Online gambling is a popular recreational activity many Ohio residents engage in for fun. Some play online gambling games for a chance to win real money. However, you must know that online casinos are not legal in the state, thus, residents have limited legal online gambling options. 

While Ohio is yet to legalize online casinos in the state, you can gamble on options like sports betting, lotteries, and daily fantasy sports. This is possible at legal land-based casino platforms in the state. 

Ohio legislation could soon make legal online casinos available to residents. So, players can hope that with various states in the US now accepting online gambling, there will be a chance to access real-money slot games in the future. However, you can play online slots for free on social casinos or visit licensed offshore casinos that permit Ohio residents. 

Getting started with online real-money slots in Ohio is easy, and we’ll guide you all the way. This article addresses vital details you need to know about online gambling in Ohio. We’ve also reviewed the best online casinos and sweepstake sites available for Ohio users. In addition, you’ll get tips that will help to increase your winning chances on these online gambling platforms. 

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Gambling History in Ohio

There are many legal online gambling options in Ohio, but online casinos are not one of them. You can legally play sports betting, lotteries, charitable bingo, horse racing betting, and daily fantasy sports in the state. The online gambling laws in Ohio permit players to access land-based casinos, social casinos, and sweepstake platforms. These platforms have allowed residents to enjoy playing games both for free and with a chance to win real cash. 

The first type of gambling to become legal in Ohio was horse racing in 1933. Then, following a voter referendum in 1973, the Ohio Lottery also became legal for residents. After that, the state has experienced a series of changes to meet up with the latest developments in the iGaming industry, especially as other states are experiencing growth in the sector. 

2009 saw a massive improvement in the Ohio gambling industry. Commercial casinos were established in the state’s four major cities: Toledo, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. This resulted from a ballot initiative called the Ohio Casino Approval and Tax Distribution, which voted for the establishment of the casinos. In 2011, racinos were also authorized after electronic gaming devices were approved to be used at the established racetracks in the state. 

In 2017, daily fantasy sports became the first online casino game to become legal in Ohio. However, the rules and regulations guiding the game were established in 2019 and became effective the same year. By December 2921, sports betting was fully legal in Ohio as passed by the Senate. Retail and online sports betting platforms are now functional in Ohio as more players can place bets on their favorite sports games. 

Who Regulates Ohio Online Casinos?

The Ohio Casino Control Commission regulates the activities of land-based casinos in the state. The regulatory body ensures that casinos offer a safe gambling environment for residents. However, since online casinos are illegal, the regulatory body doesn’t concern itself with how offshore online casino sites operate. The OCCC also doesn’t get involved when Ohio residents play at gambling sites not under its jurisdiction. 

In accordance with the Ohio Casino Control Law, the Ohio Casino Control Commission was created in 2011. The commission allows Ohio residents to access safe gambling options in the state. This regulatory body is likely to be in charge when the state makes online casinos legal in Ohio. So, Ohio residents can make complaints or inquiries to the OCCC concerning online gambling activities in the state. 

Are Online Slots Casinos Legal in Ohio?

Online casino operations are currently illegal in Ohio state. There has yet to be a bill by the state government to legalize online casino operations. However, Ohio residents can play their favorite online slot games at several casino sites that accept players from the state. The state government has never prosecuted anyone found playing online casino games. 

Although playing real-money slot games is yet to be made legal in Ohio, players can play games at sweepstake casinos in the state. This offers you the opportunity to play online casino games for free and even a chance to win fantastic prizes and rewards. Social casinos are more about entertainment than winning big. 

Ohio players who wish to play real-money slot games can register at online casinos that accept Ohio residents. After all, online gambling is not entirely banned in the state, and you won’t be prosecuted for playing at offshore casinos. 

Search our recommended online casinos that accept Ohio players and sign up for an account. Doing so will ensure you play at an appropriate gambling site that protects your data and information. You won’t also be breaking state laws by playing in these online casinos. 

