Gamble Cards: Legal Tips And Tricks

Gambling with cards is a popular pastime, with card games like poker, blackjack, and baccarat being played in casinos and at home. While it can be a fun and exciting way to pass the time, it's important to remember that gambling laws and regulations exist to prevent illegal activities and protect consumers. In the United States, gambling laws vary from state to state, and it's essential to understand these laws before participating in any card-related gambling. For example, California law prohibits the use of dice in casino games, leading to the creation of card-based craps and roulette games. Understanding the local gambling laws and seeking legal advice can help ensure that your card-playing activities remain within the boundaries of the law.

Understand the basics of gambling with playing cards

Playing cards are a big part of the gambling industry. They are used for gambling both inside and outside the casino, in informal private games in people's homes.

The first evidence of a deck of playing cards being used for gambling was recorded in 1377 by a German monk, although the origins of playing cards can be traced back to 9th-century China. The monk described a deck of 52 cards and four suits, similar to the modern deck.

There are many different types of games that can be played with cards, but they usually fall into one of two categories: games of chance or "imperfect information", and games of strategy or "perfect information". In games of chance, the outcome is unknown and largely based on luck, whereas in games of strategy, the current position is fully visible to all players throughout the game.

• Poker: A family of card games where players try to build the best hand possible. There are many variations, including Texas hold'em, five-card draw, and seven-card stud.
• Blackjack: A comparison game where players try to get as close to 21 as possible without going over.
• Baccarat: A game based entirely on luck, where bettors do not touch the cards.
• Video Poker: A skill game that replicates poker on a machine.
• California Craps: A variation of craps played with cards instead of dice, due to California law prohibiting the use of dice in casino gambling.
• California Roulette: A variation of roulette that uses cards instead of a ball to determine the outcome, due to California law forbidding the use of balls.

Know the rules of the game

Card games are a big part of the gambling industry, both inside and outside of casinos. There are many different types of card games, and each has its own rules. Here are some of the most popular card games, along with a brief overview of their rules:

Poker

Poker is a family of card games that includes popular versions like Texas hold'em, five-card draw, and seven-card stud. It is a comparison game where players try to build the best hand possible based on the cards they are dealt and various moves they can make during the game. There are built-in breaks in the action, allowing for natural betting rounds. At the end of the game, players reveal their hands, and a hand hierarchy determines the winner.

Blackjack

Blackjack is another comparison game played with cards. The objective is to build a hand with a point value as close to 21 as possible without going over. Face cards are worth 10 points, and aces can be worth 1 or 11 points. Players bet that their hand will beat the dealer's hand.

Baccarat

Baccarat is a game of luck played with playing cards. Bettors do not touch the cards, which are just props in this game. There are three betting choices: the player hand, the banker hand, and a tie. After bets are placed, four cards are dealt, one to each hand, and then a second card to each hand. If either hand totals 8 or 9, it is a "natural," and the game ends. Otherwise, the dealer may draw an extra card, following specific rules. The hand closer to 9 points wins.

Video Poker

Video poker is a skill game that replicates the game of poker on a machine. It uses virtual playing cards, and players aim to build the best hand possible. The traditional poker hand hierarchy is replaced with a unique pay table, and players select which cards to keep and redraw. The final hand is paid out according to the game's pay table.

California Craps

California law prohibits the use of dice in casino gambling, so a unique version of craps has been created that uses playing cards instead. In some variations, players pull cards from a deck to determine their total, while in other versions, the value of the dice is determined by the random draw of cards placed on the craps table.

California Roulette

Similarly, California law forbids the use of balls to determine gambling outcomes, so a card-based version of roulette has been created. The spinning wheel is labelled with playing cards instead of numbers, and each card is modified to display a number. This game follows the rules of traditional roulette but uses cards to determine the outcome.

Casino

Casino is a card game for two to four players, best played with two. A standard 52-card deck is used, and the aim is to capture cards, especially spades, aces, and specific high and low cards. Cards can be captured by pairing or combining cards of equivalent value on the table. Cards can also be won by building combinations through multiple turns. Capturing all the cards on the table is called a sweep and earns bonus points.

