Online Poker in New Jersey
New Jersey has long been celebrated for its lively Atlantic City casinos and dynamic gambling industy. Since the legalization of online poker in 2013, the state has emerged as a leader in regulating and promoting virtual gambling. Today, New Jersey offers a secure, diverse, and thriving online poker ecosystem catering to players of every skill level. In this comprhensive guide, we’ll explore the current state of online poker in New Jersey, delve into the latest regulations, review the top platforms available, and highlight the vibrant community of poker enthusiasts in the Garden State.
| Status | Online Poker is Legal |
| Start Date | November 2013 |
| Legal Poker Rooms | PokerStars NJ, WSOP.com NJ, BetMGM Poker NJ, Borgata Poker NJ, 888poker NJ, partypoker NJ |
| Shared Liquidity | MSIGA: Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia |
| Legal Sweepstakes Poker | Clubs Poker, ClubWPT, GlobalPoker |
| Minimum Age | 21+ |
| Regulator | New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) |
| State Tax | 15% on gross revenue, plus 2.5% Investment Alternative Tax Obligations |
Status of Online Poker in New Jersey
Online poker in New Jersey stands as a fully legal and meticulously regulated sector, positioning the state among the top markets for virtual gambling in the United States. The journey begain in November 2013 with the passage of Assembly Bill 2578, which not only legalized online poker but also established a comprehensive regulatory framework. Since then, New Jersey has collaborated with prominent casinos to deliver a secure and equitable online gaming experience.
The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of online poker. By enforcing stringent standards and conducting regular audits, the NJDGE ensures that all licensed operators provide a fair and transparent environment for players. In 2024, the online poker landscape continues to evolve, with ongoing enhancements in security measures, game variety, and player protections, further solidifying New Jersey’s reputation as a safe haven for online poker enthusiasts.
List of the Best Legal Poker Sites in New Jersey for 2025
PokerStars NJ
PokerStars NJ has firmly established itself as a leader in New Jersey’s online poker market since its launch in 2016. Building on its global reputation for excellence, PokerStars NJ offers an unparallel gaming platform that caters to both novice and seasoned players. In partnership with Resorts Casino Hotel, PokerStars NJ delivers a seamless and immersive poker experience, featuring a diverse selection of games, high-stakes tournaments, and dynamic cash tables.
A standout feature of PokerStars NJ is its shared liquidity with Michigan, significantly expanding the player pool and enhancing the overall gameplay experience. This colaboration ensures that players enjoy consistent and vibrant action, with a multitude of opponents and opportunities to engage in competitive play. In 2024, PokerStars NJ continues to innovate by introducing new tournament formats, exclusive events, and cutting-edge technology to maintain its position at the forefront of online poker in the Garden State.
| Launch Date | 2016 |
| Partner Casino | Resorts Casino Hotel |
| Features | Shared liquidity with Michigan, extensive tournament variety, top-tier software |
WSOP.com NJ
WSOP.com NJ is the online extension of the prestigious World Series of Poker, bringing the allure of WSOP events directly to players’ screens. Since its inception in 2013, WSOP.com NJ has provided players with access to official WSOP events, allowing them to compete for bracelets and rings without leaving the state. Powered by 888poker, the platform ensures a reliable and user-friendly experience, with a strong emphasis on tournament play.
| Launch Date | 2013 |
| Partner Casino | Caesars Atlantic City |
| Features | Official WSOP events, bracelet and ring competitions, powered by 888poker |
BetMGM Poker NJ
BetMGM Poker NJ offers a comprehensive online poker experience backed by the reputable MGM Resorts. Since its launch, BetMGM Poker NJ has attracted players with its generous welcome bonuses and diverse game offerings. The platform features a mobile-friendly interface, allowing players to enjoy poker on the go, and partners with Borgata Casino to enhance the gaming experience through shared liquidity.
