New York Online Casinos: What You Need to Know in 2025
Is Online Casino Gambling Legal in New York?
No, NY online casinos are not legal in New York. As of mid-2025, online casino gambling remains prohibited under New York State law. While land-based casinos such as Resorts World Catskills and Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady operate legally within the state, the New York State Gaming Commission has not authorized online casino gaming, including games such as slots, blackjack, roulette, or other internet-based casino-style gambling.
According to Article I, Section 9 of the New York State Constitution and Article 195 of the New York Penal Law, all forms of internet casino gambling are prohibited unless specifically authorized by state legislation and regulated by the New York State Gaming Commission. Without such authorization, online casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette remain illegal under New York law.
What Options Do New Yorkers Have for Online Gambling?
While traditional online casinos are not legal, New Yorkers can still participate in online sports betting at licensed sportsbooks. The state has authorized several operators offering regulated sports betting apps.
For casino-style games, many New Yorkers use sweepstakes-style platforms. These sites operate legally by using virtual currency or “sweeps coins” instead of real money wagers. However, the legality and regulatory oversight of these sites remain complicated, and New York’s Attorney General has taken action against several operators it deemed illegal.
For New Yorkers interested in online casino games, nearby states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania offer fully legal and regulated online casinos. Players can access these sites legally if they are physically located in those states.
If you’re curious about those options, check out our detailed NJ online casinos guide for expert reviews, bonus offers, and app recommendations.
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Is NY Online Casino Legalization in New York Coming?
There have been legislative efforts to legalize online casinos in New York. For example:
- Senate Bill S2614 was introduced in 2025 to legalize online casino gaming.
- However, the state budget for 2024–2025 did not include provisions to legalize online casinos.
- Governor Kathy Hochul has not publicly supported online casino legalization as of this writing.
The situation may change, but for now, New Yorkers should consider online casino gaming as illegal under state law.
How Can New Yorkers Safely Gamble Online?
If you want to gamble online while staying within the law, here are your safest options:
- Use Licensed New York Sportsbooks: Operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and BetMGM are licensed to offer sports betting apps in New York.
- Play at Land-Based Casinos: New York’s physical casinos offer live gaming but do not yet provide legal online casino platforms.
- Avoid Unregulated Online Casinos: Many offshore or unlicensed websites operate illegally and carry risks related to fairness, security, and payments.
New York Gambling Scene: iGaming, Sportsbooks & Casinos – Mid-2025 Update
iGaming: Still Waiting for Legalization
As of mid-2025, real-money online casino gambling remains illegal in New York State. While there is ongoing discussion and legislative proposals aiming to legalize iGaming, including online slots and table games, no final authorization has been granted. Efforts to expand the sports betting market and adjust tax rates are underway, but online casino legalization remains pending.
Sportsbooks: Thriving Despite High Tax Rates
New York’s mobile sports betting market continues to grow rapidly. In 2024, the state reported a record-breaking sports betting handle, the highest in the U.S. since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that legalized sports betting nationwide. Despite having the highest tax rate in the country, at 51%, the market remains strong with multiple licensed operators offering competitive promotions.
As of mid-2025, nine sportsbooks operate in New York, including well-known names such as Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and bet365. Promotions and bonus offers are abundant, providing good incentives for sports bettors.
Brick-and-Mortar Casinos: Bidding for Downstate Licenses
New York is currently in the process of awarding up to three new downstate casino licenses. Each license requires a significant capital investment and a substantial licensing fee. Proposals from prominent groups include plans for large-scale casinos featuring thousands of hotel rooms, sportsbooks, entertainment venues, and other amenities.
Notable bids include a consortium involving Jay-Z, Caesars, and SL Green aiming to build a large casino complex in Times Square. Other proposals, such as from Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts, have withdrawn from the bidding process due to various strategic and regulatory challenges.
The state’s Gaming Facility Location Board is expected to finalize license awards by the end of 2025.
