Although The Mountain State has some of the most lenient gambling laws in the US, not all gambling sites are created equal. This guide to online gambling in West Virginia includes rankings and reviews of the top sites available to gamblers in WV, along with a step-by-step guide to safely placing your first online bet and claiming your welcome bonus. We also examine the past, present, and future of the state’s gambling regulations to help you stay on the right side of the law. Let’s get started!
100% deposit match up to $3,000 100% deposit match up to $3,000 $5,000 Welcome Bonus For New Players $5,000 Welcome Bonus For New Players 200% Bonus up to $10,000 + 50 Free Spins 200% Bonus up to $10,000 + 50 Free Spins 100% deposit match up to $3,000 100% deposit match up to $3,000 Btc Litecoin Eth Credit Card 600% up to $6000 Deposit Bonus 600% up to $6000 Deposit Bonus Wire-transfer Skill Neteller-1 Litecoin Btc 200% deposit match up to $500 200% deposit match up to $500 150% up to $750 150% up to $750 Up To $3,000 Bonus Up To $3,000 Bonus 150% Deposit Bonus up to $2500 150% Deposit Bonus up to $2500 Btc Wire-transfer Debit-1 Bitcoin Cash Litecoin Ethereum Person2Person 50% deposit match up to $1000 50% deposit match up to $1000 Debit-1 Wire-transfer Skill Btc Xrp Eth Litecoin Stellar Lumens Bitcoin Cash
2. Bonus: $50 Freebie Coupon: INSIDERS2
T&C:
* Min. deposit $20, max. bonus amount $2,000.
* Coupons have to be redeemed in consecutive order.
* Standard wagering requirements (30x dep. + bonus) apply.
* Free spins are only valid for Tarot Destiny.
* Any winnings from free spins are subject to 10x wagering.
* Max. cashout for INSIDERS2 is USD 250 with 60x wagering.
* No expiry date; valid for all players.
List of The Best WV Online Gambling Sites
Based on our research, here are the best West Virginia online gambling sites:
- BetOnline – Best overall site for online gambling in West Virginia
- XBet – Great promotions for amateur gamblers in WV
- BetUS – Generous casino and sports betting bonus
- Wild Casino – Earn VIP rewards for being an active member
- Ignition – Fantastic live dealer casino for high-rollers
- MyBookie – Great sports betting lines and broad range of blackjack tables
- Bovada – Unmatched mobile-optimized apps for Android and Apple iOS devices
- Las Atlantis – Variety of 3D and themed progressive slots
- Sportsbetting.ag – Over a thousand soccer and football betting markets
- Cafe Casino – Reliable customer support
Best West Virginia Online Gambling Sites Reviewed
Please consult the reviews below for more about our top five sites for gambling in West Virginia:
1. BetOnline – Best Overall Site For Online Gambling In West Virginia
BetOnline is licensed by the Gaming Commission in Panama, which means it’s a secure and trusted gambling site.
You can play a wide range of table games, card games, and slots from the best developers, including Betsoft, Magma, and Fresh Deck Studios.
As a new player, you can claim up to $3,000 via BetOnline’s generous welcome bonus spread across your three initial deposits, each one matched 100% for a maximum of $1000. Take advantage of this deal by using the promo code BOLCASINO.
As a returning player, you can look forward to various promotions, including a monthly reload bonus that matches your deposit 20% for a maximum of $500.
BetOnline’s sports betting section is just as impressive as its casino, covering a broad range of sports, leagues, and markets. Whether it’s the NFL, NHL, a minor Japanese Kanto league, it’s covered in spades at BetOnline. Notably, the sportsbook offers a mobile betting app that allows you to place pre-game and in-game wagers easily.
BetOnline’s sportsbook signup deal matches your initial deposit 50% up to $1,000. The wagering requirement is 10x on wagers with odds of at least 2:1. Use BetOnline sports promo code BOL1000 to activate this bonus.
Speedy payouts are another BetOnline highlight. You can get your hands on your winnings in as little as 48 hours if you cash out using crypto. Credit cards, bank transfers, and e-checks are also supported, and all payments are 100% secure thanks to a regularly audited SSL-enabled gateway.
