New Jersey Online Casinos

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Updated:
February 11th 2024
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Can I Gamble Online In New Jersey?

Yes, you can gamble online in New Jersey. New Jersey online casino gaming is readily available. The state has laws to allow services in a legalized setting via licensing and regulation.

🔍Current Status:

Legal and Live!

📅 Market Launch Date:

November 21st, 2013

🎰 Most Popular Online Casino Games:

Slot machines including Divine Fortune, live blackjack, and many high jackpot progressive slots

🔞 Legal Age to Gamble in NJ:

21-years-old

My New Jersey Online Casino Experience 

In New Jersey, players have access to mobile and desktop gaming. Most sites offer both options, making playing from home or traveling throughout the state an easy process. With mobile gaming, you should be able to select from a mobile app or web browser experience.

Most of the available NJ casino apps play well, with minimal lag times and easy navigation. Apps take less than five minutes to download on your smartphone or tablet. Once installed, you can use the apps to play slots, table games, video poker, and even live dealer games.

You can log in via a mobile web browser if you prefer not to add more apps to your device. Safari works great for iOS, while Chrome is a good choice for Android users. I have tried several NJ casino apps and find them all easy to use and convenient for gaming on the go.

I like to use my laptop if I am at home and want to play casino games. I find the game screen is much larger, and the games are more visually appealing. I enjoy the experience far more with my laptop, as I can open additional tabs to view promotions and any reward programs a site may have.

Another plus to desktop/laptop gaming is that you have access to all games. Some mobile apps leave out certain titles or won’t provide the full portfolio.

Overall, you can use both options to play games and will find smartphones, tablets, and computers work well to provide access to the best online casino sites in the Garden State.

New Jersey Gambling Sites vs. Land-Based Casinos

As you explore gambling sites in New Jersey, it’s important to understand the difference between online and land-based play. Below, we will discuss a few common categories and include details of each so you can see how they are similar and vary.

Welcome Bonuses

A welcome bonus awaits you once you join a new online casino. The deal can include a no-deposit bonus, welcome bonus, free spins, or cashback on losses. Land-based casinos don’t typically offer this type of deal, so it is a perk you can find only online. Be sure to check out the available online welcome bonuses from top providers to see what you can earn as a new player.

Special Promotions

You will find special promotions at online casinos and land-based venues. Such options can include contests, tournaments, and special events. The options constantly change, offering more ways to win prizes or have fun.

You can find online options via a site's promotions section; new promotions are usually added monthly. Land-based venues will also promote their events online, so you can easily stay on top of the latest events at your favorite casinos.

VIP Rewards

Both online and land-based casinos offer VIP rewards based on available programs. Some sites intertwine their retail outlets and online sites to provide boosted reward potential. This is a great option for NJ players as you can earn points for online play and land-based visits.

Most reward programs have levels, and you move up based on the number of points earned. The higher your reward level, the more perks you can access, which helps you have better bonuses and extras within your account.

Gameplay

How you play is also different when you visit a casino and log online. At a casino, there is an added level of excitement due to the music and sound of machines playing in the background. More people are around to witness and share in wins, making gaming fun. At home or on the go, you are by yourself as you play, so the excitement level can be much lower.

However, you can access more games as online sites are not as restricted to the number of games they offer compared to a land-based venue.

Deposits and Withdrawals

Banking is essential when it comes to gambling. At a land-based casino, you deal with a cashier when needing chips or cash in a big win. Online, you need access to banking methods to deposit cash to play and withdraw when you earn a win.

Online casinos offer more variety when it comes to banking methods than a land-based venue. This is handy, especially if you like using certain accounts or formats for purchases. Land-based and online have minimum and maximum amounts you can add and withdraw, so be sure you know the limits before starting.

Mobile Gaming

One bonus to playing online is that you can access games on the go via mobile devices. Easily play from anywhere in New Jersey with your smartphone or tablet. With land-based gaming, you are restricted to one location, and mobile allows you to play from anywhere without traveling.