| Launch Date | 2017 |
| Partner Casino | Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa |
| Features | Generous welcome bonuses, diverse game offerings, mobile-friendly platform |
Borgata Poker NJ
Borgata Poker NJ is a cornerstone of New Jersey’s online poker ecosystem. Operating under the BetMGM US network, Borgata Poker NJ benefits from shared liquidity with BetMGM and partypoker, providing players with a larger pool of opponents and more dynamic gameplay. The platform is renowned for its reliable software, excellent customer service, and a wide range of poker variants catering to all skill levels.
| Launch Date | 2013 |
| Partner Casino | Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa |
| Features | Shared liquidity with BetMGM and partypoker, reliable software, excellent customer service |
888poker NJ
888poker NJ is part of the globally recognized 888 Holdings group, bringing extensive experience and a strong reputation to the New Jersey online poker market. The platform offers a wide range of games and tournaments, appealing to both casual players and seasoned pros. Its intuitive interface and robust security measures make it a trusted choice for players seeking a secure and engaging poker experience.
| Launch Date | 2013 |
| Partner Casino | Caesars Atlantic City |
| Features | Wide range of games and tournaments, intuitive interface, robust security |
partypoker NJ
partypoker NJ is a well-established name in the online poker industry, known for its competitive tournament schedule and extensive cash game offerings. Partnering with BetMGM, partypoker NJ leverages shared liquidity to enhance the player experience, providing access to a larger and more active player base. partypoker isn’t very popular in NJ and you can find low traffic on the tables even at peak time.
| Launch Date | 2013 |
| Partner Casino | BetMGM Casino |
| Features | Competitive tournaments, extensive cash games, shared liquidity with BetMGM |
Sweepstakes Poker in New Jersey
Sweepstakes poker presents an alternative for players who prefer a different legal framework. These platforms use virtual currencies and free-to-play models, allowing residents to enjoy online poker without directly wagering real money. This approach complies with state regulations, providing a unique gaming experience that sidesteps the traditional gambling restrictions.
Clubs Poker
Clubs Poker provides a social and competitive sweepstakes poker platform. With a focus on community and fair play, Clubs Poker offers a range of tournaments and cash games that cater to different skill levels and preferences. The platform emphasizes a friendly and engaging environment, ensuring that players can enjoy their poker experience while interacting with a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts. Regular promotions and special events further enhance the appeal of Clubs Poker, making it a go-to choice for sweepstakes poker players in New Jersey. Clubs Poker’s commitment to maintaining a balanced and enjoyable gaming atmosphere ensures that both new and seasoned players find value and enjoyment in their online poker endeavors.
GlobalPoker
GlobalPoker operates under the sweepstakes model, where players purchase gold coins to participate in poker games. These coins can be used to enter tournaments and cash games, with sweeps cash redeemable for gift cards through secure methods like PayPal or Skrill. GlobalPoker offers a variety of poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and unique options like Caribbean Poker, catering to both casual players and serious competitors. Additionally, its poker school feature is particularly appealing to new players looking to hone their skills and improve their game. The educational resources provided by GlobalPoker help players develop their strategies and understanding of the game, fostering a more skilled and knowledgeable poker community within New Jersey.
clubWPT
clubWPT combines the excitement of sweepstakes poker with the prestige of the World Poker Tour. Players can engage in high-stakes tournaments and cash games, with the opportunity to win significant sweeps prizes. The association with the World Poker Tour ensures a high level of credibility and reliability, attracting serious poker enthusiasts who seek both competitive play and the chance to win substantial rewards. clubWPT’s premium sweepstakes poker experience is designed to meet the expectations of dedicated players, offering exclusive tournaments and high-quality gameplay. The integration with WPT also provides players with access to exclusive events and promotions, enhancing the overall value and appeal of clubWPT as a top-tier sweepstakes poker platform in New Jersey.
The Scoop on Regulations and History
In April 2011, the US Department of Justice’s crackdown on online poker, famously known as Black Friday, dramatically reshaped the landscape of online gambling across the country. This crackdown led to the shutdown of major online poker operations, creating a vacuum that underscored the urgent need for state-level regulation. The immediate impact was a significant disruption for players who found themselves without access to their favorite games and with funds frozen on offshore sites.