What we like:
- One of the top West Virginia gambling sites
- Superb sportsbook and casino
- Generous welcome package
- Ultra-quick payouts
What we don’t:
- Limited table and card game selection
2. XBet – Great Promotions For Amateur Gamblers in WV
XBet’s library delights its casino customers with hundreds of table games and slots developed by the best studios, including Betsoft, Concept Gaming, Vivo Gaming, and Nucleus Gaming. You can also win big at XBet’s live dealer casino, which features tables with various mini-games.
As a new customer, you’re eligible to claim up to $500 in a 200% match deposit bonus. The playthrough requirement is 40x, which is on the higher side but is offset by the high match percentage. Use the promo code XBC200 to activate this offer. XBet also offers excellent ongoing promotions to its loyal customers, including a $1,000 weekend bonus and a $500 reload bonus.
XBet’s sportsbook is excellent, too. It features 20+ sports and allows you to bet on state, national, and global events. Boxing, MMA, golf, and tennis are particularly well-covered at this West Virginia sports betting site. Horse betting is also popular here, and the site offers rebates that go up to 7% on some wagers.
XBet’s sportsbook mobile app makes it easier to place bets, take advantage of bonuses and promotions, and keep track of game scores and feeds.
New customers at the XBet sportsbook can claim up to $500 in a 50% match deposit bonus. The wagering requirement on this relatively small deal is only 7x. Enter XBet sports promo code XBET50 to activate this offer.
Payment methods available at XBet include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, Mastercard, Visa, and Person-to-Person.
What we like:
- Titles from renowned developers
- Awesome live dealer games
- Excellent welcome bonus for beginners
- Reload and weekend promos
What we don’t:
- No wire transfer deposits
3. BetUS – Generous Casino and Sports Betting Bonus
If you’re looking for the best casino welcome bonus, BetUS should be at the top of your list. As a new player, you can claim up to $5,000 in a 150% matched deposit bonus with a 30x turnover requirement and a cashout limit of $10,000. Redeem this offer by entering the promo code JOIN125.
If that’s not impressive enough for you, you can boost your welcome deal further by depositing with crypto. Using this payment method makes you eligible for a 250% match deposit bonus up to $5,000 with a 30x wagering requirement. You can wager your bonus funds on any game of your choice, including 200 slots, live dealer games, and table games.
BetUS’ sportsbook is just as outstanding as its casino. You can bet on over 20 sports, including basketball, football, baseball, NASCAR, tennis, golf, and ice hockey. We recommend boosting your odds with the Last Minute Bets option available on BetUS’ mobile app.
The BetUS sportsbook matches your initial deposit 125% for a maximum of $2,500. Unfortunately, this incredibly generous offer comes with difficult T&Cs, including a 14-day time limit, a 40x playthrough, and minimum odds of 2.8:1. Use BetUS sports promo code JOIN125 to take advantage of this bonus.
If you prefer esports over traditional sports, you won’t have to look far – BetUS’ esports section features various markets on games like League of Legends, CS:GO, Dota2, Overwatch, Tekken, and much more.
BetUS also runs a loyalty program that lets you accrue VIP points and exchange them for exciting benefits, such as free bets, invitations to high-roller tournaments, and toll-free phone customer support.
What we like:
- Both national and international sports are well-covered
- User-friendly dedicated mobile application
- Massive welcome bonus
- Various ongoing promos for loyal customers
What we don’t:
- Tough bonus terms & conditions
4. Wild Casino – Fantastic Recurring Bonuses And Loyalty Program
Wild Casino attracts and retains customers with various bonuses and promotions. When you sign up for an account, you can bag up to $5,000 in a deposit bonus spread across your first five deposits. Your first deposit is matched 250% for a maximum of $1,000, while your remaining four deposits are 100% up to $1,000 each. This great deal carries a 35x playthrough requirement. Enter Wild Casino promo code WILD250 to claim these bonus funds today.
Wild Casino’s library is jam-packed with games such as blackjack, roulette, slots, poker, video poker, various novelty games, and live dealer options. The site also features a dedicated progressive slots section, with prizes reaching $500,000.
As an existing customer, you can look forward to a weekend bonus and a reload bonus. You’ll also be able to collect VIP points and participate in the casino’s many blackjack tournaments.
You can deposit and withdraw funds using a dozen or so cryptocurrencies and credit/debit cards, check by mail, wire transfers, and Person-to-Person payments. Wild Casino processes all transactions through an SSL-enabled gateway, which guarantees the security of your details.
