Online Poker in Indiana
Indiana, famed for the high-speed thrills of the Indy 500, also boasts a vibrant scene for poker enthusiasts. But is poker truly legal in the Hoosier State? Let’s delve into the current landscape of both online and offline poker in Indiana, explore the legalities, and meet some of the state’s most renowned poker players.
| Status | Online Poker is Illegal |
| Start Date | None |
| Legal Poker Rooms | N/A |
| Shared Liquidity | None |
| Legal Sweepstakes Poker | Stake.US, Clubs Poker, ClubWPT, GlobalPoker |
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Regulator | Indiana Gaming Commission |
| State Tax | 3.23% |
Status of Online Poker in Indiana
As of now, Indiana does not have a regulated market for real money online poker. However, the state permits sweepstakes and social poker, allowing players to enjoy the game without directly wagering real money. Legislative efforts to establish a regulated online poker market have shown promise, but a recent corruption scandal involving a former lawmaker has delayed progress. Despite this setback, Indiana remains a hotspot for poker enthusiasts through legal sweepstakes platforms.
Sweepstakes Poker in Indiana
Sweepstakes poker provides a legal alternative for Indiana players seeking real money winnings without state regulation. Brands like Stake.US, Global Poker, ClubWPT, and ClubWPT have established themselves as reliable options for poker enthusiasts.
Clubs Poker
Clubs Poker stands out as a premier sweepstakes poker site in Indiana. Operating under the modern sweepstakes model, Clubs Poker offers players the chance to win real money prizes through ring games and various tournaments. The platform is user-friendly, catering to both seasoned players and newcomers alike.
| Model | Sweepstakes |
| Games Offered | No Limit Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha, Mixed Games |
| Prizes | Real Money Prizes |
| Subscription | No |
Stake.US
Stake.US Poker offers a variety of tournaments, ring games, and sit-and-go options. With popular variants like No Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha, Stake.US ensures that players have ample opportunities to test their skills and win prizes.
Global Poker
Global Poker follows the modern sweepstakes model, providing players with a seamless experience to earn and redeem Sweeps Coins for real money prizes. Known for its large guaranteed prize pools and unique rewards, Global Poker is a favorite among Indiana players.
ClubWPT
ClubWPT is a subscription-based platform that hosts daily tournaments with cashable prizes. While ring games are available in play money mode, ClubWPT focuses on providing high-stakes tournament play for its members.
The Scoop on Regulations and History
Indiana’s journey toward regulated online poker has been marked by enthusiasm and challenges. The state’s rich poker history is intertwined with its legislative landscape, reflecting both opportunities and obstacles.
Initiatives to legalize online poker in Indiana began gaining traction in the early 2020s. Bills introduced in 2021, 2022, and 2023 aimed to establish a regulated online poker market. These efforts were driven by the potential for significant tax revenue and the growing popularity of online gaming.
In late 2023, a major setback occurred when a former lawmaker admitted to accepting a bribe from a gaming company. This corruption scandal severely impacted the momentum for online poker legislation. House and Senate leaders, shaken by the scandal, agreed to halt the introduction of any igaming expansion bills in 2024. As a result, the push to regulate online poker was deferred to 2025, delaying the establishment of a legal online poker market in Indiana.
Despite the setback, the outlook for online poker in Indiana remains cautiously optimistic. Lawmakers continue to recognize the potential economic benefits, and advocacy groups are persistent in their efforts to revive legislative support. Indiana’s membership in multi-state gaming compacts, such as the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), could play a pivotal role in the future regulation of online poker, enhancing player pools and prize structures across states.
The delay in regulation has not dampened the enthusiasm of Indiana’s poker community. Players have turned to sweepstakes and social poker platforms to continue enjoying the game legally. Additionally, the state’s robust offline poker scene, with numerous casinos offering live games and tournaments, keeps the spirit of poker thriving in Indiana.
Taxes
Indiana imposes a personal income tax rate of 3.23% on gambling winnings. This applies to all forms of gambling, including lottery, slots, table games, sports betting, and horse racing. It’s essential to report all gambling winnings, regardless of whether you receive a W-2G form from the casino or platform.
Help If You Need It
Indiana takes problem gambling seriously, offering robust support systems to help those in need. The state provides various resources and programs designed to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
For confidential support, individuals can call the Indiana Problem Gambling Helpline at 800-994-8448 or text INGAMB to 53342. This helpline offers immediate assistance and can connect callers with local treatment providers.
Located at 3935 N. Meridian St., Suite B-1, Indianapolis, the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling provides a wealth of resources and support services. With a dedicated team available at 317-632-1364, the council offers counseling, support groups, and educational programs to promote responsible gambling.
Live Poker in the State
Indiana’s landscape for offline poker is robust, with numerous casinos offering live poker rooms. These establishments cater to all levels of players, from casual enthusiasts to high-stakes competitors.
