Laws and Regulations for Online Poker in Missouri

Missouri’s stance on online poker is quite restrictive. According to Missouri Gambling Laws, online poker has not been legalized, and there have been no significant efforts to change this status in recent years. The state primarily regulates gambling through riverboat casinos, which are the main venues for live poker games. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversees these operations, ensuring that games are conducted fairly and within legal parameters.

Given the current regulatory environment, online poker remains an unlikely addition to Missouri’s gambling offerings. The absence of legal online poker rooms means that players must rely on sweepstakes models or participate in other forms of gambling that are currently permitted.

Status	Online Poker is Illegal
Start Date	N/A
Legal Poker Rooms	None
Shared Liquidity	N/A
Legal Sweepstakes Poker	Stake.US, Clubs Poker, ClubWPT, GlobalPoker
Minimum Age	21+
Regulator	Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC)
State Tax	5.4% on income over $8,704

Legal Poker Rooms

As of now, there are no legal online poker rooms operating directly within Missouri. The state’s focus remains on maintaining and regulating riverboat casinos in major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City.

Sweepstakes Poker in Missouri

While traditional online poker isn’t legal in Missouri, sweepstakes poker offers an alternative for players. Brands such as Stake.us, GlobalPoker, Clubs Poker, and clubWPT operate within this framework, providing a way for Missourians to enjoy poker online without violating state laws.

Stake.us

Stake.US operates as a sweepstakes poker platform, allowing players to participate in games using virtual currency. This model complies with Missouri’s gambling regulations by separating real money transactions from gameplay.

Clubs Poker

Clubs Poker provides a community-driven approach to online poker, with clubs that players can join to compete in exclusive tournaments. This setup fosters a social environment while adhering to legal standards.

GlobalPoker

GlobalPoker offers a similar sweepstakes model, enabling players to engage in poker tournaments and cash games. The platform emphasizes fair play and provides various staking options to suit different player preferences.

clubWPT

clubWPT aligns with the World Poker Tour, offering players access to branded tournaments and events. By utilizing the sweepstakes format, clubWPT ensures compliance with Missouri’s online gambling laws.

The Scoop on Regulations and History

Missouri’s gambling history dates back to the 1990s when riverboat casinos were reintroduced after a 1992 amendment. Despite this revival, online poker has remained unregulated. The state’s cautious approach to expanding gambling services reflects broader legislative trends and economic considerations. While other states have moved towards legalizing online poker, Missouri has yet to take similar steps, maintaining its focus on traditional gambling venues.

Taxes

Gambling winnings in Missouri are subject to both state and federal taxes. Missouri residents must report all gambling income, including winnings from casinos and sweepstakes poker, on their state tax returns. The state imposes a 5.4% income tax on taxable income exceeding $8,704. Additionally, the Missouri Lottery and casinos withhold 4% state tax on prizes over $600 and 24% federal tax on winnings exceeding $5,000. It’s essential for players to accurately report their earnings to comply with tax obligations and avoid potential penalties.

Help If You Need It

Missouri provides resources for individuals affected by problem gambling. The state’s Problem Gambling Helpline, 888-BETS-OFF (888-238-7633), is available 24/7 to offer support, resources, and referrals. Additionally, the Division of Behavioral Health administers treatment services funded by casino fees, ensuring accessible help for those in need. Programs like the Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) allow individuals to ban themselves from all Missouri casinos, aiding in the management of gambling addictions.

Live Poker in Missouri

Missouri’s offline poker scene is vibrant, primarily centered around riverboat casinos in St. Louis and Kansas City. These venues offer a variety of cash games and tournaments, attracting both casual players and serious enthusiasts.

Enterprise Riverside Casino Hotel

Located in Kansas City, Enterprise Riverside Casino Hotel stands out as a premier destination for poker players. The casino boasts multiple poker rooms, each designed to accommodate different styles and stakes, ensuring that both beginners and seasoned players find a suitable environment. Enterprise Riverside regularly schedules tournaments ranging from daily events to high-stakes competitions, providing ample opportunities for players to test their skills and win significant prizes. The friendly and professional staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the casino’s comprehensive amenities, including fine dining options and luxurious accommodations, enhance the overall experience for poker enthusiasts.