New Jersey Online Casino List

Online Casinos in NJ

No-Deposit Bonus

First Deposit Match

BetMGM Casino

$25 FREE

Up to $1,000

Stardust Casino

$25 FREE

Up to $500

Pala Casino

$25 FREE

Up to $250

FanDuel Casino

N/A

Deposit $10, Get 50 Bonus Spins + $1,000 Play-it-Again Promo

DraftKings Casino

N/A

Up to $2,000 Deposit Match or $100 Bet Credits

Bet365 Casino

N/A

Up to $1,000

Unibet Casino

N/A

Up to $1,000 + Bet $20 on Live Dealer, Get $10 Second Chance Bet

PlayStar Casino

N/A

Deposit $20, Get 100 Free Spins

Ocean Casino

N/A

Up to $1,200

Harrah's Casino

20 FREE Spins

Up to $300

PartyCasino

25 FREE Spins

Up to $500

Wheel of Fortune Casino

N/A

Deposit $10, Get $40 Free

BetRivers Casino

N/A

Up to $500

Resorts Casino

$20 FREE

Up to $1,000

Mohegan Sun Online Casino

$20 FREE

Up to $1,000

PokerStars Casino

N/A

Bet $1, Get $100

Golden Nugget Casino

$10 FREE

100% up to $1,500 + 200 Free Spins On Select Games

Tropicana Casino

$25 FREE

Loss Rebate up to $100

Virgin Casino

$30 FREE

Up to $100 Cashback

Bally Casino

Up to $100 Cashback

Caesars Palace Online Casino

$10 FREE

Up to $1,000 + 2,500 Rewards Points

Unibet Casino

N/A

Up to $500

Hard Rock Casino

50 Bonus Spins

Up to $1,000

888 Casino

$20 FREE

120% up to $500 On Deposit

Best New Jersey Online Casinos

New Jersey offers a long list of online casino sites, making it a bit difficult to narrow down where you should begin. Below, we have a top operator list to help you in your search.

See the biggest and best names in NJ online casino gaming on our list with details to assist you in figuring out which site to sign up with first.

Remember, you can have one account per operator, so don’t limit yourself to one provider!

Caesars Palace Online Casino

One of the most well-known brands in the casino industry is Caesars Palace. The online gaming site of the brand was updated in 2023 to offer a more seamless experience with the best games, promotions, and banking methods in the market.

Activate the Caesars no-deposit bonus and first deposit deal as a new player to build a solid bankroll upon joining. The site includes slots, table games, live dealer, and more, with gaming available on mobile and desktop devices.

BetMGM Casino

BetMGM is one of the best online casinos featured in New Jersey. The brand offers a $25 no-deposit bonus for new players and a welcome first deposit offer of up to $1,000.

Home to some of the best quality games, BetMGM Casino offers slots, live dealer, video poker, blackjack, roulette, and more. The brand also has exclusive titles you won’t find anywhere else, which gives you something new to explore.

BetRivers

Another top-rated and well-known brand, BetRivers, offers some of the best promotional deal terms and conditions available in iGaming today.

Easily enjoy a first deposit match of up to $500 with minimal wagering requirements. You can explore various promotions and game types, no matter your skill level.

DraftKings

With up to $2,000 in bonus cash on offer, DraftKings is a great option for new players. The brand is also home to over 1,000 games, giving you plenty to explore each time you log online. The DraftKings Casino is connected to the sportsbook, so you can easily switch to sports betting whenever you like.

FanDuel

Rival to DraftKings, FanDuel is another great option for your NJ Casino needs. Log on as a new player and access a cashback deal on losses for your first bet, plus continual promotions. The site offers a strong collection of slots, table games, live dealer, and video poker.

If you want to check out FanDuel Casino, now is a great time. If you sign up today, you can get 50 free FanDuel spins.

How to Choose the Best New Jersey Online Casinos

In your search for the best online casino in New Jersey, it’s important to consider a few factors. Below are the top elements we review when selecting the best of the best gaming sites in the Garden State.

Licensing

Licensing is key in selecting a top-rated site that the New Jersey Gaming Control Board regulates. A site with licensing is held to a higher standard, ensuring fair games and a secure gaming environment.

Game Selection

We also focus on the game selection of a site. Is there more than just slots and table games? If you are like most players, you want access to video poker, live dealer, exclusive titles, and specialty games.

Always review the casino’s portfolio of games before you create a new player account to ensure they offer everything you are looking for.