What we like:
- Excellent welcome bonus
- Promos for returning players
- Great jackpot slots
- Perfect for both small-stakes and high-roller players
What we don’t:
- No sports betting options
- Email is the only customer support option
5. Ignition – Excellent Live Dealer Casino And High-Roller Games
If you’re looking to bet big and win big, Ignition is the perfect gambling site. You can play various slots, blackjack, roulette, video poker, poker, craps, baccarat, and much more. Blackjack is the highlight here, with over 30 live dealer tables. You can set your per-hand limits to as high as $5,000. You can also participate in live poker tournaments with $5,000 per-hand limits and gigantic payouts.
If you fund your account using cryptocurrency, you can deposit up to $5,000 in one transaction. On the flip side, we love the huge maximum payout of $9,500 once every three days. If crypto is not your thing, you can also make a deposit using a credit/debit card, bank transfer, and check by mail. All these payment methods are 100% secure.
Circling back to betting and winning big, Ignition offers one of the most impressive high-roller bonuses on the internet. You can bag up to $3,000 in a 100% match bonus spread evenly across your initial three deposits when you create a new account. You can spend $1,500 of these on slots and live dealer titles (e.g., blackjack), and the other $1,500 on live poker. There’s no need to enter an Ignition casino promo code – this amazing deal applies automatically when you first fund your new account.
Ignition features many popular slots, including Greedy Goblins, Dragon Kings, and Charms & Clovers – a six-reel Irish-themed title with a main jackpot that reaches $100,000 and more.
Ignition offers a dedicated mobile app, and its games are optimized for desktop computers, smartphones, and tablets.
What we like:
- High betting limit
- $9,500 cashout limit
- Huge signup bonus
- Live blackjack and poker tournaments on offer
What we don’t:
- No sportsbook
More on gambling in West Virginia…
Learn about all types of online gambling in West Virginia in our expert guides below:
West Virginia Online Gambling – The Top Sites Compared
Here’s a comparison of the West Virginia gambling services offered by our top ten sites:
Mississippi Online Gambling SIte Bonus Casino Sportsbook Horse Racing Poker Live Casino BetOnline $3,000 casino welcome bonus Use promo code: BOLCASINO
✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Xbet 100% up to $500 ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ BetUS 250% up to $5,000 Use promo code CAS150
✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Wild Casino $5,000 welcome bonus ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ Ignition 100% up to $1,500 ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅ MyBookie 150% deposit match up to $750 ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Bovada 100% deposit match up to $1,000 ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Sportsbetting.ag 50% up to $1,000 ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Las Atlantis 280% up to $14,000 Use promo code LASATLANTIS
✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ Café Casino 250% deposit match up to $1,500 ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ Explore Our Online Gambling Guides
Gambling SitesExplore the best gambling sites, & bet on your favorite sports, play casino games online, join live poker tournaments, and so much more.Gambling SitesGambling AppsProviding you with the best gambling apps on the market right now. We explore the different promotions available, games you can play, and much more.Gambling AppsBaccarat Gambling SitesOur Baccarat gambling guide will explain the rules of the game, how strategy can help you improve your odds, and the best betting sites to play Baccarat!Baccarat Gambling SitesBitcoin Gambling SitesDiscover the benefits of betting with Bitcoin. We'll provide you the best gambling sites for bitcoin betting, & top information regarding the exclusive bonuses.Bitcoin Gambling SitesOffshore Gambling SitesExplaining the benefits of offshore online gambling & the bonuses that await US players. Discover why offshore gambling might be the best option for you.Offshore Gambling SitesReddit Gambling SitesWe've searched the subreddits high and low in order to bring you a list of the best online gambling sites on Reddit. Featuring top bonus codes, reviews & more.Reddit Gambling SitesWho Can Play at Online Gambling Sites in West Virginia?
Visitors and residents who meet the minimum age requirements can participate in state-licensed gambling activities. US citizenship is not required.
The West Virginia gambling age is stipulated in the WV Code, Chapter 61:
- 18 for bingo, lottery games, and race betting
- 21 for casino and sports betting
These requirements apply to online and offline gambling.
The West Virginia online gambling age for our recommended offshore sites, such as BetOnline and XBet, is 18.
