While you can find several land-based casinos in the state, with some even open 24 hours, Iowa online casinos are, unfortunately, nowhere to be found. While you can’t place wagers and earn real money at online casinos in Iowa today, you can still play your favorite online casino games thanks to social and sweepstakes casinos! Sports betting is also regulated and legal, so you can find a form of online gambling that fits your niche.
Best Online Gambling Sites Iowa
The Best Iowa Casino Sites
- #1 RankBetRivers.netBonus$1,000 Spin to Win Virtual Credits EverydayAbout BetRivers.net
Since 2016, BetRivers.NET has been a powerhouse in the US social casino scene, offering top-quality games from NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and others. With over 700 slots, live casino games, and ongoing tournaments, it’s a must-visit. All players enjoy automatic enrollment in the loyalty scheme and receive free virtual credits every four hours.
Overview- Website us.betrivers.net
- Established 2016
- Min deposit $1.99
- No Deposit Bonus $20 virtual credits
Payment methods
21+ | New Player Only - T&C Apply - #2 RankGoldSlips CasinoBonus5S Coins and 100K Gold CoinsAbout GoldSlips Casino
GoldSlips Casino, launched in 2023 and available in most states, is quickly gaining traction as a promising social casino. With a straightforward yet engaging platform, we’re eager to see its expansion in bonuses and promotions. Check out our comprehensive review for insights on gameplay, ratings, and more at GoldSlips.
Overview- Website play.goldslips.com
- Established 2023
Payment methods
21+ | New Player Only - T&C Apply - #3 RankModo CasinoBonus20,000 Gold Coins (GC) + Sweepstakes Coins (SC)About Modo Casino
Modo.us sweepstakes casino combines social gaming with the chance to redeem cash prizes in a secure and legal environment.
Using Gold Coins (GC) and Sweepstakes Coins (SC), players can enjoy the site’s hundreds of slots and compete for leaderboard positions, while SC can be redeemed for cash prizes. New players receive 20,000 GC and 1 SC just for signing up, no promo code needed.
Overview- Website modo.us
- Established 2023
- Min deposit $0.99
Payment methods
21+ | New Player Only - T&C Apply - #4 RankVegas GemsBonusUp to 1,000 Gems and Get 50% Extra Gems on First Shards PurchaseAbout Vegas Gems
Vegas Gems social casino is one of the newest and most trusted free gaming platforms on the market today. Big-name slot games, tons of ways to earn Shards and Gems, and unique casino-style games make this sweepstakes casino a fan favorite. Check out what our team thinks about this new social casino in our Vegas Gems review.
Overview- Website vegasgems.com
- Established 2023
- Min deposit $4.99
Payment methods
21+ | New Player Only - T&C Apply
Reviews of Our Choice of the Best Online Gambling Sites IA
Our team of experts has reviewed and chosen the top sweepstakes and social casinos available for players in Iowa. These casinos excel in offering a diverse range of games, attractive bonus offers, secure payment methods, and outstanding customer service. Discover the premier online gaming experiences crafted just for Iowa players today.
As one of the most popular social casinos in the US, Chumba is a great place to start if you’re a total newbie. There are more than 100 million users of Chumba Casino, which puts it right at the top of the leaderboard for social casino membership.
Chumba Casino is part of the VGW group that operates other social casino sites such as Luckyland Slots and Global Poker. Its expertise in the market is evident from the Chumba Casino site, which is simple to use and easy to navigate around, even for beginners.
We didn’t find the greatest selection of games at Chumba, with only around 100 titles. Nevertheless, you’ll find all of your favorites here, including blackjack slots, table games, and more.
Gold coins are remarkably easy to acquire at Chumba, which is another big plus. When you sign up, you’ll receive two million gold coins, which is very generous compared to other social casinos.
There are multiple ways to collect free coins, such as daily login bonuses, participating in social media contests, and even writing to Chumba Casino requesting more.
Importantly, Chumba also includes the option to collect Sweeps Coins, so it’s also possible to win cash prizes.
- Website www.chumbacasino.com
- Bonus 2,000,000 FREE Gold Coins (GC) and 2 FREE Sweeps Coins (SC)
- Established 2017
- Games 150
- Easy for beginners to use
- Lots of gold coins
- Wide variety of payment methods
- High minimum withdrawal limit
Funrize Casino is as good as it gets for players looking for a simple, easy-to-use, and fun platform to play casino-style games. Most Funrize casino reviews only give an overview of this site, but we’ve gone in-depth and played games for ourselves, signed up for an account, and interacted with their customer support team to get a better picture of how this sweepstakes casino works. Find out what we’ve learned in this Funrize Casino review.
