When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn Our guide to online poker in Ohio reveals the best places for tournaments and cash games in the Buckeye State. You’ll learn about Ohio’s poker laws, how to join an online poker room, bonuses, and more. Check the top Ohio online poker sites below.
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| Best Crypto Poker Site |
CoinPoker |
150% deposit bonus up to $2,000 |
150% deposit bonus up to $2,000
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CoinPoker
|
Play Now |
Ignition |
100% Poker Bonus + 100% Casino Combo Bonus |
100% Poker Bonus + 100% Casino Combo Bonus
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Ignition
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Americas Card Room |
New Player Bonus Up To $2,000 |
New Player Bonus Up To $2,000
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Americas Card Room
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Play Now | |
Black Chip Poker |
100% up to $2,000 |
100% up to $2,000
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Black Chip Poker
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BetOnline |
100% Bonus up to $1,000 |
100% Bonus up to $1,000
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BetOnline
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Play Now | |
Bovada |
100% Bonus up to $500 |
100% Bonus up to $500
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Bovada
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Play Now | |
Ya Poker |
100% up to $2,000 |
100% up to $2,000
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Ya Poker
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Play Now |
- Show Full Guide
Comparing the Best Ohio Online Poker Sites
To shine a little more light on the best online poker sites in Ohio, here’s a summary of their key attributes.
| OH Poker Site | Best For | Welcome Bonus | Promo Code | Poker Network | Poker Games |
| CoinPoker | Blockchain and crypto enthusiasts | 100% up to ₮1,100 | N/A – Claim Bonus | Proprietary | Texas Hold’em, Omaha, 5-Card Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, Tournaments, SnG |
| BetOnline | Speedy withdrawals | 100% up to $1,000 | POKER1000 | Chico | Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, 7 Card Stud, 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo, Tournaments, SnG |
| Bovada | Fast-fold poker | 100% up to $500 | PWB500 | PaiWangLuo | Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, Tournaments, SnG |
| Everygame | Beatable games | 200% up to $1,000 + 25 Free Casino Spins | 1000EGP | Horizon | Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, Tournaments, SnG |
| SportsBetting.ag | Instant, no download poker | 100% up to $1,000 | POKER1000 | Chico | Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, 7 Card Stud, 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo, Tournaments, SnG |
Top Sites for Online Poker in Ohio Reviewed
You’re now up to speed on where to play online poker for real money in Ohio. But why have we chosen these particular US online poker sites? Check out the following reviews to learn more.
1. CoinPoker – Top Ohio Online Poker Room
- Founded: 2018
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- License: Curaçao
- Headquarters: Curaçao
Our favorite site to play online poker in Ohio is CoinPoker. Firstly, we love the native app, which is slick and easy to use.
The lobby is super intuitive, making it easy to pick a game. Plus, the tables are always busy, so you won’t be short of action.
We wish they’d add some games other than Hold’em and Omaha, as it’s always nice to switch things up now and then. For some, another minor negative is the inability to fund your account using bank transfers or eWallets.
Still, if you love Omaha and Hold’em, and are a fan of cryptocurrency, you’ll be right at home with CoinPoker.
Features Overview
- Poker Options: 7/10
- Promotions & Rewards: 9/10
- User Experience: 9/10
- Payment Methods: 7/10
- Customer Support: 9/10
Pros 
- Exclusive 33% rakeback deal
- Lowest rake in Ohio
- Speedy payouts
- Impressive mobile app
Cons 
- Crypto payments only
- No stud or draw games
2. BetOnline – Few Poker Sites Pay as Fast
- Founded: 2004
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- License: Antigua and Barbuda
- Headquarters: Panama
Next on our list of recommended online poker sites in Ohio is a sportsbook-turned-casino that’s also part of the Chico network.
The country’s third-busiest poker network is stacked with soft tables, especially Pot Limit and No Limit Hold’em.
You can also enjoy Seven Card Stud, Omaha and other favorites, both in cash game and tournament format.
Our favorite aspect of BetOnline has to be the 16 different crypto tokens. Withdrawing this way ensures a lightning-fast payment within 24 hours.