Types of Online Gambling Sites in West Virginia
Offshore gambling sites tend to feature a wide range of gambling services, including a sportsbook, a casino, a poker room, a racebook, and an e-sports section. Let’s take a look at each of these services in more detail:
Sports Betting Sites
When you sign up with a West Virginia sportsbook, you can place wagers on any sport, league, and event of your choice, either from the comfort of your home on your desktop or on the go using your mobile device.
The most popular betting markets you’ll find at WV betting sites are moneyline, futures, parlays, spreads, and over/under. Both national and global events are typically covered.
A betting site is not complete without a live betting section. This service allows you to place wagers on various game outcomes in real-time. An example of an in-play bet is who will score the next point. Most offshore sportsbooks feature HD live streams, which means you can watch the action unfold in anticipation of the results.
BetOnline is the best West Virginia sportsbook.
Horse Gambling Sites
You can bet on horse races at most offshore gambling sites in West Virginia. Look forward to all the popular markets, including straight bets, quinella bets, trifectas, exactas, and exacta boxes. We recommend Bovada and BetOnline for the best online racebook experience.
Another way to bet on horse racing online is through Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) applications, such as TwinSpires or TVG. These platforms are legal in West Virginia and let you start placing wagers right after creating an account and funding it online or via phone.
CS:GO Gambling Sites
Most of the best West Virginia gambling sites feature an e-sports section, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is one of the most popular games to bet on, with markets such as straightforward match-up winners, pistol round winner, or draw-no-bets. You can put your money down on leagues such as Valve’s Major series, ESL, BLAST Pro, StarLadder, or IEM.
Bovada boasts the most comprehensive CS:GO coverage.
Casino Gambling Sites
If casino games are your thing, West Virginia gambling sites have you covered with thousands of games, including slots, 3D slots, progressive slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, video poker, and much more.
You can place wagers as low as 1 cent and as high as $5,000 per hand or spin – a much more comprehensive betting limit than what land-based casinos have to offer.
Offshore gambling sites offer much better promotions than US-licensed casinos for long-time and new patrons. For example, BetOnline’s new player deposit bonus gives you up to $3,000 spread across your first three deposits, each netting you up to $1,000.
We recommend BetUS, BetOnline, and Las Atlantis for the best casino bonuses.
Explore Our Casino Guides
Best Online CasinosJoin us as we reveal the best-rated online casinos that allow you to play all of your favorite games, claim great bonuses, and much more.Best Online Casinos$10 Deposit CasinosOur extensive list of reviewed casinos accept minimum deposits of $10. Find out how to claim, how it works, extra features and much more.$10 Deposit CasinosAndroid CasinosRead our guide to reveal the best android casinos to play on your mobile. Claim various bonuses, play different games, and much more.Android CasinosCasino AppsGet the best on-the-move betting experience with our Casino Apps guide. Helping you find your perfect casino app to play slots, blackjack, roulette & more.Casino AppsCasino BonusesWe have curated a list of the top casinos that offer the best bonuses, getting up to $5,000 in casino bonus codes, these are not to be missed.Casino BonusesCuracao CasinosIn this guide, we will look at the top best online gambling sites that are licensed in Curaçao and are available to US players. Read the pros and cons, & more.Curacao CasinosFastest Payout Online CasinosListing our top-ranked casino sites known for processing withdrawals quickly, discover which payment methods are best for ensuring fast payouts & best bonuses.Fastest Payout CasinosOnline Casino Free SpinsRead our guide for the best online casino free spins offers, so you can bet on your favorite slot games without risking any of your own money.Online Casino Free SpinsHigh Roller CasinosIn this guide, we’ll review the best high roller casinos, explain what makes high roller casinos stand out from typical online casinos, and much more.High Roller CasinosiPhone CasinosFind and access the best iPhone mobile casinos with our guide, giving you the inside scoop on the top mobile apps, the benefits, bonus codes, and much more.iPhone CasinosJackpot CasinosLearn about the world of Jackpot casinos in the US. Providing you with the best jackpot bonuses, games and plenty more tips and vital information.Jackpot CasinosLive Dealer CasinosLive dealer casinos bring the real casino experience to your home. At our reviewed online casinos, you are able to play blackjack, roulette, poker & more.Live Dealer CasinosMobile CasinosDiscover the best mobile casinos for real money, and start playing slots, blackjack, poker, and more, all from your smartphone.Mobile CasinosNew Online CasinosExplore the best new online casinos that offer fresh takes on classic casino games, innovative features, and tons of bonuses and promotions, & more.New Online CasinosNo & Low Wagering CasinosIn this guide, we’ll reveal the best sites for no wagering casino bonuses and offers. Explaining how it works, answering top questions and much more.No & Low Wagering CasinosOffshore Online CasinosJoin us as we review the best offshore casinos on the market right now, and explain how to choose the best offshore online casino for your betting needs.Offshore Online CasinosBest Online Casinos On RedditIn this guide, we’ll be providing you with a list of the best online casinos according to Reddit users & will be explaining the current sign-up bonuses & more.Online Casinos On RedditTablet CasinosThere's lots to love about playing on your tablet. If you happen to own a tablet device, we recommend you read our guide to get the best betting experience.Tablet CasinosPoker Gambling Sites
Whether you’re a fan of Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, 7-Card Stud, Razz, or another poker variation, you’ll find plenty of entertainment when you sign up for a West Virginia poker room. Don’t miss out on competing against players located all over the world. Available betting structures typically include limit, no-limit, and pot-limit.
