Louisiana Online Casino Sites – Top Selections in 2024

Louisiana, a state intertwined with a rich gambling history, offers a variety of gaming opportunities but does not yet embrace online casino gaming for real money. Sweepstakes casinos provide a legal and fun online alternative, but residents and visitors can also explore the state’s numerous land-based venues. Let’s delve into the current gambling landscape in the Pelican State.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Learn about the legal gambling options available in Louisiana.
• Discover the top-rated sweepstakes casinos offering quality gaming experiences.
• Gain insights into the history and future predictions of online casinos in Louisiana.

Best Sweepstakes Online Casinos in Louisiana

Sweepstakes casinos offer a legal way to enjoy some of the best online casino games from home. These platforms allow you to use virtual currencies to play games and win prizes, including cash, adding a potential real money winning to your gameplay.

Here are some of the best sweepstakes casinos that welcome players from LA:

Online Gambling in Louisiana: An Overview

While Louisiana offers a wide array of gambling options, the state has yet to legalize real money online casinos. Aside from sweepstakes casinos, one of Louisiana’s unique offerings is its legal riverboat gambling. Available on riverboats and cruise ships, this offers a unique casino experience that combines traditional gaming with the scenic allure of Louisiana’s waterways.

The regulation of all forms of gambling, including sports betting and casinos, falls under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. This body ensures that all gaming activities, from land-based venues to sports betting, are conducted fairly and legally.

Here’s a summary of the current legal gambling framework in Louisiana:

Gambling Type	Legal?	Current Situation	Legal Age
Online Casinos	No	Unregulated, with no current discussions for legalization	–
Retail Casinos	Yes	Legal, with over 20 establishments, including overboats	21
Sweepstakes Casinos	Yes	Legally operate using virtual currencies and offer prize redemptions	21
Bingo Halls	Yes	Bingo and raffles are legal for charitable purposes, but online bingo remains illegal	18
Lottery	Yes	Includes state and multi-state draw games	21
Horse Racing	Yes	Legal with both on-track and off-track betting	18
Sports Betting	Yes	Legalized for both online and in-person play	21
Daily Fantasy Sports	Yes	Legal in 47 out of the state’s 64 parishes since 2018	21

Looking to Bet Real Money? Retail Casinos in Louisiana

Louisiana is known for its vibrant land-based casino scene with over 20 locations, including riverboats, providing an array of gaming options. These venues offer a rich blend of entertainment and hospitality. To learn more about each destination, visit our detailed guide on Louisiana’s brick-and-mortar casinos.

Declaring Taxable Winnings in Louisiana

Gambling winnings are taxable, according to the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Operators are expected to withhold 6% of your winnings to be paid as taxes.

This tax is applied to all winnings above $1,200. Sportsbook winning, on the other hand, is subjected to a 4.25% tax. The operator is then required to provide you with a W2-G form for the IRS to declare taxable winnings.

Additionally, gambling operators that pay out winnings above a specific figure are expected to withhold 24% as federal tax. The only exception to this rule is lottery winnings below $600, which are not subject to any tax whatsoever.

History of Gambling in Louisiana

Louisiana’s gambling landscape has evolved significantly over the decades, deeply rooted in rich cultural history.

Historically, New Orleans was the epicenter of gambling in the state. A street, originally named “Craps” and now known as Burgundy Street, was named in tribute to the dice game brought by French settlers. This reflects the state’s long-standing relationship with gaming.

Here are key developments shaping Louisiana’s gambling industry:

• 1968: Charitable gambling is legalized, introducing raffles and bingo.
• 1991: Legalization of the state lottery and riverboat casinos marks a major expansion in gaming.
• 1992: The state signs its first tribal compact with the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, laying the groundwork for tribal gaming
• 1996: Establishment of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to regulate the industry.
• 1997: Slot machines become legal at state racetracks, enriching the parimutuel racing scene.
• 2018: Riverboat casinos gain land expansion rights, and Daily Fantasy Sports are legalized.
• 2020: Sports betting is approved by voters, setting the stage for future developments.
• 2021: Retail sports betting begins.
• 2022: Legalization of online sports betting.

What’s In Store for Louisiana Online Casinos?

Despite the legalization of sports betting, online casinos remain unregulated in Louisiana with no imminent plans for change. Luckily, those who are eager to place their bets have alternatives like sweepstakes casino sites and land-based casinos.

For those interested in broader U.S. gambling trends, explore our state-by-state guide to online casino regulations.

References

1. “Income Tax Withholding on Gaming Winnings”. Louisiana Department of Revenue. Retrieved Nov 8, 2024.
2. Louisiana Gaming Control Board. Retrieved Nov 8, 2024.
3. “Louisiana launches mobile sports betting Friday; here’s what you need to know”. Daily Advertiser. Retrieved Nov 8, 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions