Whether you live near a casino or not, online gambling has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for those who like to play real money games. With regulated online casinos, players have more choices for how to get in on the action and more rewards that aren’t available at brick-and-mortar establishments. Each online casino is free to create its own welcome package to attract new players, so it pays to shop around a bit before making your decision.

The most important factor in selecting an online casino is ensuring that the site is safe and secure. Check that the website uses TLS 1.2 encryption or higher to protect your personal information and that it has a privacy policy clearly explaining how it handles your data. Similarly, make sure that the casino has fast and smooth payouts.

In addition, look for casinos that offer customer support via live chat, phone or email, as well as a comprehensive FAQ section covering the most common issues. It’s also worth looking for loyalty bonuses, which reward existing customers with a range of prizes depending on how much they spend at the site. These could include extra cash, site credit or tournament entry tickets.

Approved casino games vary from state to state due to local laws, but the good news is that most regulated online casinos feature an extensive selection of quality slots, table games and other options. When choosing an online casino, check the games library to ensure that it covers your preferences and fits within your bankroll.