Best online casinos that pay real money in February 2026
Our team of experts has compared the top online casinos in the U.S. based on payout speeds, types of games, welcome bonuses, user experience and much more to create this guide to the best online casinos and gambling sites to play casino games for real money in legal states.
- BetMGM casino: Game depth is unmatched
- Caesars Palace online casino: Best for quick payouts and rewards
- bet365 casino: Exclusive online slot games
- FanDuel casino: Same-day, easy withdrawals
- DraftKings casino: Appealing cross-platform navigation
- Fanatics casino: Innovative rewards
- BetRivers casino: Top-tier live-dealer game options
One of the best online casinos reviewed by experts, BetMGM casino offers more than 1,000 slot titles to choose from, along with over 150 exclusive games and an in-house progressive jackpot network. Load times are quick, especially as one of the top casino apps, and so are payouts.
Users who are fans of the best slot sites or jackpot chasers might choose BetMGM as their preferred online casino destination. However, low-stakes players could be inclined to look elsewhere – but there are plenty of choices out there.
BetMGM casino bonus
The BetMGM casino bonus code TODAY1000 earns bettors a 100% deposit match bonus worth up to $1,000, plus a $25 no-deposit casino bonus. Alternatively, you can sign up with the code TODAY2500 and get a deposit match up to $2,500 plus 100 bonus spins.
BetMGM runs slots tournaments and leaderboard challenges, giving you lots of chances to win bonus bets. There are also regular “Bet & Get” deals, and a referral bonus of $50 in site credits. BetMGM casino is part of the MGM Rewards loyalty program. BetMGM also has one of the most popular sports betting apps.
BetMGM casino pros and cons
Pros
- Well-known online casino that features the largest no deposit bonus
- Unrivaled portfolio of games with larger progressive jackpot payouts that competitors
Cons
- Some rivals provide more recurring promotions
- App is not as quick as some competitors, such as FanDuel casino
Caesars casino online
Caesars Palace online casino offers a polished, high-value online gaming experience, placing it among the best gambling sites. Best known for its VIP-style rewards program and polished site, Caesars has made a strong digital comeback since its 2023 platform relaunch.
While Caesars impresses with its quick payments and streamlined onboarding process, it has a smaller game library than its competitors. That said, it still stands out in all the states where it is live, including among Michigan online casinos.
Caesars casino bonus
The Caesars casino promo code USAPLAYLAUNCH delivers a 100% deposit match up to $1,000 (15x required for slots, 30x for video poker, 75x for all other games except for craps, roulette and baccarat). You will also receive a $10 registration bonus on the house as an no deposit bonus casino plus 2,500 rewards points when you wager $25 or more.
The $10 has a 1x playthrough on slots, 2x on video poker and 5x on other games (some games are excluded). Recurring promotions have included a 20% rebate on table game losses up to $40, a prime-time reload bonus and a video poker bonus for app users. It is also covered by the Caesars Rewards program.
Caesars casino pros and cons
Pros
- Large maximum win limits and VIP program for high rollers
- Appealing welcome bonus often features a deposit match, points and house money
Cons
- Smaller portfolio of online casino games than some rivals
- No current selection of exclusive games
bet365 casino online
A popular sportsbook in online betting, bet365 boasts a casino experience highlighted by quick load times and a unique game inventory. Backed by in-house titles and Playtech slots, bet365 offers users something different and quick payouts on winnings.
bet365 casino bonus
Get a 100% deposit match up to $1,000 plus 10 days of bonus spins (up to 500 max). You will need to wager the deposit match bonus 30 times on eligible casino games before you can withdraw your bonus funds and any winnings from them. The 10 days of bonus spins have a 1x playthrough and are for Big Piggy Bank, Grizzly, Space Invaders Win & Spin and Wolf it Up.
bet365 casino pros and cons
Pros
- Large selection of exclusive games
- Reputable online casino backed by one of the biggest names in word of online gambling
Cons
- Loyalty rewards program isn’t available in the U.S.
- Wagering requirements not as low as some rivals, though bonus spins have just a 1x playthrough
FanDuel casino online
Many know FanDuel as a legacy DFS site and sportsbook, but its online casino experience is just as competitive. There’s no loyalty program, but FanDuel casino payouts are quick and the sign-up offer provides new users with 500 bonus spins and a $40 credit if they deposit $10.
