Nebraska Online Casino Sites — Best of 2024
The Tree Planter State’s gambling laws are among the strictest in the country, and real-money online casinos remain illegal in Nebraska. But don’t worry—there are still exciting ways to enjoy casino games!
In this guide, we’ll cover the latest updates on Nebraska’s gambling regulations, highlight legal alternatives like sweepstakes casinos, and share tips for enjoying gaming responsibly within the state.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Discover the latest gambling laws in Nebraska.
- Explore the best sweepstakes casinos available for Nebraskans.
- Find out the top 3 land-based casinos in Nebraska.
Our Top 5 Sweepstakes Online Casinos in Nebraska
Although online casinos with real money are not allowed in the state, Nebraska residents can register and play at sweepstakes casinos. These platforms are classified as prize promotions under Nebraska law, so they aren’t considered gambling sites since no deposit is required to play.
We recommend browsing our list of the best US sweepstakes casinos available to Nebraskans. To get you started, here’s a list of the top five:
Online Gambling in Nebraska: An Overview
Nebraska’s gambling laws are strict, leaving limited options for online gaming enthusiasts. While real-money online casinos remain illegal, there are still plenty of exciting ways to enjoy gambling legally:
| Gambling Type | Legal Status | Current Situation | Legal Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Casinos | No | Real-money online casino gambling is prohibited. Social casinos offer a legal, free-to-play alternative. | — |
| Land-Based Casinos | Yes | Legalized in November 2020, with several casinos now operating across the state. | 21 |
| Sports Betting | Yes | Retail sports betting was approved in May 2021, available at licensed venues. Online sportsbooks are not legal. | 21 |
| Lottery and Raffles | Yes | The state lottery and raffles are popular, often used for charitable fundraising. | 19 |
| Keno | Yes | A widely enjoyed game in Nebraska, offered in various establishments. | 19 |
| Horse Racing | Yes | Betting on horse racing is allowed at licensed racetracks. | 18 |
Want to Bet Real Money? The Top 3 Land-Based Casinos in Nebraska
Since 2020, land-based casinos are legal in Nebraska, but strictly regulated. These gambling platforms offer bingo and a small range of slot games. Currently, table games such as poker, blackjack, and roulette are not permitted in tribal casinos.
Here’s a list of the top three land-based casinos you can visit in Nebraska:
- Native Star Casino in Winnebago
- Ameristar Casino Hotel in Council Bluffs
- Iron Horse Bar & Casino in Emerson
Nebraska Tax Rules for Gambling Winnings
Gambling winnings are fully taxable in Nebraska, so you must ensure compliance. Presently, there is a flat income tax withholding rate of 5% on all winnings in Nebraska.
This rate is subject to federal income tax withholding. The amount of income tax withheld must be reported on Federal Form W-2G. The form, besides reporting income tax withheld, is generally used to report income.
If you win from any gambling activities in the state subject to federal income tax withholding, you are to submit a Form W-2G. In the case of a lottery winning over $5,000, such winnings are also subject to a 5% state tax and a 24% federal income tax.
History of Gambling in Nebraska
Nebraska’s gambling laws have evolved significantly over time. Until 1934, all gambling was forbidden, but gradual amendments introduced new opportunities. While current laws remain strict and online casinos are prohibited, they are more flexible than before. Here’s a quick timeline:
- 1934: Parimutuel horse racing legalized.
- 1958: Bingo permitted for nonprofits.
- 1967: Raffles and lotteries allowed for charitable purposes.
- 1988: Horse race simulcasting approved.
- 1993: Nebraska Lottery established.
- 2020: Land-based casinos legalized.
- 2021: In-person sports betting approved at tribal casinos.
- 2023: WarHorse Casino opened, offering in-person sports betting and casino games.
What’s Next for Nebraska Online Casinos?
In August 2024, Nebraska proposed a constitutional amendment on online sports betting, but it failed to advance. With the state’s cautious stance on gambling, online casinos are unlikely to be legalized soon.
Meanwhile, Nebraskans can enjoy land-based casinos and free-to-play social casinos. These legal options provide a fun and risk-free way to experience casino-style games while staying within the state’s laws.
We invite you to stay updated about state online casino legislation by visiting our linked page.
References
- 2022 Nebraska Circular EN — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
- Nebraska Legislature Concludes Without Progress on Online Sports Betting — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
- Berry Law Nebraska Gambling Laws — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
No, online casinos are not legal in Nebraska.
The best alternatives include NE social casinos and land-based casinos. You can also enjoy the state lottery and participate in raffles.
Yes, social casinos in Nebraska allow you to enjoy free-to-play games and even redeem prizes through virtual currencies.