The state of New York has its own set of rules about what’s allowed and what’s off-limits. For example, online casino gaming, online poker, and online sports betting are currently prohibited, meaning you won’t find a local, legal option for those activities. That said, you’ve got a few legal ways to enjoy betting if you’re a Brooklyn resident. Horse racing is legal and managed by the New York Racing Association, and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has been fair game since 2016.
But, if you’re thinking about how to fund these bets or any others you might engage with outside New York’s boundaries, you’re probably wondering which credit cards can support your transactions.
Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express are generally accepted for gambling transactions, though approval rates can vary depending on the issuing bank’s policies.
Legal Gambling Options in Brooklyn
New York permits wagering on horse racing, so you can bet legally on platforms managed by the New York Racing Association. This includes both in-person and online betting.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
As a Brooklyn resident, you’re free to enjoy DFS, thanks to an agreement between DFS operators and New York’s Attorney General back in 2016. So if you’re into fantasy football or baseball, DFS platforms are available to you.
However, other popular forms of online gambling, such as online casino gaming, poker, and sports betting, are not permitted. That means options like online slots for real money, which some might find on offshore sites, aren’t available on platforms based in New York.
Still, more and more people move to Brooklyn and some residents use payment methods like credit cards to play on legal sites based outside the state, though this comes with its own set of challenges.
More About the Accepted Credit Card Providers…
| Credit Card | Acceptance Rate | Security Features | Fees and Charges | Notes |
| Visa | High | Strong fraud protection | Potential cash advance fees | Widely accepted; declines may still happen. |
| Mastercard | Moderate | Excellent security features | Varies; some banks may apply cash advance fees | Approval depends on the issuing bank; try smaller deposits if issues arise. |
| Discover | Lower | Solid security features | Competitive; some transactions may incur fees | Fewer platforms accept it; some banks treat as cash advances, leading to extra charges. |
| American Express | Variable | High-quality security; rewards available | Potentially higher fees | Less widely accepted; check with platform for acceptance. |
What You Need to Know About Using Credit Cards
Each card provider has its unique set of benefits, but there are a few universal perks that make credit cards popular among bettors.
Credit cards offer robust security measures, including fraud protection under the Fair Credit Billing Act. If an unauthorized charge pops up on your statement, you can dispute it and often recover the funds.
How Deposits with Credit Cards Work
- Card Number: The 16-digit number found on the front of your card.
- CVC Code: The three-digit security code on the back.
- Expiration Date: The month and year when your card expires.
*Once you enter your details, the funds typically appear in your gambling account within seconds, letting you start your wagers immediately.
Potential Drawbacks of Using Credit Cards for Gambling
While using a credit card may seem simple, some limitations come with the territory. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
Approval Rates
Roughly half of all gambling-related credit card transactions get approved. Many banks treat gambling payments like cash advances, making them more likely to be declined.
Fees and Interest Rates
Some banks may apply extra fees or interest rates on gambling-related transactions, so it’s wise to review the terms carefully.
Are There Any Alternatives?
If your credit card transaction doesn’t go through, or you’re looking for another way to fund your gambling account, there are a few solid alternatives. Each one comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s all about what works best for you.
E-Wallets
E-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are widely accepted and provide an extra layer of security by keeping your bank details private. They’re also typically faster than bank transfers, though some platforms may charge a fee for using them.
Debit Cards
Debit cards work similarly to credit cards, except they pull directly from your bank account. If your credit card isn’t accepted, your debit card might be, though approval rates are still lower than with non-gambling transactions.
Bank Transfer Options
- ACH Transfer: Often used for large deposits, ACH transfers are secure but can take a few days to process.
- PayNearMe: This option lets you pay in cash at participating locations and is a solid choice for those wary of sharing banking information online.
Prepaid Cards
Prepaid cards, such as Play+, allow you to load a specific amount onto the card and use it without sharing your bank details directly. Many gambling sites accept them, and they’re ideal if you’re budgeting a specific amount for betting.
Cryptocurrencies
Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Dogecoin have become popular for gambling. Cryptocurrencies offer anonymity and security, with transactions often completed in minutes. However, crypto’s value can fluctuate significantly, which might affect your overall balance.
Why Credit Cards Remain Popular Despite Limitations
Despite the occasional hiccups, credit cards remain one of the most convenient payment options for online betting. The familiarity, speed, and security of credit card transactions make them an appealing choice. Plus, major credit card companies have improved fraud prevention measures in recent years, helping bettors feel more confident.
Choose What Works Best for You
Gambling online can be fun and convenient, but finding the right payment method is key to a smooth experience. While credit cards offer ease of use, security, and instant transactions, they’re not always the ideal fit for everyone. Some Brooklyn residents prefer the privacy of e-wallets or the flexibility of cryptocurrencies.
Ultimately, it’s about what makes you feel secure and comfortable when funding your gambling account. Explore different options, start with smaller deposits, and find a method that works seamlessly for you.