Major Casinos Offering Poker
Caesars Southern Indiana in Elizabeth has a large poker room with different games and regular tournaments. Horseshoe Hammond is known for its lively atmosphere, offering several poker tables and often hosting special events. Ameristar Casino East Chicago has a well-equipped poker area where you can play cash games or join scheduled tournaments. Located in Anderson, Belterra Casino Resort has a dedicated poker section with various game types and betting levels to suit different players. French Lick Resort is mainly famous for sports betting, but it also holds poker events, giving players a mix of gaming options.
Tournaments and Events
Indiana’s casinos regularly host tournaments, including Texas Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha, and mixed game formats. High-profile events attract players from across the region, contributing to Indiana’s reputation as a poker hotspot. Additionally, the presence of major tournament series like the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and the World Poker Tour (WPT) adds to the state’s allure for poker professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Notable Players from Indiana
Mike Sexton
Mike Sexton, born in Shelbyville, IN, was affectionately known as the “Ambassador of Poker.” With live earnings surpassing $6.7 million, Sexton wasn’t just a strong player but also a beloved commentator for the World Poker Tour (WPT). His engaging and insightful commentary made poker more accessible to countless viewers, earning him the nickname “Voice of Poker.” In 1989, Mike clinched his first WSOP bracelet in the $1,500 Seven-Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better event. Fast forward to November 2016, he grabbed his first WPT title at the Playground Poker Club in Montreal, taking home $317,896. Beyond his playing career, Sexton was instrumental in popularizing poker through his work with the WPT for 15 seasons. His catchphrases like “May all your cards be live and all your pots be monsters” became legendary among fans. In 2009, his contributions were honored with an induction into the Poker Hall of Fame, and the WPT Champions Cup was renamed the Mike Sexton WPT Champions Cup in his memory. Off the tables, Mike was known for his charitable efforts, donating half of his $1 million prize from the 2006 WSOP Tournament of Champions to various charities and co-founding PokerGives.org. His generosity earned him the Patriot Award from the Paralyzed Veterans of America in 2008.
John Cynn
John Cynn, an alumnus of Indiana University Bloomington, made headlines by winning the 2018 WSOP Main Event and securing $8.8 million. With total live earnings exceeding $10.2 million, Cynn is a prominent figure in the poker community, recognized for his strategic play and consistent tournament performances. His journey began while studying finance and supply chain management at Indiana University. After working as an IT consultant in California, John transitioned to professional poker, with his first major cash in 2010. His big break came in 2018 when he triumphed in a field of 7,874 players at the WSOP Main Event, one of the largest victories in WSOP history. The final hand saw his K♣ J♣ beat Q♣ 8♥ on a board of K♥ K♦ 5♥ 8♦ 4♠, showcasing his sharp decision-making skills.
Chad Eveslage
From Ramsey, Indiana, Chad Eveslage has made a significant splash in the poker world with over $8.2 million in live earnings. Holding three WSOP bracelets and two WPT titles, Eveslage exemplifies the dedication and skill of Indiana’s poker players. Growing up on a cow farm in southern Indiana, Chad discovered poker during the Moneymaker Boom era, sparking a lifelong passion for the game. He started with play money in high school and quickly moved up to real-money games, propelling him into the professional circuit. Some of his major tournament successes include winning the WSOP Event #8: $25,000 High Roller in 2022, where he took home $1,415,610, and securing first place at the WPT Five Diamond World Poker Classic the same year, earning $1,042,300. In 2021, he also won the WPT Venetian DeepStack Championship, pocketing $910,370.
FAQ
Is online poker legal in Indiana?
Yes, you can play online poker in Indiana through sweepstakes and social poker sites. However, regulated real money online poker is not yet legal.
Can I win real money playing online poker in Indiana?
Yes, by participating in sweepstakes poker sites like Clubs Poker and Stake.US, you can win real money prizes legally.
What is sweepstakes poker?
Sweepstakes poker allows players to use sweepstakes coins to enter games and tournaments, where they can win prizes redeemable for real money.
When is online poker expected to be regulated in Indiana?
Legislative efforts have been delayed to 2025 due to a corruption scandal, but the push toward regulation continues.
How are poker winnings taxed in Indiana?
Winnings are subject to federal tax rates starting at 24% for amounts over $5,000 and a state tax rate of 3.23%. Casinos typically withhold taxes from your winnings.
Are there any safe online poker sites in Indiana?
Yes, sweepstakes sites like Clubs Poker, Stake.US, ClubWPT, and Global Poker are legal and regulated, ensuring fair play and secure transactions.
What should I do if I have a gambling problem?
Reach out to the Indiana Problem Gambling Helpline at 800-994-8448 or visit the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling for support and resources.
Can I play online poker without a W-2G?
Yes, but you are still required to report all qualifying gambling winnings on your tax return, even if you don’t receive a W-2G.
Who are some famous poker players from Indiana?
Notable players include Mike Sexton, John Cynn, Daniel Sepiol, and Chad Eveslage, each with impressive tournament winnings and accolades.