West Virginia Online Blackjack

Blackjack is a popular casino game played by millions. Thanks to the legalization and rise of online casinos, West Virginia players can now enjoy all the thrills and excitement of blackjack from the comfort of their own homes.

Online blackjack is played just like regular blackjack, with the same goal of trying to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. With a little practice, online blackjack can be just as much fun as playing in a real casino.

Is it Legal to Play Online Blackjack in West Virginia?

Yes. Anyone can play blackjack by opening an account with a licensed WV online casino. Online games are legal if you are at least 21 years old.

Playing blackjack online at West Virginia sites became lawful in 2019 when the state legislature passed the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Act. This Act legalized online casino gambling and online poker.

Before the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Act (H 2934), state legislators passed the West Virginia Lottery Sports Wagering Act in anticipation of the US Supreme Court's decision to lift the federal ban on sports betting (Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act).

The West Virginia Lottery Commission is the regulatory body that regulates and awards licenses to online casino operators in the state.

When Did Online Gambling Become Legal in West Virginia?

Online gambling became legal in West Virginia on March 27th, 2019, with the passage of the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Act (H 2934). This Act expanded online gambling to include various products, not just sports betting.

Do I need to supply an ID when I visit a West Virginia Blackjack Site?

Yes. In line with the Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines put in place by the regulatory agency, licensed online casinos will expect you to provide a valid government-issued ID card during the registration process to verify your age and identity.

For instance, when you provide a valid identification card, which typically has your name and age, the online casino operator will be able to confirm that you are who you claim to be and are also in compliance with the legal age limit for playing online blackjack in West Virginia.

An online casino will usually request that you provide an ID card during the account registration process and possibly when you want to cash out.

Failure to comply with the request for an ID card or other KYC documents may result in withdrawal delays, loss of winnings, or the outright removal of one’s account. Also, players caught using fake IDs may be given hefty penalties or face criminal charges.

Why Choose to Play Online Blackjack in West Virginia?

Absence of cheating by other players

When you play traditional blackjack, unfair acts such as searching someone’s cards or stealing chips can occur. However, playing online allows you to eliminate the chances of being cheated.

You can remain anonymous.

Playing blackjack online allows you to protect your identity. Anonymity helps reduce the possibility of people stalking you or fighting and cursing you because of a game.

You can play from the convenience of your home.

Unlike conventional blackjack, where you have to invest money, travel time, and gambling cash, with online blackjack, you just connect your PC or hand-held device to the internet, go to the online casino website, and register (if you are a first-timer), fund your account, and you are ready to play. Simple as that!

You do not have to wait to sit at a table.

One of the most frustrating aspects of playing in a live casino is waiting around to get a seat at the table. Imagine you’ve just driven for hours to get to the casino, only to find out that all the tables are occupied, and you have to wait for a seat to become available. Well, that is a scenario you will not encounter when playing online because each online casino is fitted with enough blackjack tables to cater to thousands of gamers.

Online blackjack table minimum stakes are lower

Most live casinos usually set their minimum stake at the table at $5. This figure often increases during the weekend. This means that at times the only tables available to players are ones with a minimum stake amount of $10, and unless you are an experienced gambler, you don’t want to go around casinos risking $10 per hand. Conversely, table minimums in online blackjack usually start at $1 per hand. As a result, beginners can learn the game without risking a lot of money. Also, regardless of the number of players online, the minimum stake amount does not change as you have it at live casinos.

You can play blackjack for free online

The availability of free games is a unique characteristic of online gaming, and online blackjack gaming is not left out. Most casino sites allow players to play free versions of blackjack variants where there’s no time limit and cash is unlimited. Online casinos are able to offer players free games due to their low overhead, the software is quite affordable, and website hosting is not too expensive.

On the other hand, brick-and-mortar casinos have to pay overhead such as staff, utilities, maintenance, etc.; they have limited space, which is expensive.

You can win more hands per hour

Most professional players believe that playing solely by a mathematical strategy reduces your variance and increases your chances of winning big. The more chances you play, the better your chances of winning.

Therefore, if you play heads up against a dealer in an online casino, you could play 209 hands per hour compared to only 52 hands per hour. You will be able to play if you have a full table of 7 players. Consequently, your chances of winning are significantly increased.

You can play at any speed of your choice.

Just like the classic blackjack, you can purchase a slower setting where you can start to see the online dealer and wait for other players to reveal their cards. Or you can buy a faster version of blackjack where the cards are generated by software, much like a video game.

You can take charge of your playing time.

Players can play online blackjack whenever they want, regardless of the time of the day. Because the internet provides for all gamers worldwide, you can be sure that irrespective of the time you feel like playing, there will be other online players waiting for you. The benefit of this is that you can easily schedule your time and effort for work, family, and gambling.

You can easily switch from one casino to another.

Switching from one casino site to another happens in seconds when you play blackjack online. You do not have to undergo the physical exertion of walking from one live casino to the other under intense sunlight or in freezing temperatures. Also, you don’t have to incur expensive fares while using taxi or Uber services to commute from casino to casino.

You may play multiple blackjack games online.