- Website funrize.com
- Bonus 400 000 TC + 100 000 PE
- Established 2022
- Games 139
- Legal in States All except Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and Michigan
- Diverse game selection with over 130 titles
- Excellent customer service through live chat and social media channels like Twitter and Facebook
- Mobile app available
- Excellent bonuses and promotions
- Limited software developers
- Payment methods limited compared to other online casinos
- Limited game selection for table games and live dealer options
Exclusive slots, fun bonuses, and an engaging social media community are just a few of the key elements of Pulsz online social casino so popular. Their user interface is simplified, as are their payment methods, so you can get straight to business and start playing your favorite games. How does Pulsz Casino stack up to the competition? Pulsz casino reviews are a dime a dozen, but ours at Lucky Gambler gives you an inside look at what sets this online casino apart from the rest and gives insight into what areas can also be improved.
- Website www.pulsz.com
- Bonus 367,000 Gold Coins + 32.3 FREE Sweepstakes
- Established 2020
- Games 966
- Legal in States All states except WA, ID, MI, NV, MT
- A wide range of games available
- User-friendly website design
- Multiple payment credit cards accepted
- Variety of big-name gaming developers
- Slow customer support
- Limited bonuses and promotions
Wind Creek Social Casino is among the most popular social platforms in the United States. It boasts an interesting selection of games and treats its players with bonuses, including a Daily Bonus Wheel Spin that greets players once they open the website.
- Website windcreekcasino.com
- Established 2020
- Games 103
- Legal in States All states
- Available in all US states
- Several bonuses including a daily bonus wheel spin
- Efficient customer support via live chat and email
- Mobile app for Android and iOS users
- Somewhat outdated website design
- Not many table games
- Not many bonus options
Sportzino Casino is one of those sites that make players come back for more with a superb sign-up package worth up to 150,000 GC and 6SC, an immense library of online slots, and a full social betting solution. With tons of different ways of earning SC through referrals and a unique VIP club, it sure seems like a perfect fit for every player. See what Lucky Gambler experts have to say about it in the upcoming review.
- Website sportzino.com
- Bonus 150,000 GC + 6 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Established 2023
- Games 295
- Legal in States The main operational areas for Sportzino are all US states except ID, WA, GA, MI (additional restrictions for the sportsbook in AL, AK, CA, GA, HI, ID, MI, MN, MO, OK, SC, TX, UT, and WA)
- Impressive game selection from more than 20 top-notch providers
- All-in-one social sportsbook and casino
- Stunning, mobile-friendly website
- 24/7 customer support service
- Fast redemptions
- Daily login bonus
- Amazing bonuses for new and existing players
- Free sweeps coins on sign-up
- Over 40 progressive slots with SC jackpots
- Could use a few more banking options
- The only available support channel is via website tickets
- Demanding verification procedure for reward redemptions
- No table games yet
- No live games
- No live chat
With some of the biggest names in the iGaming industry already sharing their best titles with Modo.us, it’s no wonder this new social casino is on the rise and gaining popularity! Our Modo.us casino review explores why players are flocking to this site to play their favorite games, participate in tournaments, or simply unwind. Find out more in this casino review.
- Website modo.us
- Bonus 20,000 Gold Coins (GC) + Sweepstakes Coins (SC)
- Established 2023
- Games 647
- Legal in States Everywhere except for CT, DE, ID, MI, MT, NV, NJ, PA, RI, WA, WV
- Live Dealer No
- Wide selection of casino-style games from top developers
- Live chat option for VIP members
- User-friendly interface and mobile compatibility
- Various bonuses and promotions
- Limited banking options compared to other casinos
- No mobile app
- No live dealer games
Of all the sweepstakes casinos our team has reviewed, perhaps none has garnered such a massive audience fairly quickly as SweepSlots Casino! This sweepstakes casino is the standard for other similar social casinos, offering tons of ways to win free gold coins, giveaways, bonuses, and of course, stunning slots and casino games. Whether you want to play for fun or a chance to win real cash prizes, you’re going to want to read our comprehensive SweepSlots review!