Legal Brick-and-Mortar Casinos in New York
NY Casino Name | Location | Type |
---|---|---|
del Lago Resort & Casino | Tyre, Seneca County | Commercial |
Resorts World Catskills | Thompson, Sullivan County | Commercial |
Rivers Casino & Resort | Schenectady, Schenectady County | Commercial |
Tioga Downs Casino | Nichols, Tioga County | Commercial |
Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort | Hogansburg, St. Lawrence County | Tribal |
Yellow Brick Road Casino | Chittenango, Madison County | Tribal |
Point Place Casino | Bridgeport, Madison County | Tribal |
Resorts World Casino New York City | Queens, New York City | Tribal |
Legal Sportsbooks in New York
NY Sportsbook Name | Type | Launch Date |
---|---|---|
FanDuel Sportsbook | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
DraftKings Sportsbook | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
Caesars Sportsbook | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
BetMGM Sportsbook | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
BetRivers Sportsbook | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
Resorts World Bet | Online & Retail | January 2022 |
Bally Bet | Online | January 2022 |
ESPN BET | Online | January 2022 |
Fanatics Sportsbook | Online | February 2024 |
NY Online Casino Bonus Codes — What New Yorkers Should Know
Since online casino gambling is not yet legal in New York, there are no authorized New York online casino bonus codes available at this time.
If you’re interested in online casino gaming and bonuses, one popular option is to drive over to New Jersey—which has a fully regulated and mature online casino market. Many New Yorkers visit or live close enough to enjoy NJ’s legal casino apps, which offer competitive bonuses and a great variety of games.
Top NJ Online Casino Bonuses You Can Use When Visiting The Garden State
Here’s a quick snapshot of some of the biggest New Jersey online casinos, their welcome bonuses, wagering requirements, and standout features:
NJ Online Casino | Welcome Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
BetMGM Casino NJ | Up to $1,000 back if you lose + $25 bonus | 1x (freeplay), 15x (bonus) | Huge slot selection, MGM Rewards |
Caesars Casino NJ | Up to $2,510 + 2,500 Reward Credits® | 15x on bonus funds | Trusted brand, excellent VIP program |
FanDuel Casino NJ | Play It Again up to $1,000 (first 24 hours) | 1x | Excellent mobile app, quick payouts |
DraftKings Casino NJ | 500 Spins + 100% Lossback Up to $1,000 | 15x | Custom games, seamless sportsbook link |
BetRivers Casino NJ | 100% match up to $500 | 1x | Fast withdrawals, rewards shop |
- Legal and regulated: NJ online casinos are licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.
- Generous bonuses: These casinos offer welcome bonuses worth hundreds or thousands of dollars to new players.
- Top-rated apps: Enjoy smooth, secure gameplay on desktop or mobile devices.
- Wide game variety: Thousands of slots, table games, and live dealer options.
- Easy access: For many New Yorkers, NJ casinos are just a short drive away or accessible via online apps when physically present in NJ.
Real Reviews of Legal Online Casinos — What I Found Playing Them All
I visit New Jersey often and have spent a good amount of time testing these online casino apps firsthand. Here’s my honest take on each one:
BetMGM Casino
I like BetMGM for its massive slot selection and seamless connection to MGM Rewards, which is a nice bonus if you also visit their physical casinos. The app runs smooth with few glitches. The welcome bonus is solid, especially the loss-back feature.
Pros:
- Huge variety of slots and games
- Easy-to-use interface
- MGM Rewards points add value if you visit their casinos
Cons:
- Customer service can be slow during peak times
- Bonus wagering can feel a bit complex with freeplay vs bonus cash
Caesars Casino
Caesars is a trusted brand, and their app reflects that with a polished, professional feel. I appreciated the VIP program perks and regular promotions. The bonus is generous, but the 15x wagering means you need to stick around to clear it.
Pros:
- Great VIP and loyalty rewards
- Smooth, reliable app experience
- Plenty of live dealer options
Cons:
- Bonus terms a bit restrictive
- Some game lobbies can feel overwhelming with so many choices
FanDuel Casino
FanDuel’s casino app feels fresh and fast, especially if you already use their sportsbook. The “Play It Again” bonus during your first 24 hours is a cool safety net. Withdrawals are usually quick.
Pros:
- User-friendly mobile app
- Fast payout speeds
- Easy bonus requirements
Cons:
- Game library isn’t as extensive as some others
- Occasional app crashes during heavy traffic
DraftKings Casino
DraftKings offers a unique experience with some custom games you won’t find elsewhere. The app ties in nicely with their sportsbook and DFS platforms. The lossback plus free spins combo is generous, but wagering is on the higher side.
Pros:
- Innovative and exclusive games
- Great sportsbook integration
- Nice welcome offer with spins and lossback
Cons:
- Bonus wagering is steep at 15x
- Can be buggy on certain Android devices
BetRivers Casino
BetRivers impressed me with how fast withdrawals process compared to other sites, which is a big plus. The rewards shop adds a fun way to spend your loyalty points. The 100% match bonus is straightforward and easy to use.