When playing blackjack online, you can play multiple seats. Many multi-hand blackjack tables permit you to play three hands simultaneously.

You can also play offline blackjack with players seated to your left and right. However, there’s a limit to the number of hands you can play. You may be unable to play multiple seats if another person wants to sit down.

You do not have to socialize when gaming online.

Playing online is the best option if you are not one for small talk or interested in cheering for tablemates or expressing sympathy for others when they lose. By playing online, you can avoid the nosy and know-it-alls who feel compelled to give you unsolicited advice.

You have a wide variety of games at your disposal.

You can easily access the vast array of games your preferred online casino offers with a few clicks. In contrast, the live casinos are limited in the blackjack variants they can provide to their customers due to cost and space constraints.

Gameplay

Is Online Blackjack Played with Real Money?

Yes. Online blackjack is now played with real money thanks to the passage of the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act. Some of the real money blackjack games that residents and visitors can play in the state include

• Perfect Pairs
• Blackjack Switch
• Lucky Ladies
• Spanish 21
• Vegas Strip Blackjack
• Atlantic City Blackjack
• European Blackjack
• Single Deck Blackjack
• Double Deck Blackjack

Before playing real money blackjack; however, players should use the demo version (free games) available online to hone their skills.

Residents of West Virginia and visitors to the state can play real money online through the classic blackjack or live dealer blackjack with a human dealer. Other variants of online blackjack games that you can play in West Virginia include the Progressive, European, Atlantic City, and Spanish 21 blackjack games.

In addition, West Virginians enjoy different bonuses when they play their favorite blackjack games on their smartphones, tablets, and other hand-held devices at the following sites:

1. BetMGM (Bonus: $50 Free; $2,5000 Deposit Match)
2. Caesars Sportsbook & Casino ($500 Back for 24 Hours)
3. BetRivers ($250 Bonus; 100% Match on First Deposit)
4. FanDuel Casino ($100 Free in Site Credits)
5. DraftKings Casino (Up to $85 Free on Deposit. T&Cs Apply)

Where can I Play Online Blackjack in West Virginia?

Interested players can enjoy their favorite blackjack games at licensed and regulated casinos in West Virginia.

The following chart and subsections describe the online casinos and their partnering land-based ones.

BetMGM West Virginia Casino

BetMGM WV Casino is the Mountain State’s most popular online casino. As of 2022, the site’s collection of blackjack games includes the following:

i. Blackjack Millionaire Pro

ii. Perfect Blackjack Pro

iii. Premium Blackjack Pro (Players’ No.1 Choice)

iv. Classic Blackjack

v. Platinum Blackjack Pro

BetRivers West Virginia Casino

Established on April 12, 2021, in partnership with the Mountaineer Casino, BetRivers online casino provides West Virginia players with the following variants:

i. Blackjack IGT

ii. Blackjack Classic

iii. Live Blackjack (Evolution Live Blackjack)

iv. Multihand Blackjack

v. Infinite Blackjack

vi. Blackjack Pokers & Pairs

vii. Single Hand Blackjack

viii. Classic Blackjack

FanDuel West Virginia Casino

The list of FanDuel’s popular blackjack offerings includes the following:

• Blackjack AIG
• Blackjack Poker & Pairs
• Zappit Classic
• Blackjack NX
• Multi-hand Blackjack
• First Person Blackjack
• Blackjack Blazing 7s’
• FaunDuel Live Blackjack
• Live Dealer Infinite Blackjack
• Live Dealer Blackjack

According to West Virginia gaming laws, each online casino must be affiliated to an existing based casino. Those interested in learning more about West Virginia online casinos can visit their land-based counterparts at the following addresses:

Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races

750 Hollywood Drive,

Charles Town, WV

(800) 795 – 7001

The Casino Club at The Greenbrier

101 W. Main Street,

White Sulphur Springs, WV

(844) – 837 – 2466

Mountain Casino, Racetrack and Resort

1420 Mountaineer Circle,

New Cumberland, WV

(800) 804 – 0468

Mardi Gras Casino and Resort

1 Greyhound Drive,

Cross Lanes, WV

(304) 776 – 1000

Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack

1 S Stone Street, Wheeling, VW

(304) 232 – 5050

Steps for Opening an Online Blackjack Account

If you have never played blackjack online, here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Select a casino from one of those listed above by clicking the link to go to the official site.
2. Click the Join/Register/Sign Up link to create an account.
3. Adhere to the steps in the registration process. Kindly ensure that you provide the online casino with the correct information as requested.
4. Immediately after the account is created, follow the casino’s quick procedure for verifying the account.
5. After completing the verification, click on the Cashier section and choose Deposit. Choose your preferred payment method and deposit the desired amount.
6. Once the funds have reached your account, you can go to the game library and locate the blackjack game you want to play.

Does Blackjack Pay Real Money?

The short answer is yes. When you play online blackjack for real money at West Virginia licensed casinos, you can earn a reasonable sum of money. But to make a profit in the long run, you need lots of practice and have to use basic and advanced blackjack strategies that reduce the house edge.

To ensure that blackjack pays real money, players must utilize the favorable rules of the game to their benefit.

What is the Best Online Blackjack Casino?