Responding swiftly to this crisis, New Jersey lawmakers took decisive action to legalize and regulate online poker, aiming to restore trust and safety in the gaming industry. In October 2013, Assembly Bill 2578 was passed and signed into law by Governor Chris Christie, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s gambling history. This legislation not only legalized online poker but also established a comprehensive regulatory framework to oversee and manage online gambling activities within the state. The swift passage of this bill demonstrated New Jersey’s commitment to creating a secure and fair online poker environment, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
By November 2013, the first wave of licensed online poker sites, including PokerStars NJ, WSOP.com NJ, and Borgata Poker NJ, went live, marking the official start of legal online poker in New Jersey. This launch introduced significant improvements in game quality, security measures, and player protections, effectively filling the void left by Black Friday and providing players with a legitimate alternative to unregulated offshore sites.
In March 2016, PokerStars NJ entered the market, bringing international expertise and a vast player base to New Jersey’s online poker scene. This launch further solidified New Jersey’s position as a leading online poker destination, offering players access to a wide variety of games and tournaments. PokerStars NJ’s partnership with Resorts Casino Hotel enhanced its offerings, providing a seamless integration between online and land-based gaming experiences.
The year 2017 marked a significant milestone with New Jersey joining the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) alongside Nevada, Delaware, and Michigan. This compact allowed for shared liquidity among member states, greatly enhancing game availability and prize pools. The shared player pools meant that New Jersey players could enjoy a more vibrant and competitive gaming environment, with increased participation and larger tournaments that attracted players from multiple states.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought an unexpected surge in online poker participation as live casinos faced prolonged closures. This period saw a dramatic increase in online poker revenue in New Jersey, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the state’s online poker industry. The pandemic-induced surge underscored the importance of a robust online infrastructure, enabling players to continue enjoying their favorite games even during challenging times.
On January 1, 2023, PokerStars NJ expanded its player pool by merging with Michigan’s online poker network, further increasing liquidity and offering larger tournaments. This expansion not only enhanced the gaming experience for New Jersey players but also reinforced the state’s leadership in online poker regulation and innovation. The ability to connect with a larger player base ensures that New Jersey remains at the forefront of the online poker industry, continually evolving to meet the demands of its growing player community.
As of 2024, New Jersey continues to lead in online poker regulation and innovation. Plans to expand liquidity sharing and introduce new operators like BetRivers Poker NJ are underway.
Taxes
Understanding the tax implications of online poker winnings in New Jersey is essential for players aiming to manage their finances responsibly and stay compliant with state laws. New Jersey imposes a 15% tax on gross revenue generated by online poker operators, alongside a 2.5% Investment Alternative Tax obligation. These taxes are part of the state’s efforts to regulate and benefit financially from the burgeoning online poker industry.
Players are responsible for declaring their poker winnings and paying any additional taxes owed beyond the amounts automatically withheld. Specifically, tournament winnings over $5,000 have a small percentage withheld automatically, ensuring that a portion of the winnings is promptly remitted to the state. Additionally, lottery and gambling winnings are taxed based on the total amount, with specific rates applied depending on the prize size. For instance, winnings from the New Jersey Lottery exceeding $10,000 are subject to taxation, with a progressive withholding rate that increases with the size of the prize.
Help If You Need It
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey offers support and treatment programs funded by the state, ensuring that help is readily available for those in need. This council is dedicated to addressing the challenges of problem gambling through education, prevention, and intervention initiatives, fostering a community that supports responsible gambling practices.
For immediate assistance, players and their loved ones can reach out to the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which provides free, confidential support through various channels. Individuals can call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or engage in a chat at 1800gamblerchat.org. These resources are available 24/7, offering guidance and support for those struggling with gambling addiction.
Additionally, In-State Resources are available through the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey. Located at 3635 Quakerbridge Rd., Suite 7, Hamilton, NJ 08619, the council can be contacted by phone at 609-588-5515 or through their website at www.800gambler.org. These resources provide comprehensive support, including counseling services, support groups, and educational materials aimed at preventing and treating gambling addiction.
