Best Online Poker Sites
in New Jersey

Looking for the ultimate online gambling experience? Look no further than New Jersey! As one of the first states to legalize casinos in the 1970s and online gambling in 2013, NJ has truly cemented its reputation as a leader in the industry. And with the addition of the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) in 2017, players can now enjoy the excitement of real money poker across state lines.

With so many top-rated operators to choose from in the bustling NJ online poker market, it can be tough to decide where to play. That’s where we come in!

In this guide, we’ll provide expert reviews of the best options in the state and all the information you need on legalities, regulations, welcome bonuses, and more. We’ll also teach you how to play and cash out like a pro.

• Discover the best online poker rooms in New Jersey, compare welcome bonuses, and decide where you want to play.
• Learn the history behind one of the US’s oldest and most important poker markets.
• Freshen up your knowledge of NJ online poker laws and regulations.
• Read about how the state regulator ensures that all NJ online poker rooms are 100% fair and safe to play at.
• Get the 411 on making deposits and cashouts.
• Looking for some live poker action? We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to the best NJ casinos to play poker at.
• Get all your questions answered in our in-depth NJ Online Poker FAQ.

Is Online Poker Legal in New Jersey?

Online poker is legal and regulated in New Jersey. Players looking to play poker online in the Garden State can choose from several licensed operators that have been approved by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE), the state’s agency in charge of overseeing and regulating all things related to gambling.

The Best Online Poker Rooms in New Jersey

New Jersey offers plenty of options for poker players, regardless of their bankrolls, preferred game formats, or software. The only real “problem” is choosing the room, as the selection is really versatile, and there are plenty of NJ online poker bonus codes to take advantage of. That said, these are our top picks.

PokerStars NJ tops our list of choices. While the operator joined the market fairly late, in 2016, thanks to its experience and resources, it quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the budding New Jersey online poker market. Then, in January 2023, the room created a shared network with PokerStars MI, creating a much larger player pool, which was especially important for NJ players, seeing how New Jersey is a smaller market.

WSOP NJ, together with its sister site 888poker, are excellent options as well. WSOP NJ pools its players with DE and NV, forming the US’s only tri-state online poker network. WSOP offers New Jersey players the incredible opportunity to win coveted WSOP Gold Bracelets and Circuit Rings from the comfort of their own homes.

Then, there is BetMGM Poker NJ, which, along with partypoker NJ and Borgata Poker, comprise the BetMGM Poker US network, sharing the same partypoker software and player pools within the state.

PokerStars NJ

The top choice for New Jersey online poker players, PokerStars NJ offers the best variety of games, an excellent selection of tournaments, and great action at cash game tables. Although the site went live in 2016, a few years after the initial two operators, it did not take long for them to become a major force in the market.

The operator took advantage of the fact Michigan joined the MSIGA in 2022, and after doing some preparatory work, it finally combined its player pools in Michigan and New Jersey, allowing players from both states to play together.

As is the case with other states where the operator has a presence, PokerStars offers the most extensive selection of game variations. Alongside standard options like Hold’em, Omaha, and Stud, you can also get involved in a nice game of Razz or good, old Five Card Draw.

Options abound for tournament players as well. In addition to rich daily and weekly schedules, the room also hosts regular major series with seven-figure prize pools. The biggest and the most popular one is, undoubtedly, the New Jersey Online Championship of Online Poker — or NJCOOP for short.

PokerStars NJ offers the following games and game types:

1. MTTs (Multi-table Tournaments), from freerolls to high rollers
2. Cash games (NLHE, PLO, and Mixed Games)
3. Sit & Go tournaments
4. Spin & Go’s
5. Online qualifiers to PokerStars LIVE events

Play at PokerStars NJ or learn more in our all-encompassing PokerStars NJ Review.

BetMGM Poker NJ

Owned by the same company as Borgata and partypoker, BetMGM offers a very generous welcome bonus for new players, matching their initial deposit in full up to the maximum of $1000, alongside $75 in MTT tickets.

While the operator does not have as high of player traffic as PokerStars or WSOP, it still features a nice selection of tournaments and solid action at cash tables across all stakes.

It is worth noting that the site is powered by one of the largest gaming companies in the US, which adds a lot of credibility and provides players with reassurance that the operator has the resources and know-how to offer an excellent online poker experience across the board.

Combining strong cash game action with regular tournament series with generous guarantees, BetMGM Poker NJ is easily one of the top choices for players in the state, second only to PokerStars.

BetMGM Poker NJ offers the following games and formats:

1. Cash games (NLHE and PLO)
2. Tournaments (MTTs)
3. Sit & Go’s
4. SPINS

Check out our BetMGM Poker NJ Review or jump right into the action and start playing!