Because online blackjack players in West Virginia have diverse preferences in terms of what constitutes the best casino to play online blackjack at, the best casino is the one that ranks highest based on specific evaluation criteria.

Game Variety

The best online casino is any that provides the best content. In other words, the casino must offer a wide range of virtual and live blackjack games. Such a site must offer players the chance to play these games for free, so they can play for leisure or gain experience before risking real money at the tables.

Aside from various games, the best casinos offer their players, especially the experienced ones, side bets to play if they want to take risks for a chance to win large prizes. You do not want to sign up with a blackjack site with no live dealer game offering. In addition, you should also check if their blackjack games pay 3:2 because you do not want to play ones that pay 6:5 for a natural hand. This rule raises the house edge, making such games difficult to beat.

Bonuses and Promotions

Blackjack players are not the most popular players at online casinos. This is because they can reduce the house edge by using various strategies and systems, and their bets are not as valuable as those placed by slot players. As a result, bonuses and promotions are rarely designed for blackjack players. Players who decide to claim welcome bonuses can use it to play their favorite game. The challenge arises when it comes to converting your winnings into real money. Wagers on blackjack games contribute at a lower rate, which can be as low as 20% or less. You will have to spend a fortune to turn bonus funds into withdrawable money. Therefore, you should look for sites that offer blackjack-specific promotions. These offers may be cash-backs, bonuses, or tournaments with acceptable terms and conditions.

Multiple Deposit Options

Another criterion for selecting the best online blackjack casino is the availability of various deposit options. The more the deposit options, the higher the rating of the casino. Typically, you should be able to find most of the deposit options listed below at an online casino that is worth your while:

• Credit/Debit Card
• PayPal
• Skrill
• Neteller
• Play+ Prepaid Card
• VIP Preferred eCheck (ACH)
• PayNearMe
• Cash at the Casino Case
• Bank transfer

Customer Service Options

Top-rated online blackjack casinos offer their customers several means of asking questions or making complaints. These options should include contacting the online casino via phone, email, or social media platforms. Providing these options alone is not enough. The best casinos respond to support requests in a timely fashion. Waiting for 24 hours to get a response is not an attribute associated with the best casinos.

Also, getting issues resolved in real-time is one of the features of the best online casinos. You should be able to log into your account and chat with a customer care representative to get your concerns addressed quickly, so you can get to playing the game you love.

Quick Withdrawals

Another feature of the best online blackjack casinos is the ease and speed at which players can withdraw winnings from their accounts. The best blackjack casino site is one that processes players' payouts without delays or issues.

In addition, the best online blackjack casino is one that has generous withdrawal limits. A good casino will not make its players wait weeks to cash out their winnings because they won big due to an imposed withdrawal limit of $2,000 weekly. You should be able to access your money whenever you want—at least most of it. The proviso arises because virtually all online casinos have some type of withdrawal limit in place.

Can you Play Online Blackjack on Your Phone In West Virginia?

Yes, you can play online blackjack on your mobile devices in West Virginia. Gone are the days when you needed to be close to a computer to play online blackjack games. Now, you can play at any time, from anywhere within the state, using a mobile phone, iPad, iPhone, or any other mobile device because of the mobile apps offered by licensed blackjack sites in West Virginia.

These apps, which are compatible with Android and iOS devices, adapt to the screen sizes of smartphones and offer extra features such as fingerprint sign-in and touch screen controls. You can also access blackjack sites directly from your preferred web browsers. But this option may not offer players an optimal gaming experience as that of mobile apps.

To download a casino app in West Virginia, you must be physically present within the state borders. Downloading the app from Apple’s app store is easy because the store allows betting apps. On the other hand, Android users must obtain the link directly from the casino site to download the mobile app.

Regardless of your phone brand, you should pay attention to the ease of navigating through the blackjack casino site when choosing online mobile apps.

Online blackjack players in WV can look forward to the following benefits when they play games via the mobile apps on their phones:

• Accessibility: Using mobile apps allows you to bet from anywhere in the state.
• Lower graphics on the mobile app result in an enhanced loading speed.
• In contrast to the desktop version, which is fixed, playing online blackjack via mobile increases your mobility.
• It is easier to double up with the mobile app. You can check the odds, statistics, data, etc., using your desktop and, at the same time, place bets using your mobile phone. It saves a good deal of time.

How many Online Casinos are in West Virginia?

As of January 2022, seven (7) online casinos were authorized to operate in West Virginia. These online casinos are licensed and regulated by the West Virginia Lottery Commission.

The following subsections provide brief descriptions of the state’s top-rated casino sites.

BetMGM WV Casino

BetMGM West Virginia is one the more popular online casinos in the Mountain State. Its broad selection includes blackjack, roulette, and table poker games. Also, the casino boasts a massive selection of fantastic slots, including its own progressive jackpot games like MGM Grand Millions and Mirage Mega Magwa.

In addition to an awesome loyalty program and tons of ongoing promotions, BetMGM also gives residents of West Virginia a fantastic welcome bonus package that includes a $100 deposit match up to $2,500, $50 in free bet credit, and $50 free spins.

