The Best Online Poker Sites in New Jersey
Are you having trouble finding the best online poker sites in the state of New Jersey? Well, I’m excited to help you discover NJ online gambling sites that offer top-quality poker games. As a licensed promoter of legal online gambling sites in the Garden State, it’s my responsibility to ensure that poker players find the best. So, feel free to check my list of recommended poker sites that offer the best online gaming experience. Having said that, I would like to highlight the features I look for when searching for the best poker gambling sites. Of course, each NJ online poker site is unique and has its own offerings in terms of games and tournaments. However, things like licenses, banking, customer support, and the gaming experience cut across the industry. Let me explain these factors one by one to help you understand what I’m saying.
Gaming License – The First Indication of Compliance with the Law
Every gambling activity in the state of NJ is governed by the law and strictly regulated. To make sure that players play poker legally, the state of New Jersey has put in place laws. One of the primary requirements for all casinos is to have a gaming license. They must also operate under licensed land-based operators in Atlantic City. That’s because Atlantic City is the home of all gambling activities in NJ. As you know, the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement ensures that licensed online gambling platforms uphold honesty and integrity. I only recommend sites that operate under the Division of Gaming Enforcement. So, every online gambling site, I suggest, has a gaming license. I advise players to keep off any casino operator without a license to avoid unnecessary disappointments.
A Thrilling Gaming Experience – Plenty of Exciting Games, Bonus Offers, and Promotions
Top-rated online gaming sites in NJ offer a thrilling gaming experience. And one way to do it is to provide access to the best poker games. To name a few, players are looking for exciting poker rooms, free games, captivating cash games, and intriguing online poker tournaments. With as many poker games as possible, players won’t mind coming back more often. The best gaming experience may also start with a warm welcome bonus. Each poker site in the state of New Jersey has several ways to reward players. Bonuses are the most popular option because they are loved by both new and existing punters. I’ll discuss bonus offers later, so continue reading.
Banking
When playing online poker in NJ for real money, players need to deposit and withdraw funds. The best NJ sites provide safe and secure banking options. The more the payment options, the better the experience. Check the payment method section of this article for more information on banking.
Customer Support
What happens if your bonus code isn’t working? What if you are unable to log into your account? Well, the obvious option is to look for help from customer representatives or check the FAQs section. I like online poker platforms in NJ because they offer live chat services. This option ensures that players get quick responses whenever they contact support. Other viable communication channels players can use include emails and phone calls. Remember to check the “support” or “help” page for the available options.
What You Need to Play Online Poker in New Jersey
Once you’ve identified a site with the kind of games and bonuses you need, you need to sign up. However, you need a gaming device that will allow you to access the site. A desktop computer is a great choice, but you don’t need it if you have a tablet or smartphone. Your Android or iOS device is as good as your computer in terms of online gambling, so make the most of it. Every poker site in the state of New Jersey works well on portable devices.
Create Your Online Account
Depending on the selected online poker site, you’ll see the “Sign Up”, “Join” or “Register” button. Click on it and enter the necessary information, which includes your user ID, email, and password. Follow the necessary steps to verify your details. You can now log in to your account and start gaming.
Make a Deposit
Unless you are playing free games, you need to make a deposit. Open up the cashier and choose the deposit method you want to use. Enter the amount you want to deposit and confirm the transaction. You are now ready to enter poker rooms and play your favorite New Jersey online games.
Navigate to the Poker Section
I have noted that some online poker platforms in NJ also offer other casino games. In this case, you need to locate the poker section and click on the link. Luckily, all NJ online gaming sites are organized in a way that you can easily locate a poker room, tournaments, and promotions. Some of them also have easy-to-see banking and download links.
Choose How You Want to Play
Players have three options to access and play online poker in New Jersey. The first option is the website, which you can access from your PC or mobile device. Both desktop and mobile versions of the website offer the same features, so mobile gamers won’t miss out on anything.
Desktop Client
The second option offered by NJ online poker sites is the desktop client. This is the software version of the online poker site designed to be installed on your computer. Check through the poker website for the download option. Bear in mind that your computer must meet the minimum system requirements. They are most likely to be on the download page, so don’t forget to check them. Once you download the executable file, install it on your computer and let the fun begin. Mobile gaming using online poker apps is the third gaming option. This is a great alternative to the mobile website. Just like the desktop app, players need to download and install the mobile app. A different section of this article will cover online poker apps in detail, so make sure to check it out.
