all of the other offshore casinos we’ve listed in this article, but we’ve used BetOnline as an example here.
Step 1: Sign up to BetOnline
To start with, visit BetOnline’s official website and click on the green “Join” button that you’ll find on the top left.
Step 2: Register a Casino Account for Yourself
Once you’ve clicked the Join button, a form-filled pop-up dialogue box will open. On this pop-up, you’ll need to enter all your necessary personal information such as your name, surname, email, and date of birth to mention a few. You will also need to create a password for yourself. Click the “Create Account” button after you have filled out all the required fields.
Step 3: Make Your First Deposit
You now have a BetOnline Casino account. Before you can start playing poker, you will need to make a deposit. To do so, go to the Banking Page and choose the payment method you’d like to use for deposits. Thereafter, enter the amount you wish to deposit and click on Deposit.
Step 4: Start Playing Poker for Real Money
Your deposit should instantly reflect in your account. You can now go to BetOnline’s Poker page where you’ll find several poker rooms and tournaments to enter. Choose a poker room, place your bet, and get that royal flush!
Types of Poker Games Available at Maryland Poker Sites
When playing poker online, you’ll find that there is a wide variety of poker games for you to choose from. Below, we go over the three most popular poker games that you’ll find available at all of our recommended poker sites.
Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold ‘em is easily the most popular poker variant available and is a game of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. The main objective of the game is to have the best five-card hand at the end of the game. This game is played in a series of rounds, with each round consisting of a betting phase and a card dealing phase. Throughout each round, each player can either call the big blind, call, raise, or fold. The big blind is the minimum bet that a player must make to stay in the game. Once all the betting is complete, the players reveal their hole cards, and the player with the best hand wins the pot.
Omaha High
Being fairly similar to Texas Hold ‘em, Omaha High is also a very popular poker game where you need to make the best five-card hard in order to win. Each player in Omaha High receives four hole cards as opposed to the two that you’d get in Texas Hold ‘em. But, each player may only use two of these hole cards and three of the community cards to form the best hand. While Omaha High is fun, it is a fairly difficult poker game that requires skill, planning, and strategy.
Tri-Card Poker
Online Tri-Card Poker, sometimes also known as Three Card Poker, is a fast-paced poker game that is fairly simple and played with three cards. This game pits you against the dealer and can be found at most online casinos and offers plenty of excitement for players who enjoy poker. You need to place your initial bet, then all players as well as the dealer are dealt three cards. The main objective is to get a better three-card hand than the dealer. This is a great option if you’re looking for a fast-paced poker game with straightforward rules.
Poker Site Bonuses Available for MD Players
Maryland residents who play online poker have a wide range of casino bonuses and promotions that are available to choose from. You can count on finding bonuses and rewards such as free rolls, cashback, and welcome bonuses, to mention just a few. Let’s briefly go over the types of bonuses being offered by the poker sites we’ve recommended in this guide.
Bonus Type About Recommended Site Welcome Bonus - This type of promotion is used to attract new players. These bonuses are typically awarded to players who register for a new account and make a deposit. Welcome bonuses can come in various forms such as matched deposit bonuses, cashback, or free spins.
- Lucky Block: 200% up to $10,000 + 50 Free Spins
Ongoing Promotions - This can be any type of bonus offered to existing and loyal players. These can include deposit bonuses, cashback, free rolls, and no deposit bonuses to name a few.
- BetOnline: $1 Million Sit & Go
Free Roll - This is a common type of casino bonus offered by many online casinos. Essentially, a free roll allows you free entry into a tournament but still allows you to win real money.
- Ignition Casino: $2,500 Weekly Poker Free Rolls
Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses
Comparing the various welcome bonuses can be very helpful if you are looking for an offshore casino to join. You can compare all of the poker sites recommended here, along with their welcome bonuses and other essential information, below for your convenience.