WSOP NJ

WSOP NJ is one of the first few sites to go live in the state shortly after the law was passed. As a globally recognized brand, WSOP offers a safe and trustworthy platform with good player traffic. The operator combines player pools from New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware, combining players from WSOP NJ, WSOP NV, and the 888poker-powered racinos in DE.

The shared liquidity helps boost numbers on WSOP NJ and creates a much healthier ecosystem for those playing online poker in Delaware. With larger player pools come bigger tournaments, bigger guarantees, and more round-the-clock action.

The room has the biggest appeal for tournament players, of course. For several years now, WSOP has run online tournaments where players could compete not just for cash but also for coveted *WSOP Gold Bracelets and WSOP Online Circuit Gold Rings”. In 2020, the pinnacle Series took place entirely online, instead of at its home base in Las Vegas. The US leg took place on WSOP.com.

At WSOP NJ, you will find the following games and variations:

1. Cash games (PLO and NLHE)
2. MTTs
3. Online bracelet-awarding events
4. Sit & Go
5. BLAST

Learn more about this world-class poker site in our comprehensive and unbiased WSOP NJ Review or sign up and start chasing that bling!

Borgata Poker NJ

Borgata Poker NJ is one of the longest-standing regulated poker sites in the States. Operating on the BetMGM US network and owned by MGM Resorts, the platform represents a reliable option for all poker fans, from casual players to serious grinders.

Borgata shares a player pool with the other two New Jersey poker sites on the network — partypoker and BetMGM — which helps with liquidity problems and ensures there is always enough action to satisfy players, especially when major tournament series are running.

Offering a strong deposit match bonus of up to $1000 and up to $75 in free MTT tickets, Borgata Poker caters to players from both sides of the spectrum. If you are starting your poker journey or want to get familiar with what the room has to offer prior to putting too much of your own money on the line, you can get $25 worth of tickets by depositing just $10 (and still get a 100% boost).

Borgata Poker features a game variety similar to that of BetMGM, including:

1. BLAST tournaments
2. MTTs
3. NLHE & PLO cash games
4. Sit & Go tournaments

Learn more in our Borgata Poker NJ Review or head to its site and sign up

partypoker NJ

There is also partypoker NJ, a popular option for players looking for a safe and regulated tradition with a brand they can trust. partypoker has been present in the NJ market for a long time and has established itself as one of the top choices in the state.

The solid software, good variety of cash game options, and a full schedule of weekly MTTs ensure that everyone can find something to their own taste here.

Partypoker NJ features these games and game types:

1. BLAST
2. Cash games
3. MTTs
4. Sit & Go’s

Create your partypoker account and take advantage of the partypoker NJ deposit bonus

On top of these options, players can also register with 888poker NJ

Run It Once Poker NJ (Coming Soon)

In the near future, New Jersey could get another licensed site in Run It Once Poker. Phil Galfond has partnered up with Rush Street Interactive to bring his modern platform to the US, and the Garden State could be one of the first markets they will go for.

There are several reasons in favor of the Run It Once Poker NJ launch. The biggest one is the fact that NJ is a MSIGA member, which means the new operator could easily combine its player pools with other states within the compact (MI, NV, and DE).

The new site would likely operate under a license from Golden Nugget Casino and would bring fresh air to the market. Of course, it would also have to face some heavy competition from the likes of BetMGM Poker NJ, WSOP NJ, and PokerStars NJ, so it will be interesting to follow the developments in the next few months.

Comparing Best NJ Online Poker Bonuses

All New Jersey poker sites offer something special for their new players. The real question is, which one of these is the best, and how do you choose? This is especially important if you are someone who prefers to stick to just one room instead of jumping between the sites to take advantage of different promotions.

We cannot give you a straightforward answer about which poker bonus is the absolute best, as there are different factors that come into play here. However, based on your preferences, bankroll, and the kind of volume you put in, you can figure out which one of these options might suit you the best.

To start with, PokerStars NJ’s bet $1, get $100 offer is quite tempting, especially if you also enjoy casino games. The welcome package is a mix of casino and poker funds, so you get a nice opportunity to try different things and maybe even win a fair bit of money, all at the minimum risk.

When comparing deposit bonuses, PokerStars’ offer of 100% up to $600 on your first deposit is smaller than what you can get at the other three sites. WSOP NJ, BetMGM Poker NJ, and Borgata Poker NJ all offer a similar deposit match bonus, but will double your funds up to $1000, so the difference is not negligible. More serious players who know they can put in the required volume are probably better served by taking a bigger bonus.

