How do I use one of your bonus codes?

Simply follow one of the links to the site that you wish to sign up at, download the software, and enter the code in the spot specified during your account creation process.

What do I have to do in order to get my bonus?

Most of the sites require that you play a certain number of hands prior to “clearing” your bonus, usually 5 to 7 hands times the number of dollars the bonus is for. For example, in order to get a $25 bonus, you might have to play 125 hands (about 2 hours of play).

If you are just learning to play--- it’s best to start at the lowest limit possible and play “tight”. See our strategy section for tips on starting hands to play. Even if you play break-even poker, you will end up making money by clearing the bonus.

Is it safe to deposit money in an online poker site?

The sites that we recommend you play on are some of the largest and well-respected online poker rooms. It's very rare for any player to have difficulties depositing or withdrawing money from their sites, and they have 24-hour customer service representatives dedicated to working out any problems their customers might experience.

How do I deposit money into an online poker site?

All of the poker sites accept credit cards, debit cards, and a variety of other payment methods. Many U.S. credit cards will no longer accept gambling transactions however.

One of the best ways of depositing money is through a site called Neteller. With Neteller, you can write an “electronic check” and have money withdrawn directly from your checking account.

How do online poker sites make money?

In texas hold'em, players only play against each other, and the "house" has no interest in the outcome of the hand. This isn't to say that poker rooms don't make money however--- poker rooms typically take a percentage of every pot, usually somewhere between 5% and 10%. This is called the "rake".

How do online poker sites prevent cheating?

On the surface, it appears that it would be very easy for players to cheat in online poker. A few friends could sit down at the same table and share their card information via an instant messenger, for example. However, the online poker rooms have sophisticated software that tracks suspicious activity, and can detect patterns that give away cheating. In actuality, there is more danger of cheating in live poker games, since the dealers and casino staff have less information and ability to track patterns than do the online rooms.

Can I play online for free?

Yes. Click on any of the poker room links listed in our online poker site section (link), download the poker room software, and you can play on their "play money" tables with no obligation to deposit any money. It’s a good idea to try the play money tables first anyway--- as it allows you to get comfortable with the software and become familiar with the game before risking any money.

Do I have to declare my poker income on my taxes?

This also varies depending on where you live, but all persons living in the United States are required to declare their gambling winnings.

Is online poker legal?

Laws vary depending on your location. Technically online poker is a gray area. To our knowledge, no US online poker players have ever been harassed by law enforcement.

Can I play online poker with a Macintosh computer?

There is only one major poker room that supports Macintosh, PokerRoom.com. PokerRoom is one of the older online poker rooms, offers a wide variety of games, and has a large number of players online at all times. Players can play for free or real money.
The only other alternative for Macintosh users is to run the "Virtual PC" software, which is a Windows-emulator for Mac users.