New Jersey also offers a Casino Gambling Self-Exclusion Program, which allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all online and offline gambling activities. This program is a vital tool for those seeking to control their gambling habits and ensure they do not engage in activities that may exacerbate their condition. Players can sign up for the Self-Exclusion Program through the Division of Gaming Enforcement’s website or by calling the Self-Exclusion Hotline at 1-833-788-4DGE.
Live Poker in NJ
Atlantic City remains the heart of offline poker in New Jersey, hosting some of the nation’s most renowned casinos with dedicated poker rooms. These establishments offer a blend of traditional and modern poker experiences, catering to a wide range of players from casual enthusiasts to seasoned professionals.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Borgata offers a premier poker experience with a variety of cash games and tournaments. Players can enjoy No-Limit Hold’em and mixed games, with stakes ranging from low to high. The Borgata Poker Room is known for its friendly staff and well-maintained facilities, providing a comfortable and professional environment for both casual players and serious competitors. Regular events and high-stakes tournaments ensure that there is always something exciting happening, attracting a diverse crowd of poker enthusiasts. The room’s ambiance is both welcoming and vibrant, making it a favorite destination for those seeking quality poker action in Atlantic City.
Harrah’s Atlantic City
Harrah’s features a bustling poker room with daily tournaments and a wide selection of cash games. From beginners to seasoned pros, players find Harrah’s a welcoming environment with ample opportunities to compete and win. The room is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers a variety of game formats, ensuring that every player can find a suitable game. Harrah’s commitment to providing excellent customer service and maintaining a fair gaming environment makes it a favorite among New Jersey’s poker community. The poker room also hosts special events and themed tournaments, adding an extra layer of excitement and variety to the gaming experience.
Tropicana Casino
Tropicana’s poker room is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive game offerings. With regular tournaments and a steady flow of cash games, Tropicana caters to all types of poker players, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience. The poker room features multiple tables and a range of buy-ins, allowing players to choose games that fit their bankroll and skill level. Tropicana’s dedication to hosting high-quality events and providing a top-notch gaming experience solidifies its position as a leading destination for offline poker in New Jersey. The casino’s poker amenities are complemented by its luxurious accommodations and entertainment options, making it a comprehensive venue for both poker and leisure activities.
Notable Players from New Jersey
New Jersey has birthed some seriously talented poker players who’ve made big waves in the poker scene. Let’s check out a few of these standout names:
Thomas Marchese
Thomas Marchese, born on September 30, 1987, in Parsippany, New Jersey, is a well-known pro poker player with live earnings topping $19 million. Now living in Las Vegas, Thomas kicked off his poker career in 2009 as a self-taught player. He’s especially good at No-Limit Hold’em, showing off some serious skill and strategy. In 2010, he was named the CardPlayer Player of the Year after making it to 11 final tables and winning big at the NAPT event at The Venetian. Then in 2015, Thomas won back-to-back ‘High Roller’ events at the Aria Casino, pocketing $681,876. His crowning moment came on July 3, 2019, when he took home $1 million at the first partypokerLIVE MILLIONS event at Aria Resort and Casino. Thomas is also known online as “Kingsofcards” on Full Tilt Poker, where he plays high-stakes NLHE. His dedication and innovative strategies make him a respected name in the poker world, inspiring many up-and-coming players from New Jersey.
Chris Klodnicki
Christopher Klodnicki, hailing from Camden, New Jersey, has made a name for himself in the poker world with live earnings of $7,795,192. Living in Voorhees, NJ, Chris graduated from Lehigh University with a finance degree before ditching his valet job to go pro in poker. He learned the game from his brother and has been honing his skills since 2003. Chris has won two WSOP bracelets and one WSOP Circuit ring, with 61 WSOP cashes bringing in $7,795,192. Some of his standout moments include finishing 8th in both the $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em and the $5,000 No-Limit 2-7 Draw with Rebuys events at the WSOP. He’s also a force online, playing under different aliases on PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker. Known for his engaging personality and focus on improving his game fundamentals, Chris has ramped up his live event participation after a period of intense online play. When you talk to him, he’s always balancing the thrill of the game with personal downtime, often spending time with his dog, Charlie.