Best NJ Poker Bonuses Side by Side

If you are still not certain what is the best offer to go for, check out this side-by-side comparison of the best online poker bonuses available in New Jersey.

Choosing the Best NJ Poker Site for You

With so many quality NJ poker sites to choose from, it is not the easiest thing in the world deciding where to play. All operators have some unique qualities, so the choice can be tricky.

When it comes to making a decision, the key is to consider your personal preferences. What is it that you want the most from a poker site, what are the things that you find the most valuable, and how can you get the best possible experience.

To help you along, we have come up with our own suggestions based on some of the usual aspects that most players focus on when deciding what room to go with, so, hopefully, you will find this advice useful to clear any doubts you may have.

#1 WSOP NJ – Top Pick for Jackpot Sit & Goes

Jackpot sit and go games have become hugely popular both in the US and in the global poker scene. If you, like so many others, enjoy this particular game format, all poker sites in the state offer their own version of it, but WSOP NJ is your best bet.

Unlike other operators, where maximum jackpots are more limited, BLAST games at WSOP NJ offer the biggest win of 10,000 times the buy-in. So, if you are into these games, you are probably best off playing on the site where you have a shot at the biggest rewards.

In addition to this, WSOP NJ offers regular BLAST leaderboards where those players who play regularly and post consistent results can get solid prizes to keep them going while waiting for that big score.

#2 PokerStars NJ – Top Tournament Site

If multi-table tournaments (MTTs) are more your cup of tea, then PokerStars NJ is the best pick by far. After combining the player pool with the Michigan platform in 2023, the site has achieved excellent player traffic and revamped its already great tournament schedule.

Every day, you will find a rich variety of MTTs on the platform, with a variety of buy-ins, game types, and guarantees. Thanks to this, you have a lot of freedom to pick and choose the games you like and fill your gaming schedule the way you see fit.

Daily tournaments are just one part of the overall offering. PokerStars NJ also features some of the best and most valuable tournament series with its USCOOP and USSCOOP events, where you will get to enjoy several weeks of top quality action every year, with huge guarantees and buy-ins adjusted to fit every bankroll.

#3 BetMGM NJ – Good for Live Satellites

Players who enjoy online poker but would also like to take some shots at live tournaments will find what they are looking for at BetMGM Poker NJ.

The operator often hosts satellites for live events taking place at Borgata Casino in Atlantic City, its land-based partner in the state, and there are frequently step tournaments starting as low as $5.

So, if you would like a taste of live tournament action or simply want to play on a site that can help you achieve your goals if you play live already, BetMGM Poker NJ is a great pick.

The Best NJ Online Poker Tournament Series

Players in the Garden State have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of tournaments throughout the year across all regulated sites. Tournament series are highly appealing to players due to the value they offer. These events typically feature multiple games over a short time span and inflated guarantees, resulting in larger player fields and more opportunities for participants to win big compared to regular daily or weekly games.

NJ Online Poker Tournament Schedule

PokerStars NJ Online Tournaments

PokerStars NJ is known for hosting some of the best tournament series in the New Jersey online poker market. The operator has built its brand on the ability to host massive events with large prize pools, and it has continued down the same path upon entering regulated markets in the US.

In New Jersey, the operator hosts several of its marquee COOP events every year, including the always popular Spring Championship of Online Poker.

In 2023, PokerStars NJ expanded its player pool to include Michigan, creating the first new multi-state poker network since WSOP’s 2017 link-up between NJ and NV. This means even bigger player pools and prizes, with the 2023 USASCOOP for NJ/MI already offering $3 million guaranteed across 126 events. It’s expected that the fall US COOP will be even larger.

Highlight Tournaments: US Championship of Online Poker (US COOP), USA Spring Championship of Online Poker (USA SCOOP)

Best Tournaments at WSOP NJ

WSOP needs no introduction as it is perhaps the biggest and best-known poker tournament brand in all of poker. Transferring its highly successful live model into the virtual realm, the WSOP NJ platform offers NJ poker players a wealth of tournament options throughout the year.

While the operator features attractive monetary guarantees, the biggest draw of WSOP NJ tournaments comes from many offering gold rings and bracelets for the winners. Players no longer have to travel all the way to Las Vegas to claim these highly coveted trinkets.

Every year, WSOP NJ hosts several online bracelet events, usually running concurrently with the live iteration of the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas and multiple circuit events that award WSOP rings.

Highlight Tournaments: Online Bracelet Series, Online Circuit Events

NJ Online Poker Tournaments at BetMGM

When it comes to online poker tournaments in New Jersey, BetMGM Poker NJ may not be in the same league as PokerStars and WSOP, but the operator still has plenty to offer.