Poker Bonuses in NJ Sites
I know you’ll be excited to hear that New Jersey online poker gaming sites offer a wide range of bonuses. When you create an account and make your first deposit, you can expect to claim a lucrative bonus. This means that you’ll have some extra bucks to spend in addition to your deposit. You’ll also come across attractive bonus offers that do not require a deposit. Let’s take a look at some of the best bonuses at NJ sites.
Welcome Package
Poker NJ sites in New Jersey have a special welcome bonus for new players. A new player is someone who has just joined the casino and is about to deposit for the first time. The type of welcome bonus will vary from one poker site to another. Once you sign up, check the promotions section of the poker site for more information on the available welcome bonuses. You can expect to see deposit bonuses, free play bonus, no deposit bonus offers, and rewards.
Match Deposit Bonuses
A deposit bonus at NJ online poker sites is awarded when players make their first deposit. Most poker site operators in the state of NJ award first deposit bonuses in percentages. These are commonly known as match bonuses because your deposit is matched with a certain percentage. Most online gambling sites offer a 100% deposit bonus up to a specified amount as a welcome bonus. For instance, the operator may reward you with a 100 % bonus up to $600. In this case, you’ll get a bonus worth $600 if you deposit that amount or higher. So, you’ll have at least $1,200 in your casino account. As you can see, a nice deposit bonus can boost your bankroll even before you start gaming. Just remember to use the applicable bonus code when claiming your deposit bonus.
Free Play or Bonus Cash Offers Upon Depositing
Some poker sites in NJ have what they call free play bonuses, bonus cash, or online cash. For example, you may get $25 worth of free play if your first deposit is $20 or more. This is essentially a cash bonus that gives you access to thrilling poker games and tournaments. Remember that you’ll often be required to enter a bonus code to claim your free play bonus.
No Deposit Bonuses
Bonuses that players get without making a deposit are known as no deposit bonuses. Some poker sites in NJ offer such bonuses giving players more chances to play their favorite games. For example, the selected poker NJ site may decide to grant you $25 free of charge just for signing up. This is one of the coolest offers because you don’t need to risk your hard-earned money.
Freerolls
Some NJ poker portals offer freerolls to new players as well as existing players. A freeroll refers to a tournament that doesn’t require real money to participate. The best thing about it is that players get a chance to win prizes if they emerge on top of the leaderboard. Your freeroll could be in the form of bonus cash or a free ticket to enter a tournament. Again, you should visit the promotions page to find out if the site operator offers freerolls.
Refer a Friend Bonus
Online gaming sites in the state of NJ also seek to attract more players through referrals. If you know someone who might be interested in what the poker site is offering, invite them. In case they end up joining the casino, you’ll receive a referral bonus for your remarkable efforts.
Rewards
Poker sites in New Jersey also have exclusive rewards programs for their players. The type of reward players get from one poker portal may be different from what other sites are offering. Some rewards are tailored to players based on their gaming activity and needs. Other rewards are earned by collecting points whenever you play poker for real money. The accumulated points eventually open doors to exciting rewards like express competitions and bonus cash.
Online Poker Games to Play in New Jersey
Real money online poker players in NJ will find a lot of games to choose from. Whether you like No-Limit Hold ’em or Pot Limit Omaha, NJ casino portals have them waiting for you. Other popular poker games include Texas Hold ’em, 7-Card Stud Poker, Razz Poker, Free Poker, Omaha Hi/Lo, No-Limit Hold ’em, and Limit Hold ’em. As a seasoned gambler in New Jersey, I am a fan of all. So, let’s delve into the broad categories of poker games you’ll find when you join NJ poker sites.
Cash Games
Cash games are arguably the purest variety of poker for players who enjoy taking part in competitive games. I love playing cash games because of the kind of flexibility they offer. Unlike most tournaments, cash games have no beginning or end. This means that I have control over the time I want to spend at the tables. One amazing thing about cash games is that stakes appeal to both low and high rollers. Therefore, any player can play them without worrying about the amount of money they need to invest.
Tournaments
Online poker tournaments are events that allow players to play games for prize pools. Depending on the site, you’ll find daily, weekly, or monthly tournaments. If you make it to the top, you can play in championships like the World Series of Poker (WSOP) tournament. In poker tournaments, players pay for a buy-in to enter the tournament. The nature of the competition depends on the type of poker tournament you want to play. Here are the common types of poker tournaments:
- Sit & Go Tournaments – The key distinguishing feature of these tournaments is that they don’t have scheduled start times. They begin when all the seats in the poker room are occupied. Sit & Go tournaments usually have 9 to 10 players per table. They are my favorites because I can play whenever I want and expect a quick win.