Promotions

If you want to take advantage of promotional deals, look through the available offers for new and existing players within an NJ online casino. Such options can include a no-deposit welcome offer, first deposit offer, reload bonuses, refer-a-friend, free spins, and more.

Consider the terms and conditions of deals as well as the wagering requirements to check that a site offers quality deals.

Banking/Prize Redemption

Playing at online casinos in New Jersey means you can deposit funds and have a shot at winning real money prizes. Because of this, banking methods are important.

You want access to secure options plus quick redemption methods. Look through the available methods to be sure a site offers what you need and includes minimal or no fees.

Accessibility

If you are like most players, you want to experience online casino games on a mobile device. Does the online casino you are considering have a mobile app? What about mobile browser capability? You want to check for this option to know that gaming can be taken on the go if you like.

Reputation

The reputation of a brand is also important. You need to know if a brand treats players well and offers an overall quality gaming environment. Read brand reviews for player insight to ensure you select a quality casino.

New Jersey Casino Apps vs. Desktop

There are slight differences in playing with an app or on a desktop device that you should be aware of. Each has its pros and cons, so choosing which option to use is a personal preference.

Take a look at the pros and cons below to see how both compare.

Pros

App Pros

Desktop Pros

Play from anywhere

Play from home.

Enjoy a long list of popular games

Explore 100s of titles from your PC.

Easily take advantage of promotions and incentives.

Review promotions and claim any deals that suit your playing needs.

Earn rewards from VIP programs via gameplay.

Earn rewards from VIP programs via gameplay.

Cons

App Cons

Desktop Cons

Geolocation might be an issue, depending on your location.

You are restricted to one location for gaming.

Some operators do not add all games to applications.

Geolocation may be an issue due to your proximity to state lines.

How To Download a New Jersey Casino App for iPhone

  • Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone.

  • Type in the name of the online casino app you want to download.

  • Once you locate the app, select GET.

  • The app will install quickly; you can open it to log in or create an account.

  • Once logged in, deposit funds if needed and start playing games.

How To Download a New Jersey Casino App for Android

  • Open the Google Play store on your Android device.

  • Search for the NJ online casino app of your choice.

  • Once the app is located, click to download.

  • After installation, open the app and log in. You can also create a new player account at this time.

  • Deposit funds if needed after logging in and start playing.

How Signup Offers Work in New Jersey

Online casinos offer signup deals that incentivize players to become new members. Such deals can vary based on the operator, including NJ casino no-deposit deals, first-deposit bonuses, free spins, and cashback.

These deals allow you to earn extra cash or other incentives to boost gameplay. Signup offers have terms and conditions that must be met, including that you are a new player on the site. You must meet any wagering requirements to clear the deal and cash out your winnings.

How To Sign Up To a New Jersey Online Casino

  • Read through our available NJ online casino sites and find one that suits your needs, including bonus deals.

  • Locate the bonus code (if required) before you sign up via our site.

  • Click our link to visit the online casino and select Join Now or Sign Up.

  • From there, you will fill out the registration form. Add your personal information, including address, email, and last four digits of your social security number.

  • Finish the registration and verify your identity. You may be asked to add the bonus code at this time or during your first deposit. Be sure to add it as needed to activate the offer.

  • Once you are verified and logged in, you are ready to deposit. Click the cashier to start a transaction.

  • If you claim a no-deposit deal, bonus funds will be added after logging in. With a first deposit deal, you must add funds before earning bonus cash.

  • Use your new cash to play games at the online casino!

Payment Options

To enjoy real money gaming in New Jersey, you need access to payment options. The number of choices you have will vary based on the online casino you select. Below are examples of payment methods you should see online in the Garden State.

  • Visa

  • Mastercard

  • Discover

  • American Express

  • PayPal

  • Play+

  • Online Banking

  • Trustly

  • ACH

  • Cashier Cage

  • Skrill

  • PayNearMe

Can You Earn VIP Rewards From an NJ Online Casino?

You can, but it depends on the casino. Always check a site's promotions or rewards section to see what you can earn. When a program is available, you can earn points via gameplay. The points allow you to move up within the VIP program to gain access to incentives such as personalized service and bonuses.

