Is Online Gambling Legal in Indiana?
Indiana has long been associated with gambling, from its first riverboat casinos to today’s variety of land-based options. Indiana was an early adopter of daily fantasy sports betting and legalized online sportsbooks; yet Indiana remains one of a few states without regulated online casino or poker gaming yet; although this could change soon as legislators create legislation that could allow iGaming to flourish within its borders.
The Indiana Gaming Commission oversees all forms of gambling within its borders, including iGaming. Their comprehensive website contains helpful information and links to external resources like case law and AG opinions; in addition to a glossary of terms and a FAQ page.
As with any form of gambling, online gaming carries some potential risks that should be kept in mind. Although most gamblers enjoy gambling as an enjoyable pastime, a small minority can become addicted and develop serious problems from it. Therefore, state laws on gambling put emphasis on prevention while the Commission provides services such as counseling and assistance programs as well as self-exclusion programs to support problem gamblers.
Indiana casinos and lotteries generate over $1 billion in tax revenue each year from casino operations and lotteries, providing funding for teachers, firefighters, police departments and cities hosting casinos as well as funding local parks and amenities for residents. Indiana also provides a voluntary exclusion program which allows gamblers to bar themselves from gambling venues – this option may prove particularly helpful to problem gamblers.
Even though Connecticut does not currently feature any regulated online casinos, players who wish to engage in iGaming games have several options for doing so. Both the lottery and some land-based casinos provide access to casino-style games through their websites – these include slots, video poker and table games.
Indiana is not alone in witnessing an explosive expansion of iGaming; many states are now exploring legalizing this form of gaming, yet Indiana lawmakers may struggle to come to a decision about legalization. Representative Manning attempted a bill in 2015 which failed to make its way through Public Policy Committee – this year these efforts will likely reappear with further consideration taken into account.
iGaming is considered taxable by the IRS, so any winnings are subject to federal and state taxes; thus making it essential to keep track of your wagers and losses in Indiana whether playing at real-life casinos, online casinos or daily fantasy sports betting sites – winnings from these forms of gambling will all fall under federal and state taxation requirements.