Did you know that, with just $5, you can start playing at real-money online casinos in the US?
This guide covers the best $5 deposit casinos, how they work, their pros and cons, and the games and bonuses available.
We’ll also touch on social and sweepstakes casinos, which offer similar experiences with little or no cost. Let’s dive in!
What Is a $5 Minimum Deposit Casino?
These are minimum deposit casinos where a five-dollar bill is enough to get you started playing.
This low barrier makes it easier for newcomers or budget players to experience online slots, blackjack, roulette, and other casino games without needing a large bankroll.
It’s also a great way to test out a new casino – you can deposit a small amount, see if you like the game selection and interface, and then decide if you want to continue there.
There are two main categories of $5 deposit casinos in the US:
1. Licensed Real-Money Online Casinos
These are the regulated casino apps and websites available in certain states (such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, Connecticut, etc.). A few select operators in these markets have lowered their deposit requirement to $5.
For example, DraftKings Casino, FanDuel Casino, and Golden Nugget Online Casino are known to accept $5 minimum deposits in the states where they operate (playusa.com, playnj.com).
That means you can add just $5 to your account and start wagering for real cash wins.
2. Social & Sweepstakes Casinos
These are sweepstakes casino platforms and social casinos that use virtual currencies (like Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins, or tokens) and give players a chance to redeem winnings for real prizes.
Technically, sweepstakes casinos don’t require any deposit at all – you can usually sign up and get free coins to play. However, they do offer optional coin bundle purchases, often at very low prices (some even under $5).
For instance, sites like WOW Vegas, Pulsz, Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, Global Poker, McLuck, and others let you buy coin packages for $5 or less to extend your play.
While these aren’t “deposits” in the traditional sense (since you’re purchasing virtual currency for gameplay), from a player’s perspective, it feels similar – you spend a few bucks to keep playing and have a chance to win sweepstakes prizes (redeemable for cash).
We mention these as secondary options for those outside the states with real-money casinos or anyone who enjoys the sweepstakes model.
Top $5 Minimum Deposit Casinos for Real Money
To save you some time, here are a few of the best real-money online casinos in the US that accept $5 deposits, along with key details on each:
| Online Casino | Bonus | Available In | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings Casino | $35 Casino Credits + 350 Spins (24-hour lossback) | NJ, PA, MI, WV, CT | Huge game library; daily promotions; up to $1,000+ bonus credits for new players (min. $5 to qualify). |
| FanDuel Casino | Refund up to $1,000 on first-day losses + Free Spins | NJ, PA, MI, WV | Top-rated mobile app; wide range of slots & live dealer; often offers “Deposit $5, get bonus” welcome deals. |
| Golden Nugget Casino | Earn up to $1,000 in rewards | NJ, MI (expanding) | Thousands of slot titles (one of the largest collections); exclusive games; generous ongoing promos. |
| Fanatics Casino | Deposit $5 and get $100 in casino credits | PA, NJ, MI (new in 2024-2025) | Newest platform (from Fanatics Sportsbook takeover); integrated with sportsbook app; growing game selection. |
All the above casinos are fully licensed in the US and allow a minimum deposit of $5. Note that availability and promotions can vary by state. Always check the latest terms on the casino’s site.
Remember:
If real-money casinos aren’t available in your state, you can turn to sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, WOW Vegas, Pulsz, Global Poker, McLuck, etc.
These sites technically don’t require “deposits” at all (since they use a sweepstakes model), but they do offer gold coin purchase options starting around $1-$5.
They’re a fun, legal alternative for low-budget play: you purchase a few dollars’ worth of coins, play the games, and any Sweeps Coins you win can potentially be redeemed for real cash prizes.
We won’t rank them here, but many of those social casinos are listed on our site and come with free coin bonuses on sign-up, making them worth considering if you can’t play on a real-money $5 casino.
How to Find the Best $5 Minimum Deposit Casinos in the US
Finding an online casino that lets you deposit just $5 — and is safe and legal in the U.S. — requires a bit of research.
Here’s how to find the best $5 minimum deposit casinos available to you:
Check the Laws in Your State
Online casino availability depends on where you live. First, confirm if real-money online casinos are legal in your state (as of 2025, they are legal in seven states: NJ, PA, MI, WV, CT, DE, and RI in a limited form).
