Both are infamous among American online poker players. UIGEA is short for Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. Passed in 2006, and brought into force in 2010, UIGEA resulted in a number of companies leaving the U.S. online poker market.

1. Poker Questions Answered online, free
2. Poker Questions Answered Online
3. Poker Trivia Questions And Answers
4. Poker Questions And Answers

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As for Black Friday, that refers to the events of April 14th, 2011, when the U.S. government seized the domain names of a handful of major online poker sites. In the aftermath of Black Friday, PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker and the CEREUS Network stopped accepting players from the United States. Full Tilt Poker closed completely for a time following Black Friday before reopening as a subsidiary of PokerStars. The CEREUS Network closed permanently a few weeks after Black Friday.

For a more comprehensive answer to the question, give our Black Friday / UIGEA guide a read.

The Internet has brought the game of poker to an entirely new level. Poker is now a truly global game, with players from around the world competing against each other in the setting of an online poker room around the clock, participating in games you couldn't have even imagined a few years ago for stakes that are genuinely awe-inspiring.

If that sounds like an exciting setting to you, then you're far from alone. The mix of innovation, competition and money to be won attracts thousands of new players to the tables each and every day. Most will just blindly choose a room and start playing, but a few will take the time to inform themselves about the basics of online poker before jumping in. We're assuming you're one of those few since you've come across this page, which answers the questions most commonly asked about online poker by players who are new to the game - or at least new to playing it online.

Most Popular Poker Questions Players Ask

Can Online Poker Possibly Be Safe?

Yes. While online poker has had its share of black eyes over the last decade or so, it's tough to think of an industry that hasn't. Despite the existence of a few unscrupulous companies, the overall track record of the online poker industry is quite solid. For every problem room, players can choose from at least a dozen online poker sites with impeccable reputations. Many of these rooms are publicly-traded companies backed by major corporations - a far cry from the fly-by-night operations the skeptical might imagine when they conjure up a mental image of an online poker room.

We focus our guides on safe poker rooms that are properly licensed, fully regulated and that have a track record of delivering on promises to players. Sticking with that roster allows you to leave your worries about the safety and security of online poker at the door and lets you get on with what you're really there to do - play some cards.

Do I Have to Play For High Stakes Online?

No. In fact, one of the great innovations of online poker has been to make poker available at some of the smallest stakes possible - much smaller than the average kitchen table game. As online poker rooms aren't constrained by having to pay dealers or to fit within a physical space, they can offer games at limits so low (think pennies) that just about anyone can participate - something that can't be said of a live casino, where even the smallest stakes for poker games generally involve hundreds of dollars. If you prefer to play small stakes poker, you might be interested in our page which outlines poker sites accepting small deposits.

Do I Have to Use a Credit Card to Play Online Poker?

No. Many rooms do accept credit cards, but if you're not comfortable using your credit card at an online poker room there are a number of alternative options. The most popular among players are e-wallets (such as PayPal and Moneybookers) that allow players to deposit and withdraw at a room without having to expose any of their personal financial information. The only thing you'll ever have to provide is your account number for the e-wallet - your personal banking information will never be seen by the room.

Can I Deposit Just a Small Amount at an Online Poker Room?

Yes. Most poker rooms have minimum deposit amounts around the $5-$10 range, and some rooms will let you deposit as little as $1. The reason why deposits aren't available for even lower amounts is that the room usually pays a flat fee to a payment processor (the credit card company, for example) who handles the transaction, meaning they would lose money if they accepted micro-deposits.

Are Online Poker Deposit Bonuses Real Money?

Yes. People see deposit bonuses at online poker rooms and assume there must be some kind of catch - especially if those people have experience at online casinos, where bonuses are often accompanied by very restrictive terms. Online poker deposit bonuses are actually pretty straightforward affairs - you deposit, play a certain amount and then the money is yours to do whatever it is you see fit. Play more or cash it out - once the bonus is cleared, it's actual money that can be used just like the money you deposited. Some rooms also offer no deposit bonuses, often referred to as free bankrolls. This type of bonus allows you to receive the cash upfront to play with immediately. In most cases, you will be required to clear the bonus before you can withdraw it.

Will Poker Sites Let Me Cash Out When I Win?

