West Virginia is one of a handful of states that has regulated online poker for real money. Its newest regulation is set to take effect in 2019 and it’s unclear if that’s the final tally. But there are still many states that are considering it, and more are likely to follow suit. Whether or not your state regulates online poker is an important question to answer before you play. There are several states that already regulate poker for real money, including Nevada, Delaware, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

First, you need to deposit a certain amount into your virtual bank account. This amount varies based on the site and your location, but in general, you can deposit as little as $50 or as much as $500. It will take a day or two for the money to be processed, so be prepared for that. You can also withdraw your winnings quickly using e-wallet services or ACH transfers. Paper checks can also be sent to you.

New York could legalize online poker in the coming years, but it must be noted that companies will have to apply for a license from the New York State Gaming Commission, have deals with land-based casinos, and undergo software audits. New Jersey was the first state to legalize online poker, but it took nearly a year to legalize online poker in the state. In the meantime, a handful of states have legalized online poker. They are the next to follow suit.

Generally, online poker sites have separate categories for cash games, tournaments, and special format games. You can choose to play the games that you’re most comfortable with, or try your luck with the beginners’ tables. A few sites even have “beginner’s tables” for new players, which are ideal for learning the game. They also help beginners by creating a level playing field for them. The key is to find a site with a good player traffic and the right games for you.

Among all the options available, instant play is probably the easiest to navigate. This option offers form-limited gaming action in the web browser, and it’s best for players with a high-speed Internet connection. You’ll find more than 200 Internet poker rooms, including a large one that has over 50,000 players at peak hours. When choosing an online poker site, remember to play responsibly and set a budget. Never spend more money than you can afford to lose.

One important factor to consider when choosing an online poker site is the safety of the site’s players. Many sites offer their players protection from illegal activity, and their security teams monitor their operations. When these violations are detected, the poker sites publicly refund players and punish the offenders. If your online poker experience is interrupted by a security breach, you can always count on a refund. You don’t want to be held responsible for someone cheating on you. Then again, you never know who might be stealing your money.