FanDuel casino bonus
Accept your FanDuel casino promo code offer, then deposit $10 to get 500 bonus spins and $40 credit (1x required). You also will get daily spins on the FanDuel Casino Reward Machine each day, giving you a chance to win cash prizes.
FanDuel casino pros and cons
Pros
- Lots of generous ongoing bonuses after you claim your deposit bonus
- Boasts some of the highest quality games from top software providers
Cons
- No loyalty program
- Smaller selection of games than other online gambling sites
DraftKings casino online
DraftKings delivers an easy experience for players who want access to casino, sportsbook and DFS all under one roof. Users searching for a multi-platform betting experience will enjoy the sports betting integration and catalog of more than 1,400 games and 50 exclusive selections.
DraftKings casino bonus
Get up to $1,000 in credit plus 500 bonus spins (1x required) after you wager $5 or more. You can earn up to $1,000 back in bonuses for net losses in your first 24 hours following opt-in. Each spin is worth $0.20 per spin and you get 50 a day for 10 straight days.
DraftKings casino customers also can take part in leaderboard challenges, such as Bonus Blizzard, to win prizes. There is a referral bonus worth up to $100, and you can also earn points for the Dynasty Rewards loyalty program.
DraftKings casino pros and cons
Pros
- One of the best first deposit bonus offers in the industry
- Excellent range of games laid out in user-friendly format
Cons
- Customer service options more limited than rivals
- Fewer ongoing promos that other leading online casinos
Fanatics casino online
Fanatics is among the top new online casinos and is quickly gaining attention with its FanCash program that lets you convert play into bonus bets and sports gear.
Although it holds a relatively small gaming catalog, the Fanatics casino rewards system is one-of-a-kind and attractive for sports fans.
Fanatics casino bonus
Get up to 1,000 bonus spins on Triple Cash Eruption with a Fanatics casino promo code. The flagship offer delivers up to 100 spins a day on this popular slot each day of your first 10 days as an account holder. There is often al alternate offer that pays back 100% of net losses up to $1,000 incurred over their first 24 hours as an account holder.
Fanatics casino is one of the best online gambling sites and offers many different types of recurring promotions, including bonus spins, cashback bonuses and bet & get promos.
Fanatics casino pros and cons
Pros
- Exceptional app from one of the newer online casinos
- Dynamic sign-up bonus offer rewards consistent play
Cons
- Fewer games than some rivals
- Mobile-only experience so no desktop play
BetRivers casino online
BetRivers offers a player-friendly experience combined with relatively low wagering requirements. Backed by a robust live dealer portfolio and frequent bonus offers, BetRivers is great for players who don’t mind a slightly cluttered site layout and a mobile app with sporadic lag.
BetRivers casino bonus
CASINOBACK (NJ, MI, MV) gets 24 hours of casino losses back up to $500, while or PACASINO250 (PA) delivers a 100% deposit match up to $250 in PA only (1x required). There are daily prize draws for BetRivers customers, and the online casino offers free bingo games for the chance to win bonus money.
BetRivers casino pros and cons
Pros
- One of the best payout online casinos in terms of speed
- Impressive range of games sure to appeal to new players and seasoned one
Cons
- Lacks exclusive casino game titles
- Smaller deposit bonus than rivals
How to sign up at real-money online casinos
Signing up for a new account at any real money online casino requires completing just a few short steps:
- Click the green “PLAY NOW” button next to one of the online casinos featured on this page. It will open the site and ensure you get the best sign-up bonus.
- The landing page will highlight the welcome offer you have qualified for. Click to open the registration form. Enter your email address and choose a password.
- Provide your personal information such as name, date of birth, address, phone number and final four SSN digits. Agree to the terms, accept the privacy policy and complete the form. You’ll need to confirm you are old enough and in a state where the online casino is operating to earn a bonus and place wagers on your favorite games.
- You can then make your first deposit to unlock the welcome bonus and begin playing the best RTP slots, card games and table games.
Pros and cons of playing online casinos
Pros
- Play anytime, anywhere with no waiting for your favorite games
- Great welcome bonuses, bonus spins and loyalty rewards
- Wide variety of slots, live dealer games, poker variants and more
Cons
- Occasional technical glitches or lags can be frustrating
- Real-money games not available in all states
- Lacks the social aspect of a physical casino
Are online real money casinos legal?