Responsible Gambling Is Important in Ohio

Ohio players are expected to practice responsible gambling in any online casino they sign up to. The Ohio Casino Control Commission ensures that all land-based casinos in the state provide a safe gambling environment for all residents. The commission also ensures that these casinos follow the rules and regulations of the state gambling laws. Any casino platform not licensed by the OCCC will not be permitted to operate in the state.

Regardless of the casino site you choose, responsible gambling is key. Many top online casinos, especially those we recommend, provide tools to help you manage your gambling activities. For instance, casinos allow you to set limits to the amount you wish to wager in a day, week, or month. You can also request self-exclusion if you experience gambling additions or problems. In addition, online casino platforms put measures in place to ensure players below the legal age can’t sign up for an account. 

Apart from the Ohio Casino Control Commission, other non-profit organizations will assist you if you’re battling gambling problems. Examples of such organizations include The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, Gamblers Anonymous, Gam-Anon, and GamTalk. 

What Are the Legal Gambling Options in Ohio

While online casinos are still prohibited in Ohio, the state’s online gambling laws provide room for residents to enjoy other forms of online gambling. You can access other legal gambling options backed by state law if you wish to stick to online gambling in the state. Here are other legal gambling options in Ohio. 

Online Sports Betting

Online sports betting is legal in Ohio and is one of the safest gambling options for its residents. The state has more than 40 retail facilities where you can place bets on several sports games. You’ll also find close to 50 apps and over 1000 sports betting kiosks that provide diverse betting markets for users. Retail sports betting is common in sports bars, grocery stores, and gas stations, providing opportunities for live betting, Super Bowl, college betting, and March Madness bets for Ohio residents. 

Daily Fantasy Sports

Ohio allows residents to participate in daily fantasy sports content. With leading casino platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings, players can enjoy contests and special events like the World Cup that enable them to place stakes for real-money wins. Since it was legalized in 2017, Daily fantasy sports have been growing in popularity among residents of the state, with many players picking their favorite Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns players. 

Online Lottery

Online lottery is a well-developed gambling activity you can enjoy legally as a resident of Ohio. You can purchase scratch cards for instant-win games, both in-state and multi-state draw games. There are plenty of lottery terminals in the state where you can purchase lottery tickets. You’ll also have the option of accessing licensed retainers that allows Ohio residents to participate in the lottery. In addition, Ohio gambling laws permit you to purchase keno tickets for instant wins in licensed lottery platforms. 

Land-Based Casinos

You’ll find about 11 casino locations in Ohio’s largest cities, including Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, and Columbus. Ohio residents will not find it challenging to access various slots, live poker, table games, etc., in these land-based casinos. Aside from the residents, visitors and tourists are allowed to visit these commercial casinos to play their favorite slot games. You’ll also find racetracks that offer live racing in the state. 

Social Casinos and Sweepstake Sites in Ohio

Since online  real-money casinos are not legal in Ohio, finding alternatives has become necessary. The legal alternatives are sweepstakes and social casinos. These online gambling platforms allow you to play Ohio online slots for free as they don’t require deposits to begin. 

Playing on these online gambling sites requires you to use sweeps coins and gold coins which the sweepstakes casino sites give you. These sites are legal in Ohio, as players don’t need to gamble using real cash. However, you can convert your winnings to cash prizes and amazing rewards. 

Top Sweepstake Casinos in Ohio

You don’t need real money to access sweepstake casino products. Instead of using cash, these online gambling platforms allow players to use sweeps coins or gold coins to play their preferred online slot games. However, this doesn’t take away the fact that you can still win amazing prizes in sweepstakes casinos. 

So, if you’re looking for legal alternatives to play Ohio online slots, sweepstake platforms are your best bet. You can access regular real-money games available in licensed online casinos. But you don’t need to make deposits to play these games since you’re required to use sweep coins or gold coins provided by the casino. 

We’ve provided the best sweepstakes casino in Ohio to play your favorite slot games and other variants. 

Chumba Casino

Chumba is one of the most popular sweepstakes casinos licensed to operate in Ohio. You can start playing your favorite slots, and other game variants at Chumba provided you are an Ohio resident. The casino web app is compatible with any mobile device to ensure you enjoy a seamless online gaming experience. Playing at the casino allows you to get free sweeps coins to play games of your choice. You can also buy a gold coin package at $30 for extra 30 free sweeps coins and 3,000,000 gold coins. 

