Kentucky Online Casinos - KY Online Gambling Updates
Online casinos are illegal in Kentucky as of 2025. However, players can now place wagers on sports online and enjoy sweepstakes casinos which are a viable alternative.
- Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Void in ID, MI, WA and WY.
- 2Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Vois in Idaho, Michigan, Washington and Wyoming.
- 3Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Void in ID, MI, WA, and WY.
- 4Must be 18+ to participate. Void in ID, LA, MI, MT, NV and WA.
- 5Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Void in CT, DE, HI, LA, MI, MT, NV, NY and WA
- 6Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Void in CT, ID, LA, MD, MI, MT, NV, NY, and WA.
| Legal Gambling Age in Kentucky | 21+ |
| Latest Online Gambling Bill | No active legislation for online casinos, but sports betting was legalized in 2023 |
| Who Will Regulate Online Casinos in KY | Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (if legalized) |
| Expected Real Money Casinos | BetMGM, Caesars Palace, DraftKings, Golden Nugget, BetRivers, Fanatics |
| Number of Social Casinos in Kentucky | 20+ |
| Number of Land-Based Kentucky Casinos | 5 (historical horse racing venues, no traditional casinos) |
Are Online Casinos Legal in Kentucky?
No, casino gambling isn’t legal in Kentucky. Attempts to expand it have stalled, mainly because the state prioritizes horse racing and HHR machines. Without tribal casinos or gaming agreements, there’s no clear path to legalization. In the meantime, players can enjoy legal social casinos online.
When Will Kentucky Legalize Online Casinos?
There is no set timeline for online casino legalization in Kentucky. Although online sports betting became legal in 2023, efforts to introduce online casinos have met opposition. The state’s focus on horse racing and existing gaming options has slowed progress.
Key Online Gambling Legislation Supporters and Opponents
The debate over expanding gambling in Kentucky continues, with some leaders pushing for legalization while others strongly oppose it. Here’s a look at key figures and their stances on online gambling:
- Governor Andy Beshear: A strong advocate for expanding gambling, supports legalizing online casinos, sports betting, and poker. He played a key role in legalizing sports betting in 2023.
- Representative Thomas Huff: Introduced House Bill 33 in early 2025, allowing counties to decide on land-based casino gambling. His bill proposes a regulatory framework under the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation.
- Paul Chitwood (Former Executive Director of the Kentucky Baptist Convention): A long-time opponent of casino gambling, citing moral and social concerns. He has actively worked against efforts to expand gambling in Kentucky.
These positions may change, so staying updated on legislative developments is essential.
Should I Play at Offshore Online Casinos in KY?
Since real money online casinos aren’t legal in Kentucky, some players turn to offshore casinos, which carry significant risks.
- No Legal Protection: Since these sites operate outside U.S. regulations, players have no legal backup if their winnings are withheld or their accounts are unfairly restricted.
- Security Risks: Offshore platforms may not have strong data security, leaving personal and financial details vulnerable.
- Unreliable Payouts: Unlike regulated casinos, offshore sites aren’t required to pay out fairly, and some have a reputation for holding or refusing withdrawals.
- Lack of Responsible Gambling Tools: Legal U.S. casinos must provide self-exclusion and deposit limit options, but many offshore sites don’t follow these guidelines.
Land-Based Casinos in Kentucky
Kentucky doesn’t allow traditional table games like craps, roulette, or poker. Instead, gaming venues feature historical horse racing (HHR) machines, which function like slots. While efforts to expand casino gaming continue, options remain limited to racetrack-affiliated gaming halls.
| Casino | Town/City | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Derby City Gaming | Louisville | 24 hours |
| Newport Racing & Gaming | Newport | Sun–Thu: 10:00 – 03:00 Fri–Sat: 10:00 – 05:00 |
| Oak Grove Racing & Gaming | Oak Grove | 24 hours |
| The Mint Gaming Hall | Franklin | 24 hours |
| The Mint Gaming Hall | Williamsburg | 24 hours |
Responsible Gambling in Kentucky
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available through several confidential support services in Kentucky. Below are key resources with contact information for assistance.
Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG)
Website: www.kycpg.org
Phone: 502-223-1823
1-800-GAMBLER Helpline
Website: www.rvbh.com
Phone/Text: 1-800-426-2537
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services – Problem Gambling Program
Website: www.chfs.ky.gov
National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-522-4700
FAQs
Can you gamble online in Kentucky?
No, real money online casinos are illegal in Kentucky. While sports betting was legalized in 2023, online casinos remain unregulated. Players can visit land-based venues or risk offshore sites. Until laws change, options are limited to unregulated platforms or legal sweepstakes gaming.
What is the legal gambling age in Kentucky?
You must be 21 to gamble at casinos or place sports bets. With no traditional casinos, most gambling revolves around horse racing and HHR machines.
Will Kentucky tax my gambling winnings?
Yes, Kentucky taxes gambling winnings with a 6% state tax and up to 24% federal withholding on more significant amounts. All winnings from casinos, horse racing, sports betting, or the lottery must be reported, even if no tax was withheld.