Yes. This is another question that customers who have been burned by rogue online casinos and sportsbooks often ask. Remember, unlike a casino game such as blackjack where you compete against the house, poker is played between individuals. The house has no stake in the outcome of a hand. The room just takes their fee (the rake) regardless of who wins and who loses. At the end of the hand, it's all the same to the poker room - they're not like the casino who sees you cashing out 'their money' that you won from the house.

Are the Games at Online Poker Rooms Rigged?

No. Cheating is a part of life - an unfortunate one, but an unavoidable one - and to pretend that cheating doesn't take place at online poker rooms would be disingenuous. Cheating takes place at live poker rooms, at home games, and online as well. However, there's a difference between a room where cheating sometimes occurs and a room that makes cheating possible. While you'll naturally find some of the first at online poker sites (just as you would at some live poker rooms), you won't find any major room that facilitates cheating, rigs the deck or does anything at all to influence the outcome of games. Online poker is a multi-billion dollar industry with the eyes of players, shareholders, regulators and governments trained squarely on its back. The idea that a major room would risk ruin by messing with the deck is simply illogical.

Again, we don't discount the notion that a rogue online poker room could engage in such behavior. That's why our guides are comprised exclusively of rooms with established reputations and transparency regarding their security processes, methods for dealing and so on.

Is Online Poker Legal?

The answer to this question can differ dramatically from one country to the next, and even from one region to the next within individual countries. But one thing we do know is that there are absolutely no cases whatsoever that we are aware of where an online poker player was arrested and successfully charged simply for playing real-money poker online.

Who regulates online poker sites?

The answer depends on the poker site. There are a number of jurisdictions around the globe that regulate gambling, both live and online. Well-regarded jurisdictions for online poker include Malta, the United Kingdom, Gibraltar and Alderney. Competing regulatory bodies for online poker sites are located in Canada, Curacao, Antigua and Costa Rica.

To determine where a given poker room is regulated, scroll to the bottom of their home page and look for an icon indicating what regulatory body issues the site's operating license. We also provide lists and licensing information for poker rooms in Canada, United States, Australia and the UK.

What is rake?

The rake is how online poker sites stay in business. Think of the rake like a small tax. The tax only applies when you buy into a tournament or win a pot in a cash game. A small amount is collected by the room, the rest goes to the players, and the room can afford to keep the lights on.

Any reputable room makes their rake schedule very clear to players. This is important, because rake is not universal - not all rooms charge the same rake for the same games. And comparing rake charges at rooms can easily save you a hefty chunk of your bankroll, which is one of the reasons rake plays such a big role in our poker room ratings.

Is the software safe?

The software of major online poker rooms is rigorously tested and regularly audited. Of course, security ultimately relies on the player; if you're not careful with your password or your computer then there's no amount of security on the poker room's end that can protect you from security threats. But as far as the software itself goes, you can feel confident that the online poker sites we review are offering software that allows you to play real-money poker in a secure environment.

What are the stats I see in the lobby?

Different rooms show slightly different stats, but there are a few core stats that you'll see in the lobby of nearly every poker room.

1. Players in hand: Sometimes called VPIP or 'players to flop,' this stat generally indicates how many players are contesting an average hand at the table. The higher the number, the looser play at that table is likely to be.
2. Average pot size: A rolling average of pot sizes at the table, usually over a period of the last hour or so. Bigger average pot sizes can indicate looser play, but they also could indicate more aggressive play or simply a table where the deck is forcing an abnormal amount of big-pot confrontations.
3. Waiting list: This number shows how many people are in line for an open seat at the table. Once you join the waiting list, the number should update to not only show you the number of players in line, but also your position among them.

Is my money safe if I deposit to a poker site?

Assuming you do your homework and maintain proper security hygiene on your end, you should have no compunction about keeping funds at an online poker site. The top sites all have a policy of 'segregating' player funds, meaning your balance is separate from the operating accounts of the poker room. That ensures even worst-case scenarios - such as a room closing their doors and shutting down - do not result in a loss of player funds.

What are VIP programs?

