Delaware Online Casinos – Legal Situation in 2025

Delaware is one of the few US states which allows its residents and visitors to legally play online casino games. Players, however, are not spoiled for choice as there are only three available Delaware online casinos to choose from and for all intents and purposes are exactly the same.

Legal Online Gambling Information for Delaware

The First State was quite literally the first state to allow players to legally use online casinos in the US. After primary legislation, as early as 2013 social casinos were introduced followed in 2014 by the opening of three Delaware online casinos – all connected to the land-based operators – Delaware Park, Dover Downs and Harrington.

The dearth of online casinos Delaware residents can join is partly due to the small size of the state. Legislators believed by focusing on a few existing venues proper oversight and control could be maintained. Lawmakers also realised that by limiting the number to established entities some benefits to the local economy would flow.

Are Online Casinos Legal in Delaware?

Delaware casinos online are legal if regulated. The state was one of the pioneers in legalizing online gambling in the United States. Delaware’s governor signed the Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act into law in June 2012, legalizing online casinos and online poker sites.

Since the law’s enactment, three online casinos have been established, each affiliated with one of the state’s three racetrack casinos: Delaware Park, Dover Downs, and Harrington Raceway. These platforms offer various casino games, including slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette, all under the regulation and oversight of the Delaware Gambling Enforcement.

In addition to online casinos, Delaware offers several other legal forms of gambling. Offline sports betting was legalized in 2009, making it one of the first states to offer this form of gambling. Horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering have a long history in the state and are also legal. The Delaware Lottery, established in 1975, offers various games and is available to residents and visitors.

Online sports betting is not currently offered in Delaware, although physical sportsbooks are available at the state’s three casinos. Online lottery play is also not offered in Delaware, but traditional lottery tickets can be purchased at various retail locations throughout the state. These various forms of gambling contribute to a diverse legal gambling landscape in Delaware.

Are Winnings from Online Gambling Taxable?

In Delaware, all money won from online casinos and other forms of gambling is subject to tax. The tax rates vary from 2.2% to 6.6% based on your total income. There’s no specific amount that triggers the tax; all winnings are taxable.

Other forms of gambling, like lottery and horse racing, are also taxed. However, if you lose money gambling, you can deduct those losses from your winnings, but only up to the amount you’ve won. Essentially, you’ll only pay tax on your net winnings in the state. It’s essential to keep track of both wins and losses for tax reporting.

How to Pick the Right Online Gambling Site in Delaware

Given the set up of online casinos in Delaware – essentially they are all the same – it would be disingenuous to select the best Delaware online casino. However, should you ever wish to gamble out of state the factors below should hold you in good stead when, for example choosing between neighboring NJ online casinos.

Obviously, some factors will be more important than others when selecting the best online casinos in Delaware, or anywhere else for that matter. Bonuses are often high on the list of what new players look for, though the payout speeds are what others place greatest importance on.

Security & Licensing

Determining if a Delaware online casino is licensed and offers secure deposits and withdrawals is essential for a safe gaming experience. To verify licensing, look at the bottom of the casino’s homepage for licensing information and logos of regulatory bodies. You can also visit the state regulator’s website and search for the casino in their online database.

For secure financial transactions, check the casino’s banking page for reputable payment methods and look for SSL encryption symbols (such as a padlock) in the browser’s address bar. Rest assured, all our recommended sites have been thoroughly vetted and are safe to play at, adhering to high standards of security and regulation.

Best Bonus Offers

All casinos online Delaware players can join offer a welcome bonus for joining. Typically, this is how operators attempt to stand out from the crowd by offering the most beneficial bonus. Players should take the time to assess the quality of any bonus including checking the terms and conditions. The biggest bonus is not always the best.

• Welcome Bonus – an introductory offer for new players, often matching a percentage of their first deposit to boost starting funds.
• No Deposit Bonus – A reward given without requiring a deposit, often to entice new players to try out the Delaware online casino. Very hard to find.
• Deposit Bonus – A bonus calculated based on a percentage of a player’s deposit, providing additional funds for gambling at the best Delaware casino sites.
• Free Spins Bonus – Complimentary spins on selected slot games, available to new or loyal players, enhancing the slot play experience.
• Ongoing Casino Bonuses – Continuous rewards or promotions offered to players regularly such as weekly or monthly reload bonuses.
• In-App Bonuses – Special bonuses or promotions available exclusively within a Delaware casino site’s mobile app, encouraging app-based play.

