Best Credit Card Casinos 2023
The UKGC’s Ban on Accepting Credit Cards at Casinos
Since April 14th, 2020, credit cards can no longer be used for gambling transactions in the UK.
The credit card ban was implemented by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) as a measure to enhance player protection and reduce the risk of problem gambling. By prohibiting the use of credit cards, the UKGC aims to prevent players from gambling with borrowed money and potentially getting into financial difficulties.
The ban applies to all forms of gambling, including both online and offline platforms operating in the UK market. It covers credit cards issued by UK banks as well as international credit cards used by UK residents.
It's worth noting that the ban primarily affects credit cards and not debit cards. Debit cards can still be used for gambling transactions, allowing players to use funds directly from their bank accounts.
Types of UK Credit Card Casinos
In the past, you could use several different credit cards at online casinos, including:
- Visa: As the largest payment processing solution globally, Visa used to be widely accepted at UK online casinos. In all other countries where Visa credit cards are accepted, you can get fast and secure transactions no matter the size of the deposit or withdrawal that you’re making.
- MasterCard: MasterCard is a major competitor to Visa and is also widely available worldwide, although it is no longer a payment option for UK casino players. Playing at a MasterCard online casino credit card site enables you to benefit from quick, safe payments and high transaction limits.
- American Express: Many credit card casino UK sites also used to permit players to use American Express, which are known for their premium status, high credit limits, top-notch security, and international support.
Benefits and Drawbacks of an Online Casino Credit Card
Using a credit card at an UK casino site for deposits and withdrawals can offer several benefits. Here are some advantages of using a credit card:
Convenience
Outside of the UK, credit cards are widely accepted at online casinos, making them a convenient payment method. You can easily make deposits and withdrawals without the need to set up additional accounts or transfer funds between different platforms.
Instant deposits
When using a credit card at an online casino outside the UK, deposits are usually processed instantly. This quick access to funds can enhance the overall gaming experience, since you can start playing your favourite games straight away.
Security
In countries where credit cards are accepted as a casino payment, most reputable credit card casino sites employ stringent security measures to protect their players' financial information. Credit card companies also have their own security systems in place to detect and prevent fraudulent activity. In case of any unauthorised charges, credit card users are generally protected by their card issuer's fraud liability policies.
Rewards and Bonuses
Some credit cards offer rewards programs where you can earn points or cashback on your purchases, which may include online casino transactions. By using your credit card for casino deposits, you may be able to accumulate rewards or take advantage of specific casino promotions, potentially enhancing your overall perks. However, this is not a given – if you are in a country where you can use credit cards at online casinos, make sure you check the terms and conditions of the payment service provider to make sure that it applies to you.
Flexibility
Credit cards provide more flexibility than debit cards in accessing your funds. You can opt to pay off your casino expenditures in full each month or opt for minimum payments over time, depending on your situation. This flexibility can help you better manage your budget and expenses.
Drawbacks of Credit Card Casinos
Addiction and overspending
Credit cards can make it easy to spend beyond your means. The availability of credit may lead to irresponsible gambling behaviour and potential addiction issues. Using borrowed money for gambling can lead to financial difficulties if not managed responsibly. This is, in fact, the reason why the UKGC enforced the ban on using credit cards at online casinos for UK clients.
Fees and interest charges
Some credit card companies may treat gambling transactions as cash advances, subjecting them to higher fees and interest rates compared to regular purchases. Additionally, if you carry a balance on your credit card, interest charges can accumulate, adding to the overall cost of your gambling activities.
Credit card debt
Using a credit card for gambling can lead to accumulating debt if the balance is not paid off in full each month. High-interest rates can make it challenging to pay off the debt quickly, potentially resulting in long-term financial consequences.
How to make a Deposit at a Credit Card Casino UK
Making a deposit at a credit card casino in the UK is not possible. However, if you’re currently based outside the UK, and want to make a deposit, you would usually need to follow these general steps:
- Choose an online casino credit card
Choose a reputable online casino that is licensed and regulated for a fair and safe gambling session. - Register at the casino
Sign up for an account at your chosen credit card casino by providing your personal details, including name, email address, phone number and date of birth. - Make a deposit
Head to the Cashier section of the casino and input the amount you wish to deposit, and your credit card details, including your card number, expiration date and CVV code. - Confirm your transaction
Input the unique security code sent to your phone to verify your transaction.
What is the Difference Between Using Credit Cards and Debit Cards at an Online Casino?
