We rank poker sites by using a complex algorithm that takes into account scores from both regular players and our team of expert reviewers. With more than 30 years combined experience playing at the best online poker sites, our experts know what makes a fantastic site. Any sites included in our top rated lists are the best of the best and have all scored top marks in this five-point audit:

1. Is this site licensed and regulated?
2. What is the history of payouts?
3. Are there a wide variety of payment options?
4. What software technology is being used?
5. What is the complaint to accolade ratio?

Only sites that easily pass our five-point inspection can be featured on our top ranked lists. This means that the poker site is licensed, has outstanding customer service and an above average response time to issues. It will have minimal complaints, a decently sized players base and fast, hassle-free payouts. On top of all this we make sure they have a history of honoring bonuses and loyalty rewards.

So in short, you can't go wrong with any of the sites found in our top rated lists, especially as you'll be covered by our satisfaction guarantee. However, if none of the sites meet your requirements it's a good idea to check out our blacklisted sites so you can avoid rogue operators.

Loyalty bonuses and promotions are ways for the best online poker sites to say thanks for choosing us. They are also a great way for you to build up your bankroll so don't underestimate the importance of free bonuses when choosing a site.

With 344,821+ members CardsChat.com is one of the biggest poker forums out there, and that size allows us to negotiate exclusive bonuses for our users. We offer a BEST BONUS GUARANTEE on all of our top ranked poker sites, meaning you will not find a better welcome bonus anywhere else online within 24 hours of sign-up or we'll match that offer.

Having fast, reliable payouts is a key factor for many of our users when choosing a poker site. Our expert reviewers anonymously play on poker sites for real money to check bonuses are honored, deposits are easy and payouts are speedy.

Any sites that fail on these points are automatically blacklisted as rooms you need to avoid. Trustworthy sites that have proven to be extra speedy in paying out cash to players are listed on our fastest payouts page.

Not all online poker sites are equal, and if you're not going with one of our trusted sites, then it's important to do a little research first. You'll want to check that your chosen site has a good reputation, pays out, and is financially stable. Without that information, you won't know if your money is safe or the games are fair.

To help you know which sites to avoid we keep a list of unsafe or disreputable sites. Check out the most recent additions to our blacklist before choosing a real money poker site.

Just because a site is new does not mean it can be automatically trusted. The main thing to remember when trying out anything new is that it's okay to test the waters. Before depositing money on any poker site you'll want answers to the following questions:

• Is the site licensed?
• Who regulates this organization?
• Are they using safe, reputable payment mechanisms?

If you're not sure whether a poker site can be trusted, check out our listings for proven trustworthy new poker sites.

Those looking to play real money poker will find that there are many sites open to them. The best of these sites have been reviewed and recommended here at CardsChat.com. Any poker site we recommend offers a few key attributes, including big bonuses, a wide selection of poker options and a really safe place to play. So, to find the best online poker real money site, just read through our many comprehensive reviews.

Don't forget: it is possible to sign-up with more than one online poker site. Doing so allows a player to test the sites out for themselves, plus the player can also earn multiple welcome bonuses.