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Online gambling isn’t fully legal across the US, but Rhode Island is making waves. This “baby shark” in the gaming world legalized online casinos in March 2024, opening the doors for RI residents to enjoy high-quality casino games from the comfort of their homes.

As the market grows, I’m here to guide you through the latest updates. Let’s explore the best online casinos, social casino options, and some handy gambling tips. Dive in!

Overview of Rhode Island’s Online Gambling Laws

We need to start the guide with some basic information on online gambling laws. I truly understand why people are confused. For only 7 months, it is difficult to get informed about all the rights and obligations that casino players have. 

Legalization History

Rhode Island’s gambling journey began in 1934 with parimutuel horse race betting. After decades of stagnation, daily fantasy sports were legalized in 2016, with betting officially allowed by 2018. Sports betting followed the same year, expanding to mobile platforms in 2021 through a state lottery partnership.

The big leap? March 2024, when online gambling became legal in Rhode Island. Currently, Bally Casino is the sole licensed operator under an exclusive agreement with the state.

Regulatory Authority

Rhode Island splits its gambling oversight across three bodies:

  • Rhode Island Lottery Commission: Manages sports betting apps.
  • Division of the Lottery: Oversees online casinos.
  • Department of Business Regulations: Handles commercial casinos under its Division of Commercial Licensing and Racing & Athletics.

Licensing and Regulations

To operate legally, casinos must meet strict criteria, including:

  • Advanced data protection.
  • Valid software ensuring game randomness.
  • Proof of initial capital.
  • Tools promoting responsible gambling.

However, Bally Corporation holds the exclusive market rights, meaning new operators won’t be entering anytime soon.

Types of Legal Online Gambling

Currently, the RI offer is still limited, but I am pretty sure that things will change soon. The forms of legal online gambling are:

N°1 Online Casino in Rhode Island

Bally Casino holds a monopoly on the gaming market in Rhode Island. Currently, it offers more than 200 games, but it may happen that you won’t find some of the most popular titles because the offer is still limited. Plus, it will take time for the gaming industry to improve here.

Bally players can use three payment methods to make money transfers. Despite MasterCard, which is a basic method, you can also use PaySafeCard and PayPal. The minimum limit for both withdrawals and deposits is $10. 

I appreciate the quality of the mobile casino app. It is available for iOS and Android devices. The navigation is pretty simple, and you can complete any process or find your favorite casino games within seconds. 

Top 3 Social Casinos Available in Rhode Island

Although real money gambling comes with a limited selection, things are different with social gambling. Many websites like that allow players to test their luck without investing real money.

I have highlighted three sweepstakes casinos available in Rhode Island, where you are guaranteed to live a great experience. And to boost it, I invite you to read my in-depth guide on winning tips for sweepstakes casinos.

Stake.us

take.us is a trailblazer in the social casino world, known for its innovative games and crypto-friendly payments (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Players can gamble with Stake Cash (redeemable) and Gold Coins (for fun).

New users receive $55 Stake Cash, 550,000 GC, and a 5% Rakeback promotion. Keep in mind, SC requires a 3x wager before redemption.

The game catalog is stellar, featuring Pragmatic Play titles like Sugar Rush and Sweet Bonanza, plus live dealer games, table games, and video poker. It’s a modern, cutting-edge option I recommend to everyone!

Want to find out how to claim the social casino offers? Visit my complete Stake.us Casino review.

Funrize Casino

Funrize stands out with over 800 games, some reserved for VIPs. Its mobile-friendly platform supports seamless play on iOS and Android devices.

The casino offers two unique modes: Tournament Mode, using non-redeemable coins for fun, and Promotional Mode, where winnings can be converted into real prizes using Promotional Entries.

What I love most are its secure payment options, including bank transfers, VISA, MasterCard, PayPal, and Apple Pay. 

Read my dedicated Funrize Casino review for extra winning tips adapted to its game offering.

No Limit Coins

No Limit Coins, owned by A1 Development LLC, has quickly become a standout social casino. It doesn’t require real-money deposits, offering players the chance to use Gold Coins (for fun) and Super Coins (redeemable) instead.

The platform boasts 100+ games, primarily slots, alongside fishing and jackpot games. NetEnt, a leader in game development, powers their offerings, ensuring top-tier quality and diversity.

