Be sure to check out our list of the best Kansas online casinos below. You can also find our list of the best Kansas sportsbooks here.
Best Kansas Online Casinos
There are different laws for different states when it comes to gambling in the US. Despite the recent growth in online gambling, there are still many states that don’t allow it or only allow it in a limited fashion. While there are federal laws regarding online gambling, it doesn’t necessarily ban the act of gambling. Thus, many states have started allowing it within their borders.
However, the recent growth of online gambling means many different online casino sites are available. Unfortunately, not all of them are equally trustworthy. You should consider many different factors before playing at an online casino. We decided to look at the available online casinos in Kansas and do an in-depth review of their services and offerings. We’ll look at their licensing and security, compatibility, and game selection. We’ll also look at their bonuses, banking options, and customer support.
But before we look at those aspects of real money online casinos and explain why they’re crucial to consider, we need to discuss the gambling laws in Kansas.
Gambling Laws in Kansas
Kansas has a long history of gambling, dating back to 1895, when the state legalized the first forms of gambling. Small stake gambling was allowed at local horse races, and slot machines were a favorite pastime of Kansas residents. However, in 1903, the governor banned slot machines, and they weren’t allowed back until the first of the tribal casinos were approved. In 1986, Kansas allowed for a state lottery program, followed by the creation of the Kansas State Lottery Act in 1987.
With the allowance of a state lottery, Kansas held a bit more of a positive view towards gambling. It was only a year later, in 1988, that the first tribal casino was approved. The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act was passed, which allowed tribal casinos to be built and run in Kansas. This Act allowed the first form of land-based casinos to open in Kansas.
While the first land-based casino only opened its doors in 1996, it spoke of a forward-thinking approach when it came to gambling in Kansas. This was further proven in 2007 when the state approved the lottery for another 15 years. It also approved pari-mutuel betting establishments that were allowed to host casino machines.
It wasn’t long after, in 2009, that the first state-run casino was opened. Kansas was thus hosting a total of nine land-based casinos. This slightly more positive approach to gambling also paved the way for a bill the state passed in 2015. This bill allowed charity organizations to use Bingo and raffles. Another event that happened that year was the legalization of daily fantasy sports in the state.
However, that tolerance doesn’t extend to the state’s stance toward online gambling.
Federal Laws on Gambling
There are currently two federal laws that cover the act of gambling. One is the Federal Wire Act that the court passed in 1961. This act bans interstate wagering on sports across the USA. While it doesn’t ban sports betting, it does ensure that you can’t bet across borders. A point of contention in this law is that it specifically refers to sports betting. So far, it doesn’t seem to include other forms of gambling.
The second law, and the one that impacts Kansas’ view on online gambling, is the UIGEA that the court passed in 2006. It’s an acronym meaning Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. This law doesn’t ban online gambling but rather any transactions related to online gambling service providers. But, the law is directed at the online gambling service providers and not the financial institutions or players.
It creates a loophole on a technicality, as it prosecutes new online casinos for offering their services, but players aren’t prosecuted for using the services. Unless there’s a specific state law banning players from gambling online, this holds. Yet, many offshore casinos stopped offering their services to US players. There are also some card companies and banks that don’t allow transactions with online gambling service providers. In many cases, this is regardless of whether gambling is legal in the state or not.
Online Gambling in Kansas
As it currently stands, online gambling isn’t legal in Kansas. No online casino or gambling platform is allowed to operate out of the state or base its servers within the borders of Kansas. While we can’t say for sure whether that’ll change soon, it might become more accessible in the future. Kansas has a relatively forward-thinking approach when it comes to gambling. It’s not far-fetched to believe they might apply that approach to online gambling in the future.
Although Kansas doesn’t allow any online gambling service providers to run an online casino or gambling platforms in the state, that doesn’t mean there’s no way for Kansas players to bet online. Offshore casinos are still available in Kansas, as they don’t base their servers in the state, and thus the laws of Kansas and the US don’t cover them. This gray area in the legality of gambling online allows Kansas players to play at offshore casinos safely.
Yet, it’s vital to know which offshore casinos are safe and trustworthy to play at, especially since the state doesn’t regulate them.
Casinos in Kansas
When looking at casinos in Kansas, we consider all the establishments and platforms available to online players. The state of Kansas has generated over $370 million in annual revenue from the land-based casinos since they opened. Their casino games hold some of the largest followings in the US, and players have to be over 21 to play casino games.
Offshore Licensed Casinos
To gamble online in Kansas, you need to use offshore casinos. Offshore casinos refer to casinos licensed by another country or non-US licensing authority. There are many different offshore licenses available. Although, not all of them allow their licensed platforms to offer their services to US players.
