Online Casino Laws and Regulations in Virginia

Last updated: 01/31/2024

Online casino gambling remains illegal in Virginia, yet avenues exist to enjoy slots and table games on digital platforms. In 2020, attempts were made to legalize online casino gambling alongside the passing of a sports betting bill by state officials. Despite these efforts, real-money casino sites were not accessible in Virginia at the time of this composition.

In Virginia, you can access social and sweepstakes casinos, where you can enjoy playing casino games for free on your computer or mobile device. More details will be provided in the upcoming sections, but the key takeaway is that you have the legal option to visit online casinos in Virginia, play games at no cost, and have the chance to win cash prizes.

Virginia's Legal Gambling Age

Commercial casinos in Virginia were authorized by the General Assembly in 2019. Cities statewide were granted the authority to weigh in on the matter, with four of them giving the green light. The inaugural land-based casino made its debut in 2022, setting the minimum age for engaging in real-money games at 21. The legal age for sports betting in Virginia is also 21. Residents aged 18 and above can participate in the lottery or wager on horse racing utilizing the parimutuel system.

Are Gambling Winnings Taxed in Virginia?

Gambling winnings are subject to a 24% federal tax and varying state taxes, between 2% and 5.75%, depending on your income. Therefore, any winnings from land-based casinos in Virginia (and potentially online casinos if legalized) will be taxable. Winnings exceeding a certain threshold will have taxes automatically withheld, and you will receive a W-2G form. This form must be included in your annual tax return. Even without a W-2G, you must still report gambling winnings (minus losses) on your taxes.