LuckyLand Slots Casino

LuckyLand Slots sweepstake casino provides the latest slot games, table games, and virtual sports you can play with gold coins and sweeps coins. The casino offers up to 7,777 Gold coins, and 10 sweeps coins for free immediately after you sign up for an account on the platform. You can also purchase the gold package of $10 at $4.99 only to enjoy free 10 sweeps coins and 50,000 gold coins. The social casino has a dedicated mobile app to play games using your mobile devices. 

Funzpoints Casino

You can play slot titles and keno games in Funzpoints. The sweepstakes casino provides free sweeps coins and gold coins from time to time to allow you to play casino games for free. However, if you’ve exhausted your sweeps coins and don’t wish to wait for the next giveaway time, you can purchase the premium Funzpoints packages to continue playing. The premium Funzpoints are worth $2.50, and you’ll get 1000 free Funzpoints. Lucky players can also win amazing prizes and rewards. 

Global Poker

Ohio residents can play varieties of online casino games in Global Poker. The casino offers free gold coins to allow players to participate in video poker and slot games without worrying about making deposits. You’ll enjoy various poker variants, including pot-limit Omaha, no-limit hold ’em, and many more. Non-poker players can access a small selection of table games and slot various to enjoy their gambling time on the platform. You can also engage in tournaments for free using your free sweeps and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes. 

Pulsz Casino

Pulsz Casino is rated as one of the best social casinos you’ll find in Ohio because of its versatility. The online gambling platform offers unique classic slots, table games, and other variants. You also have the opportunity to win big with jackpot slots. The casino will offer up to 400,000 sweepstakes coins when you win jackpots and other slot games. You can redeem these free sweeps coins for cash prizes and other amazing rewards. 

How To Get Sweeps Coins for Free

Ohio players can get sweeps coins in various ways. You can use these sweeps coins to play online slots and other casino games for free. You also can convert them to cash prizes without making a single deposit. 

• No-deposit bonuses: All sweepstakes casinos offer free sweeps and gold coins immediately after registering an account on the platform. Deposits are not required to claim these bonuses. You can play games to stack up the coins and exchange them for cash. 

• Free daily sweeps coins: You can get free sweeps coins within intervals, depending on the social casino. Many sweepstakes casinos offer free sweeps coins when you log into your account daily to play online casino games for free. 

• Referral bonus: Sweepstakes sites can reward you with free sweeps coins and gold coins when you refer your friends to sign up for an account on the platform. This is a strategy sites use to build a bigger customer base. 

• Free to enter tournaments/ contests: You can join contests and tournaments for free to play casino games with other players. You don’t need to make deposits, as the sweepstakes casino will provide free sweeps coins you can use for the contests. 

• Purchase gold coins: This option is not free or compulsory. However, players who are not ready to wait for free sweeps coins can purchase certain gold coins to play their favorite slot games in the sweepstakes casino. In most cases, the casino will provide additional sweeps coins for players to enjoy their favorite games. 

How To Play Ohio Online Slots for Real Money

We’ve provided easy steps to help you start playing online slots in Ohio. While playing real-money slot games can be interesting, following our guide will ensure you get value for your time and a chance to win real cash. 

• Choose from our recommended online slot casinos: Many online casinos accept players on the internet. However, creating an account with any of our recommended online casinos ensures your details are safe. These sites also ensure you get paid your earnings after winning. 

• Sign-up and verify your account: Ensure you’re over the legal age to create a casino account. Provide the necessary details to register an account and verify your new account using your utility bill or government-approved ID. 

• Fund your account: Make deposits to fund your account so you can start playing your favorite slot games immediately. Our recommended online casinos offer welcome bonuses to new users after making an initial deposit. Utilize the bonus to increase your winning chances. 

• Select your preferred slot titles: Visit the casino lobby to select your preferred slot title. You’ll find slot games with different storylines, RTPs, themes, and graphics. Depending on your preference, you can play classic or progressive slots for a chance of winning big. 