- Multi-Table Tournaments – Multi-table tournaments have a scheduled start time. They involve a large number of players across multiple tables. In such tournaments, scores determine which players will be knocked out.
- Freeroll Tournaments – These tournaments allow players to play without a buy-in.
- Satellite Tournaments – This type of tournament grants entries into larger buy-in tournaments.
- Re-buy Tournaments – If you are looking for tournaments that allow players to buy chips when their initial chips get over, choose re-buy tournaments. In case you decide to participate in such games, remember to read the applicable re-buy terms and conditions.
Payment Methods at NJ Poker Casinos
Players at online poker casinos in the Garden State have access to several popular payment methods. Some banking options are excellent choices for both deposits and withdrawals. Other payment options will either allow you to deposit or withdraw, but not both. Whatever option you decide to go with, make sure that it meets your banking needs. It should provide the limits you want and charge zero or affordable fees. Here are the best payment methods at NJ poker casinos.
E-Wallets
Besides allowing players to play casino games online, the internet has paved the way for fast and secure payments. A simple Google search for internet banking sites will give you countless options. To save your time, just look at the banking section of the poker website, and you’ll see the available options. If you’ve been in the online casino gaming industry for a while, chances are you know PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. These are the three leading e-wallets accepted by New Jersey online poker portals. They offer a wide range of benefits, such as the ability to transact with huge sums of money. You can also link them to your bank or payment card to upload funds. However, keep in mind that you’ll be charged to upload funds to e-wallets.
Bank Transfer
The bank transfer option at NJ online poker websites allows players to make secure electronic funds transfer. Here, the funds are transferred from the player’s bank to their casino account via an electronic check (eCheck). As soon as the check clears, the funds will be transferred to your casino account. The problem with bank transfers is that it can take up to 7 days for the funds to be cleared.
Credit and Debit Cards
Debit and credit cards are popular payment methods accepted by NJ poker casinos. You’ll agree with me that options like MasterCard and Visa have stood the test of time. Being a global payments technology company, MasterCard processes payments in more than 150 currencies. On the other hand, Visa enables players to pay using digital currency in more than 200 countries. Apart from these two, players can fund their NJ poker casino accounts using their American Express-branded cards. Generally, poker sites in NJ do not charge players who use payment cards. But players are responsible for the fees charged by their payment card providers.
Cash at the Cashier Cage
This payment method appeals to players who want to transact the traditional way. Players who live near land-based poker site partners in Atlantic City can use this option for cash payment. You just need to visit the cashier cage and hand over the money to transfer funds in person. When making cash payments, you’ll be required to provide crucial information. This includes your casino account details, payment amount, and a valid government ID, such as your passport or driver’s license. Players may also be asked to confirm the last 4 digits of their Social Security Number. You’ll receive a confirmation email once the transaction is complete.
PayNearMe
PayNearMe is another popular, easy-to-use, and secure payment method accepted by online poker platforms in New Jersey. To make a payment, players need to present a pay slip with a barcode at a 7-Eleven store in New Jersey. This banking method allows players to make payments instantly, but withdrawals are not possible.
ACH/E-Checks
E-checks are a great way to make instant transactions at NJ online poker gaming sites. For example, players who use VIP Preferred can transfer funds directly from their bank. You just need to provide your ID document, bank’s routing number, and account number.
Security and Privacy at NJ Poker Sites
As I said before, legal online poker NJ sites have licenses and are regulated by the Division of Gaming Enforcement. If an iGaming site has a license from the relevant agency, it boosts the confidence of players. A valid gaming license from a state agency means that the poker website has been tried and tested. In New Jersey, online poker operators and owners are constantly vetted for integrity. Those who do not meet the necessary criteria risk losing their licenses.
HTTPS and TLS – Secure Communication over the Internet
In addition to the sense of security offered by licensors and regulatory bodies, NJ online poker portals take certain security measures. This includes implementing Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and Transport Layer Security (TLS). HTTPS allows site operators to protect communication over the internet. TLS is a cryptographic protocol that provides secure communications over computer networks. Using both technologies, online poker platforms are able to encrypt your information.
Privacy Measures
The privacy should always be a major concern for online players. For a second, think about what happens when you sign up on a website. You usually share vital details like your name, contact information, and banking details. Chances are you don’t even know what the operator intends to do with this info. To find out how the selected site handles your details, be sure to read the general terms and conditions. Keep an eye on the privacy section to find out how the site operator will use your information. If you feel comfortable after reading the privacy terms, you can proceed.