DraftKings WV Casino

Since its launch in July 2020, DraftKings West Virginia Casino has managed to amass a sizable and loyal fan base in the state. It offers a rich mix of options for gamers who wish to gamble online in West Virginia, with an online casino, a sportsbook, and exciting Daily Fantasy Sports competitions.

When you sign up at DraftKings online casino, you will receive $85 in free bet credit and a 100% welcome bonus worth as much as $2,000 as a thank you for doing so.

Caesars WV Casino

In April 2021, William Hill launched a West Virginia online casino app. It was then renamed Caesars Casino after Caesars Entertainment purchased William Hill. Currently, the site selection of games in West Virginia is limited. However, this is expected to change in the near future. Caesars Casino offers its players a generous welcome bonus and an easy-to-use mobile app.

What are the Different Online Blackjack Variants

Classic Blackjack

This is the game’s original format. In this game type, the player and the dealer will each receive two cards, one face up and the other face down. The game's objective is to reach 21 or come close to it. The winner is the player with the highest value. However, if the total exceeds 21, the player busts. It is a blackjack if a player’s first two cards total 21 with the combination of any of the face cards and an Ace.

Pitch Deck Blackjack

Pitch blackjack is a version of blackjack in which the cards are dealt manually using a “shoe.” This is usually a face-to-face event. It often involves only one or two decks, making card counting significantly easier, which casinos are aware of. It is for this reason that minimums tend to be significantly higher for this variant.

European Blackjack

The main distinction between American and European blackjack is that the dealer does not get to see the card they will end up with (their face down card) until the player has finished betting and playing. This implies that the dealer cannot check for blackjack and must make their decision later. Splitting cards is also restricted in European blackjack; you can only split once and only with cards worth 10 points or above.

Spanish 21 Blackjack

A Spanish 21 blackjack is played in the same way as regular blackjack. In this game, the cards can be doubled up to three times. The decks won’t have any cards with the number 10. The game will have six to eight decks of cards, and doubling is permitted even after a split.

Switch Blackjack

Switch blackjack is a version of the game in which the player can make two bets, and switch the second card if they want to. This is a way of giving the player something back for spending more money when they buy more than one hand at a time. To tempt players into doing that, the casinos give them an advantage, which is the ability to switch. This is the source of the variant’s name.

Super Fun 21

With this version of blackjack, the odds are a little bit more in the player’s favor, but it isn’t much. If you have six or more cards that add up to 20 or more, you win automatically. There is almost no chance that this will happen. Also, a player’s blackjack beats the dealer’s blackjack every time. One disadvantage of this version, however, is that the payout for blackjack is 6:5 instead of 3:2.

Vegas Strip Blackjack

Strip Blackjack, also known as Vegas Strip Blackjack, is becoming very popular and can be found in online casinos. The aim of the game is to get a blackjack with two cards totaling 21 or to beat the dealer with a score as close to 21 as possible but not higher. The main difference between American Blackjack and the Vegas Strip Blackjack is that in Vegas Strip Blackjack, the dealer can only peek if his top card is an ace, whereas in American Blackjack, the dealer can peek if his top card is an ace, 10, or a face card.

Multi-hand Blackjack

As the name implies, this variant of blackjack is simply about playing more than one hand of blackjack at the same time. The basic idea is that you can play more games at once, giving you a better chance of winning at least some of them. Most times, you play five hands simultaneously, but you could probably do more if you really wanted to or were good at it.

Progressive Blackjack

This blackjack variation involves a side bet on a progressive jackpot. By collecting suited aces, you can win the jackpot and other prizes. One ace pays out 5-1, two suited aces pay out $100, three suited aces pay out $5,000, and four suited aces pay out $10,000. Clearly, the chances of this ever happening are extremely low. Based on the number of decks in the game, the odds range from “basically impossible” to “statistically incredibly unlikely,” so lifting the jackpot is really not a fair bet in this variant. However, it is a fun free source of value—essentially a freeroll.

Suit ‘em Up Blackjack

Similar to progressive blackjack, Suit ém Up features an optional bet that pays out for finding suited cards. In this form of blackjack, the side bet begins to pay out when players are dealt suited cards. The more rare the suited occurrence is, the higher the payout ratio. For example, the payout ratio for suited cards is 2:1, while that of suited pairs is 5:1, and suited aces is 60:1. Although these ratios are not always precise, the relationship between them will remain constant over time.

Perfect Pair Blackjack

Besides the standard blackjack wager, the Perfect Pairs bet requires an additional bet. The side bet, in this instance, depends on whether or not you get a pair. Payout ratios for better pairs are higher. A better pair in this context refers to color and suiting; color pairs are better than normal pairs, and suited pairs are the best of the best.

Match Up

Match play blackjack is more of a casino promotion scheme than a blackjack variant. To get you to start betting, casinos will offer coupons stating that they will match your bets in a game of blackjack. Match play is when the casino matches your bets in order to get you involved in the game.

Face Up/ Double Exposure

This is a straightforward variant that adds a considerable amount of depth to the game. The main difference here is that the dealer will be dealt both cards face up, rather than one face down and one face up. This enables the player to make much more accurate predictions about what will happen and what they must do to beat the dealer.