Top 5 Casinos for Playing Online Slots in Ohio

Ohio is yet to legalize online casinos in the state. However, no laws prevent residents from playing their preferred slot game titles and other online casino game variants. Interested players can visit offshore online casinos to enjoy unlimited access to real-money online slots. Here are the top five offshore online casinos we recommend for Ohio residents. 

Wild Casino: Known for its payment options, game varieties, and fast payouts, Wild Casino is one of the top choices for Ohio players interested in playing real-money slot games. The online gambling platform is licensed and regulated by the Panama Gaming Authority to ensure you’re playing on a safe site. You’ll enjoy an enticing welcome bonus upon registration and making an initial deposit. The casino also offers an extensive collection of the best casino games, including jackpots, poker, table games, and live dealer games. 

Bovada Casino: Bovada Casino is an online casino and sportsbooks platform that offers the best online gambling content to Ohio players. The casino boasts the best customer service with dedicated agents ready to resolve your complaints 24/7. You don’t have to worry about the safety of your data since the gambling site uses the best security plugins and the latest firewall technologies. The casino site is mobile-responsive and convenient; even newbies will find it easy to navigate. Besides quality slot titles, Bovada Casino also provides fantastic roulette, blackjack, live dealer games, poker, and more. 

BetUS Casino: Access to the latest real-money slots and other games has been made easier with BetUs Casino. The gambling site provides easy access to several payment options for convenient online transactions. You’ll enjoy mouthwatering bonuses to make your gaming experience fun and increase your winning chances, BetUs Casino offers excellent support service, first-class security, a mobile casino, and a great casino lobby for the gaming pleasure of Ohio players. 

Las Atlantis: Ohio players looking for an offshore online casino that offers great bonuses, fast payouts, and an amazing game collection can rely on Las Atlantis to deliver. You can play free slot games of your choice for the run. The casino also allows Ohio players to play real-money slot games for a chance to win cash. With a professional customer support service, the casino ensures you don’t have problems playing games on the platform. You’ll also find the casino site responsive since it’s compatible with both desktop and mobile devices. 

Super Slots Casino: This casino features over 250 slot game titles, giving players a wide range of options. You can play slot games for real money or enjoy the casino’s table games or video poker. The casino also provides live dealer games to give you a near experience to physical casinos. Ohio players can sign up for an account, make payments, access bonuses, and play their preferred games. The gambling operator provides an excellent support service in case you face any problems. 

Increase Your Chance of Winning at Ohio Online Casinos Using These Tips

You might wonder if it’s safe to play real-money online slots in Ohio after reading about the legal situation of the state. The tips below will guide you on remaining safe while playing your favorite slot games as an Ohio resident. These tips will also help to increase your chances of winning real money from these online casinos. 

• Play only at reputable online casinos: Joining a reliable online casino is the safest way to avoid problems. We’ve recommended the best online casinos where you can enjoy playing online slots in Ohio. We reviewed several criteria in selecting these casino platforms, including security features, payment options, customer support service, and mobile compatibility. You’ll enjoy a secure and enhanced gaming experience on these online platforms. 

• Gamble on sites with fast payouts: Deposits in most online casinos are instant. However, you’ll usually experience delays when withdrawing your earnings after winning. We advise you to play slot games at gambling sites that offer reliable and fast payouts. This will enable you to withdraw your winnings quickly, without delay. 

• Utilize bonuses and promotions: Online casinos in Ohio offer bonuses and promotions to help you love playing on their gambling platform. You can receive enticing offers such as a welcome bonus, no-deposit bonus, free spins, reload bonus, and more. However, before using these bonuses, ensure you understand the terms and conditions and can meet the wagering requirements. 

• Set spending limits: Online gambling is for entertainment and you must ensure to keep it that way. While it’s possible to get carried away by the excitement, we advise that you gamble responsibly. This will ensure you don’t get addicted or lose more than you can afford. Setting a spending limit on your gambling activities is highly recommended and will enable you to make wise gambling decisions. 