Yes, real money casinos are legal in the United States, but only a handful of states have legalized online casinos.
It is legal to play online casinos for real money in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Connecticut. In all states with legal real money online casino sites, you must be 21 or older to play.
All the recommended real money online casino sites listed on this page are fully licensed, legal, and reliable. Leading the pack are Caesars online casino and BetMGM, both of which hold a significant share of the market thanks to their wide variety of games, excellent user experience, generous bonuses and more.
It’s essential to bet responsibly when online gambling. You can set personal limits and access a wide range of support resources, such as the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), 1-800-GAMBLER and more.
What to avoid with online casinos
Exercise caution when selecting an online casino, and always choose sites that are licensed and regulated in the state where you’re playing. It’s best to avoid offshore online casinos, as they offer minimal customer protection. Common issues with these unregulated sites include phishing, fake platforms, rigged casino games and difficulty withdrawing your funds. Always play at a reputable online casino such as those listed on this page.
Licensing & regulation
We only recommend using casinos that are legal and licensed in the United States, and the real money online casinos you sign up for must be credible, trustworthy, have a good reputation and keep your banking and personal information safe. Only play at sites licensed by the governmental agencies in the states they operate in, such as the Michigan Gaming Control Board. These regulators ensure fairness, transparent payouts and anti-fraud protocols.
How to choose a legit real money casino
Not all online casinos are created equal, and every player has different priorities. Whether you value fast payouts, a wide selection of games, generous bonuses, or premium loyalty programs, the best casino for you depends on what you care about most. It’s not just about the biggest promotion, it’s about finding the right fit for your playing style and preferences.
These are some of the features that will impact your experience and are worth considering:
Welcome offers and ongoing online casino bonuses
Bonuses are critical to the real money online casino experience. Check out the size of the welcome bonus, the ease of the wagering requirements and the quality of the recurring promos and loyalty rewards at each online casino. Recurring promos are important once you’ve used the welcome bonus offer.
- If you want big bonuses right away: Look for sites with high-value deposit matches and low wagering requirements, such as at Fanatics casino.
- If loyalty rewards matter: Consider Caesars and BetMGM
Payment methods & payout speed
Finding real money casinos that support your preferred payment methods — whether that’s Play+, PayPal, debit cards, bank transfers, or others — is essential. Fast withdrawal times are just as important. While a few U.S. online casinos can process payouts in minutes, most offer a range of withdrawal options that typically take between 24 to 48 hours.
- If you want fast withdrawals: FanDuel (payouts in <12 hours), bet365 (same-day Apple Pay) among top choices. Look for PayPal casinos for one of the easiest banking experiences.
Game variety & software providers
Players will have their favorite games, but variety and game quality at real money online casinos is important. Top-tier operators feature hundreds of slots from a wide range of game providers, creating a large and diverse selection, including popular jackpot slots. They also offer a strong lineup of virtual table games, video poker, online scratch cards, variety games and a full live dealer casino experience.
- If you want game variety: More slots and table games mean more fun and flexibility. BetMGM and DraftKings are great options.
Mobile compatibility
The quality, design, usability and access to a real money casino apps and site is important. Above all else, it should be something that you enjoy using. Whatever operator you use should also run smoothly, be easy to navigate, and uncomplicated when signing up and using regularly. Ensure the site or app is fully optimized for iOS and Android.
- If you’re playing on mobile: A clean, responsive experience makes all the difference. FanDuel and Caesars among top picks.
Customer support & security
All of the featured online casinos on this page offer first-rate customer support, but some have dedicated phone lines while others have more robust FAQ sections or 24/7 chat with a live support agent. All of these support channels have been tested by our experts for responsiveness, but you may prefer one method of contact over another and can weigh that into your decision.
Additionally, you want to make sure you choose operators that require account verification for your own protection. All games (other than live dealer) should use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fairness.
Online casinos and taxes
Winnings from online gambling are subject to income taxes, both in your state and at the federal level. Online casinos may withhold some of your winnings for taxes (if you win more than $5,000 on a wager and the payout is at least 300 times the amount you wagered). You may also receive a W-2G from the casino or a 1099-MISC.
Be sure to keep track or your wins and losses so you have an accurate assessment come tax time. It’s always best to consult with a tax professional if you have any questions.