Be aware of the odds

When it comes to gambling, it's important to remember that the odds are never in your favour. The house always wins, and every casino game is designed to give the house a better chance of winning. That doesn't mean you can't make smart bets, though.

Firstly, it's important to understand the different types of odds. There are three main types: fractional (or British) odds, decimal (European) odds, and moneyline (American) odds. These are simply different presentations of probabilities and can be converted into each other.

Fractional odds are written as a fraction, such as 6/1, or expressed as a ratio, like six-to-one. They represent the ratio of the amount won (profit) to the bettor's stake. So, if you stake $10 at 6/1 and win, you'll get a total payout of $70 ($60 profit plus your $10 stake).

Decimal odds, on the other hand, represent the amount the bettor could win for every $1 wagered. So, if the odds are 3.00 that a certain horse wins, you'll get $300 for every $100 wagered.

Moneyline odds are used in the US and are denoted by a plus or minus sign. The plus sign indicates the underdog, showing how much you'll win if you bet $100. The minus sign indicates the favourite, showing how much you need to bet to win $100. So, if the odds are +200, a $100 bet will win you $200. If the odds are -150, you'll need to bet $150 to win $100.

Now that you understand the odds, you can make more informed bets. Remember, a betting opportunity is considered valuable if the probability assessed for an outcome is higher than the implied probability estimated by the bookmaker.

Take the example of an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Kansas City Chiefs. If a betting website offers odds of +585 for the Steelers, it means the bookmaker has assessed the Steelers' chances of winning as low (about 15%). However, if you do risk $100 on the Steelers and they win, you'll get a total payout of $685 ($585 profit plus your $100 stake).

In contrast, if you bet on the Chiefs, who the bookmaker believes have a higher chance of winning, you'll need to bet $760 to win $100, resulting in a total payout of $860.

While the odds can guide your bets, it's important to remember that they never reflect the true probability of an event occurring. The bookmaker's profit margin is always factored in, which is why the house always wins. For example, consider the following odds for the ICC Cricket World Cup:

Australia: -250 (implied probability = 71.43%)

New Zealand: +200 (implied probability = 33.33%)

If you add these probabilities, you get 104.76%. This is because the odds on display are not fair odds. The extra 4.76% represents the bookmaker's potential profit, also known as the "over-round".

So, while understanding the odds can help you make more informed bets, it's important to remember that the house always has an edge. Games like blackjack and craps offer players slightly better odds, but even then, the advantage is usually around 1%.

Additionally, it's crucial to set a budget before you start gambling and stick to it. Gambling can be addictive, and it's easy to get carried away. Remember, the more often you bet, the higher your chances of losing.

Manage your money wisely

Managing your money wisely is crucial when it comes to gambling. While there are no guaranteed strategies for success in gambling, learning to manage your finances effectively can give you the best chance of achieving financial independence in this risky endeavour. Here are some essential tips to help you manage your money wisely while gambling:

Limit Your Access to Money

It is important to recognise that having ready access to money can be a significant trigger for gambling. Limiting your access to funds can create a barrier that may stop you from gambling. This strategy can be particularly useful when you are in the initial stages of changing your gambling habits. If you don't have access to money, you won't be able to gamble, providing you with the space to develop long-term strategies for controlling your gambling behaviour.

Develop a Financial Plan

Creating a financial plan involves more than just figuring out how much money you have left after paying your bills. Start by thinking about your goals and aspirations. Do you want to travel the world, buy a house, or own a business? Success, whatever it means to you, begins with a clear vision of your future and a well-thought-out plan to get there.

Save for the Short Term

It is important to build up your emergency savings to avoid relying on credit for unexpected expenses. Financial experts recommend saving at least three to six months' worth of living expenses. Additionally, if you are planning more substantial financial purchases, such as a home or a car, consider setting up a dedicated savings account for these goals.

Invest for the Long Term

Saving for retirement is another crucial aspect of financial planning. When investing for the long term, consider putting your money in accounts that offer tax benefits, such as 401(k)s or Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). These accounts allow your money to grow tax-free until you reach the age of 59.5, the recommended age for withdrawal without penalty.