Casino Games

There are hundreds of games to explore per online casino provider in New Jersey. iGaming operators work with tens of software developers to offer quality titles, including exclusive games. You will find all types of slots, table games, video poker, live dealer, and more in the Garden State.

New Jersey is the go-to state when it comes to quality content, so you will have no trouble finding games to explore here. Let’s take a look at a few categories of games below to gain insight into what you can expect.

Slots

The largest category of games offered by NJ online casino sites is slots. You will find classic games, Megways titles, Hold & Win, Jackpot slots, Progressives, and more. Play three-reel games, five-reel titles, and unique configurations. The options are endless when it comes to themes and features.

Easily travel to Africa, Egypt, China, and Japan and join battles, adventures, and archeological digs. Games can include wild icons, multipliers, free spins, bonus rounds, mini-games, and more.

Example Games Include:

  • Tiki Fortune

  • Rise of Olympus 100

  • 88 Fortunes

  • Medusa Megaways

  • Money Link The Great Immortals

  • Wheel of Fortune Elegant Emeralds

  • Thunder Struck Storm Chaser

  • Endless Treasure

  • Regal Riches

Tables Games

The second largest category of games at online casinos in New Jersey is typically table games. You can enjoy titles with low to high buy-ins covering all game types, including blackjack, roulette, craps, and more.

NJ casinos offer traditional variations plus unique options for table games like exclusives. Play games you won’t find anywhere else that are supplied to sites by the best developers in the business.

Blackjack

Blackjack games are plentiful, and you should be able to find both classic titles and unique variations. Blackjack comes in multi and single-hand, with side bets and progressive features. Find games with low to high buy-ins to suit your budget.

Roulette

Find all types of roulette games at NJ casinos, including American, French, European, Lightning, and Speed. The options are endless, with something for everyone on offer. Easily play a new variation by reading the game rules in the info section of the title before getting started.

Craps

You will find craps is generally limited to traditional formats, but a handful of titles should be offered via the online casino site you select. The game is easy to play and offers low to high buy-in ranges.

Baccarat

The game of baccarat is generally considered a high roller's title and is not typically played by casual gamers. With online play, you can easily find a low buy-in version and enjoy it without feeling the need to overspend. Stick with the Banker or Player bet, as both have better odds than the Tie wager.

Hold’em

You will find online casino sites also include hold’em titles and other poker games. Hit the felt and compete against the dealer instead of other players, focusing on learning hands and honing your poker skills.

Video Poker

If you are a fan of video poker, most NJ online casino sites offer dozens of titles. Load a game and try to form the best five-card poker hand to earn a win. There are traditional options for video poker gaming and more niche options to help you try something new and exciting when you log online.

Example Games Include:

  • Joker Poker

  • Jacks or Better

  • Aces & Faces

  • Double Bonus Poker

  • Bonus Poker

Bingo

United States casinos offer more bingo gaming options with a chance to play for mere pennies per card. Players can select one or multiple bingo cards and try to earn a pattern for a prize win. It’s quite fun, and games include a chat element so you can speak to other players while you play.

Live Dealer

One of the more popular online casino gaming categories available in New Jersey includes live dealer titles. In this category, you will find blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and other games offered in live format.

Tables are set up in a studio or on a casino floor and played in real-timee. The gameplay footage is streamed to the player at home so decisions can be made offsite. It’s a unique concept and provides the most realistic way to play online casino games from home.

Most online casinos in NJ offer live dealer with varying operation times, including some that are available 24/7. Games have varying buy-ins, so players can easily find a title they can afford to play.

Can I Win Real Money at an NJ Online Casino?

You can. Online casinos accept real money deposits, and you use the money you add to play games. Wins are yours to keep; you can cash out whenever you like.

What Are the Stakes at Online Casinos in New Jersey?

The stakes will vary at online casinos in New Jersey based on the game you select and the casino site. Slots tend to offer the lowest buy-in options, with some titles starting at $0.01 per spin. Table games can have low buy-ins, too, with penny betting or $1 starting stakes.

Once you open a game, look for the control section. Use the minus sign to find the lowest possible bet, and make sure it's affordable before you start playing.

Are NJ Online Casinos Legit?

