Online Poker in New Hampshire
New Hampshire, a state renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, presents a unique landscape for poker enthusiasts. While the state doesn’t boast traditional casinos, its residents navigate the gambling scene through online platforms and charity poker rooms. Let’s dive into the intricacies of online poker in New Hampshire, exploring its legal status, available options, notable players, and the state’s rich history with gambling.
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 | 18+ |
Regulator | New Hampshire Gaming Regulatory Oversight Authority |
State Tax | up to 51% |
Status of Online Poker in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the realm of online poker sits in a somewhat murky space. According to state laws, playing online poker for real money isn’t explicitly legalized. The New Hampshire Gaming Regulatory Oversight Authority oversees gaming activities, ensuring that any form of gambling aligns with state regulations. Despite the lack of state-sanctioned online poker rooms, residents have alternatives through legal sweepstakes platforms that offer poker games without directly wagering real money.
Legal Poker Rooms
Currently, New Hampshire does not have any state-licensed online poker rooms. The absence of traditional casinos means that live poker rooms are also nonexistent within the state. Players seeking live poker experiences often venture to neighboring states or opt for online sweepstakes platforms that comply with New Hampshire’s gambling laws.
Sweepstakes Poker in New Hampshire
Sweepstakes poker offers a legal avenue for New Hampshire residents to enjoy online poker without breaching state regulations. This format operates under a different legal framework, utilizing virtual currencies and free-to-play models to provide a compliant gaming experience.
Stake.us
Stake.US operates in New Hampshire as a legal sweepstakes poker platform. By leveraging virtual currencies and a free-to-play model, Stake.US allows players to engage in various poker games without directly wagering real money. This approach ensures compliance with state laws while offering a dynamic and engaging poker experience for enthusiasts.
Clubs Poker
Clubs Poker serves New Hampshire players through its sweepstakes framework, offering a range of poker variants and competitive tournaments. By operating within the legal boundaries set by the state, Clubs Poker ensures that enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite games safely and legally.
GlobalPoker
GlobalPoker is another sweepstakes-based platform accessible to players in New Hampshire. It utilizes a similar model, providing online poker games that adhere to state regulations. Players can participate in tournaments and cash games, enjoying the thrill of poker in a legally compliant environment.
clubWPT
clubWPT provides a reputable sweepstakes-based online poker experience for New Hampshire residents. Backed by the World Poker Tour, clubWPT offers a regulated platform where players can enjoy online poker while staying within the confines of state laws.
The Scoop on Regulations and History
Historically, the state was a pioneer in introducing a state lottery in 1964, setting a precedent for regulated gambling within its borders. However, the absence of casinos has meant that traditional live poker rooms have been elusive.
In recent years, attempts to legalize online poker have met with limited success. A significant effort in 2017 to decriminalize and legalize online poker and casino games did not gain enough traction in the legislature. The overturning of the 2011 Wire Act decision by the DOJ further complicated the landscape, leading New Hampshire to defend its online lottery sales in court.
Despite these challenges, the state continues to explore the potential for expanding its gambling offerings, influenced by the successes seen in neighboring states like Massachusetts and New York. The ongoing legal battles and regulatory reviews indicate that the future of online poker in New Hampshire remains uncertain, hinging on both state and federal decisions.
Taxes
Sports betting winnings are taxed at a steep 51%. This high tax rate applies to gross gaming revenue (GGR) generated from both online platforms like DraftKings and retail sportsbooks. Additionally, a 0.25% federal excise tax on handle is imposed. It’s crucial for players to be aware of these tax implications when engaging in online sports betting within the state.
Help If You Need It
Addressing the potential downsides of gambling, New Hampshire offers robust support through its Problem Gambling Council. This council provides resources, education, and advocacy to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Key contacts include:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- New Hampshire Problem Gambling Helpline: 603-724-1605
- New Hampshire Council on Problem Gambling: https://www.nhproblemgambling.org/
Live Poker in New Hampshire
When you think about playing poker in New Hampshire, it’s not just about the cards—it’s about the whole experience. While online poker might be navigating some legal murkiness, the live poker scene here is thriving, thanks to a mix of licensed card rooms nestled in bars, restaurants, and dedicated casinos. Let’s dive into what makes New Hampshire’s live poker scene so captivating and explore some of the top venues where you can shuffle up and deal.
First things first, let’s talk about the rules of the game—literally. New Hampshire’s gambling laws are outlined in Section 287-D of the Criminal Laws, which starts by detailing all the illegal ways to gamble in the state and the penalties that come with them. But here’s the kicker: Section 287-D-31 carves out some pretty interesting exceptions. For instance, you have these “dispenser devices” that are approved by the commission and set up at regular meeting places or facilities used by licensed charitable organizations. It’s a bit of a mouthful, but essentially, it means there are specific, regulated ways to enjoy poker without stepping on any legal toes.
And if you’re dreaming of high-seas poker action, cruise ships with casinos can dock and serve patrons from New Hampshire for up to 48 hours. Plus, back in June 2019, a bill was passed legalizing sports betting in 10 locations, adding another layer of excitement to the gambling landscape. All these activities are overseen by the New Hampshire Gaming Regulatory Oversight Authority, ensuring everything runs smoothly and fairly.
If you find yourself in Seabrook, the Brook Casino is your go-to spot. Their poker room might not be the largest, but it offers a solid selection of cash games that cater to various skill levels. Imagine sitting down for a No Limit Hold’em game with stakes ranging from $1/$2 to $5/$10. Whether you’re a casual player or looking to get serious, there’s something here for you. And the mixed game table on $2/$4 stakes? It’s perfect for mixing things up and keeping the game interesting. They also run daily NLHE tournaments with buy-ins between $30 and $100, which is great if you’re looking to add a bit of competitive edge to your evening.