If you’re in one of these states, look at the list of licensed casino apps available. Not all of them will allow a $5 deposit. Identify which ones do.
For example, in New Jersey and Michigan, casinos like DraftKings and Golden Nugget accept $5 deposits. In Pennsylvania and other states, DraftKings and FanDuel Casino are known $5 options, and new entrants like Fanatics Casino have also set low deposit minimums.
Compare Bonuses and Requirements
“Best” can be subjective, but one way to judge is by comparing what you get for that $5 deposit. Look at the welcome bonus or any promotions – do they require a larger deposit to unlock? Some casinos might let you deposit $5, but their big welcome bonus might kick in at $10 or more.
Ideally, choose a $5 deposit casino where you can still claim a good bonus with just $5. For example, FanDuel Casino often has a welcome offer that you can activate with a $5 deposit (e.g. “deposit $5, get a $40 bonus”), and DraftKings Casino has offered bonus credits or spins for a minimum $5 deposit in the past.
On the other hand, a site like Tropicana Online Casino (available in NJ) allows $5 deposits, but its standard welcome bonus might require $10+ to claim fully. So read the fine print on promotions.
Evaluate Game Selection & Platform Quality
A casino isn’t just about the deposit amount – you want a platform you’ll enjoy.
With your shortlist of $5-friendly casinos, compare their game libraries and features. Do they have the slots or table games you like? Is the website/app user-friendly?
Since you’re only committing a small amount, you have the freedom to try multiple sites. The best $5 deposit casinos combine a low entry cost with a high-quality gaming experience, meaning hundreds of games, smooth gameplay, and perhaps extras like live dealer tables, tournaments, or a loyalty program.
Ensure Payment Methods Support $5
Even if a casino allows a $5 minimum, the availability of that deposit might depend on the banking method. Check which payment options casinos offer (we cover this in detail in a later section).
You’ll want to use a method that actually lets you deposit $5 without fees. For instance, many players use a prepaid Play+ card, PayPal, or online banking/ACH for small deposits since these methods often have a $5 minimum and charge no fees.
If your preferred method (say, credit card) has a $10 minimum at that casino, you might need to choose a different method to stick to $5.
Pros and Cons of Playing at $5 Minimum Deposit Casinos
While the low barrier of $5 minimum deposit casinos is appealing, there are some trade-offs to be aware of.
While you might miss out on some larger bonuses or extended gameplay at $5 deposit casinos, the upsides include flexibility, affordability, and a real chance to win without breaking the bank.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros
Low Financial Risk – Only $5 needed to start, perfect for beginners or cautious players. Try Multiple Casinos Cheaply – Sample several platforms for $5 each, great for comparing games and bonuses. Access to Real Money Games – Even with $5, you can play slots, table games, and more with low bets. Unlock Bonuses & Promotions – Some casinos offer promos even at the $5 level, like bonus credits or free spins. Good for Bankroll Practice – A great way to practice game strategy and discipline with minimal risk.
Cons
Limited Playing Time – A small bankroll means your session could be over quickly without wins. Smaller or Partial Bonuses – Some bonuses require more than $5 to unlock the full offer. Higher Relative Fees – Any fixed deposit fees (e.g. $1) can eat up a large percentage of your deposit. Lower Betting Limits on Some Games – You’ll be locked out of higher-stake games and live dealer tables. Withdrawal Constraints – You may need to grow your bankroll to meet the casino’s cash-out minimum (often $10+).
Popular Payment Methods for $5 Deposits
When depositing such a small amount as $5, the payment method you choose is crucial. Not all deposit methods allow such a low amount, and some might come with fees that you want to avoid.
Here’s a quick comparison of the most common options to help you pick the right one:
| Payment Method | Supports $5 Deposits? | Fees | Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid Casino Card (Play+) | Yes | No | Instant | Great for low deposits and withdrawals; setup takes a few minutes. |
| PayPal / E-Wallets | Often | None (usually) | Instant | Widely accepted, secure; link to bank or card for best results. |
| Online Banking (ACH/eCheck) | Usually | No | Slight delay | Easy once set up; minimum may vary by casino, check cashier first. |
| Debit/Credit Card | Sometimes | Usually no | Instant | Many casinos set $10 min for cards; if declined, try linking to PayPal. |
| PayNearMe / Cash | Usually $10+ | Yes (~$1.99) | Slower | Not ideal for $5 deposits due to fees and limits. |
| Casino Cage (in person) | Yes | No | Manual | Only works if you're near the physical casino; not common for $5. |
| Apple Pay / Google Pay | Rare | Usually no | Instant | Convenient, but may mirror card limits ($10+). Not widely available yet. |
If you’re sticking to exactly $5, go with Play+, PayPal, or ACH. They’re reliable, fast, and usually fee-free. Credit and debit cards can work, but often require $10 minimums, and cash-based options just aren’t worth it for such a small amount.
