Are Home Poker Games Legal in New York

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In New York, home poker games exist in a legal gray area. While social gambling in private residences is generally tolerated under certain conditions, there are specific restrictions that players should be aware of.

The key factor is that no one can profit from organizing the game beyond their personal winnings. This means the host cannot charge fees, take a percentage of pots, or otherwise profit from the game\“s operation.

Additionally, all participants must have a social relationship prior to the game, and the game must occur in a truly private setting. Commercial establishments cannot host poker games under the guise of being private homes.

While enforcement against small home games is rare, players should understand that technically, most home poker games violate New York\“s gambling laws if any money changes hands.