The room has a more flexible yearly schedule, so it is hard to say what you can expect month-to-month. Over the years, BetMGM Poker NJ has hosted numerous online series, with some featuring guarantees as high as $1,000,000.

On average, though, BetMGM’s tournament series feature solid six-figure guarantees and smaller, more manageable fields, which definitely suits some players’ styles.

_Highlight Tournaments: BetMGM Poker Championship _

Cash Games at NJ Poker Sites

Those players who prefer to grind it out in the ring games instead of tournaments will find plenty of options at New Jersey poker sites. The cash game action is available across the board, with stakes ranging from NL2 and PLO2 up to NL20,000 and PLO20,000.

All sites offer No-Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha games. WSOP NJ also features Seven Card Stud. For less popular variations, there is PokerStars NJ, offering the likes of Badugi, Razz, 2-7 Triple and Single Draw, and 8-game mix.

The action is best at low and mid-stakes, but there are usually some higher games running during weekends and in conjunction with major tournament series. As for the player traffic across the sites, it breaks down as follows:

New Jersey Traffic History

It is important to note that, as of January 1, 2023, PokerStars NJ combined its player pool with the Michigan platform, which is the reason for a sharp increase in player traffic after December 2022.

Added Value: NJ Online Poker Bonuses & Promotions

In addition to offering a wide range of gaming options across different game types, formats, and stakes, NJ poker sites give players many opportunities to get some extra cash via various bonuses and promotions. The most frequent ones you will come across are:

Welcome Bonuses

We have discussed these at quite some length earlier in this NJ online poker review, but welcome bonuses are the most valuable type of promotions you will come across. They consist of a percentage match on your first (or first few) deposits (usually 100% or more), and the bonus money is added to your balance as you play and generate rake.

Reload Bonuses

Reload bonuses work in a similar fashion like welcome offers. The main difference is that these are provided for existing customers and the maximum amount is usually smaller. That said, there are usually a few solid opportunities every year across different NJ poker sites to get a nice bankroll boost, so you should definitely keep an eye out for these.

Leaderboards

Poker players love leaderboards! Thus, it is no surprise that rooms feature a variety of these, catering to cash game aficionados, MTT players, and those who prefer sit and goes, among other things.

While there are always differences from one leaderboard to the next, the underlying principle is almost always the same. You need to play a lot, gather points by playing/winning, and finish as high as you can on the leaderboard to receive a cash reward or a different prize (tournament tickets, merchandise, etc.).

Discounted Tournaments

All poker sites have their flagship tournaments that come with big guarantees. Every now and again, they will treat players to a discounted version of these tournaments, where the guarantee remains the same, but the buy-in is cut in half or reduced even more. These represent great value, especially for those well versed in tournament play.

Freerolls

What’s better than discounted tournaments? Tournaments that you can play in without paying anything, of course. Commonly known as freerolls, these events give NJ poker players a chance to compete for real money prizes and tournament tickets without having to put any of their money on the line.

How to Play Online Poker in NJ

The process of signing up for online poker rooms in New Jersey is straightforward and can be completed within minutes, even for those new to the world of online poker. To begin, it is crucial to ensure that the poker operator is licensed and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE). Once confirmed, follow these steps:

1. Choose an operator from our list of the top online poker rooms in NJ.
2. Visit the website of the licensed and regulated poker operator on your phone or home computer.
3. Locate the 'Join’ or 'Sign Up’ button on the page and click on it.
4. In the registration form that appears, provide the required personal information, including your name, surname, and address.
5. Verify your email and/or phone number using the link sent to you in the verification email or text message.
6. Once your email and/or phone number have been verified, log in using your newly created username and password.
7. If available, claim your no deposit bonus or navigate to the cashier to make a deposit and claim any first deposit bonus on offer.
8. If you plan to play on the go, download the poker room’s mobile app.
9. When using the mobile app, you can log in with the same account information, eliminating the need to create a new account.

It’s important to note that in order to participate in real money online poker games in New Jersey, you must be physically located within the state’s borders and be of legal age to gamble. You must ensure location sharing is turned on so that the app or website can verify you are physically in NJ before letting you play real money poker games.

Also, you must comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding online gambling in your jurisdiction. By creating an account on an online poker site in New Jersey, you confirm that you are aware of and will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Overview of Online Poker in New Jersey

Online poker in New Jersey has a relatively short but fascinating history. The state legalized online gambling in 2013, and in November of that year, New Jersey became the third state to launch legal online poker sites.