Use Credit Wisely

Using credit responsibly is an integral part of a sound financial strategy. Your credit score significantly impacts your ability to make significant financial purchases. Ensure that you pay your bills on time and maintain your balance well below the card limit. Keep your debt-to-credit ratio below 30% to maintain a healthy credit score.

Choose Affordable Housing

Housing costs are typically the most significant expense in anyone's budget and can be a substantial emotional investment as well. When setting a housing budget, consider all the fixed costs and decide on an amount that aligns with your financial goals. Be mindful that just because a lender approves you for a particular home loan amount does not mean it fits within your budget. Lenders are looking out for their interests, not yours.

By following these strategies and staying committed to your financial goals, you can increase your chances of achieving financial independence, even while engaging in the risky activity of gambling.

Know the laws of your state or country

Gambling laws vary significantly at the state level in the US, so it is important to know the specific laws of your state or country. While some states allow most forms of gambling, others have more restrictive laws that ban certain activities or require specific regulations to be followed. Here is a breakdown of the gambling laws in different states:

Alabama

Alabama's Constitution initially forbade all forms of gambling in 1901. However, the state has since allowed pari-mutuel betting and tribal casinos operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Alabama also prohibits state lotteries and online gambling via offshore sites. The minimum gambling age in Alabama is 19.

Alaska

Casino-style games, including slot machines, table games, and video poker, are banned in Alaska. Even tribal gambling establishments are restricted from offering these types of games. Online gambling on offshore sites is also forbidden by law. The minimum gambling age in Alaska is 21.

Arizona

Arizona law defines gambling as illegal unless explicitly stated otherwise. Thanks to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, there are over 20 tribal casinos in the state. In-person betting at horse racetracks and off-track locations is permitted, along with an Arizona state lottery. While online gambling is not explicitly mentioned in the legislation, there are currently no legal online casinos in Arizona. The minimum gambling age in Arizona is 21.

Arkansas

Arkansas has several legalized forms of gambling, including horse and greyhound race pari-mutuel betting, a state lottery, daily fantasy sports, and casino and sports betting establishments in specific locations. Participating in online gambling within the state borders is illegal. The minimum gambling age in Arkansas is 21.

California

Gambling is generally illegal in California, but there are some exceptions. Card rooms, tribal casinos run by Native American tribes, state lotteries, bingo, and horse race betting are permitted. There are currently 76 tribal casinos operating in the state. California's online gambling laws are nonexistent, and there are no legal online casinos as of now. The minimum gambling age in California is 18-21.

Colorado

Gambling is outlawed in Colorado, except for specific categories such as the state lottery, pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, charity bingo and raffles, and social gambling in private residences. Online gambling is illegal, even if the gambling businesses are located outside the state, under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006.

Connecticut

Gambling in Connecticut is illegal unless authorized by state law. The permitted forms of gambling include pari-mutuel betting, charity gaming, the state lottery, and casinos on Native American land. Online gambling is not allowed for Connecticut residents, and they are prohibited from engaging in any internet gambling business within the state. However, the use of offshore gambling sites is not explicitly prohibited. The minimum gambling age in Connecticut is 21.

Delaware

Gambling in Delaware is illegal, except for specific exemptions such as lotteries, pari-mutuel betting on horse races, bingo, and casinos on tribal land. Delaware was the first state to legalize casino games online through its 2012 iGaming bill. The state also has three racinos offering table games, poker, and online slots. The minimum gambling age in Delaware is 18-21.

Florida

Florida's laws treat pari-mutuel wagering, horse racing, harness horse racing, greyhound racing, jai alai games, and cardroom poker games as lawful. Additionally, pari-mutuel facilities in specific counties are authorized to conduct slot machine gaming. Florida has seven tribal casinos, all but one of which are run by the Seminole tribe. Online gambling and betting are illegal in Florida as of December 2021. The minimum gambling age in Florida is 18-21.

Georgia

Georgia has a puritanical approach to gambling, allowing only charity raffles, certain bingo games, and the state lottery. The state does not permit tribal casinos, racinos, or race tracks. While offshore casinos and poker rooms accept players from Georgia, online gambling is not legalized in the state. The only legal option for Georgians is to gamble aboard the Emerald Princess cruise ship once it sails into international waters. The minimum gambling age in Georgia is 18.