New players receive 100,000 GC and a 50% SC match after registration, with more rewards unlocked upon identity verification. For those interested, optional coin purchases start at $30 for 1,250,000 GC and 6,000 SC.

For more bonuses’ information about No Limit Coins Casino, refer to my linked review.

How to Get Started with Online Casinos in Rhode Island?

With only one online casino in the state, the steps to begin are straightforward. Just follow these five easy steps:

  1. Register at RI Bally Casino.

    Create an account by filling in your name, date of birth, address, and ID number. Verify your identity by uploading a valid ID.

  2. Confirm you are located in Rhode Island.

    Allow the casino to access your location. This ensures compliance with state laws and blocks access from restricted areas.

  3. Deposit and fund your bankroll.

    Choose from available payment methods like e-wallets and credit cards to fund your account. Deposits are instant and free of hidden fees.

  4. Obtain bonuses to boost your experience.

    After depositing, unlock the welcome bonus by reading and following the bonus terms and conditions.

  5. Responsible gaming.

    Set limits on spending, wagers, or session time to maintain control and enjoy a safe gambling experience.

 

Overview of Gambling Taxes in Rhode Island

Here comes the worst part for many (or maybe just for me!) Unfortunately, gambling winnings are taxable, and you will need to report them and pay them. 

Federal tax is the first concern. You will need to fill out the W-2G form with all the winnings you have made throughout the year. However, there are a few exceptions. If you won less than 1.2k USD on slots or bingo or less than $5,000 on poker, you don’t have to do that. 

Speaking of state taxes, they also must be covered. Wins from gambling are considered “other income”, which is why such a scenario exists today. Lucky winners will have to pay 5.99% on their prizes that are over 5.99%. Believe it or not, this is even good. Taxes for spots betting winnings above the limit are 51%. 

Top 2 Land-Based Casinos in Rhode Island

Some people would want to test their luck at the best brick-and-mortar casinos. I had some crazy nights in Rhode Island, which is why I use my right to recommend three locations for all gambling enthusiasts. 

Tiverton Casino Hotel 

Tiverton Casino may not be massive, with 33,600 square feet of gaming space, but it’s packed with options. It offers over 1,000 games, including slots, video poker, and video keno, catering to all budgets, from a few pennies to $25 per spin.

For table game enthusiasts, there are 32 options, including classics like Three Card Poker, Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, and Spanish 21. A sportsbook is also available, operating daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.

Beyond gambling, you can enjoy live music at The Center Bar or dine at Moyah, Casino Café and Grille, or Jacky’s Galaxy Restaurant.

Twin River Casino Hotel

Twin River is the larger sibling, boasting 190,000 square feet of gaming space and over 4,100 games. Slot machines dominate, but video poker and video keno are also available.

The casino features 11 table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Craps, Let It Ride, and 3-Card Poker. Poker fans can explore 23 tables, with some reserved for high-rollers.

For sports enthusiasts, the sportsbook operates from noon to 8 PM.

What about Roger Williams Park Casino, you ask? Here comes a tricky part. Most people who are not from Rhode Island think that there are three traditional casinos within the state. However, there are actually just two of them. When Googling eventual locations to visit, people usually see Roger Williams Park Casino. 

This isn’t a casino at all, and you won’t find any slot machines or table games. Contrary to its name, this isn’t a gambling venue. Built in 1896, it’s a historic event space available for rent. The word casino here refers to its Italian origin, meaning “little house” used for social gatherings and events, not gambling. 

Future of Online Gambling in Rhode Island

Honestly, I think significant progress won’t be made so soon. This is the smallest US state, with barely more than 1 million people there. Hence, there is no big potential for significant growth.

However, something I do expect is the involvement of innovative solutions like VR and AR technology. RI residents will have the chance to enjoy a more realistic gambling experience in the following years. They won’t have the desire to leave their house if something like that happens. 

Responsible Gambling Resources in Rhode Island

For the end of the guide, I want to discuss the responsible gambling practices at Rhode Island casinos. Use all the tools that support your self-control. Limit your spending on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. In case you recognize the first addiction symptoms, self-exclude yourself from the website!

If you really can’t handle the issue on your own, get in touch with the Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling. Ask experts for help. Remember — this is a source of fun, not income.

Seeking other locations to play casino in the country? I invite you to read my complete page on US legal online casinos, where I’ve listed the best options and some winning taxes’ advice.