Try to avoid credit card deposits if possible, as you’ll pay a hefty 9.75% fee.
Features Overview
- Poker Options: 9/10
- Promotions & Rewards: 10/10
- User Experience: 9/10
- Payment Methods: 8/10
- Customer Support: 10/10
Pros
- Withdrawals in under a day
- Busy Hold’em tables
- Generous bonuses and loyalty rewards
- 24 payment methods including crypto
Cons
- Expensive card fees
- Not the best mobile app
3. Bovada – Enjoy Fast-Fold Hold’Em Games
- Founded: 2011
- Payout speed: Within 48 hours
- License: Curaçao
- Headquarters: Curaçao
If you’re an action junkie, you’ll love the fast-fold games at Bovada.
Part of the PaiWangLuo network, you’ll also have access to a number of Jackpot SnGs, plus some pretty weak Omaha cash games.
Bovada is another fast-paying online poker site in Ohio. Crypto withdrawals are turned around inside 48 hours, and often much quicker. Look out too for the fantastic selection of bonuses.
It’s a shame there’s no Seven Card Stud available, nor any of its variants like Razz. While users can play instantly without a download, we’d still love to see a Bovada app one day.
Features Overview
- Poker Options: 8/10
- Promotions & Rewards: 8/10
- User Experience: 9/10
- Payment Methods: 9/10
- Customer Support: 10/10
Pros
- Long-running and reputable site
- Lots of weak players
- Cryptocurrency payments
- Fast withdrawals
Cons
- No stud games
- Lack of a mobile app
4. Everygame – Long-Standing Poker Site with Good Reputation
- Founded: 1996 (as Intertops)
- Payout speed: Within 48 hours
- License: Kahnawake Gaming Commission
- Headquarters: Antigua
Launched back in 1996 under a different name, Everygame is one of the longest-running online poker sites in the country.
It remains an excellent place to play poker, particularly if you’re into Hold’em or Omaha.
Part of the Horizon network, there will be quiet times when the tables aren’t busy. But the standard is poor, there are generous guarantees with good overlays, and you can play immediately in a browser.
We’d love to see the tired-looking interface get a much-needed upgrade. But in the meantime, we’re happy to bank the generous welcome offer and beat up the many fish in the Everygame pool.
Features Overview
- Poker Options: 8/10
- Promotions & Rewards: 10/10
- User Experience: 7/10
- Payment Methods: 8/10
- Customer Support: 9/10
Pros
- Generous welcome offer
- Play without downloads
- Weak Omaha and Hold’em tables
- 30 years in the poker world
Cons
- Software needs an upgrade
- Not the busiest network
5. SportsBetting.ag – Busy Tables and Quick Payouts
- Founded: 2004
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- License: Antigua and Barbuda
- Headquarters: Panama
Our last recommended poker site is SportsBetting.ag. Despite the name, it’s a popular place to play online poker with real money in Ohio.
The number of sports bettors trying poker ensures a steady stream of weak games.
As a sister site of BetOnline, you’ll receive the same high level of customer support and super-fast crypto withdrawals. It’s also part of the Chico network, ensuring plenty of busy tables.
It’s possible to play no download poker in your browser, though we admit the interface isn’t the most intuitive. We also suggest avoiding card payments, as the fees are quite high.
Features Overview
- Poker Options: 9/10
- Promotions & Rewards: 10/10
- User Experience: 8/10
- Payment Methods: 8/10
- Customer Support: 10/10
Pros
- 16 fast-paying cryptocurrency tokens
- Excellent customer support
- Busy Hold’em and Omaha tables
- Low quality opposition
Cons
- High card deposit fees
- Web app could be improved
Ohio Poker Bonuses
Poker bonuses are available whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out with real money online poker in Ohio. Look out for these common examples and take advantage to grow your bankroll.
Types of Online Poker in Ohio
No guide to online poker in Ohio would be complete without discussing the games. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
Texas Hold’em Poker
The “Cadillac of poker”, No Limit Texas Hold’em is the most popular form of the game worldwide. That’s why all top poker sites offer cash games and tournaments in various of formats.
It’s also possible to play Pot Limit and Fixed Limit Hold’em.
