Best Online Casinos for Real Money: 7 Casino Sites to Try Today May 5

It leads on game depth, jackpot access and loyalty value, and the welcome bonus is structured to give you immediate play without heavy wagering friction. For players who prioritize speed above all else, FanDuel is the fastest path from withdrawal request to money in hand. One of the most popular table games is real money roulette, thanks to its fast-paced yet simple format. The best casinos offer different kinds of roulette, like American and European. Top online casinos in regulated states offer a variety of promotions. A $3,000 deposit bonus might look good on the surface, but its value crumbles when you discover that the playthrough is 120x.

BetMGM – 2,500+ games, top bonuses and award-winning support

Avoid unlicensed or offshore casinos, as they may not offer the same level of security or legal recourse. Stay informed about changes in legislation to ensure that you’re playing legally and safely. Play with confidence knowing that your deposits and withdrawals are handled safely and efficiently. There are many resources available for players who need help with gambling issues.

Slots LV, for example, provides a user-friendly mobile platform with a variety of games and enticing bonuses. Bovada Casino also features a comprehensive mobile platform that includes an online casino, poker room, and sportsbook. These platforms are designed to provide a seamless gaming experience on mobile devices.

Best Online Casinos in Canada for 2026: Real Money, Licensed & Independently Tested

You may need to verify your email address or phone number to activate your account. Some casinos also require identity verification before you can make deposits or withdrawals. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy online casinos with confidence and peace of mind. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available. Participate in real-time competitions with live dealers and other players.

Why Play at New Casino Sites?

You can find opportunities to win real money online casinos by doing a bit of research and learning about online gambling options. The following is a detailed guide to all the important factors to consider when evaluating online gambling apps. The game library leans into a variety of slot machines including new online slots and live dealer tables, with enough Blackjack and Roulette options to keep most players busy. The welcome bonus structure is usually readable without a legal dictionary — a lower bar than it should be in this industry, but one that Horseshoe consistently clears. Payout speed is solid and in line with other Caesars-operated platforms.

Live dealer

A lot of online casinos require you to submit a photo of your driver’s license or passport to verify your identity. You also might need to verify your address by submitting a copy of a utility bill or bank statement. This list gets reviewed and refreshed every month to make sure it still reflects what players are actually seeing right now.

It’s a diverse selection over there with Joker Poker and multi-hand variants. BetRivers Casino is praised for its generous 100% cash matched bonus up to $500, featuring one of the lowest wagering requirements in the industry. For example, if you deposit $100, you’ll get an extra $100 in bonus cash. There will generally be minimum and maximum limits set on the cash amount. BetMGM Casino offers one of the best no deposit bonuses in the USA. Depending on your state, you can earn $25–$50 in no-deposit credits when you sign up, with a very low 1x wagering requirement.

Our definitive guide ranks trusted sites where you can play safely and securely. We highlight bonus offers, game variety, payout rates, plus options available for deposits and withdrawals. Online casinos offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, and live dealer games. Many platforms also feature specialty games such as bingo, keno, and scratch cards. The selection is constantly updated, so players can always find something new and exciting to try.

It’s largely because of the maintenance costs that come with physical slot machines – a problem that doesn’t really affect online slot machines.
These programs often provide points for every bet you place, which can be redeemed for bonuses or other rewards.
Exact speed depends on your account verification status and the payment method used — PayPal and ACH transfers typically process faster than paper checks.
Claim your exclusive 300% welcome bonus up to $3,000 to use on poker and casino games.
All the best real money casinos online have elements that work together to make your journey smooth from the moment you register to the time you withdraw your funds.
Whether you play from desktop or use a casino app real money, you’ll get access to hundreds of games with fair odds.
A lot of online casinos require you to submit a photo of your driver’s license or passport to verify your identity.
Online casinos are renowned for their generous bonuses and promotions.
The app is well-built, loads without lag, and Face ID login is a small but welcome touch that most competitors haven’t bothered with.
Common options include credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
Regulated casinos use these methods to ensure the safety and reliability of transactions.
It’s worth noting that not every site accepts all payment methods.
Licensed and secure, it offers fast withdrawals and 24/7 live chat support for a smooth, premium gaming experience.