The first online poker sites to launch in New Jersey were partypoker NJ, Borgata Poker, and WSOP. These sites quickly gained popularity as they offered players the opportunity to play poker for real money from the comfort of their own homes.

However, the early days of online poker in New Jersey were not without challenges. The state’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) had to work closely with the online poker operators to ensure that they were compliant with the state’s strict regulations, and players had to go through a rigorous identity verification process before they could start playing.

Despite these challenges, online poker continued to grow in popularity in New Jersey. In 2014, the state’s online poker sites generated nearly $30 million in revenue, making it one of the most successful online poker markets in the United States.

In the years that followed, the New Jersey online poker market continued to evolve. New operators entered the market, and some sites merged or closed down. However, online poker remained a popular pastime for many New Jersey residents.

In 2018, New Jersey entered into an interstate online poker compact with Nevada and Delaware, allowing players from those states to play against each other on New Jersey’s online poker sites. This increased player liquidity and helped to grow the market even further.

Today, online poker is legal and regulated in several US states, including New Jersey. While the online poker landscape continues to evolve, New Jersey remains one of the most important markets for the game in the United States.

NJ Online Poker Laws and Regulations

New Jersey was one of the first US states to pass legislation regulating different forms of online gambling, including online poker. The first NJ poker sites started rolling out in November of 2013, but things did not go entirely smoothly.

There were many issues with geolocation, in particular, as players could not access sites despite being in New Jersey. The geolocation software often malfunctioned and showed their location as being in a different state. Similarly, credit and debit card transactions were frequently blocked by the banks.

With online gambling still in its infancy in the States, these problems, although not welcome, were expected. Over the years, things have changed, and these wrinkles have been ironed out. The experience across all online poker sites is rock solid, and all regulated operators are very trustworthy. They are all 100% legal and fully regulated.

All legal aspects of online poker in New Jersey are covered by bill A2578, which amended the Casino Control Act and was signed into law by Governor Chris Christie in October of 2013.

New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) is the body in charge of considering license applications, issuing licenses for the operators in the state, and overseeing their work to make sure they act in accordance with current statutes.

As far as players are concerned, there are several key details you need to know about playing online poker in NJ:

• All players must be at least 21 years of age
• You do not have to be inside the state of New Jersey to open an account
• You do not have to be a New Jersey resident to play

This brings us to a critical question that those familiar with the online poker climate in the States are well familiar with. Do you have to be physically present in New Jersey to actually play? In this regard, NJ somewhat differs from states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, which joined the party later on.

Geolocation Checks and Procedures in New Jersey

The language of bill A2578 is clear as far as location requirements are concerned. Only players physically present within NJ state borders are allowed to play on the sites licensed by the NJDGE. This is what caused so many problems during the initial phase.

However, in March of 2017, the regulated states at that point (NJ, Nevada, and Delaware) entered a multi-state agreement that allowed operators to share liquidity. This meant that players from all three states could play together, providing a significant boost across the board.

According to the agreement, all states retained the profits deriving from their players, but the agreement created room for new possibilities and paved the way for the future of regulated poker in the US.

So, to answer the question, you do have to be physically in New Jersey to play on any of the NJ online poker sites. However, you can play against the same players and participate in the same tournaments from Delaware and Nevada as well, as long as the room you play in is available in these other states.

in 2022, MSIGA got its first new member in years — Michigan, signaling that players in NJ would soon be able to play against players in MI in addition to players in NV & DE.

This expectation became reality when PokerStars NJ combined its player pools with PokerStars MI, becoming the first operator to take advantage of this favorable development and creating a much more extensive and healthier multistate network.

NJ Online Poker Apps

You can download the software for any online poker site in NJ without issue. Visit the operator’s site, find the download link, and get the file. The download should not take more than a couple of minutes to complete, after which you can install the software on your computer and start playing.

The good news is that you do not have to be in NJ to download the software or open an account. So, if you are planning a trip, you can prepare everything ahead of time and be ready to kick things off once you enter the state.

Similar rules apply to mobile apps. You can download and install them on your phone without any restrictions.

For iPhone and Android, users can download the app directly from the operator’s website (linked above in the operators section) and install third-party apps. This is just an extra step in the process, but nothing to worry about.

Safety and Fairness Considerations

All legal poker sites in the state of New Jersey are licensed and regulated by the Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE). This body oversees all gambling-related business in the state and ensures all operators adhere to the rules they signed up for when receiving the license.

Prior to regulated poker, players found themselves between a rock and a hard place. They could either not play at all, or place their trust and their money with one of the illegal unregulated offshore sites that still catered (and continue to cater) to US players.