Players opting into a bonus should be cautious of wagering requirements, which dictate how much must be bet before withdrawing. They should also consider validity periods, ensuring they meet the requirements in time, minimum deposit amounts for eligibility, and game weighting, where different games contribute varying amounts to the wagering requirements. You can learn more about different online casinos bonuses in our dedicated bonuses guide.

What Casino Games Can You Play in Delaware?

The online casino games options for Delaware players is the same no matter which operator you join. This is because the software is provided by the same company – 888casino. There is just under 100 online slot titles, some table game options, and perhaps most startling no live dealer content. Here are the most popular casino games that you would come across in Delaware:

• Slots
• Blackjack
• Roulette
• Progressive Jackpot
• Poker

Once registered there is an option to try out all the games for free which is great for new players unfamiliar with online content. Players can play any of the games once they have funded their account. Take time to read the minimum and maximum staking levels before you start playing – and always read the rules ahead of beginning.

Available Live Dealer Games

Live dealer games at online casinos offer a real-time gaming experience with human dealers, enhancing the authenticity of the play. They simulate traditional casino games like roulette and blackjack. Unfortunately, these engaging live dealer options are not available at Delaware casino sites, limiting players to other gaming experiences.

Gambling Apps

Most players choose to consume casino content on a mobile device these days. This is partly due to advances in technology but also because of the necessity to download a geo-location app if players do not use any of the available casino apps in the US. Using an app has other benefits including in-app bonuses and a smoother overall experience at Delaware casino sites.

Available Payment Methods – Deposits and Withdrawals

Top Delaware online casinos accept a small but increasing number of payment methods. All sites accept exactly the same options with all using the same payment software infrastructure. Bank transfers by ACH are available along with Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards. For customers seeking more privacy, PayPal is the sole eWallet option.

There is no problem withdrawing using any of the available deposit methods. The speed can depend on your chosen method. The best Delaware casino sites try to pay out any winnings within 24 hours. Contact customer services immediately if you are experiencing withdrawal problems.

Problem Gambling Help

All players, no matter how big or small their stakes should be looking to gamble safe . If you ever feel you are losing control then it is time to step back and take a break.

Problem gambling is characterized by chasing losses, lying about activities, gambling beyond means, neglecting responsibilities, and preoccupation with betting. It can lead to borrowing money, mood swings, damaging relationships, and a loss of control over gambling habits.

Delaware casino sites all offer responsible gambling tools to players including the ability to self-exclude, the option to set limits, as well as quick and confidential access to local problem gambling services such as the Delaware Council on Gambling Problems

FAQ

Are online casinos in Delaware legal?

Yes, online casinos are legal in Delaware. The state was one of the first in the US to legalize online casino games. Players must be within state lines and meet the legal age requirements to participate. Various licensed operators offer online casino gaming in the state.

When did Delaware legalize casino sites?

Delaware legalized online casino sites in 2012, when Governor Jack Markell signed the Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act into law. This made Delaware the first state in the United States to legalize online gambling , allowing residents to participate in online casino games, poker, and other forms of internet betting.

Which is the responsible online gambling authority in Delaware?

The Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) is responsible for licensing and regulating online casinos in Delaware. It oversees all online gambling activities within the state, ensuring that operators comply with legal requirements, providing a safe and fair environment for players.

How can Delaware players choose legal online casinos?

Delaware players can choose legal online casino sites by ensuring they are licensed and regulated by the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE). Selecting casinos that are affiliated with established land-based casinos in the state and checking for the DGE seal on their website can confirm their legal status.

What online casino games are available in Delaware?

Players can typically access a variety of DE online casino games. These include slots, blackjack, roulette, and video poker. The specific offerings may vary by operator, but they generally encompass a wide range of traditional casino games.

Are winnings from online gambling taxable in Delaware?

Yes, winnings from the best online casinos in Delaware are taxable. Like other forms of income, casino winnings must be reported to the federal and state governments. Players are responsible for declaring their winnings depending on individual circumstances.

Conclusion – Legal Online Gambling in Delaware

While the choice between the best Delaware online casinos is limited, any player based in these states is advised to play at these sites as opposed to looking at overseas black market operators. The regulation by the Delaware Enforcement Agency means players are offered fair games on safe sites and guaranteed payment should they win.

Whichever Delaware online casino you ultimately choose you will need to appreciate there will be less choice than in other states due to the form of regulation enacted. The lack of game variety and the complete absence of any live casino means that, compared to other legal states, the offering is arguably sub-standard.

References

• Delaware Gaming Enforcement
• National Council on Problem Gambling – Delaware
• Gamblers Anonymous in DE
• Gamban – Block Access to Gambling Websites and Apps in Delaware
• Delaware Problem Gambling Helplines