Have you ever wondered how much does a casino have to pay out? We wondered that, too. It took a little digging, but we have some answers for you.
Laws vary by state. The amount casinos have to pay out will range depending on where you go. In some states, gambling is not legal. The Federal Wire Act and Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Acts are meant to keep players from gambling online or through telecommunications. While that doesn't stop players, it does limit protections from seedy overseas casino operators. You should find a trusted online casino that accepts U.S. players and stick with them.
Several States Must Pay Out at Least 80 Percent
In Colorado, the Department of Revenue states that at least 80 percent of a casino's revenue from slots must be returned to players over the slot machine's life. That could be a span of 10 or 20 years. Many of the slot machines in Colorado have a return-to-player (RTP) percentage of around 90 percent.
Arizona's more than two dozen casinos also tend to pay out a minimum of 80 percent. The same is true of Minnesota. One difference with Minnesota is that the casino cannot return more than 95 percent to players.
Montana also requires a payout percentage of 80 percent or better. Casinos in Montana don't have slot machines though. Casino games include video Bingo, Keno, and Poker only.
New Mexico's payout percentage is 80 to 96 percent for non-tribal venues like racetracks and 80 percent at tribal casinos. Non-profit groups that hold casino nights are required to follow the 80 to 96 percent RTP percentage.
In North Dakota, payouts on slot machines must be 80 to 83 percent. There is a limit on how much a player can bet. That limit is $25.
West Virginia allows video lottery terminals in bars, restaurants, and certain organizations. They must pay out at least 80 percent and 95 percent.
Wisconsin has close to two dozen tribal casinos. Those casinos have agreements with the state that they'll pay out at least 80 percent.
A Trio of States Have the Highest Minimum Payout Return
In Arkansas, any electronic game of skill, which includes slots, must have a payback return of 83 percent or higher. While you might associate slots as being games of luck, slots are classified games of skill because players decide how many lines to bet on and whether or not to respin.
North Carolina's rules are a little confusing. The state's tribal casinos do not legally have to pay any returns if they choose not to. If they do, they must fall between 83 and 98 percent.
Oregon doesn't have many slot machines in the state. Those that do exist are found in race/casinos and bars. The RTP in Oregon is about 92 percent. Players cannot bet more than $2.50 on these games and the prizes are capped with a maximum of $600.
If you play slots online, look for games with high payout percentages. These often include your classic slots that don't have bonus features or progressive jackpots. Some games list the RTP for you. For example, Ogre Empire Slots has an RTP of about 95 percent.
Online casinos may not advertise the payout percentages. You can always ask and see. Try our suggestions for online casinos and have a great time playing.