Although not all of these sites are necessarily “bad,” they certainly are not regulated by any relevant authority in the US. Furthermore, to do what they do, these rooms have to go around certain laws to be able to accept deposits and process withdrawals.

If anything goes wrong, be it a withdrawal problem or any other type of dispute, players really have no recourse when playing on these unregulated sites. So, it opens them to many potential risks.

On the other hand, all licensed operators in New Jersey have to adhere to stringent and transparent rules. Their business practices are constantly monitored, and their software is subject to regular checks to ensure the play is fair, random, and not rigged.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to file a complaint against an online poker operator, you can do it by calling the NJDGE or by sending them an email. Make sure to include all the relevant information and any communication between you and the room, as this will help clarify the case.

Once your complaint is received, you will be advised as to what steps to take next if anything else is required on your part.

NJ Online Poker Banking Options

Like in other regulated states, players have a variety of options available to them when playing on licensed NJ poker sites. Of course, not all operators accept every method, so if you prefer a particular payment option, make sure the room you want to play at supports it.

In general, you will find some or all of the following options are available for online poker in New Jersey:

• MasterCard
• Visa
• Discover
• American Express
• ACH
• Bank Transfers
• Skrill
• PayNearMe
• PayPal
• Check by Mail (for withdrawals)
• Cash at a Land-Based Casino Location

Most poker operators in the state will not charge you any fees for deposits or withdrawals. However, you should still pay attention to any transactions to poker sites, as it is possible for your bank or the payment processor to charge you. These fees can vary significantly between methods, so it is something to keep in mind.

When it comes to withdrawals, each method has its own turnaround time, with some of the fastest being bank transfer, PayPal, and cashing out in-person at a land-based casino and Check by Mail being the slowest, taking days or weeks to process.

Multi-State Liquidity and Future of Online Poker in New Jersey

As mentioned earlier, New Jersey joined the interstate poker compact with Nevada and Delaware in 2017. They were pioneers in terms of sharing player pools across state lines. In 2022, Michigan joined the MSIGA as well, becoming the fourth state in the compact.

In addition to NJ, PokerStars operates in MI and PA, so the operator would be quite happy to combine player pools from all three states. That plan started to take shape on Jan 1, 2023, as PokerStars became the first operator to combine player pools from New Jersey and Michigan, allowing players to play in real money cash games and tournaments across state borders. The launch was a huge success, immediately propelling PokerStars to the top of the NJ online poker market, where its held that position firmly since

WSOP operates in four states — NV, NJ, PA, and MI — and already runs a three-state shared liquidity network comprised of players in NV, NJ, and DE. It stands to reason that the operator would also be inclined to want to connect its MI platform with its existing WSOP US network, thus creating the country’s first four-state online poker network. However, before it can do so, it will need to update the older software currently being used in NJ and NV and migrate those platforms to its newer Poker 8 software that powers its MI and PA apps.

All sites on the BetMGM US network (BetMGM, Borgata, and partypoker) already share liquidity within the state of NJ but not across states. At least not yet. For these three, combining player pools across more states would be a completely natural development, and it is something they clearly plan for the future.

As things stand right now, Michigan players should be joining those in the other three MSIGA member states at some point in the future. As for other regulated states, there is no information on when and if they plan on joining, but it is safe to assume that Pennsylvania at least will be looking to get in on the action.

Land-based Casinos, Poker Rooms, & Sportsbooks in New Jersey

The online poker industry might be fairly new in New Jersey, but brick-and-mortar casinos and poker rooms have been available in the state for several decades. All of them are located in Atlantic City due to specific gaming laws, so if you want to try your luck in person, AC is where you will need to be.

Borgata Casino

Borgata is one of the state’s most iconic casinos. Although the operator now offers its services online as well, it has been catering to live gamblers for a long time now.

The venue offers something for everyone’s taste. The poker room regularly spreads Hold’em, Omaha, and Stud cash games, with other variations available on demand. Tournament players will find a rich schedule of regular events and numerous special series taking place throughout the year.

The casino section offers a huge selection of video slots with hundreds of popular titles and many exciting opportunities to win big progressive jackpots. Table games fans will not struggle for options, either, as Borgata spreads blackjack, baccarat, roulette, Three Card Poker, Let It Ride, Pai Gow, Four Card Poker, and more.

Finally, the sportsbook lets you wager on horse races and all major sports like football, hockey, basketball, baseball, soccer, boxing, tennis, MMA, and much more.

Caesars Atlantic City

Another premier destination for all your gambling needs in New Jersey, Caesars Atlantic City is a stylish venue with a great reputation.

The poker room is actually located at the Wild Wild West Casino, although it was temporarily closed.