Scott Blumstein
Scott Blumstein from Morristown, New Jersey, is a big name in poker with live earnings of $8,665,172. A Temple University grad with an accounting degree, Scott made headlines by winning the 2017 World Series of Poker Main Event, taking home $8,150,000. Before that, his biggest cash was $199,854 at the Borgata Summer Poker Open in July 2016. Scott’s consistent tournament performances include three cashes on the WSOP Circuit and nearly $150,000 in online poker winnings. His calm and strategic approach helped him outlast a massive field of 7,221 players in the Main Event, marking one of the biggest wins in WSOP history at that time.
David Coleman
David Coleman, coming from Livingston, New Jersey, has built an impressive poker career with live earnings of $7,183,354 and WSOP earnings of $910,735 from 68 cashes. Living in Livingston, NJ, David started his live tournament career in September 2015 in Atlantic City and quickly made his mark in high-stakes events worldwide. His breakout year was 2021, winning big in PokerGO Tour events and Super High Roller tournaments. In 2024, David snagged four high-stakes wins in Las Vegas in January, totaling $612,339, and hit a career-best $730,300 by winning the $25,000 NLHE WPT Alpha8 Trifecta Event #3 in July.
Tom Dwan
Tom Dwan, born on July 30, 1986, in Edison, New Jersey, is a legendary poker player known as “durrrr”. Now based in Macau, China, Tom has amassed live earnings of $6,970,776. He started playing poker seriously while at Boston University, dropping out to chase his poker dreams full-time. Tom gained fame on Full Tilt Poker with his aggressive and strategic play under the alias “durrrr”. He won a WSOP bracelet in the 2017 $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em Main Event, earning $8,150,000 by defeating a field of 7,221 players. Tom is also known for his appearances on poker TV shows like NBC’s National Heads-Up Poker Championship, Poker After Dark, and High Stakes Poker. His record-breaking $3.1 million pot during the Hustler Casino Live Million Dollar Game in May 2023 showcases his ability to handle high-stakes action.
FAQ
Is online poker legal in New Jersey?
Yes, online poker is legal and regulated in New Jersey. Assembly Bill 2578, signed into law in 2013, legalized online poker and established a regulatory framework for licensed operators.
Do I have to be a New Jersey resident to play online poker?
No, you do not need to be a New Jersey resident. However, you must be physically located within New Jersey borders while playing.
How old do I need to be to play online poker in New Jersey?
Players must be at least 21 years old to participate in online poker games in New Jersey, aligning with the state’s legal gambling age.
Who regulates online poker in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) regulates online poker, overseeing licensing, compliance, and enforcement to ensure fair and secure gaming.
What are the best online poker sites in New Jersey?
Top recommendations include PokerStars NJ, WSOP.com NJ, BetMGM Poker NJ, Borgata Poker NJ, partypoker NJ, and 888poker NJ. Each offers unique bonuses, game selections, and reliable platforms.
How does a site verify if a player is in New Jersey?
All legitimate online poker sites in New Jersey use geolocation technology to confirm a player’s physical location within the state before allowing access to real-money games.
Are New Jersey online poker rooms safe?
Absolutely. Licensed online poker rooms in New Jersey are regulated by the NJDGE and employ advanced security measures to protect player data and ensure fair play.
Can I win WSOP bracelets by playing online poker in NJ?
Yes, players can compete in WSOP online events in New Jersey and have the chance to win official WSOP bracelets, just like in live tournaments.
What NJ online poker deposit bonuses are available?
Bonuses vary by site but commonly include no deposit bonuses, free tournament tickets, and deposit match bonuses. For example, PokerStars NJ offers a 100% deposit match up to $600 or $150 in free play.
How do I cash out at New Jersey online poker sites?
To cash out, players must verify their identity, choose their preferred withdrawal method, and initiate the cashout through the site’s cashier page. Withdrawals typically process within 24 to 72 hours.