Omaha
A relative of Texas Hold’em, Omaha uses an almost identical set of rules. However, you’ll start with four hole cards instead of two, which heavily impacts upon the strategy involved.
CoinPoker, which is the number one site for online poker in Ohio, offers an interesting five-card Omaha variant.
Stud
Omaha and Hold’em involve community cards shared by all players. However, if you’re playing a game where hands are completely exclusive, plus there’s a mixture of face-up and face-down cards, that’s a form of stud.
The most common variation to learn and play is Seven Card Stud, which is available at BetOnline, in addition to Five Card Stud.
Draw
Some poker games allow you to swap your cards for fresh ones. If you elect to exchange, this is known as “drawing” new cards.
The most well-known game using this format is Five Card Draw, though you’ll find other popular variants at the WSOP, such as 2-7 Triple Draw.
Sweepstakes
In states where gambling is illegal, we’ve seen a surge in the popularity of sweepstakes sites. Instead of depositing US dollars and risking your own money, the idea is to “gamble” using a fictional currency.
Since there’s no real money on the line, it’s not classed as gambling. These sites promote entertainment instead, with an emphasis on the social aspect of casino and poker games.
Global Poker is a great example of how it all works.
Other Poker Games
Many other forms of poker exist, too numerous to mention. Games like Irish Poker are based on existing formats like Omaha. Mixed games like H.O.R.S.E. and S.H.O.E. combine multiple forms of poker into one game.
CoinPoker even offers a blend of blackjack and poker, known as PokerJack.
Supported Payment Methods at Ohio Online Poker Sites
Many online poker sites in Ohio allow you to practice with play money. However, you’ll need to deposit with any of the following payment methods if you want to play for real.
How to Play Online Poker in Ohio
It’s easy to start playing online, as we’re about to illustrate. We’ll walk you through joining CoinPoker, our favorite Ohio poker site.
Visit and Download
Enter the URL into your mobile browser and load the CoinPoker homepage. Tap the button marked “Download” to acquire the installation software.
Install the Software
Once downloaded, run the software to install your chosen poker app.
Create an Account
After the app is installed, you’ll need to open an account. Tap “Register” and fill in your personal details.
Confirm Your Email
Not all online poker sites in Ohio require you to verify your email, but CoinPoker does. Check your inbox and click the confirmation link to continue.
Access Your Account
Once verified, you can log into your account by hitting “Sign In”.
Verify and Deposit
The first time you log in, you’ll need to verify your phone number. Once complete, go to the “Cashier” and make a deposit. Don’t forget to select your bonus.
Play Some Poker
You’re now ready to play some poker. Choose your game from the lobby and hit “Play Now”.
Ohio Poker Legislation Timeline
Here the current standing of playing poker in Ohio. We’ll update this section once there’s further progression.
- January 2023: The first legal online sportsbooks are launched, giving hope that poker could soon follow suit.
- June 2013: State lottery spokesperson Danielle Frizzi-Babb states there are no “active plans” to legalize online gambling.
- November 2009: The 2009 Ohio Casino Amendment passes, creating four brick-and-mortar casinos in the state. Each of these features a legal poker room.
Is Poker Legal in Ohio?
Yes and no. It’s certainly legal to play at brick-and-mortar venues. A 2009 amendment to the state’s constitution authorized construction of casinos in four different cities.
So, if you’re looking for physical Ohio poker rooms, check out the casinos of Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Toledo.
What about the issue of whether or not online poker is legal in Ohio? The state’s laws address land-based gambling, with nothing at all about online poker in Ohio.
As a result, you’re not going to find any poker sites licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission. On the other hand, there is no basis on which to claim that playing online is against the law.
When Will Online Poker be Legal in Ohio?
Not any time soon, that’s for sure. At the time of writing, there are no plans for the Ohio General Assembly to discuss the legalization of online poker sites.
Will we ever see legal online poker in Ohio? It’s possible, given that three neighboring states all permit online poker rooms. This will apply pressure to local lawmakers, who might realize the tax revenue they’re missing out on.