Pros:
- Quick withdrawal turnaround
- Rewards shop for points redemption
- Simple and fair bonus terms
Cons:
- User interface feels a bit dated
- Smaller game library than bigger operators
Borgata Online Casino
Borgata’s online casino feels like the digital extension of the iconic Atlantic City property. It has a wide game variety and reliable gameplay. The bonus is solid with a nice combination of loss-back and bonus cash.
Pros:
- Strong Atlantic City brand
- Wide range of slots and table games
- Consistent bonus promotions
Cons:
- Somewhat clunky app interface
- Occasional slow loading times
Hard Rock Casino
Hard Rock’s online casino stands out with a rock-themed interface and some exclusive games you won’t find elsewhere. The bonus is good but the 20x wagering is higher than average.
Pros:
- Unique rockstar vibe
- Exclusive games and promos
- Strong brand presence
Cons:
- Higher wagering requirements
- App can be glitchy on Android
Golden Nugget Casino
Golden Nugget is known for its live dealer options and frequent promotions. The deposit $5 and get 500 spins offer is one of the most generous welcome deals out there. The app is stable and well-designed.
Pros:
- Excellent live dealer selection
- Frequent promotions and bonuses
- Smooth and reliable app
Cons:
- Wagering requirements on bonuses can be tough
- Customer support can be slow
bet365 Casino
bet365’s casino app has a clean and simple user interface, with a strong live dealer section. The bonus is competitive but comes with a 20x wagering requirement, which is on the high side.
Pros:
- Clean UI, easy navigation
- Strong live dealer offerings
- Reliable platform
Cons:
- Higher wagering requirements
- Smaller game library compared to some competitors
Horseshoe Casino
Backed by Caesars, Horseshoe’s online casino offers a solid welcome bonus with a loss-back feature during the first 24 hours. The app onboarding is quick and user-friendly.
Pros:
- Fast and easy account setup
- Good loss-back bonus
- Strong Caesars backing
Cons:
- Limited game selection compared to bigger sites
- Somewhat basic interface design
Fanatics Casino
Fanatics has a mobile-only platform with a sports-first feel, which makes it great if you want a combined sportsbook and casino experience. The insurance bonus up to $100 daily for 10 days is unique but wagering varies.
Pros:
- Sports-focused casino app
- Innovative bonus offers
- Growing game library
Cons:
Still building out its game selection
Mobile-only, no desktop version
NY Online Casino Disclaimers & Responsible Gambling Resources
NY Casino Legal Disclaimer
Elite Sports NY provides informational content about gambling laws and operators but does not offer legal advice. Online casino gambling is currently illegal in New York State except where expressly authorized by law. Players should always verify the legality of gambling activities in their jurisdiction and ensure compliance with all applicable laws. All information on this site is for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage illegal gambling. Users must be at least 21 years old to participate in any form of legal gambling.
Responsible Gambling Commitment
Gambling should be a fun and controlled activity. We urge all players to gamble responsibly. If you feel that gambling is negatively impacting your life or the lives of those around you, help is available. Here are some trusted resources and tools to support responsible gambling:
- New York State Problem Gambling Helpline
Call 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369)
https://nyproblemgambling.org/ - National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
Call 1-800-522-4700 or text 1-800-522-4700
https://www.ncpgambling.org/ - Gambling Therapy
Online support and resources
https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/
Tools to Help Control Gambling Behavior
Many licensed online casinos and sportsbooks provide built-in responsible gambling tools, such as deposit, loss, and wager limits, session time reminders, self-exclusion programs, and reality checks or cool-off periods. We encourage players to utilize these features to maintain control and prevent problem gambling.
How to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, reach out to a counselor specializing in gambling addiction, contact local support groups or treatment centers, or use helpline services listed above for confidential assistance.
Remember: Gambling should never interfere with your financial stability, personal relationships, or mental health. Play responsibly and stay informed.
NY Online Casinos – Frequently Asked Questions
Is online casino gambling legal in New York?
As of mid-2025, online casino gambling is not legally permitted in New York State. Only land-based casinos are authorized to operate.
Can New Yorkers play online casino games legally?
Not within New York State. However, many New Yorkers access legal online casinos by visiting nearby states like New Jersey, where online gambling is regulated.
What land-based casinos operate in New York?
Notable casinos include Resorts World Catskills and Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, which offer a range of gaming and entertainment options.
When might online casino gambling become legal in New York?
There are ongoing legislative efforts and discussions, but as of mid-2025, no official legalization date has been set.
Are there responsible gambling resources available?
Yes, New York offers resources such as the Problem Gambling Helpline (1-877-8-HOPENY). National organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling also provide support.