Malta, Curaçao, Gibraltar, Panama, Costa Rica, and the UK Gambling Commission are some of the most well-known licensing authorities. An offshore casino isn’t inherently less trustworthy than a US-based casino. It means that players might have a more difficult time when it comes to contacting the licensing authority in the case of a complaint or when reporting the casino.
Social Casinos
Social casinos refer to casinos that don’t allow any real-money gambling. A social casino is often available as an app you can download from the App Store or the Google Play Store. Similar to app games, players can purchase in-game currency. The players can use this currency to play casino games, the same as you would in an online gaming platform. However, players won’t win any real money from playing these games with the in-app tokens, so it’s not considered gambling.
What players can win are cash prizes. Many of these social casinos use Sweepstake coins, which are coins you can purchase and use with special in-app events or competitions. Players aren’t gambling these coins per se; they rather use them as a sort of entry fee to qualify for winning cash prizes.
Land-Based Casinos
Kansas is known for its land-based casinos, having five tribal casinos and four state-run casinos. Most of these casinos are located in the Northeast section of the state. Their locations mean it’s not always easy for Kansas residents from other areas to visit the establishments.
Two casinos are located in Kansas City, with the tribal casino, 7th Street, regarded as one of the best tribal casinos available. The other casino, Hollywood Casino, is located at the Kansas Speedway and is the largest casino in Kansas. It sports over 2000 slot machines, with around 52 table games available.
Another two casinos are located in Wichita and Topeka, with the other casinos near Dodge City, Salina, and Manhattan, Kansas. With the state’s focus on brick-and-mortar casinos, many offer a significant number of casino games. Yet, these games aren’t always as up-to-date as the ones found at online casinos.
Bonuses at the Best Kansas Online Casinos
One of the things players are always looking for is the casino bonuses offered by operators. It acts as an incentive to play at the casino and keeps its existing players loyal. Many promotions are available, like the welcome bonus, which is a player’s first experience with the casino. The welcome bonus has to catch the player’s eye and offer them a chance to test the gaming platform. We looked at the different bonuses the best Kansas online casinos are offering.
Bonus Terms
We also considered what conditions are attached to the promotions. Promotions always have bonus terms, certain restrictions, and conditions you need to fulfill before you can withdraw any winnings. The most commonly seen restrictions are wagering requirements. Wagering requirements refer to how many times you need to wager your deposit, bonus funds, or winnings before withdrawing them. The standard wagering requirements fall between 25x and 35x, but you can get some as high as 50x or as low as 1x.
Another common condition is a minimum deposit. A minimum deposit means you have to deposit a certain amount to be eligible to claim the bonus. Generally, it’s $10, but it can also fall between $1 and $5 or go as high as $25 or $30. The deposit can also have payment restrictions, which means if you deposit using certain payment methods, usually Neteller or Skrill, the deposit won’t qualify for the bonus.
Also bear in mind the bonus expiry period. This expiry period refers to the length of time the bonus is active and that you have to complete the wagering conditions during that time. Depending on the bonus, it can range from 24 hours to two weeks, sometimes longer. Together with this is the winnings cap, which refers to the maximum amount you can win. This cap differs depending on the bonus type, as free spins usually having their winnings capped at $100, but matched bonuses allow for a much higher winnings cap.
There are often also game restrictions, with the bonus funds only eligible to be used for specific casino games. There’s usually a casino bonus, a live casino bonus, a sports bonus, etc., depending on the casino. Casino games with a high RTP or jackpot feature are often excluded from the bonuses.
Matched Deposit Bonus
Frequently seen at online casinos, this bonus awards a player with a matched percentage of their deposit up to a certain amount. The matched percentage can range between 25% and 500% depending on the type of bonus. There are almost always wagering requirements and a minimum deposit linked to this bonus, though both can be lower than in other bonuses.
The bonus terms of matched deposit bonuses tend to be more forgiving on the player, as it requires them to make a deposit. These are usually the most lucrative promotions at the best Kansas online casinos.
No Deposit Bonus
Unlike a matched deposit bonus, the no deposit bonus doesn’t require you to deposit in order to claim it. You need to complete some action, like registering at the site or verifying your account, but you’re given bonus funds for free as a reward. Since there isn’t any deposit made, and the casino gives these bonus funds away for free, the amount is usually lower.
It’s rare to see a no deposit bonus that rewards you with more than $30, and they usually have a winnings cap of around $100. Their wagering requirements are generally higher than other promotions to make up for the fact that they’re giving money away for free. Many casino players will search for no deposit casino sites for this very reason.