Online poker VIP programs are the typical method poker sites use to reward players. In a nutshell, these programs seek to incentivize players by refunding them some portion of the rake players pay. Some VIP programs are quite simple - players get a set percentage of their rake returned. VIP programs can also be quite complex; the PokerStars VIP program, for example, requires more than a few minutes with a calculator to fully comprehend.

Much like rake, VIP programs are very different from one poker site to the next. And choosing the right one can mean the difference between showing a profit at online poker or watching your bankroll chart dip into the red.

In this poker FAQ we have listed a wide range of commonly
asked questions that relate to playing poker both live and
online. We have provided you with helpful answers to these
questions and links to additional information on topics that we
feel need further explanation.

This page has been provided as a reference tool for anyone
that has a specific poker related question, but if you’re
looking for more information and advice on poker we can help
with that too. Our website features a detailed beginner’s guide
to playing poker and a section on playing poker online.

General Poker FAQ

Online Poker FAQ

General Poker FAQ: Answers

Is poker hard to learn?

No, playing poker is certainly not difficult! You only really
need to know the basic rules to start playing and the rules of
most variations of the game are pretty simple. Learning how to
play well can be more challenging, but you don’t necessarily
need to worry about that if you’re just playing for fun.

Can I win money playing poker?

You can definitely win money by playing poker, and in fact,
anyone can win money, even if they’re not a particularly
experienced or skilled player. You can improve your chances of
winning by learning how to play the game better than your
opponents, but there’s enough luck involved in poker that even a
complete beginner has the potential to win.

Why is poker so popular?

Poker is popular for a number of reasons. It’s a simple game
to learn for starters and many people really enjoy playing it.
The possibility of winning money is also very appealing and it’s
even a game that’s suitable for all budgets.

Is poker all about the cards you are dealt?

Not entirely, no. Obviously the cards play a major part in
determining who wins and who loses, but there’s more to poker
than that. The actions of players, including their betting
strategies, are also a fundamental part of the game. Good cards
will help you win, but skilled players can find ways to win even
when they aren’t dealt a good hand.

What is poker strategy?

Poker strategy is a very broad subject. It’s not something
that can easily be explained in just a sentence or two but, in
very basic terms, it’s about learning how to play the game to
it’s full potential. Poker is a game based on decisions and
poker strategy essentially teaches you how to make the right
decisions at the right times.

Are poker winnings taxable?

Poker tax laws vary from one country to the next, so there’s
no definitive answer to this question. If you start winning
significant amounts of money while playing poker, then you
should check your local tax laws to see how they apply to you.
Alternatively, you could consult with a qualified tax
professional and seek their advice if you have even more
concerns or questions that you need answered.

What is the best form of poker to play?

There are several different variations of poker and none of
them could really be described as the “best.” With that being
said, it makes a lot of sense for beginners to start with Texas
Hold’em. This is the most popular form of the game these days
and it’s also one of the easiest to learn. Once you are familiar
with Texas Hold’em, you can then start learning other forms of
poker more easily.

Is it better to play tournaments or cash games?

Tournaments and cash games are two distinct types of poker.
They both have their own set of characteristics and come with
their own advantages and disadvantages. A lot of players prefer
to specialize in one type or the other, but there’s no reason
why you can’t enjoy playing both. You should certainly at least
try both styles once, as you may be able to clearly see that you
prefer one over the other. However, neither one could
definitively be described as better than the other, as it’s
completely based on a player’s preference.

What is the difference between fixed limit and no limit?

Limit and no limit are two different types of betting
structures used in poker. There are others as well but these are
the two most commonly used. A betting structure basically
defines the limits for how much each player can bet when it’s
their turn to act. In fixed limit, a player can only bet or
raise a fixed amount. In no limit, a player can bet or raise any
amount providing they have the required chips to do so.

What is rake?

Rake is essentially a commission charged by a casino, online
poker site, or any other organizer of a poker game. In cash
games, rake usually appears in the form of a small percentage
taken out of each pot and in tournaments rake is generally a
small percentage taken out of each entry fee, otherwise referred
to as a buy in.

Online Poker FAQ: Answers

What’s the difference between live and online poker?

Poker is fundamentally the same regardless of whether it’s
played live or online. The basic rules are the same and the game
is played largely in the same way. There are, however, a few
notable differences that you need to focus on. A particularly
significant one is the pace of the game, as playing online is
much faster than playing live. Playing online is also much more
convenient; it offers a greater selection of games, and it has a
wide range of stakes available to suit your own personal needs.