Other than this, though, Caesars Casino offers a great variety of choices. The venue’s selection of slots is awe-inspiring and includes some of the most popular titles around. The range of available stakes is such that it fits all players’ bankrolls and expectations, with betting options ranging from $0.01 up to $100.

In the table games department, Caesars AC offers blackjack, baccarat, sic bo, craps, Pai Gow, Four Card Poker, Mississippi Stud, Pai Gow Tiles, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, etc.

The sportsbook is also located at the Wild Wild West Casino and is powered by William Hill. The large betting area features everything you could possibly need for the ultimate experience, including private Fan Caves hosting up to 24 people.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

If you find yourself in Atlantic City and looking for some gambling fun or itching to jump into some poker action, you cannot go wrong visiting Harrah’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino.

The venue’s poker room features a total of 40 tables with the action running from around noon each day to the early morning hours of the next day. On weekends, games do not stop at all, so if you are looking to put in a monster session, this is the place to be.

You will find a variety of cash game tables here, with stakes starting at $1/$2 for no limit and $2/$4 for limit games. After that, it all depends on the demand.

Harrah’s AC offers a top-quality casino to take a break from poker, featuring hundreds of video slots and a rich table games area offering baccarat, Pai Gow, Let It Ride, Four Card Poker, blackjack, and more.

The sports betting area spans 3800 feet and offers a chance to bet on football, hockey, basketball, baseball, and more. High-resolution screens are spread across the place, so you can cheer your favorites on as you enjoy a cold drink or have a bite to eat.

Hard Rock Casino

The iconic Hard Rock Casino is also now available in Atlantic City. The venue opened at the same place where the once-legendary Taj stood. If you are a gambling and rock music fan, there is no better place to visit.

Unfortunately, Hard Rock AC does not have a poker room at this time, which does take away a bit of allure. There are rumors that this might change in the near future, but nothing has been set in stone as of yet.

As for other forms of gambling, the venue does not disappoint. There are well over 2000 slot machines readily available around the clock, including some of the latest releases for those tired of playing the same old games all the time.

If table games are more of your thing, Hard Rock offers pretty much every game you can think of, including craps, baccarat, roulette, Pai Gow, blackjack, Four Card Poker, Mississippi Stud, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Let It Ride, Casino War, Three Card Poker, and more. The venue even provides free gaming classes to teach you how to play various table games.

Tropicana Casino

Another name that you have probably had a chance to hear in the context of gambling in Atlantic City is that of Tropicana Casino. While not as big or as impressive as some other venues on this list, Tropicana will meet and exceed your gaming needs.

The Tropicana features a smaller poker room with 18 tables and a somewhat modest tournament schedule. The venue used to be much more poker-focused, but their policy has clearly shifted, so if it is purely poker action you are looking for, you might be better served at one of the other locations.

Slots fans’ will find almost 2500 machines to choose from. Those looking to up the ante can enjoy the stylish environment of the high-limits slots area and all the perks that come with it.

The table games at Tropicana include blackjack, baccarat, craps, Casino War, roulette, Caribbean Stud, Let It Ride, and Criss Cross Poker.

William Hill also powers the sportsbook at Tropicana. It features 180 seats and panoramic LED screens to provide you with the ultimate experience of watching your favorite sports. Located on the casino floor, the sportsbook is open every day from early morning hours (9 or 10 am) until after midnight.

Golden Nugget AC

Whether you are into poker, table games, or slots, Golden Nugget Atlantic City has you covered. Another iconic venue, this casino is guaranteed not to disappoint.

The poker room is relatively small, featuring just nine tables, but there is plenty of action to be had. The room spreads No-Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha games and offers a variety of promotions such as High Hand, Splash the Pot and rakeback opportunities.

There are 1500 slot machines on offer here, so you will not lack options. The high-limit slot room offers well over 100 machines featuring many in-demand titles, fast payouts, private restrooms, and much more.

You will also find plenty of action at the live dealer tables, with games like baccarat, roulette, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Three Card Poker, blackjack, craps, Let It Ride, Pai Gow, etc. If stakes on the main casino floor do not meet your standards, check out the nearby high-limit room.

The sportsbook is located off the Main Atrium and features several dozen TVs and five video walls. You can also find boosted parlays and in-play betting options alongside regular bets.

Bally’s Atlantic City Casino

Although Bally’s Atlantic City poker room was shut down, it is still a destination worth checking out if you find yourself in the city. The venue offers plenty of exciting gaming action around the clock.

The casino features a great selection of popular slots and video poker machines with denominations ranging from $0.01 to $100. Whether you want to have some fun or play for some serious money, you will feel at home here.