Credit and debit cards are two common types of payment cards that offer different functionalities and features. When you use a credit card, money is being borrowed from the card issuer – typically a bank or financial institution – which pays for your transactions. You then have to repay the borrowed amount later, either in full or through monthly installments.
On the other hand, with a debit card, the funds used for transactions are directly deducted from your linked bank account. You are using your own money, and there is no borrowing involved. The card is linked to your existing funds, and the transaction amount is immediately deducted from your account.
Moreover, with a credit card, you have the flexibility to pay off the borrowed amount in full by the due date to avoid interest charges. If you choose to carry a balance, you will be charged interest on the outstanding amount. The interest rate can vary depending on the credit card terms and your repayment behaviour. As debit cards use your own funds, there is no need for repayment or interest charges. The transaction amount is deducted directly from your account, and you only spend what you have available.
One of the main reasons for a ban on credit card usage in the UK is that some players may have trouble managing their debit and potential interest charges. With a debit card, players can only gamble with the funds they have in their own account. They are unable to borrow funds. This is why the UKGC ruled that you can play casino games online using debit cards, but not credit cards.
Are Casinos that Accept Credit Cards Safe?
Credit cards are considered one of the most secure payment options for online gaming due to several factors. Firstly, the cardholder has exclusive access to the card's information, and when used for online transactions, the data is encrypted, preventing unauthorised parties from viewing it. Additionally, online payments often provide the option of two-factor authentication, which involves receiving a unique code via text message or email to further verify the transaction.
In the case of fraudulent activity, credit card holders are protected by the limited liability policies of major card networks such as MasterCard or Visa. If a card is lost or stolen, transactions can be declined, shielding the customer from negative consequences. Simple contact with the card issuer's support team is sufficient to halt any further transactions on the card.
The popularity of mobile apps has also made managing credit cards more convenient. Many credit card mobile apps now offer features such as biometric authentication, enabling users to sign in using their fingerprint or Face ID. This added layer of security adds to the overall safety of a casino that accepts credit card.
Alternative Payment Methods at an Online Casino Credit Card Deposit
As we have mentioned in this article before, it is not possible to make a deposit at a credit card casino with this payment method in the UK, so you will have to opt for an alternative casino banking method to play with real money funds. Here are the best alternatives for a UK credit card deposit casino.
Debit Card Casinos
Debit cards, such as Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit, are another popular payment method at casinos with credit card. They allow you to use funds directly from your bank account without incurring credit card debt.
E-wallet Casinos
E-wallets are digital wallets that allow you to store funds and make secure online transactions. Popular e-wallet options in the UK include PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. These services act as intermediaries between your bank account or bank card and the casino, adding an additional layer of security and privacy.
Bank Transfer Casinos
Bank transfers involve directly transferring funds from your bank account to any casino accept credit card. Many UK casinos support bank transfers, either via traditional wire transfers or faster payment options like Trustly.
Prepaid Cards/Voucher Casinos
Prepaid cards or vouchers, such as Neosurf and Paysafecard, are a convenient option for those who prefer not to share their personal or financial details online. These prepaid options can be obtained by loading the cards with a specific amount or denomination onto them and then used for deposits at any online casino credit card.
Mobile Payment Apps Casinos
Some credit card casino sites in the UK accept payments through mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay. These apps allow you to link your credit or debit card to your mobile device and make quick, secure transactions.
Will UK Online Casinos Ever Accept Credit Cards Again?
Based on the rules and regulations stipulated by the UK Gambling Commission, it is highly unlikely that online casinos will be allowed to accept credit cards in the near future. While it may be inconvenient for some players, this ban is in place to give players better control over their spending.
Thankfully, there are still many UK casinos that accept debit cards and other reliable payment methods, such as various e-wallet options and prepaid vouchers.
Credit Card Casinos FAQ
Check out some of the most common question about Credit Card Casinos below.
It has not been possible to use a credit card to deposit or withdraw money at a UK casino since 2020. You would need to opt for a different payment method to gamble online such as a debit card and an e-wallet option.
The UK Gambling Commission put a ban in place to protect players from potential financial harm. Players can still opt for other payment methods, such as a debit card, bank transfer and a prepaid voucher.
Other alternative payment methods that you can use at a credit card casino include debit cards, e-wallets Neteller, Trustly and PayPal, prepaid vouchers and mobile payment apps amongst others.
As long as you are signing up for an account at a licensed and regulated UK casino site, you are in safe hands.
No. You are unable to make a deposit at a UK casino with a credit card due to a ban issued by the UK Gambling Commission.