Poker Apps in New Jersey
Players who prefer casino apps are lucky to choose poker gaming portals in NJ. One of the things I’ve observed is that poker websites in New Jersey pay attention to the needs of such players. When you load the mobile website on your phone, you may be prompted to install the mobile app. Or, you can just find the download section and choose the appropriate poker app for your device.
Poker Apps for Android and iOS Devices
Poker apps in New Jersey are designed to cater to both Android and iOS users. I mean, you can play on the go using your iPad, iPhone, Android smartphone, or Android tablet. With such options, you can play poker wherever and whenever you want. You can use them to sign in, make payments, play poker games, and even withdraw your winnings. Clearly, poker apps provide the convenience needed by mobile players.
Smooth Gameplay on Mobile Devices
Also, poker apps are designed with your mobile device in mind. The developers ensure that players do not experience lags. So, players can expect poker games to run seamlessly. Another incredible thing about poker apps is that they feature stunning graphics and animations. Such features improve your gaming experience and make you want to play more.
Poker Laws in NJ
The legalization of casinos in New Jersey began in the 1970s when the Garden State became the second state to permit games in casinos. As a result, several casinos opened their doors in Atlantic City. However, poker games were not legal until 1993. Since then, poker rooms have gained popularity in the state of New Jersey. In November 2013, NJ became the third country in the United States to legalize online poker after Nevada and Delaware. Let me take you back to 2006 to help you get a clear picture of what has been happening. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) shut down unregulated casino sites in America for some time. This fueled the inception of multi-state legal online poker and player pools.
Multi-State Regulated Online Poker – New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware
Following the impacts of the 2006 UIGEA, a few states came together to build regulated online poker from scratch. And the success of legal online poker industries can be attributed to multi-state agreements. Nevada and Delaware were the first states in the US to engage in a multi-state agreement in 2014. They formed the interstate poker compact known as the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). This happened three months into NJ’s launch of online gaming. In 2017, New Jersey entered the multi-state poker compact when Gov. Chris Christie added his signature to the agreement. This allows poker players in the three states to compete against each other and share online poker liquidity. A bigger online poker community enables card rooms to legally organize events with larger player pools. Consequently, more online poker players have gained interest in online poker tournaments and cash games.
Legal Requirements for Online Poker Players and Poker Sites
After NJ online gambling became legal in 2013, online casino sites were free to offer poker games. Since then, several New Jersey online poker sites have emerged, offering different variants of poker. According to the law, the legal gaming age for a gambler is 21 years. Moreover, anyone can play online poker in the Garden State, provided that they are within state borders. And players don’t need to be residents of the state of NJ to play. For online poker operators in the state of New Jersey, there are two key legal requirements to meet. First of all, online gaming sites in NJ must obtain a gaming license. The second requirement is to have a land-based partner in Atlantic City.
The Casino Control Act
New Jersey’s Casino Control Commission is the governmental agency responsible for licensing casinos in Atlantic City. The actions of the state agency are governed by the Casino Control Act. The Commission works together with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement as mandated by the Act to ensure integrity and honesty. Specifically, the primary duty of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement is to maintain a legitimate and viable industry. The agency follows the regulations stated under the Casino Control Act to ensure a strictly regulated online gambling industry.
Conclusion
In sum, online poker is a big attraction in New Jersey. Players who meet the necessary requirements can easily locate a licensed operator in NJ and play for real money. There are numerous, exciting things to look forward to, including a wide range of games, safe banking options, and lots of tournaments. Also, player pools have brought loads of fun by allowing players to compete across states. With so many options, you don’t need to visit Atlantic City to play your favorite poker games. The NJ Punter has made the process of searching for an online poker site simple. I have posted a list of the best poker sites in New Jersey on this page, so make sure you check it. I update the list regularly to include the latest offers. Hopefully, the information presented here has been useful. All the best!
FAQ
Is Online Poker Legal in New Jersey?
Yes. Online casinos were legalized in NJ in 2013.
What is the Best Online Poker Site in NJ?
The best online gaming sites in NJ have gaming licenses and are regulated by the Division of Gaming Enforcement. They also use HTTPS and TLS to protect your information, so they are safe.
Can I Play Poker Games in NJ for Real Money?
Yes. All online poker casinos offer real money games. Players can make payments, play, and withdraw their winnings.