Ohio Poker Laws
The state’s general gambling laws are found under Section 2915 of the Ohio Revised Code, as passed by the Ohio General Assembly. These state that land-based poker is illegal, except in three situations:
- Private home games, where the host makes no profit.
- Charitable gaming, where organizations meet a number of conditions.
- Poker games organized in one of the four legal land-based casinos.
So, Ohio poker clubs within casinos are perfectly legal, but the lack of online laws creates a loophole.
Many offshore poker sites accept US players. Since these are based outside the country, law enforcement can do nothing about them. And, as we’ve already established, it’s not illegal for residents of the Buckeye State to play online.
Are Winnings Taxed in OH?
Yes. If you make more than $5,000 in profit when playing at the casino, you’ll automatically have 24% deducted. They also supply a Certain Gambling Winnings form, better known as Form W-2G.
If you win smaller amounts, federal tax isn’t deducted. However, you’re still legally required to complete a Form W-2G and declare those winnings to the IRS.
How OH Online Poker Compares to Other Legal States
As we’ve discussed, the law isn’t clear when it comes to online poker in Ohio. The lack of a legal framework leaves the door open for offshore sites, but that’s a common trend across the country.
At the time of publication, only eight states have proper legislation, leaving locals reliant on overseas operators. The majority of those with clear laws are located in the Northeast, and many of Ohio’s neighbors have their houses in order.
You can play online poker in Michigan, for example, as well as Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Kentucky and Indiana, however, are yet to set any laws in stone.
OH Online Poker vs Live Poker
The rules of the game might be the same, but playing live poker offers a different experience to using the internet.
Even the best online poker sites in the USA can’t recreate the pressure of an opponent staring you down when you’re bluffing, for instance.
Still, live poker isn’t always scary; in fact, in-person games are usually more sociable. Given that players make an effort to travel – often driving hours at a time – they’re trying to have fun. People tend to drink more alcohol and play extra pots as a result.
Here’s a comparison of the key differences between live and online poker in Ohio.
Online Poker Ohio: Pros and Cons
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of playing online poker in Ohio.
Pros
- Online games don’t require a dealer, so they’re much quicker.
- Multi-tabling is an option, packing in more hands per hour.
- Playing extra hands leads to additional profit for long-term winners.
- You’ll find more game variety online, as additional tables cost nothing to run.
- It’s easier to review your performance with tracking tools and poker calculators.
Cons
- Games tend to be quieter with less social interaction.
- The quality of opposition is stronger online, attracting more serious players.
- If you’re prone to tilt, it’s harder to leave with games right at your fingertips.
Ohio Poker Apps
Since Ohio online poker isn’t strictly legal, you won’t find any licensed apps in the state. However, it’s perfectly possible to enjoy mobile poker tournaments and cash games using apps supplied by offshore operators.
Not all poker sites based overseas provide mobile apps. However, CoinPoker is a great example of a brand which does offer such software. In fact, they even offer a desktop app, as well as one for smartphone and tablet devices.
Benefits of Poker Apps
Everyone has a smartphone these days, so online casinos and poker rooms work hard to create user-friendly mobile apps. They’re often easy on the eye, too.
However, the main advantage is the ease of access to tournaments, cash tables and even play money games. Playing poker with an app gives you 24/7 access at the touch of a button.
Some poker operators provide exclusive mobile bonuses and promotions too, so keep an eye out for those.
Ohio Poker Rooms
The law surrounding online poker in Ohio may be gray, but in-person games certainly aren’t. It’s 100% legal to play at your local casino’s card room.
Here are the best poker clubs in Ohio.
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
Address: 1000 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Opening Hours: 24/7
Located in Cincinnati, the Hard Rock Casino offers round-the-clock Hold’em cash games. Stakes start at $1 / $3, rising to $5 / $10 No Limit, or $4 / $8 Limit.
It’s also home to some of the biggest Ohio poker tournaments, as well as PLO games.
Hollywood Casino Columbus
Address: 200 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
Opening Hours: 10am to 4am
Although it’s not open 24/7, Hollywood Casino boasts one of the top poker rooms in Ohio.
With 34 tables, plus numerous screens showing live sport, there are daily tournaments starting from $60. It’s also home to several small-stakes cash games, with the occasional high-stakes affair.