Hawaii

Gambling is explicitly illegal in Hawaii, including on ships within its waters. Only social, no-rake gambling is allowed in private residences. The minimum gambling age in Hawaii is N/A.

Idaho

Gambling is prohibited in Idaho, except for pari-mutuel betting at horse and dog tracks, on-site gambling at tribal casinos, contests of skill, games awarding additional play, and promotional contests. Online gambling, betting, and daily fantasy sports are all illegal in the state. The minimum gambling age in Idaho is 18.

Illinois

Illinois has relatively loose gambling regulations, allowing casino gaming, poker, bingo, and sports/horse race betting in land-based formats. Online betting on horse races and sports is also permitted and regulated by various organizations. Riverboat casinos are allowed on navigable streams, but they cannot sail on Lake Michigan. Social gambling, contests of skill, bingo, raffles, and charitable games are permitted. The minimum gambling age in Illinois is 21.

Indiana

Indiana does not allow gambling in most cases, but it is the only state where riverboats are permitted to conduct gambling operations in Lake Michigan. The state has ten licensed riverboat casinos, one tribal land-based casino, and two racinos. Legal horse racing bets can be placed at racetracks or off-track betting facilities, but there are no legal options for sports betting within the state. Online gambling and betting are illegal in all forms in Indiana. The minimum gambling age in Indiana is 21.

Iowa

Gambling has been legal in Iowa for some time, and the state has gradually legalized various forms of gambling since the 1970s. These include the Iowa Lottery, raffles, bingo, gambling boats, slot machines at racetracks, and pari-mutuel wagering. However, it is illegal to own and use video lottery machines that dispense cash prizes. Internet fantasy sports and online sports betting are permitted, but online casino games are prohibited. The minimum gambling age in Iowa is 21.

Kansas

Kansas allows several forms of sanctioned gambling, including state-owned and tribal casinos, state or charitable lotteries, bingo, raffles, and pari-mutuel betting at approved venues. Kansas does not directly address the issue of regulated internet gambling, and while no online casinos operate in the state, some residents engage in offshore online gambling without facing legal consequences. The minimum gambling age in Kansas is 21.

Kentucky

Gambling in Kentucky is mostly limited to state lotteries and pari-mutuel betting on horse racing at racetracks. Daily fantasy sports are available, but gambling in offshore casinos is illegal. A bill to legalize and regulate select forms of gambling was proposed in 2022 but has not yet passed. The minimum gambling age in Kentucky is 18.

Louisiana

Louisiana offers a range of state-sanctioned gambling activities, including a state lottery, charitable raffles, keno, bingo, land-based and riverboat casino gambling, and pari-mutuel betting. However, online gambling is not legalized in the state. The minimum gambling age in Louisiana is 21.

Maine

Casino gambling was legalized in Maine in 2003 through a referendum. Currently, the Maine Gambling Control Unit recognizes two legal casinos in the state. Online casinos are prohibited, but individuals engaging in these activities have proven difficult to prosecute. Other legal forms of gambling in Maine include the state lottery, charitable bingo, daily fantasy sports, sports betting within tribal establishments, and poker. The minimum gambling age in Maine is 18-21.

Maryland

Almost all forms of gambling are legal in Maryland, including slots, table games, a state lottery, bingo, sports betting, and horse race betting. Pari-mutuel wagers on horse races can also be placed online. Maryland gambling laws apply to both operators and individual gamblers. The minimum gambling age in Maryland is 21.

Massachusetts

Gambling legislation in Massachusetts underwent significant changes with the signing of the Expanded Gaming Act in 2011, allowing the establishment of casinos and creating the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Daily fantasy sports, the state lottery, and charitable bingo are all legal. There are currently no laws regulating online gambling in the state, so accessing offshore gambling sites while outside state lines may be advisable. The minimum gambling age in Massachusetts is 21.

Michigan

Michigan is one of the few states that allow online sports betting. Additionally, residents can place pari-mutuel wagers on horse racing, gamble in-person at tribal casinos, bet on low-stakes league bowling, and play daily fantasy sports. Online sports betting was legalized in 2019, and the first legal online casinos launched in early 2021. The minimum gambling age in Michigan is 18.

