Casino & Gambling Industry in Nevada
When talking about casinos and nightlife, Nevada is the state that fits the description. Nevada provides its citizens with exciting entertainment through large casinos despite the desert landscapes. This is evident since Nevada is known for Las Vegas, a vibrant city within the state. Like most countries, Nevada’s gambling industry started even before the state’s inception.
It was in the 1860s when prospectors visited the land to search for gold, bringing their games of chance with them. Later on, James Nye was appointed by President Lincoln as the governor of the territory. Governor Nye wasn’t a big fan of gambling and encouraged banning the activity. Gambling initially struggled to penetrate the state in the early years until, in 1869, it was finally legalized with restrictions.
However, during the Great Depression, the state finally changed its perspective on gambling. Assembly Bill 98 was introduced in 1931, allowing gambling within the state. Several games were made legal, which allowed the beginning of the rising gambling industry in the state.
Online Gambling Laws in Nevada
Although the gambling sector in Nevada is fast growing, they have strict gambling laws. To start, Nevada has two agencies authorized to handle gambling matters. The Nevada Gaming Control Board or also referred to as the “Board,” is in charge of auditing and tax collecting. They are also in charge of civil and criminal reinforcement of gaming laws. The second agency is the Nevada Gaming Commission, also called the “Commission.” They make the final decisions regarding licensing approvals and disciplinary actions for violations made by the licensees.
With the presence of these two agencies and established guidelines, gambling in Nevada is prohibited unless it is licensed. Games like gambling, sports pools, and off-track wagering are the only ones licensed and permitted in the state. On the other hand, the lottery is prohibited.
For online games, only poker can be played online with the given conditions: the player must be situated in Nevada, and the operator must be licensed. The legal gambling age in the state is also 21 years old and above. Therefore, players must be at least 21 years old to participate in gambling.
Online casinos in Nevada are, if not non-existent, rare. This is because the Board prefers to protect land-based casino operations. On the other hand, residents are welcome to use social gambling sites. Sites like Slotomania, Double Down Casino, and MyVegas are some examples.
Payment Methods in Nevada
Although online casinos in Nevada are unlicensed and unregulated, players can still choose to play at online poker sites. Online poker sites are the only ones licensed and regulated in Nevada. In line with this, they provide convenient payment methods for those who want to play poker online.
- Cash at Cage
- PayPal
- Neteller
- ECH
- PayNearMe
- Credit/Debit Cards
- MasterCard
- Visa
- American Express
Credit and Debit cards are the standard payment methods. However, transactions through them don’t always go smoothly. Paypal is another payment method that is popular in other states and countries. Still, choosing the payment method that is most convenient for you is always the best option.
How to Bet Online in Nevada
Online betting in Nevada is different from other states. Although it was the first state to regulate sports betting, the approach to online betting differs. Unlike in other states where you want to bet online, you may sign up for an account at a sports betting site. However, in Nevada, you must physically register for an account in your designated betting app’s location.
To start betting online in Nevada, you may first download the betting apps available. Here are the betting apps available in Nevada.
- William Hill
- playMGM Sports
- Caesars Sportsbook
- B-Connected Sports
- STN Sports
- CG Sports
- Nevada Sports Books
- Golden Nugget
- TI Mobile Sports
- Wynn Mobile Sports
These betting apps have partner locations where new players can visit to register. Most of the time, new players must fill out an application form. The form includes your details. Players must be at least 21 years old to create an account. Once the application process is done, you may now make your first deposit. Most of the time, the first deposit is around $50 to $100. This depends on the chosen sportsbook.
Online Games in Nevada
Since Nevada prioritizes land-based casinos over online casinos, only a limited number of games can be played online. Specifically, online poker and online sports betting are the only ones that can be played. Table games like slot machines, blackjacks, roulette, etc., are often played in casino resorts. This is because Nevada prefers to focus more on its physical gambling than the online market.
FAQ for Nevada Players
Are Online Casinos in Nevada Safe?
Online casinos in Nevada are unlicensed and unregulated. However, online sports betting is considered legal and is licensed and regulated by the Commission. This makes sports betting online safe.
How High is Gambling Today in Nevada?
Nevada recently exceeded $1 Billion in its gambling revenue. This beats its previous record of $13.4 Billion in gambling revenue in 2021.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Nevada?
Although there are online gambling sites in Nevada, online gambling is still prohibited.