Yes, online casinos in New Jersey are legit if they have licensing by the New Jersey Gaming Control. Board. The Board has a list of operators on its website where players can easily see who is licensed and approved for gaming.

New Jersey Gaming Control Board

The New Jersey Gaming Control Board is the overseer of the iGaming industry. The state began offering online gaming in 2013, and regulators continue to work hard to ensure that each operator is acting based on the rules and regulations of the state.

New Jersey Authorized Online Casinos Vs. Offshore Casinos

As you get started with online casino gaming in New Jersey, it’s important to understand the difference between online casino sites and offshore providers. Most players have no idea of the differences between the two, and it can be harmful to pick an offshore site over a licensed provider.

Online casinos authorized to offer services in New Jersey are approved by the New Jersey Gaming Control Board. They are regulated and held accountable for their actions. Such operators must adhere to regulations and provide a safe environment for their members. This includes data protection, secure and timely payments, plus fair games.

Offshore casinos are based outside the United States and are not licensed to offer services in NJ. These sites are not held to the standards of regulators. They do not pay licensing fees or taxes. Players can be at risk of playing with an offshore site due to payment issues, unfair games, and data leaks.

Selecting a licensed site when playing online casino games in New Jersey is in your best interest. This ensures that you are protected and have an avenue of assistance if you are not paid winnings or have an issue with a provider.

Do I Have To Live in New Jersey to Gamble Online?

You do not have to live in New Jersey to gamble online. The market is open to everyone 21 and older that are physically in the state. Feel free to create a new player account if you visit the state to enjoy slots, table games, live dealer, and more.

How Do NJ Gambling Sites Acquire My Location?

Online casinos in New Jersey use geolocation software to detect your location. All players must be in the state before access to services is allowed. You must enable your location on any mobile device used for gaming. Once this is done, the brand detects where you are located and allows you access to games if you are in New Jersey.

Do You Always Need to Download GeoComply Software?

You do not necessarily need to download geolocation software when playing via an app or web browser. Most NJ online casinos today use built-in geolocation detection services to configure your location. If you are inside the state lines, you will have no issue creating an account or logging in.

How Old Do I Need To Be to Gamble in NJ?

Players must be 21 or older to access online casino gaming in NJ. Any player signing up for an online account in the Garden State requires proof of identity via the online gambling operator.

Responsible Gaming In New Jersey

Online casino operators in New Jersey take responsible gambling measures seriously. Programs are in place to assist with potential gambling problems, including self-exclusion. Players have access to resources via individual providers as well as the state.

Advertising and reminders are heavily promoted so that players always know there are options for responsible gambling. Use special tools to limit your gaming sessions, including deposits and bet amounts, to ensure you stay on track with budgeting.

You can also utilize self-exclusion services if a gambling problem is present. Players can select a short time frame for exclusion or a permanent ban to ensure protection against addiction.

Resources for Assistance Include:

Player Tax Information

New Jersey was one of the first US states to legalize online casino gaming, launching services in 2013.

Since then, the state has continued to update laws and regulations to ensure a successful market. The state is so successful that lawmakers in other states look at the industry set up to get started in iGaming.

Gambling wins are considered taxable income in New Jersey. You must play a 3% tax on wins you earn from iGaming. It’s important to complete the tax payment process and file any wins to avoid issues with the state and federal governments.

NJ Online Casino Legal Information

On February 26, 2013, the NJ Legislature legalized New Jersey Online Casinos within its borders through the passage of Bill A2578. The legislation was the brainchild of Sen. Ray Lesniak, who pushed the bill as a way to stimulate Atlantic City’s ailing economy.

New Jersey’s push to legalize in-state online gambling began in January of 2010, when State Sen. Ray Lesniak (D-Union) introduced bill S 3167, a measure that would allow licensed Atlantic City casinos to offer online poker and online casino games to those inside the Garden State.

The legislation was part of an effort to revitalize New Jersey’s brick-and-mortar casinos, which faced a prolonged decline in revenue due to an economic downturn and competition from neighboring states.

To become regulated, iGaming operators would need to pay a $200,000 licensing fee and a yearly payment of $100,000 that would be taxed at a rate of 20%.