- Website www.sweepslots.com
- Bonus 5,000 Gold Coins and 5 Sweepstakes Coins
- Established 2021
- Games 119
- Legal in States Everywhere except for ID, KY, DE, MI and WA
- Diverse game selection
- Social media sweepstakes and engagement opportunities
- Generous welcome bonus and daily promotions
- Popular payment methods accepted
- No 24/7 live chat support
- No mobile app is available
- Promotional offers mostly include discounts on packages of gold and sweep coins, which require a purchase
Full of exciting free slot games, bingo games, and even live dealer games, DingDingDing Casino is an online casino site that has it all. From its vast selection of games to its enticing Promo Code and Purchase Bonus promotions, this casino caters to the needs of every type of player, from novices to experienced bettors. There’s no need to purchase either, making this one of the most rewarding social casino sites in the game. Compared to other Ding Ding Ding casino reviews, this one is about everything, from their top games to customer support and payment options, so you can make an informed decision before signing up for an account.
- Website dingdingding.com
- Bonus 100 000 GC
- Established 2020
- Games 879
- Legal in States All except Nevada, Washington, Kentucky, Michigan, and Idaho
- Various bonuses and promotions
- Wide selection of games from top software developers
- Multiple payment options including cryptocurrencies
- User-friendly interface with easy navigation
- No live chat customer support
- No mobile app available
- Some games need to be unlocked through coin purchases
In just over a year, Zula Casino took over the US social casino market by storm with lucrative features like the progressive SC jackpot and a free welcome bonus. We took a sneak peek and tried on-site slots and casino games to see what it’s all about. There’s a lot of action going on, starting with 700+ games from renowned providers, an exclusive VIP program, and fish games, but is it all so great? Let LuckyGambler experts share a few thoughts.
- Website www.zulacasino.com
- Bonus 100,000 GC + 10 SC
- Established 2023
- Games 581
- Legal in States Zula Casino legally operates in all US states except GA, ID, WA
- One of the best welcome bonuses on sweepstakes casinos
- More than 700 slot games from reputable providers
- Site-specific progressives
- Free gold coins on registration
- Daily and weekly reload bonuses
- Exclusive VIP program
- No mobile app
- Lacks live chat support
- Only has a few table games on offer
LuckyBird is a crypto social casino with an infinite Faucet, daily free Sweep Coins and Gold Coins, and a host of Provably Fair games. The site is also backed by BGaming and Belatra and hosts daily giveaways, tournaments, and various promotions. New players can claim no-deposit money, and there’s a valuable First Buy bonus lying in wait. All SC can be redeemed in crypto, learn about the exchange rates, how to redeem, and all the details in our LuckyBird review.
- Website luckybird.io
- Bonus 1,000 Gold Coins + 0.21 Sweeps Cash
- Established 2022
- Games 131
- Legal in States All except WA, KY, NV, MI, ID
- Infinite crypto Faucet
- Daily free Sweepstake Coins
- Massive generous bonuses
- Provably Fair games
- First Buy Bonus
- Redeem SC to crypto
- Live Chat customer service
- Lack of a live casino lobby
- No support with native mobile apps
Iowa Online Casinos and Gambling Laws
According to Iowa online gambling laws, a bettor can’t win or lose more than $50 in cash during a 24-hour period with these social casino sites.
There are also offshore gambling sites that accept Iowa residents, but note that these sites may not be regulated and can potentially put players at risk. That’s because they are operating legally in their country, but the same protections aren’t given to residents of the U.S. who place wagers on the site. As such, it’s recommended to stick with legal and regulated options when participating in online gambling Iowa.
How Does Iowa Regulate Gambling?
Iowa has a separate governmental body that regulates its sports betting pari-mutuel wagering. This regulatory state agency is known as The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) within the Department of Inspections and Appeals. It’s important to know that, although racing is a big component of Iowa gambling, these races can only take place on certain days. The Commission decides the type, number, and location of all these licensed racetracks and the number of days they will race.
The IRGC also makes sure that all the casinos in Iowa comply with all of the gaming laws. It oversees the licenses, audits, casino games, house edges, and complaints to ensure fair play for all players. Additionally, this commission also regulates Fantasy Sports contests and charitable gambling within the state. From sports betting to Fantasy Sports to casinos, the IRGC has a say in it all.
This commission was created by the Pari-Mutuel Wagering Act in May of 1983. All five members of their board are chosen by the Iowa Governor and are then approved by the Iowa Senate. No members can serve more than three years on the board.
Online Casino Gambling in Iowa
Social casinos often combine sportsbooks with various other online, table, and even live dealer games. While these online gambling sites call themselves “casinos,” the difference is they don’t involve any actual money or prizes. Unlike real money offshore Iowa online casinos, they allow players to enjoy traditional casino games and potentially win virtual games and currency or rewards.