• Place bets on what you understand: Top casino platforms offer several gambling options and betting markets. Ohio players have different gambling tastes, and the variety is for the players’ ultimate satisfaction. However, this doesn’t mean you must try all the betting options with real money. We advise you to practice before placing bets. 

• Don’t get too emotional: Gambling is a game of luck, meaning you’ll win sometimes and lose others. However, you must not allow your emotions to get the better part of you. Know when to play or leave the table. 

• Play free games: Almost every major online casino in Ohio offers demo games you can play for free. This is a chance for you to practice new games and become better at playing them. You can also play them for entertainment whenever you’re bored. In addition, you can also try out free slot games at social casinos in Ohio. 

How To Choose the Right Online Ohio Slot Casino

Before creating an account with any online casino, you must look for certain qualities. This will ensure you don’t fall victim to a scam or don’t enjoy your online gambling experience. Here are some things you can expect from online casinos accepting Ohio players. We also use these factors in recommending the top online casinos you can sign up for. 

• A clean track record: Go for an online casino known for safe gambling. You can get reviews from top sites and ensure the online gambling platform doesn’t have any record of scams. One of the best ways of knowing this is by checking if reputable regulatory bodies license the site. 

• Casino game varieties: While you’re looking for real-money online slot games in Ohio, access to other game variants is also essential. Access to different casino games will ensure you play games to your satisfaction. You won’t also become bored from playing only one casino game type. 

• Efficient security measures: The casino should have extra security measures to protect your data and information. Top online gambling platforms use advanced SSL technologies to keep your details confidential. 

• Trusted payment options: Access to diverse payment options is vital for convenient online transactions. We only recommend online casinos for Ohio residents that offer safe banking options for deposits and withdrawals. It helps if you also use sites that accept several currencies for easy payments. 

• Generous bonuses: Top online casinos that accept Ohio players offer several bonuses right from the sign-up stage. You can get a welcome bonus after making your first deposit. The casino also offers other bonuses such as reload, no-deposit bonuses, free spins, and loyalty bonuses to allow you to enjoy your gaming time on the platform. 

• 24/7 support service: Access to support is necessary to ensure you don’t experience problems at a casino without help. With a 24/7 support service, you won’t have problems creating an account, making payments, or playing games. 

• Mobile compatibility: Always go for casino platforms you can access with your mobile devices. You don’t have to sit in front of a desktop system before you can play games. Reliable online casinos will let you make payments and access other features using your smartphones or tablets. 

Conclusion

The state of Ohio is yet to make online casinos legal. However, this doesn’t mean residents can’t access online gambling platforms that offer slot games and other casino game variants. You can play games in reputable offshore casinos that accept Ohio residents. We advise you to look for safe and secure online casino platforms to ensure you get paid your earnings after winning. It’s also vital that you read and understand the casino’s terms & conditions. This ensures that you maximize the full potential of the gambling platform for your benefit. 

Ohia Online Slots FAQ

Can I play slots online for real money in Ohio?

Although the state of Ohio has yet to make online casinos legal, residents can still play real-money slot games on offshore gambling platforms. Ensure you play at our recommended online casinos to enjoy an enhanced gaming experience. 

What is the legal gambling age in Ohio?

You must be at least 21 years old to be eligible to play online slot games in Ohio. Players above this age can legally sign up to play in Ohio land-based casinos, sweepstakes platforms, and offshore online casinos that accept Ohio players. 

Can I win real money playing slot games at Ohio online casinos?

Yes, you can win real money playing slot games at Ohio online casinos, provided you’re playing on the right platforms. You can play at social casinos and sweepstakes sites for free using sweeps coins or gold coins and convert your winning to cash prizes. 

What are the most popular banking options at Ohio casinos?

Ohio casinos accept several banking options to make online transactions easy for residents. You can make payments using credit and debit cards, prepaid vouchers, wire transfers, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies. 

Can I play casino games using my smartphone in Ohio?

Most Ohio online casinos are mobile responsive and allow users to enjoy playing slot games using mobile devices. Using your smartphone or tablet, you can make payments, contact support services, access bonuses, and play exciting slot titles.