Super 7

This is a multi-hand blackjack variant that offers extra payouts for getting 7’s. A player wins if their initial card is a 7, which rarely happens. Whether or not the player receives extra 7s after the initial one determines the payouts for this win. Essentially, it is blackjack as you know it, but when you play, you may receive some unusual bonuses.

Zappit

With the Zappit variant, you “zap”away difficult hands like 15s and 16s and receive fresh deals of cards. However, in return for this, the dealer does not bust on 22s, instead those are treated as a push. This seems like a fair deal, but it is worth nothing that Zappit’s payout ratios are a little lower than those of classic blackjack because giving the dealer an advantage like that is expensive.

Pontoon

This variant is the British equivalent of regular American blackjack, and it is very similar. Notwithstanding, there are a few things that make the game more interesting and less tactical.

The most obvious difference is that you get to see one of your cards before placing your bet. Another significant difference is that you win twice if your five cards total 21 or less.

The game still works in the same way, but the terms are different, which is important to know if you want to play it in person.

Chinese Blackjack

Playing Chinese Blackjack with a group of friends is the ideal way to enjoy the game. The main difference here is that the dealer has the discretion over which players’ hands are revealed and deciding whether or not to hit again after the player has finished. The basic idea behind the variant is that it was created to encourage casual players to take on the role of the dealer.

What is the Best Blackjack Variant?

Every player has their individual preference on which variant is the best; however, such preferences are subjective. The best variant is one that has the best payout and the most favorable rules and house edge.

Payouts

Blackjack games pay differently. When choosing the best variant, you should pay attention to the payout table. What you want is a blackjack variant that pays 3:2 for a natural Blackjack. Though this is the most common payout in online Blackjack variants, there are other games that pay 6:5 for a natural Blackjack. You should avoid these games by all means. The best variant should give you the best value for invested time and money.

Rules and House Edge

Not all blackjack variants have rules and house edge that are favorable to players. Some game variants have rules that are more advantageous to the player while others have rules that increase the house edge. For example, in most single-deck variants, the dealer hits a soft 17, which is one of the unfavorable rules to the player.

In choosing the bet variant, you should only go for games that allow you to split your cards up to three times and even re-split Aces. The best variant will permit doubling down on all initial two card totals, not just 9, 10, and 11. Besides, games that allow you to peek for a natural Blackjack are the best because they will save you money. In this case, the surrender option is useful, so look for game variants that include it.

What are the top five most popular versions of Blackjack?

Based on the rating of the most played blackjack variants from the US foremost gambling destinations (Las Vegas and Atlantic City), professional players’ opinions, and reviews by blackjack gaming writers, the top five most popular variants of blackjack are highlighted below.

American Blackjack

The American Blackjack is often referred to as the Classic Blackjack. This blackjack variant, along with the European Blackjack, is the most widely played version of the game.

One of the main differences between American and European Blackjack is the point in time the dealer takes his hole card. When playing American Blackjack, the dealer gets their hole card (the card that is kept face down) before the player can make any decision about their own hand.

Splitting and doubling down are two of the game’s components that vary between both versions.

European Blackjack

In the European Blackjack variant, the dealer only gets to receive their hole card after the player has decided on how to play the cards dealt to them. Overall, European Blackjack has more constraints on various facets of gameplay than in American/Classic Blackjack.

Vegas Strip Blackjack

The Vegas Strip Blackjack (or Strip Blackjack( is named after the Las Vegas Strip—the stretch of Las Vegas known for its extensive hotels and casinos. Strip Blackjack is gradually increasing in popularity and can be found mainly in online casinos.

Blackjack Switch

Blackjack Switch has a unique feature that sets it apart from other blackjack games, each player gets two hands. The players then have the option to switch or exchange the second card dealt to each hand.

Blackjack Perfect Pairs

Blackjack Perfect Pairs is an example of a side bet that has grown in popularity to the extent that it is now referred to as a blackjack variant in its own right.

Money: Deposits, Bonuses and Payments

Can I Play Blackjack for Real Money?

Absolutely, yes! Since the passage of the relevant laws which allowed players to lawfully play blackjack games with real money, West Virginia’s licensed online and offline casinos have been offering gamblers different versions of one of the most popular casino games in the world. As a result, you can choose to visit one of the state’s land-based casinos or log on to one of the approved online casino sites to play your favorite game, using a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop computer.

However, to legally play blackjack for real money at West Virginia’s land-based casinos or on the internet, you must be at least 21 years of age and be physically present within the state borders.

Even though there is nothing comparable to the thrill of playing blackjack for real money, players are advised to exercise caution and garner enough experience with free games or demo versions of blackjack before playing for real money.

Do I Have to Play for Real Money?

You should never play blackjack—whether online or offline—for real money unless you can afford to lose that money. This is because there is no guarantee that you will win.

What Deposit Options Can I Use?

Players who make wagers at online blackjack tables are blessed with an abundance of deposit options, which is a valuable trait of licensed online casinos. There might be slight variations in the deposit methods from one to the other, but detailed below are the typical deposit options you would find at West Virginia online casino sites.