Before you deposit, always double-check the minimum in the casino’s cashier section – it only takes a minute, and it’ll save you the hassle of a declined transaction.
Once your $5 is in, you’re good to go – safe, secure, and ready to play!
Tips to Maximize Your $5 Minimum Deposit
Here are some tips to stretch your initial 5 dollar deposit at online casinos:
Stick to Low Bets
This may sound obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing – if you want your $5 to last, make the smallest bets possible that still entertain you. That might mean $0.10 spins on slots or $1 hands of blackjack.
High RTP Games
Choose games known for high return-to-player percentages (RTP). For example, blackjack (with good strategy) and video poker often have RTPs 99% or higher, meaning your bankroll lasts longer on average.
Many online slots also have decent RTP (95%+). Avoid things like American Roulette (with double zero), which has worse odds; if roulette, try European or French with single zero if available for better odds.
Progressive Jackpots (Small Bets)
If you’re feeling lucky, dedicating a small part of your $5 to a progressive jackpot slot where even minimum bets can win is a moonshot strategy.
Some games like Divine Fortune have been known to pay out the jackpot to a minimum bettor. Just don’t spend all $5 on this – maybe one 20-cent spin, then play other stuff.
Take Advantage of Bonuses
If you got any free spins or bonus credits from your deposit, use those first.
They let you play without dipping into your cash balance. Any winnings from them will extend your real-money play.
Know When to Stop
If you double or triple your $5 to $10 or $15, recognize that as a big win relative to your start. You might then choose to cash out (if above the withdrawal minimum) or at least set aside part of it so you don’t give it all back.
Playing with a small bankroll requires discipline, or else that one lucky streak could be squandered chasing more.
With these games and tips in mind, a $5 deposit can turn into an hour or more of entertainment, and who knows – possibly some profit!
Can You Win Real Money with a $5 Minimum Deposit?
Yes, you absolutely can win real money with just a $5 minimum deposit. Many players have turned small stakes into solid payouts – it’s all about a bit of luck and smart play.
Here’s what to consider regarding winning (and cashing out) from a $5 deposit:
Real Wagers, Real Winnings
A $5 deposit works exactly like any bigger deposit – any winnings are real and withdrawable (as long as no bonus terms are in play). Hit $100 on a $0.20 slot spin? That’s $100 in real cash.
You can play with it or cash out. The casino doesn’t care that it started with just five bucks.
Small Deposits, Big Jackpots
Minimum deposits don’t lock you out of big wins. Your chances scale with your bet, but even small bets can hit. Some progressives award jackpots randomly, even on minimum spins.
Table games, too – $5 in blackjack can snowball if you’re lucky and smart. Everyone starts somewhere, even high-rollers.
Cashouts and Withdrawal Minimums
Most casinos require at least $10–$20 to cash out, so your first goal might just be doubling your $5. Once you’re there, you can withdraw. If you win big, you might need to deal with taxes – but that’s a great “problem” to have.
Sweepstakes Casinos Winnings
With sweeps casinos, your $5 often gets you bonus Sweeps Coins (SC), which can be played for real cash prizes. Win with SC, and you can redeem them (usually at 1 SC = $1).
Sites often require 50–100 SC to cash out, but it’s totally doable. Some players have hit huge prizes, starting from promo coins or tiny purchases.
Probability and Expectations
Yes, you can win with $5 – but you’re not guaranteed to. That’s gambling, after all. View the $5 as spent entertainment money, and any win as a bonus. It keeps things fun and light, and helps you enjoy the ride without stressing the outcome.
Strategy for Cashing Out
Want to walk away a winner? Set a goal. If you hit $15, withdraw your original $5 and keep $10 to play. Or bank most of a big win and leave a little to keep the fun going. That kind of discipline turns lucky streaks into real money in your pocket.