Free Spins
Free spins are versatile bonuses that can be given on their own as a deposit bonus, as an extra part of a matched deposit bonus, or as a no deposit bonus. Depending on the bonus, between five and 100 free spins can be given. However, they’re generally given in increments over several days rather than all at once. Free spins almost always have a set value between $0.01 and $0.50, or the minimum bet amount of the game they’re eligible for.
Online gambling service providers generally restrict free spins to a specific game or group of games. The bonus terms will list all the games excluded from the bonus, and players generally need to use the spins within 24 hours. If the promotion is for live dealer games, the casino replaces the free spins with free tokens that hold the same principles. Instead of spins, players receive chips with a set value that they can use to bet.
Loyalty Programs
One of the most important promotions the best Kansas online casinos need is loyalty programs. These programs, like VIP tiers, cashback, reward points, and more, are all strategies to ensure existing players remain loyal to the casino.
It can offer extra benefits like higher payment limits, more bonuses, lower wagering requirements, bigger cashback, etc. Players need to complete some requirements to become part of the loyalty program, whether that’s to amass sufficient points by wagering and playing games or depositing above a certain amount of real money. If you consider yourself a high roller player, then VIP casinos are the best category for you.
Reload Bonuses
Reload bonuses are another way to ensure existing players remain loyal to the gaming platform. Reload bonuses are matched deposit bonuses offered on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. The matched deposit percentage ranges between 25% and 100%, and it’s generally a smaller amount than the welcome bonus. However, it allows players to get extra bonus funds to enjoy the platform, taking away some of the risks to their bankroll.
Reload bonuses can also be linked to a certain game type, payment method, or other requirements. Some casinos offer crypto reload bonuses exclusively, while others offer a reload bonus on Friday to prepare for a weekend of gaming.
Common Elements of the Best Online Casinos
Now that we’ve identified the gambling laws in Kansas and the type of bonuses we look for, we’ll also look at some other criteria. With hundreds of online casinos available, we want to ensure you access trustworthy and the best Kansas online casinos. So we did an in-depth review of their licensing and security measures, compatibility and ease of use, as well as their games and banking.
License, Security and Fairness
When we review a casino, we first see whether they’re licensed. Whether a US-based casino or an offshore casino, holding a license offers another layer of protection. The licensing authority is responsible for regulating the online gaming platform and ensuring they follow all applicable legislation and regulations. By regulating them, you can ensure that the casino will offer fair play according to the licensing authority’s regulations. As such, all the best Kansas online casinos are licensed and regulated.
Another way to ensure the casino is fair and doesn’t rig the games is when the online casinos use an independent testing agency. Testing agencies, like eCOGRA and iTech Labs, test the games’ RNG (Random Number Generator) to ensure that all the game results are based on luck. These agencies also sometimes test the RTP (Return to Player) of the games so that you have an accurate idea of the RTP percentages.
Lastly, another crucial factor we look for is the specific security measures. The best Kansas online casinos use data encryption software, like SSL encryption, and have a KYC (Know Your Client) policy. With the KYC policy, players need to offer several types of documents, from identification papers to proof of address and banking papers. This policy ensures no underaged or illegal player uses the site and that all your data and payment portals are secure.
Compatibility
When we think of an online casino, we usually think of its web-based platform first. Some online casinos have mobile apps players can download, but this isn’t always the case. However, with the web-based platform available, you should be able to access it from either your desktop, tablet, or smartphone. It remains the case whether you’re a Mac and iOS user or a Windows and Android user.
The web-based platform should be well laid out and easy on the eyes, making it effortless to read the text and see important information. The platform should be easily navigable, with the best Kansas online casinos offering not only navigation tabs but also search bars and provider filters. Your cashier and account balances should be easily visible to keep an eye on your bankroll as you play.
We believe the best Kansas online casinos offer a user-friendly interface that looks good and can be accessed with the same ease and quality of experience on any device.
Games and Software
When we look at the games and software offered, we don’t just look at the quantity offered but also the quality. Of course, it’s always better to have a bigger number of games available, but you also want access to the newly released games or games from giants in the industry like Microgaming, RealTime Gaming, and more.
Slots have many different gameplays and themes, with thousands of options available. It’s one of the most popular game types. Table games usually have a smaller selection available at online casinos but are no less enjoyable. There are several varieties of popular table games like online poker, online blackjack, online baccarat, and online roulette. These table games are also available as live dealer games, which you can access in the live casino lobby if the online platform offers one. These games use HD video streaming technology to give a more authentic gambling experience with a live dealer.