The best West Virginia online casinos also feature poker games played against the dealer.
Bonuses Available at WV Online Gambling Sites
Existing and new customers can look forward to exciting promotions when playing at West Virginia gambling sites.
Deposit bonuses in West Virginia
One of the most common bonuses you’ll encounter is a deposit bonus. If you see a deposit deal labeled as “100% up to $1,000,” you can expect the gambling site to double your deposit amount for a maximum of $1,000.
Most gambling sites will match your funds by 50-150% for a total of $1,000, but more great deals are possible, too – for example, BetUS sets the limit at $5,000.
Odds boosters
As the name suggests, an odds booster bonus boosts your odds, allowing you to place a wager at odds that are more favorable than market odds. A profit boost is a similar promotion that directly increases your profits instead.
Money-back bonuses in West Virginia
If you’re risk-averse, money-back bonuses are perfect for you. You can win back a percentage of your losses up to a set amount. For example, BetOnline allows its customers to offset 20% of their weekly losses for a maximum of $200 a week.
Free bets
Free bets are a way to place wagers without spending money. While you won’t find free bets in their traditional form at the best West Virginia sportsbooks, you can still look forward to wagering with “free” money when you use the bonus funds you claim through a deposit offer. Don’t forget that deposit bonus deals require you to fulfill a playthrough requirement before withdrawing your winnings.
How to Register With WV Online Gambling Sites
Ready to start gambling in West Virginia? Follow the instructions below to get started today:
Step 1: Create an Account
Launch the BetOnline website and click or tap Join Now in the top-right corner to fill out the short registration form:
Please double-check all details you enter for typos to avoid payout delays; BetOnline is required by law to verify your details through a secure online ID check when you request your first withdrawal.
Step 2: Activate Your Account
Click the activation link in your welcome email to validate your account.
Step 3: Fund Your Account
Log in using your username and password, and choose one of the reliable banking methods available to gamblers in WV:
Cryptocurrencies and credit card payments are the fastest and carry the lowest deposit limits, so we highly recommend them. Other deposit options, including bank transfer, Echecks, and Ria, are also available.
If you’re a high-roller, consider cryptocurrencies, which let you deposit up to $500,000 at a time.
Next, enter a deposit amount and one of our promo codes: BOL1000 for the best sports betting bonus or BOLCASINO for the best casino bonus. Please check the promo code for typos to prevent voiding your bonus.
Finally, click ‘Deposit Now’ and send payment using the SSL-secured transaction gateway.
Step 4: Start Betting!
The best real-money sports betting, gambling, and horse race betting in West Virginia are now at your fingertips:
Payment Methods Available at WV Online Gambling Sites
Here’s a list of the payment methods you can use to deposit and withdraw funds at West Virginia gambling sites:
Crypto Gambling Sites
If you’re a cryptocurrency user, you’ll love offshore gambling sites. They accept coins such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and more and even prefer them over traditional banking methods. Many even offer exclusive promotions you can unlock by depositing with crypto.
One significant advantage of crypto is that it comes with much higher deposit limits than other payment methods. For example, BetOnline caps crypto deposits at $500,000, while credit card users can only add $2,500 to their accounts in one transaction.
BetOnline offers the best Bitcoin sportsbook.
Traditional Payment Method Gambling Sites
Of course, crypto is not the only option you have. The best West Virginia gambling sites also accept credit and debit cards, wire transfers, e-checks, and check by mail.