Credit/Debit Cards

Visa: As long as you have a VISA credit or debit card that is not blocked from making online gambling deposits by your bank, you are good to go. Just be sure that your ban is aware of and approves of such gambling transactions using your VISA cards.

Master Card: MasterCard, like VISA, is a convenient option of funding your casino account. You will have a hard time finding a casino that does not accept this payment method, and you can use it to make withdrawals as well.

American Express: Despite being one of the most reputable credit card brands in the world, American Express is not commonly used as a casino deposit option like VISA or MasterCard. However, some blackjack sites allow you to use your American Express card as an option. Be sure to verify the deposit options at any site you choose to play.

eWallets

eWallets have become one of the most famous online deposit options for a couple of reasons: they are convenient and allow for quick transactions, and you don’t have to give your banking details to the operator. The latter advantage ensures the safety of sensitive information because all you need to provide the casino with is your eWallet information, an email address.

Here are some of the commonly used eWallet services at West Virginia online blackjack casinos.

PayPal: PayPal reigns supreme among eWallets. It is available in almost 200 countries and supports about 20 different currencies. Blackjack players can open a PayPal account in minutes in the Mountain State by filling out the electronic registration form and supplying an active email address. Thereafter, you can connect your PayPal account to your bank account and transfer money seamlessly. Most online blackjack sites accept PayPal deposits, and the process usually takes only a few minutes to complete.

Skrill: Skrill, formerly known as Moneybooker, is another well-known casino deposit option. While PayPal is only available at a few leading online casinos, Skrill is widely accepted by medium and small operators. With your account, you can also get a MasterCard and transfer money to over 40 different countries.

Neteller: This is also another popular method among blackjack gamblers. You will find this deposit method at many online blackjack sites. You can also get an N+ MasterCard linked to your bank account and use it to pay for services or withdraw money from ATMs.

PrePaid Cards

One of the best ways to keep track of your gambling spendings is through a prepaid card.

Play+: Play+ prepaid cards are available at almost all licensed WV online casinos, and this is the primary benefit of the payment option. It is widely accepted among gamblers.

Play+ prepaid cards can be activated online and in the mail, with the player receiving both a digital and physical copy of the card. The digital Play+ card acts as a go-between for the casino and the player’s credit or debit card. Most banks often block gambling-related deposits made with debit or credit cards due to certain bank policies. Rather than transferring funds directly to the casino, players can fund their Play+ prepaid card, which will then be forwarded to their online casino account.

VI (Preferred eCheck (ACH)

Automatic Clearing House (ACH), also referred to as an Instant eCheck, can only be used in the United States of America. Although this option is not as popular as it once was, some bettors still use it to fund their gambling account because of the following benefits: it is a convenient banking method, does not require additional third-party verification, and it can be used by any person with a valid US bank account.

PayNearMe

PayNearMe is an option for gamblers who want to fund their online casino accounts with hard cash. It also provides the added benefit of enhanced privacy because customers are never required to share their banking information with a third-party.

When you choose PayNearMe to deposit, you enter an amount and receive a pay slip that you can save on your phone or print. Then, you take the pay slip to the nearest PayNearMe cashiering location (usually a convenience store or nearby pharmacy) to pay with cash. PayNearMe deposits are often processed within minutes by casinos. The fee usually varies from $0 to $5.99 per transaction.

Wire Transfer

For large sums of money, wire transfer deposits are the best option. If you wish to deposit more than the maximum amount approved by other deposit methods, wire transfers is the best method to use. The disadvantage of this option is that you will have to visit your bank in person to undertake the transfer and will almost certainly pay a fee to the bank.

Cash at the Cage

To use this deposit method, visit the cashier gate at the land-based casino of the online blackjack site with which you want to make a deposit.

You hand over some cash to the teller at the gate, and the funds are transferred to your account right away.

In-person deposits are useful because they are private, they can be made right away, and there are no fees. If you are the sentimental type, it also feels nice to withdraw cash in person and hold it in your hands. But the biggest challenge is that moving large amounts of cash to or from a casino can be dangerous.

How Can I Cash Out My Online Blackjack Winnings?

Although there are fewer withdrawal options for players to cash out their online blackjack winnings, there are still enough options for bettors to choose from. Discussed below are some of the withdrawal options available to West Virginia online blackjack bettors.

eWallets

Paypal is one of the most convenient ways of cashing out at online casinos, but it is not always accessible to all casino players. Paypal will immediately deposit the money into your account. You can then transfer the money to your bank account from there, which may take a few days.

Skrill: Skrill is a global third-party processor that operates similarly to Paypal. The transfers show up quickly in your account. Most of West Virginia’s top online casinos accept Skrill.

Neteller: Neteller is an eWallet that has built up a solid reputation and is loved by both beginners and experienced online blackjack players. In addition to being quick, it is believed to have one of the lowest charges in the business.

Credit Cards

Players may be able to make withdrawals using a Visa or Mastercard at some blackjack sites. There is no fee for verifying the payments with your bank, and you can keep track of everything in a single account.

Despite the fact that credit cards are a safe and convenient means of transferring money from your casino account, there are only a few sites that accept this method.