Minnesota

Licensed charitable gambling, such as bingo, pull-tabs, raffles, and the state lottery, is permitted in Minnesota. Residents can also place pari-mutuel wagers on horse races and participate in games of chance on tribal land. There are currently 19 tribal casinos in the state. However, online casinos are illegal, and the state's broad definition of gambling criminalizes other forms of online gambling. The minimum gambling age in Minnesota is 18.

Missouri

Missouri legalized some forms of gambling in 1984, including pari-mutuel horse racing betting and a state lottery. Riverboat casino gambling, charitable bingo, raffle, and sweepstakes games are also permitted. There are 13 riverboat casinos in the state, but no land-based establishments. Online gambling is illegal in Missouri, and attempts to legalize it have been shot down by the Senate. The minimum gambling age in Missouri is 21.

Montana

Montana has legalized live poker games at licensed establishments, in-person gambling at tribal casinos, social gambling, charitable games, video gambling machines, authorized Calcutta pools, and licensed casino nights. Montana explicitly banned daily fantasy sports betting by phone or the internet, and online casinos (even offshore options) are illegal. The minimum gambling age in Montana is 18.

Nebraska

Casino-style gambling and sports betting have been recently legalized in Nebraska and are expected to become available soon. Other permitted forms of gambling include pari-mutuel betting on horse races, nonprofit raffles, lotteries, and gift enterprises, and in-person gambling at tribal casinos. The state's laws have not been updated to include explicit legislation about online gambling. The minimum gambling age in Nebraska is 21.

Nevada

Nevada has a fully regulated gambling industry, with around 440 operational casinos, and continues to be a top gambling destination. The state has accommodating laws for those establishing gambling venues, but harsh punishments for illegal gambling. Online gambling is partially legal and regulated by the Nevada Gaming Control Board and Commission. Sports betting and poker are allowed online, but other casino-style games are prohibited. The minimum gambling age in Nevada is 21.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a thriving charity gambling industry, with charity organizations running poker rooms. However, online poker is not regulated, and playing in offshore poker casinos is illegal. Sports betting is legal through the DraftKings mobile platform, which has exclusive control in the state. Daily fantasy sports are available through national providers. The minimum gambling age in New Hampshire is 21.

New Jersey

New Jersey, known for its Atlantic City casinos, is one of the least restrictive states regarding gambling. It boasts 22 licensed casinos, including nine commercial casinos. Pari-mutuel betting on horse racing is allowed on-site and off-track, and sports betting is permitted at nine brick-and-mortar locations. Many sites offer online gambling, but there are no approved online casinos for the state. The minimum gambling age in New Jersey is 21.

New Mexico

Approved gambling in New Mexico includes pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, slot machines at licensed locations, casino-style gambling at tribal casinos, charity bingo and raffles, and sweepstakes promoting legitimate business goals. Online gambling is not allowed in the state, and daily fantasy sports betting is also unlawful. The minimum gambling age in New Mexico is 21.

New York

In New York, gambling is permitted in the following forms: pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, in-person and online sports betting, in-person gambling at licensed commercial and tribal casinos and racinos, charitable bingo, and daily fantasy sports. Online gambling is not currently legal, but existing regulations could be tweaked to allow it in the future. The minimum gambling age in New York is 18.

North Carolina

Gambling in North Carolina is mostly illegal, with only state lotteries, charitable bingo, and raffles permitted. To gamble in this state, you must visit one of the two tribal casinos. There is little political initiative to change the restrictive gambling laws. The minimum gambling age in North Carolina is 21.

North Dakota

Gambling in North Dakota is limited to pari-mutuel betting at horse racing facilities and race simulcasts, casino-style gambling at tribal casinos, and charitable gambling, including low-stakes blackjack. The state has not updated its laws to ban online gambling, and there is no precedent for charging individuals for using offshore gambling sites. The minimum gambling age in North Dakota is 18-21.

