Online Casino FAQ
Getting started playing at online casinos can seem overwhelming if it’s your first time but the truth is it’s easy, safe and convenient if you have all the right information. This article covers all the most frequently asked questions about online casinos including signing up for an account, getting the best welcome bonus, banking methods, safety, security and the broad strokes of how online casino games work.
We’ll also answer questions about casino odds, payout percentage, how the house edge works in casinos games and much more.
Online Casino Bonuses, Banking, Accounts
How do I sign up for a new online casino account?
Signing up for an online casino account is easy. Use our comprehensive online casino reviews to compare the different options and once you’ve chosen a casino, click the link to sign up for an account. The casino will ask you for personal information to set up your account. You’ll have to choose a username and password and then choose a banking method to deposit money into your account.
How do I deposit money in my online casino account?
Online casinos accept lots of different banking methods to make deposits quick and easy. You can use credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, pre-paid debit cards, e-wallets like Neteller, Paypal and Skrill or more traditional banking transactions like wire transfers.
How do I withdraw money from my online casino account?
The easiest way to withdraw money from your online casino account is usually by using the same method you used to deposit, since the casino can already verify that it’s linked to you. If you want to use a different method, expect the casino to ask for more information and do additional security screenings to verify your identity before releasing your funds. This is done to make sure no one but you can withdraw your money.
Can I open more than one online casino account?
Yes, but you can only have one account at each online casino. Opening new accounts at other casino sites, however, is a great way to check out other games and software, and get extra money with more welcome bonuses.
What is a signup or welcome bonus?
A welcome bonus, also called a signup bonus, is a special promotion offered by most online casinos that will add money to your first deposit. A lot of the time you’ll see the welcome bonus written as the percentage of your deposit the casino will match. For example, a bonus might say 100% up to £500 which means if you deposit £500, the casino will add another £500 to your account. It’s important to remember that the welcome bonus comes with a few conditions, detailed in the next answer.
Can I withdraw bonus money right away?
Not usually. Most welcome bonuses come with what’s called a “play-through requirement”. That means you have to wager a certain amount of the money or play a certain number of games to clear the bonus money before you can withdraw it. It pays to read the fine print in bonus offers to see how strict or loose the play-through requirement is. Some bonuses are a straight-up cash offer that you can withdraw right away but they’re a lot rarer.
Can I play at online casinos using a PC or a Mac?
Yes. These days all major online casinos offer versions compatible with PCs and Macs.
Can I play games in my internet browser or do I have to download software?
Yes. Most online casinos offer in-browser play and many of them also give you the option to download software to your computer if you prefer.
How do I play online casino games on mobile devices like phones and tablets?
Depending on the casino you can either download the casino’s mobile app for your device or play in your internet browser.
How old do I have to be to gamble for real money on the internet?
In the NJ you must be at least 18 years old to gamble whether it’s online or in brick and mortar casinos and gambling venues.
Online Casino Safety and Security:
Are online casinos safe?
Yes. Major online casino brands that are regulated and have long reputations are very safe. There are, however, less reputable online casinos that do not provide the same level of safety and security. These are known in the industry as “rogue casinos” and should be avoided. Research the best online casinos using our comprehensive reviews to make sure you choose one that makes safety and security a priority.
Is online gambling legal in the UK?
Yes. Online gambling has been permitted in the NJ for many years but in 2014 the Gambling Commission passed the Gambling (Licensing and Advertising) Act which created consistent rules for all online gambling operators offering services to people in the UK. Online gambling is legal in the NJ for people of ages 18 and older.
Are online casino games fair?
Yes! As long as you choose a reputable and regulated online casino you can rest assured the games are fair. Casinos make profit because of the built-in advantage they have in their games. While the advantage may be small statistically, it adds up with the huge number wagers being made. Since reputable online casinos are regulated and audited, it’s in their best interest to provide fair games that will not jeopardize their gaming licenses.
Are online casinos licensed and/or regulated?
There are a number of countries and districts around the world that offer online gambling licenses to online casinos. These include the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man, Gibralter, Malta, Curacao, Costa Rica and many more. Online casinos display their licensing information on their websites so do some research before you sign up and make sure you’re playing at a regulated establishment.
Why should I gamble on the internet at online casinos?
There are many reasons people choose online casinos instead of, or in addition to, land-based casinos. The biggest reasons are convenience, lower stakes, anonymity and better value for the player.
How do I know if I have a gambling problem?
If you feel the urge to gamble even though continuing to do so will have a negative impact on you or those around you, you may be at risk of gambling addiction. Read our comprehensive section on responsible gaming for more detailed information and how to get help.
Online Casino Games and Odds
What are RTP, Payout Percentage and House Edge?
Most casino games have an advantage for the casino built into the rules of the game. RTP, house edge and payout percentage all refer to this advantage. RTP stands for “return to player” and is expressed as a percentage. For example, a game with an RTP of 95% will return on average £95 to the player for every £100 that is bet. Sometimes people call this stat the payout percentage. The house edge refers to the same thing except it’s expressed as the percentage that the casino wins on average. A game with a 5% house edge will also return (on average) £95 to the player for every £100 that is bet.
What casino game has the best odds of winning?
The house edge is huge on some bets and games and almost zero on others so it’s really important to pick smart bets. Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, and some forms of video poker offer some of the best odds around. Read our game tutorials to find out which specific bets have the lowest house edge.
Can betting systems increase my odds of winning?
Despite what you may read on the internet or hear from other gamblers, betting systems cannot improve your odds of winning. That doesn’t mean they can’t be used to influence the likely outcome of a gambling session, however. For example, betting systems like the Martingale can make you win a small amount more often but will have higher risk of big losses less frequently.
How do random number generators (RNG) work?
Online casinos use random number generating software to determine the outcome of virtual games. RNGs use complicated algorithms to generate numbers that can’t be predicted. Choosing a reputable online casino is really important because a condition of its gambling license will be a third-party auditing of its RNG software.
Can I play online casino games for free?
A lot of online casinos allow you to demo the games for free before signing up. If you can’t find the free version, jump on the live chat with a casino representative and ask them to help you figure it out. Some online casinos also offer no-deposit bonuses to get you started.
Can I Play Online Games with Real People Dealing?
Yes, they’re called live dealer casinos and they’re offered by most major online casino brands. You can play and chat with a real dealer and the outcomes of the games are determined by real cards or a real roulette wheel. Check our review section for the best live dealer casinos.