Online Poker NJ: The Best Legal New Jersey Poker Apps For Real Money
When New Jersey first made online poker legal, it was the hot new thing. After seeing Chris Moneymaker win the World Series of Poker in 2003, everybody thought they could quit their day job and and grind online… including me. After some ups and downs, the NJ online poker community is stronger than ever. There are several legal and safe online poker apps in NJ you can use, so there’s no need to sign onto to an unregulated site to play. Also, they offer unified poker pools to player other players in other states, live in real time.
Since then, I’ve played on just about every NJ online poker site you can think of. Some are fantastic, some are forgettable, and a few land somewhere in between. This guide is my take on the best NJ poker sites right now, what you can expect when you play, and how to find the room that fits your style.
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Top 2 NJ Online Poker Sites – September 2025
If you’re looking to play online poker in New Jersey, you want a site that’s safe, fair, and actually fun to use. After trying all the legal NJ poker apps, I’ve picked my top two favorites for September 2025. Both are fully licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, so your money and info are protected, and they offer great game selection, smooth software, and enough players to make every table feel lively. Here’s a closer look at what each one does best.
| Poker Site | Welcome Bonus | What I Like Most | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM Poker NJ | 100% match up to $1,000 + $85 bonus | Great mobile app, steady traffic. You can vs players from NJ, PA, NV, MI & DE | Mobile players and steady cash gamers |
| Borgata Poker NJ | 100% match up to $1,000 + $85 in Tournament Tickets | Shares the same network as BetMGM and PartyPoker, solid brand connection with Borgata Atlantic City | Players who like familiar software and Borgata’s rewards tie-ins |
NJ Online Poker App Reviews – September 2025
I’ve spent time on all of these sites, and here’s what stood out to me.
| Poker App | Availability | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| BetMGM Poker NJ | iOS & Android | Part of the PartyPoker network in NJ. Strong mobile app, steady traffic, and good integration with BetMGM Casino and Sportsbook. |
| Borgata Poker NJ | iOS & Android | Shares the same network as BetMGM and PartyPoker in NJ. Offers cash games, tournaments, and promos tied to Borgata’s brand. |
BetMGM Poker NJ
BetMGM has one of the cleanest mobile apps, which makes it my go-to when I want to play on the move. Traffic is steady, so you can always find a table, and their integration with casino and sportsbook accounts is convenient.
Pros: Excellent mobile experience, steady game selection, easy banking.
Cons: Tournament lineup can feel limited, and rewards aren’t as deep as some players might want.
Borgata Poker NJ
Borgata has been a big name in Atlantic City for decades, and their online poker room carries that same reputation. The software is smooth, the player pool is solid thanks to shared traffic with BetMGM and PartyPoker, and the welcome package is one of the strongest in New Jersey.
Pros: Trusted brand with a long history, solid traffic, strong welcome offer.
Cons: Software can feel a bit dated at times, and the lobby isn’t as easy to navigate as some other apps.
How to Start Playing NJ Online Poker
Getting started is straightforward:
- Pick a site — choose the one that fits your style, whether it’s big tournaments, steady cash games, or generous promos.
- Register an account — you’ll need to provide your info and verify your identity.
- Deposit funds — NJ poker sites support credit cards, e-wallets, PayPal, and more.
- Download the app or software — most rooms require this so they can confirm you’re actually in New Jersey.
- Play — start small, test the games, and see where you feel comfortable.
You must be 21 or older and physically located in New Jersey to play real money poker online.
- BetMGM Poker
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Unified Poker Pools: Playing Beyond New Jersey
One of the coolest things about online poker NJ is that it’s not just New Jersey players at the tables anymore. Thanks to agreements between states, sites like WSOP NJ now share player pools with Nevada, Michigan, and Delaware. That means when I sit down at a tournament, I’m not just battling folks across the Garden State… I’m up against grinders in Vegas, casual players in Michigan, and everyone in between.
This “shared liquidity” setup completely changes the experience. Prize pools get bigger, tournament fields are deeper, and cash games run more often with steady traffic at all hours. Back when NJ poker was fenced in, the action could dry up outside of peak hours. Now, with unified pools, I can log in on a random Tuesday afternoon and still find a table worth playing.
Not every NJ poker site is part of this network yet, but BetMGM is the biggest example and more operators are expected to follow. For me, it makes a huge difference. It feels closer to the old days of online poker when you could always find a game, no matter the time of day.
Types of Poker Games on NJ Online Poker Sites
If you’re playing online poker in New Jersey, you’ll quickly notice that most legal sites offer a bunch of different games to keep things interesting, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can usually find:
Texas Hold’em
This is the classic game everyone knows and loves. You get two private cards and five community cards, and the goal is to make the best five-card hand. It’s easy enough for beginners to pick up, but there’s plenty of strategy to keep experienced players on their toes. Most sites offer cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go tables for Hold’em.
Omaha
Omaha is a bit like Hold’em but with four private cards instead of two. You have to use exactly two of your cards plus three from the board to make your hand, which makes the game a little more complex and exciting. It’s perfect if you like bigger pots and more possibilities for clever plays.
Seven-Card Stud
Seven-Card Stud isn’t as common as Hold’em or Omaha, but the bigger NJ sites usually have it. You get a mix of face-up and face-down cards over several betting rounds. The pace is slower, so it rewards patience and careful reading of your opponents.