In November, S 3167 passed through the Senate by a wide margin of 29-5, but was not put up to a vote in the Assembly that year due to the addition of a last-minute amendment.

At the beginning of 2011, the revised bill was passed by both the Assembly (63-11-3) and the Senate (34-2), but was subsequently vetoed by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who worried about the expansion of gambling outside of Atlantic City.

In December, with the outlook for US online gambling looking as bleak as ever, the Department of Justice issued a critical opinion on the Wire Act, legislation created in 1961 that had been used, somewhat creatively, as the basis to block iGaming in the country. The ruling essentially stated that online betting unrelated to sporting events should not be considered illegal under the legislation.

With the green light from federal officials, Gov. Christie reversed his opposition to iGaming, and Sen. Lesniak got back to work on new legislation. This time around, Lesniak took into account some of Christie’s suggestions, like housing all computer equipment and servers inside Atlantic City-based casinos and outlawing Internet gambling parlors, in crafting his bill.

Lesniak, along with Senate colleague and co-sponsor James Whelen (D – Atlantic City) soon introduced SB S1565 and its companion, AB A2578. The two bills kept the earlier $200,000 licensing fee and $100,000 annual charge, but slashed the tax rate in half to 10%.

On December 17, the New Jersey Assembly passed A2578 by a margin of 48-24. A few days later, the Senate approved its companion by an overwhelming 33-3 vote. The bill Christie conditionally vetoed in February, had some amendments made to it, including increasing the tax rate from 10 to 15%. That same day, Chris Christie signed the bill into law, making New Jersey the third state, behind Nevada and Delaware, to legalize online gambling.

Online gambling is legal in New Jersey. This includes online casino gambling, poker, sports betting, horse race betting, and daily fantasy sports (DFS).

A law was passed in February 2013 which allowed casinos in Atlantic City to partner with online operators to offer online casinos and poker to residents. In 2017, another bill legalizing DFS was passed.

The following year after the US Supreme Court ruled PASPA unconstitutional, Governor Phil Murphy signed Assembly Bill 4111 into law, which saw the legalization of sports betting in NJ. This included digital sports betting and the first online sportsbooks launched in August that year.

Regulation

The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) regulates all the casinos in Atlantic City and is also responsible for authorizing and regulating all online gambling sites.

They are responsible for the following:

  • Vetting license applicants

  • Assuring the “honesty, good character, and integrity of casino owners, operators, employees, and vendors”

  • Making sure that casino games are fair

  • Monitoring for exclusion list violations

  • Information systems integrity

Paid DFS contests are legal in New Jersey. The operators are required to obtain a license issued by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and pay a fee based on annual gross revenue.

It is worth noting that while all forms of online gambling are legal in New Jersey, this is only true for the sites that have been approved and are regulated by the NJDGE. Gambling at an off-shore site is illegal from inside the borders of the state.

Age restrictions too apply to online gambling. For online casinos, poker rooms, and sportsbooks, the legal gambling age is 21.

For DFS and horse race betting, you can place legal wagers online at the age of 18. Additionally, you must be physically located in the state of NJ to have access to any of their regulated sites.

Who Can Play?

New Jersey regulators tightly restrict and monitor who can gamble at NJ online casinos. Here’s what you need to know about who is eligible to play:

  • Only users 21 years of age and above can gamble for real money

  • Players must be physically inside the state of New Jersey

  • Users are not required to be a New Jersey resident to play

  • Players can create and fund an account from anywhere in the world, but can’t play until inside the state

Operators are tasked with enforcing the above requirements and are serious about verifying the age and location of each user before allowing them to gamble.

These critical details are established through geolocation software, which can pinpoint exactly where a user is playing from, and by cross checking users’ details with public databases and credit reporting agencies.

Which Games Are Allowed

A2578 allows operators to offer poker, slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, video poker, and numerous other casino games, and leaves room for future games to be added as well.

Popular names like roulette, baccarat, blackjack, craps, big six wheel, slot machines, mini-baccarat, red dog, pai gow and sic bo; any variations or composites of such games, provided that such variations or composites are found by the (DGE) suitable for use after an appropriate “test period”; and any other game which is determined to be compatible with the public interest.

One example of a format that has been added since NJ online gambling went live is skill-based games, which are currently available in select Atlantic City casinos and may find their way online.

