Opening an online poker account
In order to start playing at an online poker room, you will first be required to open up an account with the site. This stage is one that may put off first time players, but it is probably one of the simplest steps out of the entire process on your way to becoming an online poker player.
Real Money or Play Money?
As you have probably realized by now, you can try out a poker site’s software for free before spending one single cent. However, playing in ‘free mode’ does not mean you do not have to open an account with the online poker room. You will still need to go through the process, however you will not be required to actually fund your account at this stage.
Opening the Account
If you want to start playing at the online poker room – whether for free or for real money – you need to open an account. The first thing you need to do is create a player screen name. Think long and hard about this name because it is next to impossible to change once you have registered with it. The name could reflect your personality (such as poker.lover) or simply your initials (DPL). You will be asked to provide a password in order to protect your online poker account, and – as an extra safety measure – you will probably be asked a security ID question (such as the name of your first pet, your mother’s maiden name and so forth).
Next, you will be asked to provide all your personal details such as your name and contact details. You need to be totally honest when providing this information because a poker room may withhold your winnings if it finds that you were not upfront about your details.
Remember that opening an online poker account does not commit you to anything and it does not mean that you are under any obligation to fund your account at present. Also, a good online poker room will have a tough privacy policy in place that makes sure that your information will never be shared with a third party without your express permission.
Funding your Online Poker Account
Once you have opened your online poker room account, you are free to start your gaming session at any play chip table on the site. This is a great way for you to get a feel for the software and games, and hone your skills. However, when you are ready to take the next jump to real money gaming, you will be required to fund your online poker account.
To fund your account, you will need to find a banking method that suits you and your gambling lifestyle. There are many payment methods to choose from in today’s poker industry, and you need to make sure that the one you select is convenient, secure and quick. Do your homework before making a final selection and ask questions such as: Does my geographical location allow me to use this payment method? Or Do I get extra bonuses for using this method?
Once you have chosen a method, go to the cashier’s desk and fund your account. Within the time that it takes for the money to reach your account, you will be happily playing for real money at the online poker site and putting yourself in line to win big!