Casino Casino Bonus Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Expiration date BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 BOLCASINO $5 for $50 rake $50 ✅ 30 Days Bovada 100% up to $500 CAWELCOME100 N/A $10 ✅ 30 Days Lucky Block 200% up to $10,000 + 50 free spins N/A 60x $20 ✅ 14 Days Everygame 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS1 30x $25 ✅ 3 Months SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 SB1000 $5 for $50 rake $50 ✅ 30 Days Ignition 300% up to $3,000 N/A 25x $20 ✅ 6 Months Juicy Stakes Poker 200% up to $1,000 N/A N/A $25 ✅ 90 Days Making Deposits & Withdrawals at MD Poker Sites
In order to reduce any possible financial risks when playing online poker in Maryland, we’d suggest that you make sure you understand how the different payment methods work. This will essentially help you choose a payment method that meets all of your needs. Below, we’ll quickly discuss cryptocurrencies, traditional payment methods, and e-Wallets along with a few examples of each.
Payment Method About Examples Cryptocurrencies - Withdrawals are Instant.
- Zero transaction fees.
- Anonymous transactions.
- Bitcoin
- Bitcoin Cash
- Dogecoin
- Ethereum
Traditional Payment Methods - Transaction fees can be high.
- Payments can take up to 7 days to process.
- Controlled and overseen by banks.
- Debit cards
- Bank transfers
- Credit cards
- Payment vouchers
eWallets - Can’t always claim bonuses.
- Small transaction fees.
- Is a link between your bank account and casino account.
- Neteller
- Skrill
- ecoPayz
Deposit Options Available
One of the first things to do after registering a casino account for yourself is to make a deposit in order to play poker for real money. Each online casino site will have different payment methods available on their site, so it’s important to do your research on what each casino offers. It’s also important to note that no offshore casino will accept PayPal. Let’s take a quick look at what deposit methods are accepted at the poker sites we’ve recommended in this guide.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Lucky Block ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ SportsBetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Juicy Stakes Poker ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Withdrawal Options Available
While checking what deposit methods are important, taking a look at the available withdrawal methods is just as important. There’s nothing more disappointing than wanting to cash out your winnings only to find out the casino doesn’t allow withdrawals with the payment method you used for deposits. The withdrawal options available at each of our recommended sites are listed below.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ LuckyBlock ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ SportBetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ Juicy Stakes Poker ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ Playing on MD Poker Apps & Mobile Sites
Seeing the advancement of technology, it’s no surprise that poker apps and casino mobile sites have grown in popularity. You can now play your favorite poker games from anywhere, at any time. One of the main reasons for using mobile casino apps is the convenience. You no longer need to travel to a brick-and-mortar casino to start playing poker. Most Maryland players have found it much simpler to fit gaming into their busy schedules.
You’ll find that not all casinos offer a downloadable app. However, they will allow you to access their website with your mobile device. These mobile sites make use of innovative technology and allow you to experience most of what you would on an app. Although they might not be as practical as a downloadable app, they continue to be an excellent way to play poker and casino games wherever you are.
Tips for Playing Online Poker for Real Money in Maryland
Playing online poker in Maryland for real money can be an enjoyable and possibly very profitable and rewarding experience. However, it’s important that you play the game very cautiously and with a strategic perspective, or else you could very easily lose all of your money. By following the following tips, you can maximize your chances of success and you’ll find yourself enjoying the game more.
- Only Play at Reputable Poker Sites: The poker site you play at must be trustworthy and reputable. The best way to ensure this is to play a licensed casino, such as those we’ve mentioned in this guide. Playing at dodgy sites may result in you losing your funds and never getting paid out.
- Start Small: If you’re new to playing poker, it’d be in your best interest to start small. Start playing low-stake games, get a better understanding of the game, and build up your bankroll.
- Strategies are Your Best Friend: Poker is all about the strategy used. Take the time to research and practice various poker strategies until you find the one that works best for you.
- Set a Budget: It’s important that you set yourself a gambling budget. Never wager more than you can afford to lose, and never chase your losses.
- Play with a Clear Mind: Poker games can carry on for long periods of time. Stay focused and avoid any distractions. It’s also important to never gamble whilst under the influence.
Playing Online Poker vs Poker Live in Maryland
All poker fans from the Free State find enjoyment in the game’s simplistic approach. Despite this, nothing beats the excitement of playing poker for real money at a Maryland casino. While both online and live poker have their obvious distinctions, they both come with their own benefits and drawbacks.