By reading the fine print, you can maximize the benefits of these promotions and enhance your gaming experience. Loyalty programs are designed to appreciate and reward players’ ongoing support. These programs often provide points for every bet you place, which can be redeemed for bonuses or other rewards. High roller bonuses offer exclusive rewards for players who deposit and stake larger amounts of money. Their offerings include Infinite Blackjack, American Roulette, and Lightning Roulette, each providing a unique and exciting gaming experience. The high-quality streaming and professional dealers enhance the overall experience.

Video poker combines elements of slots and traditional poker, offering fast-paced gameplay and the potential for big payouts. Slots are the most popular games at online casinos, offering endless excitement and the potential for big wins. From classic three-reel machines to modern video slots with immersive graphics and bonus features, there’s a slot game for every taste. Progressive jackpots add an extra layer of excitement, with life-changing prizes up for grabs. Many Canadian players use online casinos that hold international licences. They are commonly from Curaçao, the Malta Gaming Authority, or Kahnawake.

Before signing up, check the cashier or payment section of the site to confirm whether PayPal is supported. Most states require online casinos to support responsible gambling by displaying links to organizations like Gamblers Anonymous and the National Council on Problem Gambling. It’s easier and quicker than you think to get started with online casinos real money USA. BetMGM is fully licensed in key regulated markets, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia, and offers legal, secure access to millions of US players.

Most deposits are processed instantly, so you can start playing without delay.
Popular online slot games include titles like Starburst, Book of Dead, Gonzo’s Quest, and Mega Moolah.
An e-wallet like Neteller or Skrill is great if you want to keep your gambling money separate from your general funds.
However, you can find dozens or hundreds of additional titles by searching through the site.
The most popular American casino game, poker, comes in dozens of variants that let you play against the house, especially with live dealer games.
Our writers conduct thorough testing of every real money casino before we add any site to our top list.
PayPal withdrawals for verified users have been consistently among the fastest in the market, often clearing within 24 hours.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online gambling, as it may not be secure.
With hundreds of titles to choose from, you’ll never run out of new games to try.
Players have three different options and can choose between a 120% bonus plus 120 free spins, a 50% no-wagering bonus, or a 333% bonus with a 30× rollover.
Our team includes specialists with backgrounds in compliance, payments, and long-term industry observation.

Welcome Bonus

Head over to SlotsandCasino to enjoy an exciting game of casino roulette. This casino site has both American and European roulette games available. SlotsandCasino has an impressive 300 percent deposit match bonus when you sign up.

Many casinos offer demo modes, allowing you to practice before playing for real money. Sign-up bonuses aren’t the only great casino promotions available online. When you go online to play casino games that pay real money, you can also increase your gambling funds through routine promotions that casino sites offer. A lot of casinos online will want to reward you for your loyalty when you keep coming back for more great gaming experiences. Online casinos offer you a great chance to enjoy casino games wherever you are. You can find a real cash casino to make the most of online gaming.

We do most of our testing these days on mobile devices, as we know that’s how our readers are playing as well. If a casino hasn’t kept their mobile interface up to speed with their desktop client, that’s going to hurt the experience for many players. Our writers conduct thorough testing of every real money casino before we add any site to our top list. Our editors then verify the information from our team, ensuring that everything you read in our reviews is accurate and comprehensive.

JumboBet – Slots-heavy library and sportsbook support

Be sure to use these and other tools to ensure you gamble responsibly. By gambling in moderation, you’ll make sure you keep having a good time each time you come back to the casino. Here is what you can expect from your bonus offers and promotions.

Quality matters more than quantity, but when a casino delivers both, it earns top marks. Top-rated casinos online offer plenty of casino games from leading providers such as Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, and Evolution Gaming. The majority are slots, supplemented by table games, and, often, a live casino. That head start is great for exploring the slot lobby, but game variety beyond slots is limited. You won’t find traditional table games like blackjack or roulette at TaoFortune.