Hollywood Casino

Situated in the heart of Kansas City, Hollywood Casino has carved a niche for itself within Missouri’s poker community. With an extensive array of poker tables, the casino caters to a diverse clientele, from recreational players to competitive professionals. Hollywood Casino is renowned for hosting frequent tournaments, including the prestigious Heartland Poker Tour events, which attract top-tier talent and offer substantial prize pools. The venue’s state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality gaming experience are complemented by excellent customer service, ensuring that every player feels valued and entertained. Beyond poker, Hollywood Casino features a variety of other gaming options, entertainment venues, and dining establishments, making it a comprehensive entertainment hub.

Ameristar Casino Hotel

In St. Louis, Ameristar Casino Hotel serves as a cornerstone of the city’s offline poker scene. The casino’s dedicated poker room is equipped with a wide range of game options, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud, catering to the varied preferences of its patrons. Ameristar Casino Hotel regularly hosts tournaments that range from small, local competitions to large-scale events with significant buy-ins and impressive prize pools. These tournaments attract a mix of casual players looking for a fun evening and serious competitors aiming for the big wins. The poker room is supported by experienced dealers and a management team committed to maintaining fair play and a respectful gaming environment. Additionally, Ameristar offers luxurious accommodations, multiple dining options, and a variety of entertainment choices, ensuring that poker players have everything they need for a memorable visit.

Famous Players from Missouri

Maurice Hawkins

Maurice Hawkins, born in St. Louis, Missouri, is a renowned professional poker player with over $5.8 million in live earnings. Residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Hawkins boasts 16 WSOP Circuit rings and has made 200 WSOP cashes, earning nearly $3.8 million. His aggressive playing style and consistent performances have made him a prominent figure in the poker community. However, Hawkins has faced legal controversies, including lawsuits over staking agreements, which have impacted his reputation.

Blair Hinkle

Blair Hinkle, originally from Topeka, Kansas, and now residing in Kansas City, Missouri, is a celebrated poker player with total live earnings of $5.4 million. Hinkle won a WSOP bracelet in 2008 and has amassed five WSOP Circuit rings with 67 cashes, earning $1.8 million. Notably, Blair and his brother Grant made history by becoming the first siblings to win WSOP bracelets in the same year. Hinkle’s online and live tournament successes have solidified his status in the poker world.

Dutch Boyd

Dutch Boyd, hailing from Columbia, Missouri, has secured three WSOP bracelets with total live earnings of $2.9 million. Known for his strategic prowess, Boyd has 70 WSOP cashes totaling over $2.1 million. His early involvement in online poker and ventures like PokerSpot highlight his influence in the industry. Despite facing challenges, including legal disputes related to his online poker operations, Boyd remains a notable name in Missouri’s poker landscape.

FAQ

Is online poker legal in Missouri?

No, online poker is not currently legal in Missouri. Players must rely on sweepstakes models or participate in live games at regulated casinos.

What are the legal alternatives for online poker in Missouri?

Players can engage in sweepstakes poker through platforms like Stake.us, GlobalPoker, Clubs Poker, and clubWPT, which operate within legal frameworks.

How are gambling winnings taxed in Missouri?

Gambling winnings are subject to a 5.4% state income tax for earnings over $8,704 and federal taxes ranging from 10% to 37%, depending on total income.

What resources are available for problem gamblers in Missouri?

The state offers the Problem Gambling Helpline at 888-BETS-OFF, along with treatment services provided by the Division of Behavioral Health and the Voluntary Exclusion Program.

Where can I play live poker in Missouri?

Live poker is available at riverboat casinos in St. Louis and Kansas City, including Enterprise Riverside, Hollywood Casino, and Ameristar Casino Hotel.

Can I deduct gambling losses on my taxes in Missouri?

Yes, gambling losses can be deducted if you itemize deductions on your tax return, but only up to the amount of your winnings.

What banking options are available for sweepstakes poker in Missouri?

Players can use credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and prepaid cards for transactions on sweepstakes poker platforms.

Who regulates gambling in Missouri?

The Missouri Gaming Commission oversees and regulates all gambling activities within the state, including riverboat casinos and sweepstakes poker platforms.