In the table games department, Bally’s Casino AC offers a standard variety of options such as baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette, Pai Gow, Let It Ride, Three Card Poker, Mississippi Stud, Four Card Poker, High Card Flush, and more.

The FanDuel Sportsbook inside the casino lets you bet on your favorite sports, like basketball, football, tennis, MMA, soccer, golf, and more. Five betting windows are available, and 20 self-serving kiosks, so you can rest assured you will never miss out on a bet.

FAQ

Is online poker legal in NJ?

Yes, online poker is legal and regulated in New Jersey. The online gambling bill was passed back in 2013, and it has been legal to play real money poker online in the state ever since. However, it is only legal to play on the sites that are licensed and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE).

Do I have to be physically present in New Jersey to play online poker?

Yes, the gaming law requires all players to be physically present in the state when actively playing. However, you can download the software, create your account, and even deposit and withdraw funds from other locations.

I’m traveling to NJ from out of state. Can I play online poker while I’m in Jersey?

Yes, absolutely. If you’re a US resident of legal gambling age, you can create an account and play online poker while visiting. After you leave New Jersey, you may still be able to access your account and withdraw any winnings (depending upon the operator). However, you won’t be able to play any real money online poker until you are back within the state lines.

What are the best NJ online poker rooms?

Currently, PokerStars NJ, sharing a player pool with PokerStars MI, is the number one poker site in New Jersey. It is followed by, in order, BetMGM Poker NJ, WSOP NJ, Borgata Poker NJ, and partypoker NJ.

Does New Jersey Share Player Pools with Other Regulated States?

Yes. New Jersey is one of the four states to have entered a multi-state online poker agreement back in 2017, the others being Nevada and Delaware, and then in 2022, Michigan. Thanks to this, players from NJ do get to share the virtual felt with those from these three states, both in tournaments and at the cash tables. For now, PokerStars US is the only operator sharing player pools between New Jersey and Michigan, while WSOP US offers the only NJ-NV-DE combined poker network.

Are NJ online poker rooms safe?

Yes. All legally-operating poker rooms in New Jersey are safe to play at. These operators are licensed and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) and are subject to strict rules and regulations to ensure the integrity and fairness of the games. They also use advanced security measures to protect player information and funds, including the use of encryption technology and secure servers.

It is important to note that playing at unregulated or offshore online poker sites can be risky, as they may not have the same level of security or oversight as legal and regulated sites. Playing at legal and regulated poker rooms in New Jersey is recommended to ensure a safe and secure gaming experience.

For more information on choosing a safe and legal poker room to play at, check out How Do I Choose a Safe Online Poker Room? 6 Things to Look Out For.

Can I download any mobile poker apps in New Jersey?

Yes. New Jersey online poker apps for iOS and Android devices are available from all the state’s top poker rooms. You only need to head to the operator’s website to download and install the relevant app on your device. Of course, location rules still apply, so you will need to allow the software to access your device’s geolocation data to confirm you are accessing the games from within New Jersey.

Can I win WSOP Bracelets by playing online poker in NJ?

Yes, you can win WSOP gold bracelets online in New Jersey. Players can compete in the online WSOP events from the comfort of their own homes and have the chance to win the same prestigious WSOP bracelets as those awarded in the live events in Vegas.

In addition, WSOP hosts online events that are part of the WSOP Online Circuit, and players from New Jersey are eligible to participate in these events, playing for cash prizes and WSOP Circuit Rings.

Are NJ online poker rooms rigged?

Online poker games offered by legal and regulated operators in New Jersey, such as those licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE), are not rigged. These operators are subject to strict regulations and regular audits to ensure that the games are fair and operate correctly. Additionally, these operators use advanced security measures to protect player information and funds.

What NJ online poker deposit bonuses are available?

As a new player in New Jersey, you are truly spoiled for choice. There are quite a few nice NJ online poker deposit bonuses up for grabs, so it boils down to your expectations and preferences. Our top recommendations are:

• WSOP NJ — up to $100 in free play with your first deposit & a 100% match up to $1000
• PokerStars NJ — $100 in Bonus Play & a 100% boost up to $600
• BetMGM Poker NJ — 100% match up to $1000 & up to $75 in MTT tickets
• Borgata Poker NJ — 100% match up to $1000 & up to $75 in MTT tickets

How do I cash out at NJ online poker rooms?

Because online poker is a completely legal and regulated activity in New Jersey, there are many cheap, reliable, and quick ways to move money on and off online poker sites. You can transfer directly from your bank, use e-wallets and credit cards, and even deposit and receive cash directly at casino cages in Atlantic City.

New Jersey Online Poker Updates