Short answer — it depends on what state you’re in. If you live (or are physically located) in one of the U.S. states that have regulated online casino gaming, your safest option is a state‑licensed operator such as BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, Golden Nugget / Borgata, etc. If your state does not permit regulated online casinos, you can use sweepstakes/social‑casino sites (Chumba, LuckyLand, Global Poker and similar) that operate under a sweepstakes model and can pay cash prizes in many states. Below are the practical details, top picks and safety tips.

Where real‑money online casinos are legal (short overview)

• Regulated real‑money online casinos are only available in certain states; availability varies by operator. Typical regulated iGaming states include Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, West Virginia, Delaware, Rhode Island (and the list can change as states legalize). Use a licensed, state‑regulated site when possible — it offers consumer protections, audits and established payout rules. (casino.BetMGM.com)

Top recommended state‑licensed operators (safe choice when available)

• BetMGM Casino — large game library, loyalty program; operates in regulated states such as MI, NJ, PA and WV. (casino.BetMGM.com)
• FanDuel Casino — integrated sportsbook/casino in states where online casino is legal (NJ, PA, MI, WV, CT as of 2025). (FanDuel.com)
• DraftKings Casino — available in regulated casino states (CT, MI, NJ, PA, WV as of 2025). (sportingpost.com)
• Caesars / Borgata — well‑known regulated brands in states with licensed iGaming (availability varies by state; check each brand’s state pages). (See operator pages above for state lists.) (gamingtoday.com)

When to consider sweepstakes / social casinos (if your state blocks regulated iGaming)

• If you live in a state with no regulated online casinos (or want a legal option from any state), sweepstakes/social casinos like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, Global Poker and similar use a two‑currency model (Gold Coins + Sweeps Coins) so players can win redeemable prizes in many states. These platforms are legal in most U.S. states but have some state exclusions and different redemption rules — check each site’s “where available” page. (casino.org)

Important safety / legal tips (don’t skip these)

• Only play on sites licensed in the state where you are physically located — operators use geolocation and will block play outside permitted states. (casino.BetMGM.com)
• Avoid offshore/unregulated casinos — regulators and consumer groups warn these carry high risks (nonpayment, no local recourse). Stick with state‑licensed operators or reputable sweepstakes platforms if regulated iGaming is not available. (ctinsider.com)
• Read bonus terms and wagering requirements before claiming offers — advertised “big” bonuses can have high playthrough requirements. (See operator bonus pages.) (gamingtoday.com)
• Set bankroll limits and use responsible‑gaming tools (self‑exclusion, deposit limits) provided by regulated sites.

How to pick the best site for you (quick checklist)

1. Is it licensed in your state? (yes → prefer it) (casino.BetMGM.com)
2. Payment methods you need (PayPal, PayNearMe, credit/debit, crypto on some sites). (gamingtoday.com)
3. Fast payout options and clear KYC/redemption processes. (gamingtoday.com)
4. Game selection you want (slots, live dealer, poker). (gamingtoday.com)
5. Reasonable bonus terms and visible fair‑play/provider info. (gamingtoday.com)

If you’d like, tell me which state you’re in (or which state you’ll be physically located in when you play) and I’ll list the top legal/available casinos for that state plus current bonus links and the key T&Cs to watch for.