Cash Games
Cash games are flexible and simple. You can join a table anytime, pick your stakes, and leave whenever you want. They’re perfect if you just want to practice, play casually, or focus on small, steady wins.
Tournaments
Most sites run all sorts of tournaments, like multi-table tournaments (MTTs), Sit & Go tournaments, and special events. Tournaments are a great way to compete for bigger prize pools without having to commit to one table for hours.
| Tournament Type | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Table Tournament (MTT) | Large tournaments with multiple tables. Players are eliminated until one winner remains. Prize pools can get big, and there’s lots of strategy involved. | Players who enjoy long sessions and big prize potential |
| Sit & Go (SNG) | Small, single-table tournaments that start once enough players join. Quick, flexible, and perfect when you don’t want to wait for a scheduled event. | Casual or busy players who want short, competitive games |
| Spin & Go / Jackpot Tournaments | Fast, 3-player tournaments with randomized prize pools. Winners can hit big, but games are quick and intense. | Players who like high-risk, high-reward games and fast action |
| Heads-Up Tournaments | One-on-one matchups in a bracket-style format until a winner emerges. Tests skill and strategy directly against a single opponent. | Players who enjoy direct competition and sharpening their skills |
| Special Event Series | Scheduled tournament series with unique formats, themes, or bigger prize pools. Often run over days or weeks. | Experienced players looking for variety and big rewards |
Top 5 U.S. Online Poker Players in 2025 by Earnings
As of September 2025, here are the top 5 U.S.-based online poker players by their tournament earnings:
| Rank | Player Name | Total Earnings (2025) | Top Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seth Davies | $12,291,647 | Dominated high-stakes tournaments, securing multiple six-figure wins. |
| 2 | Michael Mizrachi | $11,400,233 | Renowned for his performance in the 2025 WSOP Main Event, finishing 3rd and earning $4 million. |
| 3 | Benjamin Tollerene | $10,771,151 | Consistent top performer in both online and live events. |
| 4 | Justin Bonomo | $69,634,416 | Continued success in high-roller events, maintaining a strong presence in the poker community. |
| 5 | David Peters | $56,061,286 | Achieved significant victories in various tournaments, including a notable win in a $40,000 No-Limit Hold’em event. |
NJ Online Poker Safety and Regulation
One of the best things about playing online poker in New Jersey is the peace of mind. Every legal site is licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), which means the state makes sure everything is safe and fair.
Fair and Monitored Games
All games on licensed sites are checked regularly to make sure they’re fair. You can play knowing the results aren’t rigged and that the state is keeping an eye on things.
Age and Location Verification
Sites have to make sure players are at least 21 years old and actually in New Jersey. Technology makes sure no one outside the state can play for real money.
Secure Transactions
Deposits and withdrawals are safe and protected. Your personal and financial information is secure, which is why I never put money on unregulated sites; the protections just aren’t there.
Bigger Player Pools
Some New Jersey sites share players with other sites in the state. That means more people to play against, more game options, and a better experience overall.
Legal Rules
New Jersey’s internet gaming laws make sure online poker is legal and safe. They set rules for how sites must operate and how players are protected.
Licensing and Fees
Getting a license to run an online poker site in New Jersey isn’t cheap. Operators pay fees to stay licensed, which helps fund programs to keep gambling safe and responsible.
Stick to Licensed Sites
If you want to play online poker, stick to sites licensed by the DGE. They meet all the state’s rules for fair games, secure money, and responsible play.
Why I Avoid Unregulated Sites
I never play on unregulated sites because there’s no guarantee the games are fair, your money is safe, or your personal information is protected. It’s just not worth the risk.
NJ Online Poker FAQ
Is NJ online poker legal?
Yes. New Jersey legalized online poker in 2013. You must be at least 21 years old and physically located in NJ.
Can I play NJ online poker outside the state?
No. The sites use geolocation software, so you need to be in New Jersey to play for real money.
What games are available on NJ online poker sites?
Most platforms offer Texas Hold’em, Omaha, sit-and-gos, and multi-table tournaments. Some also run Stud and mixed games.
Do NJ online poker sites share players with other states?
Yes. New Jersey is part of a multi-state agreement with states like Nevada and Michigan, which means bigger tournaments and more action.
How do NJ online poker bonuses work?
Most are deposit matches, sometimes with free tickets. Just be sure to check play-through requirements and expiration dates.
How do I know an NJ online poker site is safe?
Only licensed operators are allowed in NJ. They’re regulated by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, which ensures fair play and secure payments.
What payment methods can I use on NJ poker apps?
Most sites accept credit and debit cards, PayPal, online banking, and prepaid cards. Withdrawals usually go back to the same method you used to deposit.
Can I play NJ online poker on mobile?
Yes. Every licensed poker site in NJ has a mobile app or a mobile-friendly website so you can play cash games and tournaments on the go.
How are my poker funds protected in NJ?
Licensed operators keep player funds in separate accounts from operating funds. This protects your balance even if the operator runs into business issues.
Do I have to pay taxes on NJ online poker winnings?
Yes. All gambling winnings, including poker, are considered taxable income under federal and state law. Keep good records of your play for reporting purposes.