JACK Cleveland
Address: 100 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
Opening Hours: 24/7
This 26-table poker room in Cleveland was described as the “most aesthetically pleasing in the Northeast“.
You’ll find No Limit and Limit Hold’em cash tables, from $1 / $3 to $5 / $10, plus $5 / $5 and $10 / $10 PLO games. It’s also home to the Rungood series of poker tournaments in Ohio, with a number of six-figure guarantees.
Famous Ohio Poker Players
The Buckeye State has produced several talented poker players, including these big names.
- Chip Reese: David “Chip” Reese, born in Centerville, Ohio, died aged just 51. He was regularly described as the best ever cash game player, and was a beloved figure in the poker world.
- Adam Friedman. With over $4.5 million in career earnings from tournaments, Friedman is a real all-rounder. All five of his WSOP bracelets to date came in non-Hold’em competitions, including three mixed games titles.
- Keven Stammen. Hailing from Celina, Ohio, Stammen is the proud owner of both a WPT title and a WSOP bracelet. He plays online under the handle “Stammdogg” and boasts over $4.25 million in tournament earnings.
Responsible Gambling in Ohio
Poker can be a fun way to unwind, as well as an enjoyable mental challenge.
Sadly though, a minority of players are vulnerable to problem gambling. It is, therefore, important to employ responsible gambling practices.
The best gambling sites offer players a number of tools, including deposit limits, temporary timeouts and permanent self-exclusion. If you find yourself straying too far from a sensible bankroll management strategy, be sure to apply them.
If you or a loved one are struggling to stay in control, you’re not alone. Help is always at hand. Try any of the following resources for a confidential discussion.
- Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-589-9966
- Problem Gambling Network of Ohio: 1-614-750-9899
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
Tips for Playing Online Poker for Real Money in Ohio
Having learned all about playing online poker in Ohio, we’re sure you’re eager to get started. Before you do, check out these top tips for beginners.
Online Poker in Ohio – Our Verdict
There may be no official legislation in place, but it’s okay to play online poker in Ohio. Thanks to a legal loophole, residents of the Buckeye State can simply join any number of offshore poker sites.
Although many online poker rooms accept players from the United States, not all were created equally. To stay safe, we recommend playing at the trusted names featured in our guide.
Not only do these sites offer secure and reliable payments, you’ll find action-packed cash tables, regular tournaments and rewarding bonuses. Get involved today.
How We Test and Review Poker Websites
150+ Gambling Platforms Reviewed
1,100+ Games Software Tested
200+ Monthly Hours of Research
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Playing online poker is becoming more popular by the day and you need to choose a reputable site that best matches your needs.
We here at Techopedia have an in-house review process that’s analyzed by our poker experts that covers each and every aspect of the most popular online poker sites in the world.
In particular we look at:
- Rakeback and other bonuses
- Game selection
- Player pool size
- Reputation and safety
- Payment methods
To find out more, take a look at our detailed guide on how we test gambling platforms and poker sites featured on Techopedia.
FAQs
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Affiliate Disclosure: Techopedia may receive advertising commissions for visits to a suggested operator through our affiliate links, at no added cost to you. However, all our recommendations are unbiased and follow a thorough review process. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly and you must be of legal gambling age.
References
- https://ohio.gov/responsible-gambling (Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline)
- https://www.pgnohio.org/ (Problem Gambling Network of Ohio)
- https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/ (National Problem Gambling Helpline)
- https://www.pokernews.com/poker-rooms/jack-cleveland-casino.htm (JACK Cleveland Casino)
- https://ballotpedia.org/Ohio_Issue_3,_Casino_Authorization_and_Tax_Distribution_Initiative_(2009) (Ohio Issue 3)
- https://law.justia.com/codes/ohio/2006/orc/jd_291502-69d7.html (2006 Ohio Revised Code – 2915.02. Gambling)
- https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2013/06/online_gambling_could_face_con.html (Online gambling could face constitutional questions in Ohio)
- https://home.paynearme.com/platform/payment-types/cash-payments/ (Accept Cash Payments at Retail Stores)