Players can sign up to sites like BetRivers, where they can earn free spins daily and use a welcome bonus to gain gold coins. These gold coins are free, but you can always buy more or ask for some in writing. Along with these gold or other types of online currency, players can win other rewards through sweepstakes coins.
These coins can earn you prizes like gift cards, bonus spins, or even real money! While it’s a bit more complicated than simply betting with real money, social casinos in Iowa can be a fun and risk-free way to enjoy gambling.
Iowa Online Casino Poker
Social casinos sites will be your best bet for online poker, video poker, and table games in Iowa as they offer both real cash and virtual prizes for casino games. While these sites may not have the same level of competition or variety as traditional online poker rooms, they can still provide a fun and exciting experience for players! Unfortunately, online casinos are not legal, nor are online poker rooms and real money casinos.
Iowa Daily Fantasy Sports
There is a big selection of legal Daily Fantasy Sports sites in Iowa, including big names like DraftKings and FanDuel. These websites offer players the chance to build dream teams of their favorite athletes and potentially win real money or prizes. Daily fantasy sports are different from traditional online sports betting as they involve creating a team for a specific game or tournament rather than placing bets on individual games.
Iowa Sports Betting
Similar to Fantasy Sports, Iowa also offers legal online sports betting through sites like BetMGM. These websites should be regulated by the Iowa Casino Racing and Gaming Commission. Legalized platforms offer a variety of sports to bet on, from professional leagues like the NFL and NBA to college team sports sports!
Iowa Online Horse Betting
As we mentioned earlier, horse racing is legal in Iowa and the state offers online betting options through sites like TVG. These horse racing betting options are only available through pari-mutuel wagering, which means all bets are pooled together and divided among the winners. Horse racing fans can also enjoy betting in person at various race tracks across the state.
Iowa Lottery
There is a state lottery program already in place in Iowa. People can purchase tickets at existing stores and enter for a chance to win at the PowerBall, Mega Millions, Lotto America, and InstaPlay Progressive Jackpot games. However, online lottery sales are not yet legal in Iowa. While there is a website available, it only offers information on the various games and winning numbers.
Iowa Land Based Casinos
What Iowa lacks in online gambling options, it makes up for with its many land-based casinos. There are over 20 casinos in the state, offering a variety of games including slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. These casinos also often have restaurants, entertainment venues, and hotels attached to them, making them popular tourist destinations. Some of the most well-known casinos in Iowa include Harrah’s Council Bluffs Hotel and Casino, Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs, and Diamond Jo Worth Casino.
History of Gambling Legislation in Iowa
The state has a rich and fascinating history of gambling legislation. Iowa gambling laws have vastly changed, going from being deeply anti-gambling to now accepting several types of online betting and having different land-based casinos. Some key moments in the history of gambling in Iowa include the following:
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FAQ
What is the Gambling Age in Iowa?
Currently, you must be 21 years old to gamble in Iowa. This applies to both land-based casinos and online gambling, as well as lottery tickets.
Who Regulates Gambling in Iowa?
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission oversees all gambling activities within the state. They license sports betting, land-based casinos, and pari-mutuel wagering facilities.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Iowa?
No, online casinos are not currently legal in Iowa. However, players can participate in online sports betting and Daily Fantasy sports. Sweepstake coins casinos are also available to play in Iowa.
Can I Win Real Money at Online Casinos in Iowa?
Unless you use offshore real money online Iowa casinos, you cannot win real money at online casinos in Iowa. Sweepstakes-based online platforms offer the opportunity to win cash prizes through the use of virtual currency. You can even use a welcome bonus to help earn more coins. But, unlike other casino websites, you cannot deposit real money or withdraw any winnings in cash.
Are Gambling Winnings Taxable in Iowa?
Yes, however, tax rates are somewhat lower, with casinos withholding 5% for winnings up to $1 million. For any revenues above $1 million and up to $3 million, the tax rate rises to 10%. Fortunately, losses from gambling can also be deducted from your Iowa state tax return.
When Will Online Casinos Be Legal in Iowa?
While sports betting has been legalized in Iowa, there are currently no plans to legalize IA online casinos. A bill to legalize online Iowa casinos was launched in 2023 but never made it past the House. However, this could change in the future as more states begin to regulate online gambling.
Serhii is an Data Scientist and SEO expert with over 11 years of experience. Since 2018, he has been the SEO Team Lead at an international marketing agency. He is also a professional poker player, specifically Texas No-Limit Hold’em, since 2019.