Ohio

Ohio has a relatively outdated definition of gambling but maintains a well-regulated gaming industry. Permitted forms of gambling include state lotteries, casino-style gambling at licensed locations, video lottery terminals at racinos, pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, daily fantasy sports, charity bingo, and tag fishing tournaments with a permit. Due to Ohio's definition of gambling, some experts claim that gambling online is technically legal as long as it is not done professionally. The minimum gambling age in Ohio is 18-21.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has over 100 tribal casinos, legalized in 2004, making it the state with the second-highest number of casinos after Nevada. Other permitted forms of gambling include in-person gambling at casinos, pari-mutuel betting on horse races, charity and commercial bingo, and online gambling on horse racing. Daily fantasy sports providers serve Oklahoma residents, but this sector is not clearly legalized. The minimum gambling age in Oklahoma is 18.

Oregon

Oregon is one of the least restrictive states in terms of gambling types. Permitted forms of gambling include in-person gambling at tribal casinos, pari-mutuel betting on horse races, video lottery at licensed establishments, and online gambling via state-sanctioned sites. However, hosting unlicensed online gambling sites is outlawed, and daily fantasy sports betting is not allowed. The minimum gambling age in Oregon is 18-21.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania allows a wide range of gambling activities, including pari-mutuel betting on horse races, casino-style gambling at authorized racinos, casinos, and resorts, bingo, raffles, and other games of chance at charity events and taverns, daily fantasy sports betting, and video gambling at qualified truck stops. Online gambling was legalized in 2017, but only at licensed sites or sites partnered with licensed gambling providers in the state. The minimum gambling age in Pennsylvania is 21.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island has two full-service casinos offering slots and table games. Other permitted forms of gambling include land-based and online sports betting, daily fantasy sports, charity bingo, and raffle games. There are no provisions for casino-style online gambling, and accessing offshore sites is risky. The minimum gambling age in Rhode Island is 18.

South Carolina

All forms of gambling are illegal in South Carolina, except for the state lottery, charitable bingo, and raffles. Casino-style gambling is only permitted on cruises, legalized in 2008. There are no online casinos based in the state, and gambling in offshore online casinos is not legalized. The minimum gambling age in South Carolina is 21.

Tennessee

Tennessee has a comprehensive definition of gambling and a prohibitive attitude toward the activity. Permitted forms of gambling include the state lottery, charitable bingo, and daily fantasy sports (legalized in 2016). Online sports betting became legal in 2020, but retail betting was not, limiting the activity to mobile betting apps. All other forms of gambling are illegal, and there are no land-based casinos in the state. The minimum gambling age in Tennessee is 18-21.

Texas

Texas law permits pari-mutuel betting on horse and dog races, social gambling in private homes without economic gain, charitable bingo, raffles, pull-tab games, and in-person gambling at tribal casinos. Online gambling sites are illegal, and while offshore gambling is not explicitly prohibited, it could lead to trouble due to the state's broad gambling definition. The minimum gambling age in Texas is 21.

Utah

Utah, along with Hawaii, outlaws all forms of gambling. There are no casinos, sports betting, or horse racing, and there is no state lottery. Daily fantasy sports betting is offered to Utah residents, but it is not legalized. The minimum gambling age in Utah is N/A.

Vermont

Vermont has experimented with various forms of gambling over the years, but currently, only daily fantasy sports betting is permitted. Online gambling is unregulated and could lead to fines, but no one has been prosecuted for using offshore gambling sites. The minimum gambling age in Vermont is 21.

Virginia

Virginia has recently legalized the operation of casinos, but none have been established yet. Permitted forms of gambling include pari-mutuel horse race betting, social gambling in private residences, and daily fantasy sports. The first casino-style gambling locations are expected to open in Virginia by 2023. The minimum gambling age in Virginia is 18-21.

Washington

Sanctioned forms of gambling in Washington include pari-mutuel horse race betting, on-site gambling at tribal casinos, charity bingo, and raffles. Every other form of gambling is illegal, and online gambling is classified as a Class C felony in the state. The minimum gambling age in Washington is 18.

West Virginia

West Virginia legalized casinos in 1994 and currently has five land-based casinos, none of which are tribal. Other permitted forms of gambling include pari-mutuel horse race wagers, online sports betting, and daily fantasy sports. The state has started regulating online gambling, allowing up to 15 online casinos. The minimum

Frequently asked questions