In poker, your preferences largely determine how and where you play. For gamers in Maryland, playing online poker is easy and secure. When seen from a different viewpoint, live poker looks more appealing and feels more authentic.
When it comes to playing poker at online casinos, you will be able to put all of your focus and attention on the game at hand, and won’t need to worry about whether or not your poker face is any good. What’s more, you can even make use of cheat sheets and take notes throughout the entirety of the game.
Online poker also tends to draw more players than live casinos, and there are many reasons for this, one of which is that they offer significant bonuses and promotions to players. Another reason is that online casinos accept players from all around the world, whereas live casinos are fairly limited in their space.
You will even notice that more times than not the prize pools at online casinos are substantially larger than those at live casinos. Most of our recommended casinos offer a guaranteed $1 million prize pool.
Live Poker in Maryland – Casinos With Poker Rooms
In addition to playing online poker in Maryland, you’ll also be able to enjoy your favorite poker game at land-based casinos. There is a good handful of brick-and-mortar casinos available in Maryland for you to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular casinos in Maryland that offer poker rooms.
Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland
- Address: 47002 Arundel Mills Cir #7777, Hanover, MD 21076
- Opening hours: 24/7
When it comes to poker rooms in Maryland, Live! casino is undoubtedly the best place to play poker at. Great food is available at this casino for when you start to feel peckish. All year long, the poker room, which has more than 50 tables for you to sit at, is buzzing with activity thanks to countless tournaments that award prizes encompassing thousands of dollars.
MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino
- Address: 101 MGM National Ave, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
- Opening hours: 24/7
MGM National Harbor, which is situated in Prince George’s County, opened their doors in 2016 and is one of the biggest casinos in the state. There are 37 tables in the poker room from which you can sit and play, and each one can hold up to 8 players. For high-roller gamers with astonishing abilities, the magnificent poker room has 9 high-limit tables. Poker games offered by MGM include 5-Card Omaha, No Limit Hold’em, and Pot-Limit Omaha, among many others.
Horseshoe Casino Baltimore
- Address: 1525 Russell St, Baltimore, MD 21230
- Opening hours: 24/7
Horseshoe is a cutting-edge establishment with a sizable gaming floor offering an extensive selection of gambling options. It is situated in the center of Maryland. The renowned World Series of Poker Room is a sophisticated poker room offering 22 tables and seating for eight players per table. This casino offers a variety of daily and weekly poker tournaments that take place all year long if you want to showcase your talents. When the main tournaments begin after noon, the poker room comes to life. Regular tournaments with up to $2,500 in guarantees are also available.
Famous Maryland Poker Players
There have been several highly successful poker players from Maryland who have earned millions of dollars throughout their careers. These players have proven that with the right strategy and dedication, poker can be a rewarding and lucrative career option. Let’s take a look at the top 3 poker players from Maryland.
- Anthony Gregg: Ranked as 1st in the All Time Money List for Maryland, and 43rd within the United States, Anthony’s total live earnings are currently $12,016,191.
- Gregory Merson: The second-best poker player from Laurel, Maryland, Gregory’s total live earnings are just over $11.4 million, with his biggest win yet being $8,531,853 at the WSOP main event in July 2012.
- Justin Liberto: Having just over $5.1 million in total live earnings, Justin is a fan favorite when it comes to poker players in Maryland. He ranks as 311th on the All Time Money List, and his biggest live cash win is $640,711.
The Best Poker Site in Maryland
As we’ve discussed in this article, there are a lot of trustworthy online betting sites out there, but there’s one that stands out above all others and that’s none other than BetOnline! BetOnline is known for their fast payouts, great customer service, and wide selection of casino and poker games. Additionally, they offer great bonuses, including a generous welcome bonus for new players.
BetOnline also has plenty of security measures in place to ensure your personal and financial details remain safe. As one of the longest-running online betting sites, they have a solid reputation and have proven themselves to be reliable over the years. Overall, BetOnline is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a trustworthy online poker site.
Macaela Becker
Macaela Becker
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