Credit and debit card transactions are faster than the other traditional payment options, but they still carry low deposit limits, which can be inconvenient.
E-Wallet Gambling Sites
While US-licensed gambling sites almost always offer e-wallets as a payment option, offshore sites don’t support this banking method. Instead, you can obtain a prepaid card linked to your e-wallet (for example, PayPal issues a Mastercard prepaid card) and use it like a regular credit or debit card.
Payout Percentages – Land-based vs. Online Gambling Sites
Every casino game comes with a payout rate called an RTP (return-to-player) ratio. RTP is expressed as a percentage and tells you what returns you can expect when playing that particular game over the long term. For example, a game with 95% RTP means you’re likely to get $95 returns for every $100 you spend on that slot in the long term.
The average RTP is typically higher at online casinos than land-based ones – 96% versus just 87.5%. This is because land-based casinos incur extra expenses to maintain their physical locations, and they offset those costs by offering relatively low RTP rates.
Best Gambling Sites Casino Software Providers
Casino Blackjack Games Roulette Games Other Games Software Providers BetOnline 22 14 220+ Betsoft, Magma, Fresh Deck Studios XBet 14 4 190+ Real Time Gaming, NetEnt, BetSoft, GameArt, iSoftBet, ThunderKick BetUS 16 5 220+ Booongo, Digital Gaming Solutions, Nucleus Gaming Wild Casino 11 4 210+ Betsoft, Nucleus Gaming Ignition 8 7 200+ Rival Gaming, Real Time Gaming, Genesis Gaming, Betsoft, RLS MyBookie 5 1 190+ Rival Gaming, Betsoft Bovada 6 4 200+ Real Time Gaming, ViG, Rival Gaming Las Atlantis 8 3 250+ Real Time Gaming Sportsbetting.ag 9 3 180+ Fresh Deck Studios Cafe Casino 5 4 250+ Win Studios, Real Time Gaming, Rival Gaming WV Online Gambling Apps Available
If you enjoy playing on your smartphone or tablet, you have two options. First, you can download an operator’s dedicated app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Second, you can gamble in your device’s browser (e.g., Chrome, Opera, Safari).
Both methods have their pros and cons. While downloadable apps are generally more responsive, faster, and prevent you from accidentally placing wagers on a small screen, they also require much more storage space than in-browser gambling and can sometimes interfere with other applications on your phone or tablet. However, this is an infrequent occurrence.
If you’re looking for the best gambling mobile application, Bovada won’t let you down.
Is Playing at Online Gambling Sites Legal in West Virginia?
Yes. West Virginia online gambling laws were amended in 2018 to allow online sportsbooks. Online casinos and poker were also legalized in 2019. State-licensed brands that have partnered with local land-based establishments to offer online sports betting or casino play include DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, FanDuel, Golden Nugget, and PointsBet.
Furthermore, since West Virginia’s attorney general declared daily fantasy contests were not a game of pure chance in 2016, DFS sites have been legal in WV.
Of course, online gambling in West Virginia is also available through offshore gambling sites, like BetOnline. An offshore casino or offshore sportsbook is a gambling platform licensed and regulated outside the US. Most overseas casinos and sportsbooks offer better promotions and a broader market and game variety than US-licensed sites, so we recommend signing up with them in addition to any state-licensed sites you may have already joined.
