Ohio Online Casinos - OH Online Gambling Updates
Real money online casinos are still illegal in Ohio. For a legal online alternative, sweepstakes casinos like BetRivers offer a fun way to enjoy casino-style games
- 1Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
| Legal Gambling Age in Ohio: | 21+ |
| Latest Online Gambling Bill: | House Bill 29 |
| Who Will Regulate Online Casinos in OH: | Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) |
| Expected Real Money Casinos: | BetRivers |
| Number of Social Casinos in Ohio: | 20+ |
| Number of Land-Based Ohio Casinos: | 11 |
Are Online Casinos Legal in Ohio?
No, real money online casinos aren't legal in Ohio. The state’s laws only permit land-based casinos, and there’s no regulatory framework for online gambling.
When Will Ohio Legalize Online Casinos?
The state hasn’t set a timeline for legalization, and a 2024 proposal failed to gain traction or return in 2025. For now, players can use social casinos online.
Key Online Gambling Legislation Supporters and Opponents
Ohio’s push to legalize online casinos has drawn mixed reactions. Some see it as a way to boost revenue and modernize gaming; others warn of addiction and social risks.
- Former Senator Niraj Antani: Introduced Senate Bill 312 in 2024 to legalize online casinos, citing revenue and player safety. The bill stalled and wasn’t refiled after he left office.
- Governor Mike DeWine: Opposes expanding gambling, especially online. He’s concerned about addiction and the lack of protections for vulnerable groups.
- Senator Al Landis: Also against it, arguing that online gambling could harm families and increase problem gambling statewide.
With no active legislation in 2025, the issue remains on hold.
Should I Play at Offshore Online Casinos in OH?
Since gambling sites aren’t legal in Ohio, some players turn to offshore sites. The problem? These sites aren’t regulated in the US, which means you’re taking a gamble with your money and personal info.
- No Regulation: These sites aren’t licensed by Ohio or any US body, so there’s no way to confirm they’re operating fairly or following any rules.
- No Backup If Things Go Wrong: If you’re missing a payout or get locked out of your account, there’s no one to turn to for help.
- Unreliable Payments: Many offshore casinos use third-party or international processors, which can lead to slow transactions, added fees, or trouble withdrawing your winnings.
- Data Risks: With little to no oversight, your personal and financial info may not be stored securely, or at all.
- Game Fairness Unknown: There’s no way to prove the games are truly random, which means the odds may not be in your favor.
Land-Based Casinos in Ohio
Ohio has both full casinos and racinos, but not all offer the same games. Full casinos can offer table games like craps and roulette, while racinos are limited to video lottery terminals (VLTs) only.
| Casino | Town/City | Opening Hours |
| JACK Cleveland Casino | Cleveland | 24 hours |
| Hollywood Casino Columbus | Columbus | 24 hours |
| Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati | Cincinnati | 24 hours |
| Hollywood Casino Toledo | Toledo | 24 hours |
| MGM Northfield Park (Racino) | Northfield | 24 hours |
| JACK Thistledown Racino | North Randall | 24 hours |
| Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs (Racino) | Columbus | 24 hours |
| Miami Valley Gaming (Racino) | Lebanon | 24 hours |
| Belterra Park Gaming (Racino) | Cincinnati | 24 hours |
| Hollywood Gaming Dayton (Racino) | Dayton | 24 hours |
| Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley (Racino) | Austintown | 24 hours |
Responsible Gambling in Ohio
Ohio offers several resources to help people gamble responsibly or get support if they’re facing gambling problems.
Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline
Website: www.gamblinghelpohio.org
Helpline: 1-800-589-9966
Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG)
Website: www.ohio.gov/responsible-gambling
Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO)
Website: www.pgnohio.org
FAQs
Can you gamble online in Ohio?
You can legally bet on sports and play fantasy sports through licensed apps in Ohio, but real money online casino games aren’t allowed. Some players turn to offshore sites, but these aren’t regulated by the state and may come with added risks.
What is the legal gambling age in Ohio?
You must be at least 21 years old in Ohio to gamble at casinos or place sports bets. For lottery games and charitable gambling, the minimum age is 18. Sticking to these age limits is important, underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious consequences.
Will Ohio tax my gambling winnings?
Yes, Ohio taxes gambling winnings. You have to report anything you win on both your state and federal taxes. Ohio takes a flat 4% from your winnings, and the IRS counts it as part of your regular income when you file your federal return.