Over in Salem, the Chasers Poker Room and Casino offers a different vibe. This historic city adds a unique charm to the poker experience. Here, you can dive into various games like NLHE, Limit Hold’em, and even PLO, with stakes that range from $1/$2 to $5/$10. They also host a mixed game table combining NLHE and PLO with $2/$5 blinds, which keeps things dynamic and exciting. And if you’re feeling lucky, their high hand promotions let you win up to $1,500 every hour! It’s like being part of a high-stakes drama where every hand could change your story.
If you’re venturing further, the Lebanon Poker Room in Lebanon and the Filotimo Casino & DraftKings Sports Book in Manchester are also fantastic options.
Notable Players from New Hampshire
New Hampshire has produced several notable poker players who have made significant impacts in the poker world. Let’s take a closer look at some of these talented individuals.
Dan Chalifour
Dan Chalifour, hailing from Spofford, NH, boasts impressive live earnings totaling $968,073. Born in Swanzey, Chalifour has made his mark on the WSOP circuit with one ring and 14 cashes, accumulating $233,327 in earnings. His standout performance came in the 2016/17 WSOP Circuit at Foxwoods, where he secured first place in the $580 No-Limit Hold’em event, taking home $15,150. Chalifour’s consistent performances highlight his skill and dedication to the game, making him a prominent figure in New Hampshire’s poker community.
Daniel Geeng
Daniel Geeng, a Hanover native, has rapidly ascended the ranks in the poker scene with total live earnings of $843,639. As the champion of the 2023 PGT PLO Series II, Geeng demonstrated exceptional prowess in Pot-Limit Omaha, earning $876,160 in prize money. His strategic gameplay and impressive tournament finishes, including a first-place win in the PLO Championship, have solidified his reputation as a formidable player. Geeng’s achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring poker players in New Hampshire, showcasing the state’s potential to produce top-tier talent.
Michael Drummond
Born in Rye, NH, and currently residing in San Francisco, California, Michael Drummond has amassed total live earnings of $735,564. A graduate of Babson College and a former college basketball player, Drummond made a significant impact at the 45th Annual World Series of Poker in 2014. He clinched a WSOP bracelet by winning the $5,000 Pot-Limit Omaha 6-Handed event, earning $541,747. Drummond’s remarkable performance, marked by strategic chip management and resilience, highlights his skill and determination, making him a standout player from New Hampshire.
Annie Duke
Annie Duke, born Anne LaBarr Lederer in 1965, is a renowned poker player and a significant author in the field of decision science. Growing up in Concord, New Hampshire, Annie was surrounded by a family that valued both education and card games, with her parents actively playing poker. This early exposure ignited her passion for the game, setting the stage for her impressive career.
Annie’s poker journey is filled with notable achievements. In 2004, she won her first and only World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet in the $3,000 Omaha High-Low Split event, showcasing her strategic brilliance and deep understanding of the game. This victory made her the top female money winner in WSOP history at that time, a distinction she maintained within the top five as of April 2023, even after retiring from active play in 2012. Her live earnings have surpassed $4.2 million, reflecting her consistent performance and unwavering dedication.
Beyond her tournament successes, Annie has made significant contributions to the poker community through her writing and advocacy. She authored several instructional books, including “Decide to Play Great Poker” and “The Middle Zone,” which have become essential reads for both aspiring and seasoned players. Her autobiography, “How I Raised, Folded, Bluffed, Flirted, Cursed, and Won Millions at the World Series of Poker,” provides an in-depth look into her life both at and away from the poker tables.
Annie’s expertise extends into decision science, where she uses her poker experience to help people make smarter choices under uncertainty. Her books “Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts” and “How to Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices” blend her poker strategies with psychological insights, offering valuable frameworks for everyday decision-making.
Philanthropically, Annie co-founded the non-profit Ante Up for Africa with actor Don Cheadle in 2007, using poker tournaments to raise funds for charities in African nations. She’s also involved in various charitable events and played a pivotal role in founding the Epic Poker League and the Global Poker Index, both of which have had lasting impacts on the poker landscape.
FAQ
Is online poker legal in New Hampshire?
No, playing online poker for real money is currently illegal in New Hampshire. However, residents can participate in legal sweepstakes-based platforms.
Can I play online poker on sweepstakes platforms in New Hampshire?
Yes, platforms like Stake.US, GlobalPoker, Clubs Poker, and clubWPT offer sweepstakes-based online poker that complies with New Hampshire laws.
What is the legal gambling age in New Hampshire?
The legal gambling age in New Hampshire is 18 years old.
How is gambling taxed in New Hampshire?
Sports betting winnings are taxed at a high rate of 51% on gross gaming revenue.
What resources are available for problem gambling in New Hampshire?
Resources include the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) and the New Hampshire Problem Gambling Helpline (603-724-1605).
Are there any legal online casino options in New Hampshire?
No, New Hampshire does not currently offer legal online casino options. Only sweepstakes-based platforms are available for online poker.
How are sweepstakes poker platforms regulated in New Hampshire?
These platforms operate under a different legal framework, using virtual currencies and free-to-play models to comply with state regulations.
What offline poker options are available in New Hampshire?
Offline poker is primarily available through charity poker rooms that offer low-limit games and support local communities.
Can I use credit cards for online poker in New Hampshire?
Direct use of credit cards for online gambling is illegal. However, sweepstakes platforms may offer alternative banking options that comply with state laws.
Who regulates gambling in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Gaming Regulatory Oversight Authority oversees all regulated gambling activities in the state.