Explore Our Sportsbook Reviews
SportsbooksJoin us as we cover everything you need to know about how to bet on your favorite sports in the US, review the top sportsbooks, and much more.SportsbooksAtlantic City SportsbooksDiscover the best sportsbooks in Atlantic City with our extensive and well reviewed list of online sportsbooks, bonus codes, and more.Atlantic City SportsbooksHigh Limit SportsbooksOur list looks at the best high limit sportsbooks that accommodate big players, explain what makes them stand out, and how to get started with them.High Limit SportsbooksOffshore SportsbooksOffshore sportsbooks let you wager on all the biggest games across dozens of sports leagues from anywhere in the US. Discover more and learn how to get started.Offshore SportsbooksBest Sportsbooks on RedditFind the best betting sites as decided by Redditors, along with how to place a wager online, the types of bets you can wager, the sports offered, and more.Sportsbooks on RedditSharpest SportsbooksReap the benefits of the sharpest sportsbooks and learn how to benefit from high-value bonuses when you sign up, and more, with our sharpest sportsbook guide.Sharpest SportsbooksTimeline of Gambling Legislation in West Virginia
West Virginia’s liberal attitude toward land-based gambling extended to the online space in recent years. Here’s a look at pivotal moments in the state’s gambling history:
- 1931 – horse race and greyhound race betting are legalized
- 1993 – The first pari-mutuel wager is placed at the Charles Town Turf Club
- 1980 – Amendment No. 1 legalizes real-money bingo
- 1984 – West Virginia launches a state lottery
- 1987 – Video lottery terminals are authorized at Mountaineer Park
- 1994 – Racetracks are allowed to host video lotters and electronic slot-like machines
- 2001 – The Limited Video Lottery Act legalizes video poker
- 2009 – West Virginia lawmakers authorize table games. Racetracks effectively turn into racinos
- 2017 – A bill to to legalize sports betting is introduced but fails early in the legislative session
- 2018 – House bill HB 2751 amends the Code of West Virginia, legalizing offline and online sports betting
- 2019 – HB 2934 passes into law, bringing online poker and online casino gaming to West Virginia
As you can see, West Virginia online gambling laws are among the most lenient in the United States.
Online Gambling Guides by State
Tax on Gambling Winnings in West Virginia
West Virginia does not levy a state tax on gambling winnings, except for lottery income, which incurs a 6.5% state tax. Additionally, all gambling income exceeding $600 in a fiscal year is subject to a 24% federal tax. The appropriate tax will be calculated and withheld by your gambling establishment, then paid to the authorities on your behalf.
Please note that offshore West Virginia internet gambling sites don’t withhold any taxes or report your gambling activities to anyone outside their licensing jurisdiction.
Who Regulates Online Gambling in West Virginia?
The West Virginia State Tax Department regulates all charitable gambling, while the West Virginia Lottery Commission governs real-money sports betting and gambling, both online and offline.
Regulated gambling sites are much safer than their unregulated counterparts, as they answer to the authority that granted them their license – whether that’s the US or an overseas jurisdiction such as Costa Rica, Curacao, or Panama.
Regulators require operators to report any financial trouble and undergo various software inspections, including random number generators, to ensure customer safety and fairness. Players can report any payout or false marketing issues to a gambling site’s regulator to keep the provider accountable.
How Do West Virginia Gambling Laws Compare to Gambling Laws in Neighboring States?
West Virginia is surrounded by states with relatively progressive gambling laws.
Gambling in Pennsylvania: all gambling, including casinos, poker, bingo, sports betting, horse race betting, and OTBs, are legal – online and offline. There are already over a dozen online sportsbooks and casinos licensed in the state. In fact, Pennsylvania is second only to Nevada in commercial gambling revenues.
Gambling in Maryland: like Pennsylvania and West Virginia, Maryland has legalized all retail and online gambling forms, except online casinos. Online sports betting was approved in a 2020 referendum.
Gambling in Virginia: land-based casinos, bingo, poker, OTBs, and horse race betting are legal. Online sports betting was legalized in early 2021 as well; however, retail betting remains prohibited. As of early 2022, the state hasn’t regulated online casinos or poker rooms.
Gambling in Kentucky: the Bluegrass state is home to only two land-based casinos, charitable bingo halls, and poker rooms. Sports betting and online gambling are still illegal, although a bill to legalize sports wagering has advanced to the House in March 2022 and may soon shake up the state’s legal gambling landscape.
Gambling in Ohio: House bill HB 29 legalized sports betting in 2021, but no retail sportsbook has been launched yet. Land-based casinos, OTBs, poker, bingo, and horse race betting are permitted. The state hasn’t regulated online casinos yet, although online sports betting on professional and college sports should be available early in 2023.
Gambling Facilities in West Virginia
There are only five land-based casinos in West Virginia, all featuring a retail sportsbook:
- The Casino Club at The Greenbrier, 101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs
- Mardi Gras Casino and Resort, 1 Greyhound Dr, Cross Lanes
- Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack and Resort, 1420 Mountaineer Cir, New Cumberland
- Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack, 1 S Stone St, Wheeling
- Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, 750 Hollywood Dr, Charles Town
Loyalty Programs in West Virginia
Most online casinos offer VIP (loyalty) programs that let you accrue points and climb up the tier ranking by playing casino games. The number of points you get depends on a game’s RTP – the lower the payout percentage, the more points per dollar you can bag.
