How to Play Online Poker in the US
There is an unregulated market for online poker in the United States. It first appeared in the late 1990s and grew significantly after Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker in 2003. Eventually, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) forced many sites to close in the U.S., but some sites, like PokerStars, continued to be accessible to players in the country.
When you first start playing online poker, it is advisable to start with low stakes games. This is the best way to learn the tactics of playing poker. Moreover, playing for low stakes is free. Many online poker sites feature beginners-only tables. These tables are usually available to new customers for up to 90 days after they create their accounts. As a result, beginners can practice their skills without fear of getting pipped by more experienced players.
Nowadays, there are approximately 15 million people who play online poker for real money. This represents about 2.5% of the entire adult population. Another benefit of playing poker online is that you can choose from multiple tables, some of which have as many as forty. This is something that is virtually impossible to do offline. There is also a large choice of games to play, whether you prefer a holdem game or a tournament. With so many choices, you can find a game that suits your style.
Once you’ve decided to sign up for an online poker site, you need to download the poker software. This software requires a small amount of memory, but should not take too long to download. There are also no-download poker games, but they do not provide the same features as a full download. So, while the legality of playing online poker in the U.S. does not matter, there are some important steps you should follow.
Before joining an online poker site, check if it is legal in your state. Online poker in the US is regulated in a few states, and many more are considering it. This means that the online poker sites in those states must be based in the US. This way, a US citizen or resident can sign up for an account and play real money poker.
To start playing online poker, you should look for a poker site that offers no-deposit bonuses. These freebies are good for new players, as they give them a chance to learn the ins and outs of a new website. In addition to these, loyalty schemes are another great way to benefit from online poker in the US. By collecting points, you can earn cash bonuses and other perks.
Another great way to start playing online poker is to join a website that offers free tournaments. Many free poker sites will offer these tournaments to select customers. While you can enter them for free, you can win real money if you win. In addition, some online poker sites have exclusive freerolls for members of specific clubs or groups. These free tournaments are a free reward for playing online poker in the first place.