Is online poker legal?

Poker Questions Answered online, free

The laws relating to the different types of online gambling
vary from one part of the world to the next. In some regions the
laws are very clear about online poker, but in some they are
very confusing. If you’re uncertain about the laws in your
region, then you should check them using a reliable source. It’s
also worth noting, though, that online gambling laws tend to
apply more to those providing the services (i.e. running a poker
site) than those who just simply use them.

Is online poker fixed?

No. This is a common concern among people who play online
poker, but it’s a largely unfounded one. Although there have
been some cases where poker sites have cheated their players,
these are extremely rare and it has become increasingly
difficult for a site to get away with it. In any case, if you
play at reputable sites, then you really don’t have anything to
worry about. It doesn’t benefit the site in any way to fix the
games, as who wins is unimportant to them. They get paid either
way every time a player pays rake.

Can I trust poker sites with my money?

Yes, but it’s still important to be cautious. You can trust
most poker sites with your money, the vast majority in fact.
There are a few sites that we would consider to be
untrustworthy, but if you steer clear of these you really have
nothing to worry about. You just need to make sure you use sites
that are reputable and that have a good track record, which
describes any of the sites that we recommend on our site.

Which are the best poker sites to use?

This is a matter of opinion to some extent, as the best poker
site for one player may not be the most suitable option for
another. When you are deciding where to play, the important
thing is to try to find a site that’s right for you. There are
certain criteria which all good poker sites should meet (being
trustworthy for example), but there are several other factors
which come down to personal preference.

Can I play at more than one poker site?

Yes. There’s nothing wrong with playing at only one site as
long as it offers everything you need, but there’s nothing wrong
with playing at a few different ones either. You might like to
use one site for your tournament play, for example, and another
one for playing cash games. You might also use one site to take
advantage of a monthly reload bonus and another because the
standard of the opposition is quite weak.

Do I have to download software to play?

Not necessarily. There was a time when all poker sites
required you to download software before you could play, but
more often than not we are seeing sites that offer the option of
playing directly from your web browser.

Can I play online poker with a Mac?

You can, but not at every site. There are a few sites that
use software that’s only compatible with a standard PC. There
are still plenty of options for Mac users though, including the
majority of the bigger sites.

Can I play online poker using my phone or tablet?

Yes. It has taken a while for mobile poker to take off and it
still has a long way to go, but there are now several poker
sites that allow you to play from the convenience of your own
mobile device.

Do I pay rake online?

Yes, rake is charged in online cash games and online
tournaments. This is how the poker sites make their money. The
exact rake structure will vary from one site to the next, but
you usually will pay less in rake than if you were playing live.

Which poker games are available online?

Poker Questions Answered Online

All the popular poker variants are available online. Texas
Hold’em is easily the most popular and the most widely
available, but there’ll be a variety of options at most sites.
Omaha, Razz, Seven Card Stud, and even some mixed game formats,
are all pretty common too.

Poker Trivia Questions And Answers

What stakes can I play for online?

Poker Questions And Answers

You can play for almost any stake you could imagine, as most
sites have a wide enough range of stakes to suit all players.
You’ll find cash games starting at stakes as low as $.01/$.02
blinds and tournaments that cost just $1 to enter. The very
highest stakes are only available at a few sites, but almost
every site has high enough stakes to please its players.

What are poker bonuses?

Poker bonuses are extra funds that poker sites add to your
account. They are typically offered as an incentive to new
customers to join and make a deposit or to existing customers as
a way to reward them for their playing activity. These bonuses
usually have to be “cleared” before you can withdraw them, which
means you have to play a certain amount of times at the tables
first.

What is a poker loyalty program?

A poker loyalty program is a specific method that poker sites
use to reward their customers. Some sites may refer to it as a
VIP scheme, but either term essentially refers to the same
thing. The main focus of a loyalty program is to give customers
something back in return for the rake they pay and their
commitment to the site. These rewards often come in the form of
cash, additional bonuses, entries into tournaments, or a variety
of other things. For more information, please read the above
page that focuses on bonuses and rewards.