Checks/eChecks

If you make a withdrawal request to an online casino using the check option, the site will send you a paper check through the mail. Some players prefer this withdrawal method because of the increased level of security despite its slower speed compared to other options.

Another withdrawal method is e-Checks, which are electronic checks that are processed immediately. eChecks are just as secure as paper checks, but they get the money into your bank faster because you are not waiting for the delivery.

PaySafeCard

PaySafeCard allows you to receive money online using a 16-digit Pay safe card PIN number, giving you greater flexibility when making online payments. If you have money in your PaySafeCard account, you can easily withdraw it and deposit it back into your bank account.

Bank Transfers

If you choose to use the bank transfer option, you don’t have to sign up for any of the other third-party services discussed above to get the ball rolling. However, there are a couple of issues to consider.

First, there’s the waiting period. When you request a withdrawal, you can expect to have to wait between one and five business days for the money to make its way into your bank account.

Second, there is the issue of security. You might not wait to give a third-party site your bank details.

Now that you have decided on a withdrawal option to use, you may want to cash out your blackjack winnings. Even though each online cash has its own withdrawal procedure, they usually follow a similar step-by-step guide as highlighted below:

• To get started, sign in to your account.
• Next, navigate to the casino’s “Cashier” “Wallet” or equivalent page.
• To make a quick casino withdrawal, select “withdrawal.”
• Choose a payment method. If you haven’t already filled out the required information. Most casinos will mandate you to use the same deposit and withdrawal method.
• Input the sum you want to withdraw from the online casino.
• After completing all of the necessary steps, confirm the operation and wait for the request to be processed.

How Old Do I Need to be to Play Online Blackjack in West Virginia?

You have to be at least 21 years old to play online blackjack or any other online casino game, poker, or sports betting, according to the West Virginia Lottery Commission.

The West Virginia Lottery Commission is saddled with the task of regulating the state’s casino service.

Are There Bonuses for Online Blackjack Players?

Absolutely, yes! There are many benefits of playing online blackjack as opposed to playing in land-based casinos, but the bonuses available online tops them all. West Virginia blackjack players are offered various bonuses when they play online. From bonuses for signing up, and depositing money, making a second or third deposit, playing often or for just being a devoted customer. Online blackjack players are spoilt for choice.

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses are what bring players to the site these days. Most of the time, these are match bonuses that give you a certain percentage of your deposit up to a certain limit. Welcome bonuses can be found in blackjack games, but they may be a high rollover requirement or be limited to specific games. An example of a welcome bonus would be a 100% match up to $600. This means that the casino will match your first deposit dollar for dollar, up to a maximum of $500.

Reloaded Bonuses

Reloaded bonuses, which are bonuses offered on subsequent deposit after the first welcome bonus, are one way that some online casinos keep the rewards flowing. Players should, however, read the terms and conditions of each offer to be sure of which reload bonuses apply to blackjack and which do not because each online casino has a different policy on this issue.

No Deposit Bonuses

These are bonuses that are offered to players with no string attached. It is a free-to-play blackjack game that allows you to win real money. You do not have to make a deposit for this type of offer. For instance, a casino may promote a $30 no deposit bonus. This means the casino will give you a complimentary $30 to use to play their games. This is a fantastic way for gamers to test out real money casino games without having to take any risks, which helps them gauge how much they enjoy the casino’s user interface, features, and setting.

Special Promotions

Special promotions are usually introduced through player tournaments, weekly/monthly leaderboard challenges, and other means. An example of a Special promotion may include offering $10 in bonuses when you spend $300 on blackjack In a specific day. Comp points are regularly included as part of special promotion bonuses. There are some special promotions that offer prices other than cash, such as trips, appliances, or other valuables. Although rare, this does happen from time to time.

Do I Have to Pay Taxes on My Blackjack Winnings in West Virginia?

Because blackjack is regarded as a game of skill rather than a game of chance by the IRS, online casino sites are not required to withhold taxes or issue a W2-g form to players who win large amounts, however, the player must report the winnings on their tax return and pay taxes on it.

However, the players still have to report blackjack gambling winnings when they file their taxes for the year and not at the casino when they claim their winnings.

Regardless of how you won the money or prizes associated with playing blackjack, the IRS insists that you report on your tax return all winnings from blackjack and other casino games.

Blackjack winnings are reported as “other income” on line 8 of the 2021 Form 1040. To do this, you must first fill out 8b of schedule 1, then move the total from line 10 of Schedule 1, to line 10 of your Form 1040 tax return.

All non-cash prizes, like cars or trips, must be reported at their fair market value.

The withholding tax rate for the federal and the state of West Virginia are 24% and 6.5%, respectively, if a winner does not provide their tax identification number (TIN).

You can use your gambling losses as a tax deduction to make up for the taxes you have to pay on gambling winnings. Gambling losses, unlike most other deductions, are not subject to the 2-percent limit on form 1040, schedule A. However, the total amount of losses deducted cannot exceed the total amount of winnings.

To lawfully deduct losses, you must keep a detailed record of your winnings and losses. For example, you may keep a diary in which you record the specifics of your wagers, the name of the gaming company, its address, and the name of those who accompanied you.