Unlike land-based casinos, online casino games are available in almost every state, but only a handful have real-money online casinos. Below are the most popular types of online casinos.
Real money casinos
Real-money online casinos are only available in a small number of states: Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The best casino sites are available in most of those locales, and each delivers a deposit bonus for new customers. These sites feature live casino games with human dealers as well as the best online slots, table games and video poker games.
Mobile casinos
Each top online casino operator has a mobile app for both iOS and Android users. These mobile casinos have optimized play for all of their casino games, including live-dealer games, to allow you to seamlessly enjoy online gambling sites on the go.
Sweepstake casinos
There are also sweepstake casinos are available in most states in the U.S. and are popular in states without real-money wagering as they offer the ability to win real cash prizes through a currency most commonly known as Sweeps Coins. These sites are free to play casino games such as slots and even some video poker games, and you can buy “coins” packages to play more and get free Sweeps Coins. One of the top offers comes via the RealPrize promo code.
Social casinos
Social casinos feature a lot of the same games as the best payout online casinos but there is never real money involved. You can play slots and table games for fun and bragging rights, but you never have to spend any money if you don’t want to but additional virtual currency to play.
Top online casinos summary
Players can sign up for multiple online real money casinos in their state. That will ensure they receive all the top welcome offers on the market and figure out which games they enjoy playing most. Tap on any of the green “PLAY NOW” links located in this article to claim a welcome offer, follow the quick steps to sign up and start playing your favorite online casino games today.
Online casinos FAQs
What are the different online casino platforms?
Online casinos can be accessed through desktop websites, mobile browsers or dedicated apps for iOS and Android. Most top U.S. operators, including BetMGM and Caesars, offer fully optimized mobile apps with the same games, bonuses and payment options available on desktop.
What security measures are in place at online casinos?
Licensed online casinos prioritize player safety by using SSL encryption, firewalls and identity verification to secure personal information and financial transactions. To ensure fair gameplay, they employ independent audits and certified random number generators (RNGs). Operators in the U.S. must meet strict regulatory standards in every state where they are legal.
What is the most trustworthy casino online?
The most trustworthy online casinos in the U.S. are the ones highlighted on this page, as all have been vetted by government regulators and are properly licensed. It is important to look for licensed operators such as BetMGM, Caesars casino, Fanatics casino, FanDuel and DraftKings, as these operate in regulated states and, as such, are trustworthy U.S. casinos online. All online casinos on this page are legal, licensed and trustworthy.
Which online casino pays out immediately?
All of the industry’s top online casinos such as Fanatics, BetMGM, FanDuel, Caesars, bet365, BetRivers and DraftKings casino have quick payouts available for players. They process withdrawal requests rapidly. Often, the method of payout will determine how fast you get your winnings.
What is the best online casino for real money?
The best online casino for real money is often dependent on the player’s needs, but all of the operators recommended on this page are highly rated. Caesars online casino offers great online slots, table games, a variety of card games and even some live casino games. BetMGM casino and Fanatics casino also provide modern online casino real money experiences.
What casino has the best bonuses?
BetMGM, Fanatics casino and Caesars casino are known to routinely have the best bonuses for new players as well as existing players. Top real money casino sites compete with each other for your business and you can claim a casino bonus online from each of them.
Are casino bonuses worth it?
Absolutely. The best offer users typically will receive is the casino online bonus they get when they sign up to play online casino games for real money. The great part about casino bonuses is that players can sign up for as many different online casino promo codes and offers as there are legal casino sites in their state.
What is the best online casino bonus?
The best real money online casino bonus is the one that matches your playing style. If you’re a high roller, a large deposit match might be most appealing. Want to play the slots? Free spins bonuses could be a better fit. In the end, the ideal casino bonus is the one that suits your preferences and how you like to play.
Are bonus offers only for new players?
No, bonus offers are not just for new players. Most online casinos will provide ongoing perks such as reload bonuses, profit boosts, Bet & Gets, bonus spins and more to existing customers.
How do I know if I need an online casino bonus code?
This guide lets you know if the real money casino online requires a bonus code. Operators such as BetMGM and Caesars casino typically have a code associated with their casino sign-up bonus. However, these online casino promos can all be claimed by tapping PLAY NOW next to the offer you like.