In addition to the above categories, you’ll also find hundreds of other games, from scratch and online craps, all the way to new arcade games. Enjoy European, French, American, and even Double Ball Roulette with table limits that suit your needs at the best roulette sites, also featured here. All of these games are hosted by professional dealers and are known for their interactive nature, making them a popular choice among online gamblers. The game’s blend of strategy and chance makes it a favorite among players.

Most online casinos provide links to support organizations and offer self-exclusion options.
If you find yourself chasing losses, gambling with money you can’t afford to lose, or neglecting other responsibilities, it may be time to seek help.
Whether you’re at home, commuting, or on vacation, you can access top casino games with just a few clicks.
That’s because SCs can be used to redeem casino prizes, such as vouchers.
Stake.us offers a generous welcome package with 250,000 Gold Coins and 25 Sweep Coins (Stake Cash), plus daily bonuses of 10,000 GC and 1 SC.
By choosing a licensed and regulated casino, you can enjoy a secure and fair gaming experience.
For example, you can play blackjack live from tables at real world BetMGM casinos, powered by Playtech.
In fact, receiving winnings via cryptocurrency is often one of the quickest options available.
Many top casino sites now offer mobile platforms with diverse game selections and user-friendly interfaces, making online casino gambling more accessible than ever.
Ducky Luck Casino welcomes you with a powerful 500% bonus up to $7,500 and 150 free spins.
First, you’ll want to pick out a casino to play at, then sign up for an account and make your first deposit.

Your friend might also need to meet a few basic criteria, like verifying their account or placing a bet. Stake.us offers a generous welcome package with 250,000 Gold Coins and 25 Sweep Coins (Stake Cash), plus daily bonuses of 10,000 GC and 1 SC. Fortune Coins gives new players 630,000 GC and 1,000 Fortune Coins (SC equivalent) with no purchase. It also runs occasional bundle deals that provide you with bonus SCs on top of GC purchases.

Just for logging in daily, casinos will reward you with a package of GCs, and sometimes, if you’re lucky, a free sweeps coins too. Casinos engaged in these practices will receive a lower Safety Index to help players avoid unpleasant experiences. Many trusted land-based casinos, like Caesars Palace, Golden Nugget, and Borgata, now operate online.

Tournaments offer a fun and social way to enjoy online casino games. Compete for prizes, climb the leaderboards, and connect with other players in a friendly and exciting environment. Many casinos offer tiered loyalty programs, with higher levels unlocking additional benefits. Climb the ranks to enjoy perks like faster withdrawals, higher deposit limits, and personalized offers. Top online casinos support a wide range of deposit methods to suit every player. Common options include Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and ACH transfers.

Fair Play and RNGs

We do a complete review of the history and reputation of every online casino, considering everything from player complaints to awards each site has won. All of our top real money casinos in your region have the proper licences, guaranteeing that you can play on them safely and legally. Real-money online casinos are live in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia and Connecticut, and signing up at any of the platforms above takes just a few minutes. If you want to get the most out of your play, register at two or three so you can stack welcome offers and see which platform feels right for how you actually play. One of the largest game libraries among online casinos at 3,000+ titles. The welcome package includes 200 bonus spins and up to $1,000 in loss-back protection on your first day.

Transactions using cryptocurrencies are generally faster than those processed through banks or financial institutions.
You might get the option to receive a payout via an online payment service such as PayPal or Venmo.
However, it’s important to keep track of your bets and play responsibly.
Maple Casino is an independent review site built to help Canadian players find the best online casinos Canada has to offer.
Yes, many online casinos allow you to open several games in different browser tabs or windows.
It leads on game depth, jackpot access and loyalty value, and the welcome bonus is structured to give you immediate play without heavy wagering friction.
Depending on where you live, you may have access to sweepstakes or real money casinos.
Our experts dig into the terms and conditions for every bonus offer to make sure you know what you’re getting into before you play.
If you only sign up for one of the top-10 online casinos on this list, make it BetMGM.
Its Safety Index rating of 9.7 places it in the top 7% of all online casinos reviewed by Casino Guru.
From classic three-reel machines to modern video slots with immersive graphics and bonus features, there’s a slot game for every taste.