Jackpot Wins
People do hit it big from tiny deposits – massive jackpots, life-changing wins, or just turning $5 into a few hundred. It’s rare, but possible. And if you do hit a big one, be ready for ID checks or even installment payouts. Again, great problems to have!
Are $5 Minimum Deposit Casinos Safe and Secure?
Absolutely – $5 minimum deposit casinos can be just as safe and secure as any other online casino, as long as you stick to legally licensed operators or reputable sweepstakes sites.
The amount of your deposit doesn’t affect the security measures in place. Here’s what you need to know about safety:
All the $5 deposit casinos we’ve mentioned (DraftKings, FanDuel, Golden Nugget, etc.) are fully licensed in the states where they operate. That means they’re vetted by gaming authorities for fairness, security, and responsible gambling.
Whether you’re depositing $5 or $500, the same strict rules apply: fair games, secure funds, and audited practices. If it’s legal in your state, you can trust it.
Reputable casinos use SSL encryption, just like banks and online stores. Your $5 deposit and personal info are protected from prying eyes. They also partner with trusted payment processors.
And, since you’re dealing with a small amount, your exposure is minimal anyway – but real issues are super rare at licensed sites.
Even if you deposit just $5 with a prepaid card, you’ll still need to verify your identity before cashing out. That’s a good thing – it protects your account and prevents fraud.
Expect to show ID and proof of address at some point. It’s standard, and it helps keep the platform safe and legal.
The real danger is in shady offshore casinos. They might lure you with tiny deposits or flashy bonuses, but they’re not regulated in the U.S. That means sketchy security, unfair games, or no payouts.
Stick with legal $5 casinos you recognize or see on your state’s approved list. If in doubt, look for a license number in the site’s footer.
If you’re playing on sweepstakes casinos (like Chumba, Global Poker, or WOW Vegas), you’re still good – as long as you stick to the legit ones. They’re legal under sweepstakes laws and have strong security.
Just make sure you’re on the real site or app – not a fake lookalike. Always double-check the site’s URL.
Licensed casinos give you tools to stay in control: deposit limits, spending caps, cool-off periods, and self-exclusion. This is great for beginners who might start with small deposits but want to keep things in check.
If $5 turns into $50 over time, those tools help you stick to a budget.
A safe casino has solid support. The best ones offer 24/7 help via live chat, email, or phone. So if your $5 deposit glitches, there’s someone to fix it.
Before joining, check what kind of support the casino offers – no support is a red flag. Rest assured that all our top picks are known for having your back.
$5 Minimum Deposit Casinos FAQ
Still have questions? Check the answer to the most frequent ones.
Not in the U.S. real-money market – $5 is generally the lowest you’ll find at licensed casinos. If you see “$1 deposit casino” promotions, they’re likely for offshore, unregulated sites and best avoided.
Some sweepstakes casinos offer coin packs under $5 (even as low as $0.49), but those aren’t cash deposits – they’re purchases of virtual currency used for sweepstakes gameplay. We cover this in depth on our $1 deposit casinos guide.
In many cases, yes. Some casinos, like DraftKings and FanDuel, offer promos starting at $5 – such as bonus credits or matched play. Others, like Caesars, may require a higher deposit ($10 or $20) to trigger their welcome offers.
Always check the bonus terms before depositing. If $5 qualifies, the bonus will be smaller, but it’s still a nice extra to stretch your play.
Absolutely. Licensed casinos pay out winnings reliably, regardless of your initial deposit size. What matters is meeting the withdrawal minimum, usually around $10 or $20.
Once you request a payout and verify your account, withdrawal speeds are standard, often same-day for PayPal or Play+, and 1–3 business days for bank transfers.
Yes, you can keep depositing in small amounts, but it’s smart to set a budget. The point of $5 deposits is to keep things low-stakes. If you end up depositing $5 multiple times in a row, that adds up fast.
Consider setting daily or weekly deposit limits through the casino’s responsible gambling tools so you stay in control.
Nope. Game odds and RTPs (Return to Player) don’t change based on how much you deposit or bet. A $0.20 slot spin has the same payout percentage as a $2 spin – it just pays smaller if you win.
You’re not at a disadvantage for starting with $5. The chances are the same for everyone playing the same game.
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