Another factor we look out for is whether the online casino offers demo games or no registration play. Demo games refer to the free-to-play versions of the casino games, where players can test the game without making a deposit. No registration play refers to when a player can try the demo versions of the games without needing to register at the casino. Both are great ways for players to test the gaming platform and familiarize themselves with it before deciding whether to register and risk their bankroll.
Payment Methods
When you’re playing for real money, you need to have a deposit method, as well as a withdrawal method. Online casinos offer many different casino payment methods these days, ranging from cards and cryptos to e-wallets and online banking. Not all the methods on offer are always available in all states, so it’s vital you have access to a variety of banking methods.
We look for Visa and Mastercard, as most online gambling service providers generally accept these cards. Other accepted cards are American Express, Maestro, and Discover, but they’re not always available. Otherwise, we recommend using e-wallets, as they’re often faster, have lower fees, and act as an intermediary between the bank or card company and the online casino.
PayPal is the most popular option in the US, but you’re more likely to see options like Neteller, Skrill, EcoPayz, MuchBetter, etc. Crypto casinos have also become more accepted in the last few years, with the fastest withdrawal time of up to 24 hours and low fees. Bitcoin casinos are always a favorite, but you also find online casinos that accept Ethereum, Litecoin, or other cryptos.
The standard withdrawal times we look for are one to three days for e-wallets, two to five days for cards, and three to seven days for bank transfers. The casino shouldn’t charge any fees on withdrawals, and their withdrawal processing time shouldn’t be longer than 24 hours for normal cases.
Customer Service
An often overlooked aspect of online casinos is their customer support. Customer support is even more crucial if you’re playing at an offshore casino, as it’s your only line of communication with the management. Since international companies operate these sites, which often adhere to a different time zone, we look for 24/7 support in the form of a live chat, a support email, and sometimes even a phone line. There should also be a complaint submission form that players can complete.
We also look to see if the website provides any tutorials, step-by-step guides, and an FAQ section. The FAQ section should be extensive, covering most of the basic issues, and well-categorized. We believe that offering a more extensive FAQ section shows that the online gambling service providers care about the players’ comfort. It saves time, especially if the online casino doesn’t offer 24/7 support.
Another aspect of good customer service is the care they provide their customers. This care extends to the responsible gambling tools they make available to their players. When you’re playing at one of the best Kansas online casinos, you should be able to play responsibly by controlling your gambling habits. Controlling your gambling activity can be done with the help of tools like personal and session limits, where you limit how much you can deposit, bet, or lose. These limits are set up as daily, weekly, or monthly limits, and the player can adjust them in most cases.
Session limits refer to how long you can play in a day, week, or month, with the casino freezing your player account if you play more than the allotted time. Another tool is reality checks, which sends you a notification reminding you of how long you’ve been playing and, at times, how much you’ve spent or lost. The last tools offered are cool-off periods and self-exclusion. In the case of these actions, you often need to contact support, who’ll freeze your account for anywhere from one week to several months or years.
How to Register and Bet at Kansas Online Casinos
In Kansas, although you only need to be 18 to bet at racetracks and use the lottery, you need to be 21 years to bet at a casino. To register and bet at one of the best Kansas online casinos, follow the below steps.
- Choose one of the best Kansas online casinos from our list.
- There should be a “Sign up” button in the top left or right corner when you’ve accessed the website.
- After clicking on the signup button, a “Create your Account” popup will appear.
- Complete all the required fields with your details, like name and surname, address, etc.
- When your account is created, ensure there are no bonus terms you need to complete before depositing.
- Click on the “Cashier” button, generally in the top left or right corner of the website.
- After clicking on the deposit tab, select your deposit method and add your payment details.
- After depositing, your account balance should reflect your deposit and any bonus funds.
- Choose your game and select your bet amount when the game opens.
- Spin the reels or roll the dice; you can start playing immediately.
The Best Kansas Online Casinos
Online gambling has become a popular pastime of people around the globe. The US has a complicated stance toward gambling, which the states’ gambling laws often reflect. Although there’s a long history of gambling in Kansas, online gambling is still illegal. However, there are several offshore casinos available that Kansas residents can bet on.
We reviewed these online casinos in-depth, looking at their services and offerings. The evaluation criteria include looking at their bonuses, licensing and security, compatibility, game selection, banking options, and customer service. We only list trustworthy sites that have proven to be reliable to play at. A casino has to be trustworthy and reliable, even more so for offshore casinos. As players have a more difficult time when it comes to contacting their management or licensing authority, they need to be able to trust the casino’s policies.
After carefully considering and evaluating several aspects of Kansas online casinos, we’ve compiled a list of the best Kansas online casinos. Have a look at our list if you’re interested in the best Kansas online casinos and what they have to offer you.