For example, Ignition grants you one loyalty point for every dollar you wager on table games, five points for every dollar you spend on slots, and 15 points for every dollar you put down on specialty games.
As a loyalty program member, you receive VIP points when you place a real-money wager. The more points you earn, the higher your VIP ranking and the faster you accrue points. A higher ranking also means you get to earn points faster.
You can redeem VIP points for various benefits, such as cash, bonuses, hotel stays, merch, or invitations to high-roller events.
How to Stay Safe When Gambling Online in West Virginia?
Safety is paramount when gambling online. But how do you decide if you can entrust a West Virginia gambling site with your money?
You should first consider whether the operator is licensed in the US or a reputable overseas jurisdiction. A valid license means the site reports to a regulator, and you don’t need to worry about losing your money or being mistreated.
Next, take a look at the payment options offered by the gambling site. If you see Visa and MasterCard on the list, you can rest assured you’re in good hands, as those two card issuers are very strict when vetting their partners.
You can also check customer reviews for extra assurance that a West Virginia gambling site is 100% trustworthy and treats its customers well.
Finally, familiarize yourself with the warning signs of problem gambling to ensure you can spot them in yourself or your close one if things start getting out of hand.
Playing at offshore gambling sites is not prohibited by West Virginia law, so getting in legal trouble is not a concern.
Best WV Online Gambling Site
West Virginia sports gambling online and casino gambling online are legal, and several of the country’s top gambling brands have established internet operations in the state. Still, offshore gambling sites remain legal, feature better bonuses, and boast a wider variety of games and sports. There are many reasons to join FanDuel or DraftKings casino but even more reasons to sign up with one of our recommended sites. Don’t wait – join BetOnline to claim up to $3,000 in bonuses today!
FAQs
When did West Virginia pass its gambling laws?
Land-based casinos were legalized in 1994; online sports betting was legalized in 2018; online casinos and poker were approved in 2019.
What is the legal gambling age in West Virginia?
You must be at least 18 to play bingo, bet on horse races, or buy lottery tickets. For online and offline sports betting and casino play, the minimum age is 21.
Is online gambling legal in West Virginia?
Yes, the state has regulated online gambling in 2018 and 2019. Offshore gambling sites are also allowed.
When do I have to pay taxes on gambling in West Virginia?
Gambling taxes are withheld by your gambling venue and paid to authorities on your behalf. However, please remember to report your winnings when filing your return for the fiscal year.
What time do the gambling machines come on in West Virginia?
The West Virginia Lottery Commission allows land-based operators to turn on video lottery machines as early as 6 AM. Digital gambling machines at our offshore sites are available 24/7.
-
New Mexico
-
New York
-
California
-
Delaware
-
Pennsylvania
-
Alabama
-
Alaska
-
Arizona
-
Arkansas
-
Colorado
-
Connecticut
-
Florida
-
Georgia
-
Hawaii
-
Idaho
-
Illinois
-
Indiana
-
Iowa
-
Kansas
-
Kentucky
-
Louisiana
-
Maine
-
Maryland
-
Massachusetts
-
Michigan
-
Minnesota
-
Mississippi
-
Missouri
-
Montana
-
Nebraska
-
New Hampshire
-
North Carolina
-
North Dakota
-
Ohio
-
Oklahoma
-
Oregon
-
South Dakota
-
Tennessee
-
Texas
-
Vermont
-
Virginia
-
Washington
-
West Virginia
-
Wisconsin
-
Wyoming
Charlie Rhodes
Charlie is an accomplished journalist specialising in football, but with extensive interest across every and all sports, and their intersection with the betting industry. Bearing a keen eye for detail, and considerable experience encompassing news, long-form content and betting, he has previously been published on leading brands such as 90min.com and FootyAccumulators. He also worked alongside former Goldman Sachs executives on a peer-to-peer fintech trading start-up (SportsStack).Charlie is an accomplished journalist specialising in football, but with extensive interest across every and all sports, and their intersection with the betting industry. Bearing a keen eye for detail, and considerable experience encompassing news, long-form content and betting, he has previously been published on leading brands such as 90min.com and FootyAccumulators. He also worked alongside former Goldman Sachs executives on a peer-to-peer fintech trading start-up (SportsStack).View All Posts By Charlie RhodesPopular Pages