Site Options

How can I find the best Blackjack Sites in West Virginia?

When searching for the best blackjack sites in West Virginia, you should look out for those that exhibit the characteristics of top-rated online casinos that provide players with an overall fantastic gaming experience. These qualities are discussed as follows:

Game Variety

The best blackjack sites not only offer loads of blackjack variants, they must be top-notch games in terms of quality as well. The best West Virginia blackjack sites offer players multiple variants of their favorite game with the most up to date software, the best graphics, high quality animations and the best sound effects.

Safety and Security

This is probably the most important factor you should bear in mind when appraising the best blackjack sites in West Virginia. You definitely do not want to take chances of anything going wrong when your money and personal information are involved.

As a result, here are some specific attributes of the best blackjack sites in West Virginia:

• They have in place the highest level of encryption available.
• They will never sell your personal information to a third-party.
• There’s also the existence of a dedicated security and support team, working round the clock.
• The establishments have a proactive approach to addressing security concerns.
• Also, they have a track record of providing a secure online gambling environment.

Availability of Mobile Blackjack Gaming Options

Because convenience is at the heart of online gambling the availability of multiple mobile blackjack platforms cannot be over emphasized.

The best blackjack online sites are the ones that allow you to play on the go using mobile devices—whether Android or iOS—such as smartphones, tablets, iPhones, and iPads.

Bonuses and Promotions

Almost every gambling establishment offers various bonuses and promotions. However, the best blackjack sites are those that have in place achievable bonuses with clearly defined and easy to understand terms and conditions. More importantly, such bonuses must be expressly designed for blackjack players.

Quick Cash Out of Winnings

The ability to speedily withdraw gambling winnings whenever players wish is key to inspiring confidence in an online blackjack site. Consequently, you should have the following questions at the back of your mind when searching for the best blackjack sites in the Mountain State:

• Are there multiple high-quality and secure withdrawal and deposit options?
• Do the blackjack sites in West Virginia offer instant fee-free deposits?
• Do you receive at least one complimentary withdrawal per month?
• Have the banking integrations been properly done?
• Is there specialized support for making withdrawals?
• Are withdrawals processed in a timely manner?

Top-Notch Customer Support

Blackjack players often need answers to questions and responses to complaints. Whether it’s clarifying the terms of a bonus or establishing the status of a pending withdrawal, you want answers quickly.

Are there Mobile-Friendly Online West Virginia Casinos?

Yes. Most of the licensed online casino sites in West Virginia are mobile-responsive. As a result, no matter what device you use, you can access the casino site and play games instantly through your browser. Alternatively, you can download apps for your casino apps for your Android or iOS device. Depending on the operator and the software compatibility, you can download these apps directly from their websites or through Google Play Store.

Are there Mac-Friendly Online West Virginia Sites?

Presently, online blackjack players can only access casino apps that are specifically designed for Android and iOS devices. It is hoped that as other mobile brands gain popularity, casino operators will move to expand the range of software options available to their customers.

Should I Stick to a 'land-based' Casino?

Because players differ in their expected gaming experience, gambling goals and personality, the choice of where to play blackjack games will depend on how they perceive the pros and cons of online and offline casinos. Consequently, the pros and cons of online and land-based casinos are detailed below.

Land-based Casinos

Pros

• A one-of-a-kind experience: A brick-and-mortar casino will provide you with an experience unlike any other. Outstanding land-based casinos distinguish themselves through their atmosphere, service and bright lighting. You will not find such exciting elements elsewhere.
• Face-to-face interaction: Even though both options are quite sociable, online casinos do not allow for face-to-face interaction. This is what distinguishes land-based casinos.

Cons

• Fewer types of games: Unlike online casinos, brick-and-mortar casinos cannot have thousands of slot machines on their floors. In the same way, you’ll probably only find the most popular table games.
• Poker face: When playing in a real casino, players need to be aware of and control their expressions. They have to trick other players so that they don’t reveal their weaknesses. In other words, they need the best poker face possible.
• Noisy atmosphere: When you play casino games like House of Fun, or free slots in your house, you can be as quiet or as loud as you want. On the other hand, playing in a real-life casino means noise and crowds, which is not for everybody.

Online Casinos

Pros

• Play anytime, anywhere: Because players can move around with online casinos on their mobile devices, they have high-quality games at their disposal anytime, anywhere.
• Free games: If you just want to try out a casino, there are lots of free games you can play online. Try them out, and if they don’t work for you, you don’t have to come back. It doesn’t get any better than that does it?
• Large game selection: Most top-rated online casinos offer hundreds or even thousands of interesting games. Players can choose from a wide range of games and play for hours. That’s something that land-based casinos cannot offer.

Cons

• Limited social interaction: Even though online casino games provide some form of social interaction, you won’t get as much as you desire. You can chat with your friends, but you’ll probably still feel a bit disconnected.
• Possible security issues: If you don’t do your homework, you may find yourself playing at an online casino that doesn’t value the security of its customers. This might result in unpleasant circumstances.
• Transaction fees: This is something you should be prepared for at most online sites. You should be ready to pay a little bit more when depositing and withdrawing money because not all online casinos are generous enough to offer free transactions.