License Information

Licensure is the cornerstone of the regulatory system. They are required of casino owners and sports betting operators, casino employees, and companies that do business with casinos in order to ensure that those involved with this industry meet the statutory requirements of good character, honesty, and integrity and to keep the New Jersey Online Casinos industry free from organized crime.

The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement conducts all licensing investigations.

The Casino Licensing Bureau assures that each applicant for, and holder of, a casino license and every affiliated company, officer, director, principal employee, financial backer, and investor meets the standards of financial responsibility, honesty, integrity, and good character as mandated by the Casino Control Act.

The Bureau accomplishes this mission by investigating and monitoring business transactions of the applicant or licensee and related companies; conducting investigations of each officer, director, principal employee, financial backer, or significant investor, and examining the background of the casino company and its affiliated entities.

The Bureau’s legal unit reports to the Casino Control Commission initially on a casino applicant regarding the results of its investigation and as mandated, thereafter, in conjunction with each casino licensee’s renewal. In addition, the legal unit reports to and litigates before the Commission violations of the Act or regulations whenever necessary.

Within Casino Licensing is the DGE’s Office of Financial Investigations (OFI). OFI monitors and assesses the ongoing financial stability and integrity of casinos, casino license applicants, and their intermediary and holding companies.

OFI also evaluates and investigates the impact of complex financial transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcy reorganizations, recapitalizations, spin-offs, expansions, and major debt issuances.

In addition, OFI oversees the financial reporting requirements of the casino industry, including the preparation of industry statistics that form the basis of monthly and quarterly press releases. OFI also undertakes statistical analyses of the data to evaluate the financial position, operating performance and trends of the gaming industry within the State.

Finally, OFI is responsible for projecting casino-related tax revenues in conjunction with the New Jersey State Budget.

Path from License to Final Approval

Before a casino can open up its online gaming operation to the public completely, it needs to first obtain a “transactional waiver” from the Division of Gaming Enforcement.

This temporary permit allows the site to essentially hold a practice run called a “soft launch,” during which time the site is opened to a limited number of players for a limited number of hours per day.

During this phase, regulators continue to assess the site, ensuring that it is safe for consumers and that it follows all applicable laws. Once the DGE is satisfied, the site receives its final authorization and is free to open its doors to the public.

The Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) is a law enforcement agency and the investigative arm of the casino regulatory system responsible for enforcing the Casino Control Act.

Licensing, Fees, and Taxes

A2578 gives New Jersey’s land-based casinos the opportunity to apply for an online gaming permit and to partner with an online gaming software provider or operator (e.g. GameSys, FanDuel, 888).

Casino applicants are required to pay a nonrefundable deposit of $100,000 to fund the application process. If approved, that money is applied towards the $400,000 cost of the actual gaming license.

Approved casinos are also obligated to pay a $250,000 renewal fee along with an additional $250,000 annual fee, which goes towards the state’s compulsive gambling treatment programs.

In addition, iGaming operators pay a tax rate of 15% of their gross gaming revenue, and 2.5% of GGR to the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA).

Aside from casino permits, there are three types of iGaming licenses available:

  • Casino Service Industry Enterprise License: pertains to the software partners of brick-and-mortar casinos, and to those who provide customer lists of players who have previously gambled online.

  • Vendor Registrants: companies that provide services that are not specifically meant for online gambling, such as telecommunications.

  • Ancillary Casino Service Industry Enterprise License: includes marketing affiliates, junket operators, and companies who provide payment processing, age verification, geolocation verification, and customer identity services.

Sadonna Price
Topic Expert
Sadonna Price

Sadonna specializes in gambling site operator reviews; from casinos to poker gaming, slot reviews, and news. The gambling landscape is constantly changing and she likes to stay on top of the latest developments, the good and the not-so-good. Sadonna has played a vital role in helping to establish gambling websites via content creation as well as providing current updates on legal changes in the US and abroad with fully-researched news pieces and we're excited to have her as our Lead Casino Analyst at OddsSeeker! Sadonna is constantly looking to expand her horizons, meeting and working with new people in the gambling industry as well as other areas including design, fashion, home maintenance, food, and healthcare!

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