Real Money Bonuses

Claim your exclusive 300% welcome bonus up to $3,000 to use on poker and casino games. This substantial starting boost lets you explore real money tables and slots with a reinforced bankroll. The platform has fast crypto payouts, solid mobile experience, and there were no surprises during testing. It has 7,000+ titles and one of the fairest cashback structures we’ve seen at VIP level. People play online slots for reasons as diverse as the games themselves.

The platform hosts 9,000+ titles from over 90 providers — including slots, live dealer real money online casinos games, and table games. FoxSlots offering near-instant crypto withdrawals in as little as 15 minutes. If you’re in the US and looking to play online for real money, there are many trusted websites available.

For a comprehensive list of fast payout casinos we’ve tested, see our quick paying page. Ozoon is the rebrand of Bodog (one of the most recognisable names in Canadian online gambling). The site carries that heritage into a cleaned-up, multi-product platform covering casino games, sports betting, and a dedicated poker room, all under a single login. BlueChip Casino places a strong emphasis on mobile usability, offering both a dedicated app and a full browser-based experience.

Cryptocurrency and Online Gambling

The platform combines dependable payouts, clear rules, and a polished interface that appeals to players who want both value and transparency. Our editorial team operates separately from commercial interests, ensuring that reviews, news, and recommendations are based solely on merit and reader value. We also prioritise transparency and responsibility by regularly updating content, clearly labelling sponsored material, and promoting informed, responsible gambling. Bet limits start from $5 and climb up to $10,000 per hand on selected titles like Triple Way Roulette and Blackjack 10.

We look for audit seals from top RNG testing labs, namely eCogra and GLI. As for provably fair titles, casinos have to provide hash and server seeds so you can confirm fairness yourself. Mobile casino gaming allows you to enjoy your favorite games on the go, with user-friendly interfaces and exclusive games designed for mobile play.

In addition to game variety and bonus offers, a full guide covers crucial aspects like responsible gambling, customer support quality, and the ease of deposits and withdrawals. Many leading platforms now accept a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrencies, and offer mobile-optimized experiences for gaming on the go. A full guide to online casinos provides players with everything they need to confidently navigate the world of online gaming. FoxSlots is a modern crypto-focused online casino launched in 2025, catering to players who want a wide variety of games and fast, flexible payments.

Cafe Casino features European Roulette, often paired with cashback promotions on losses, giving you extra value while enjoying authentic spins.
Get started by creating and funding your online account, and then choose from our expansive list of games.
While it’s true that most US states don’t regulate the online casino industry, with some of them outright banning online casinos, the legal discourse still remains very alive.
These three cover every meaningful new real money casino launch in the US regulated market over the past 18 months.
For that reason, we avoid listing these blacklisted casinos alongside our reviewed platforms.
Bitcoin betting sites are worth considering if payout speed is a priority and you’re comfortable with crypto.
With a library of roughly 650 to 750 games, Funrize sits comfortably within the industry average of 500 to 1,000 titles.
Players will find everything from classic video slots, progressive jackpot slots to blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker variants and sleek live-dealer tables.
Popular online casino games include blackjack, roulette, and poker, each offering unique gameplay experiences.
We recommend casinos with reputations built on fairness, transparency, and consistent player satisfaction, shown through licensing, audits, and secure operations.
It has 7,000+ titles and one of the fairest cashback structures we’ve seen at VIP level.

Betting Latest

If you enjoy playing slots, you may want a bonus that offers you free spins. You might also look into no deposit bonuses if you’d like to try a casino and play some low-stakes slots for real risking none of your money. It’s impossible to choose one definitive best online casino for real money that would suit every player’s needs. That’s why we made a list of the top sites instead, so you can filter through the many great online casino sites on the market and choose the right one for you.

Best Online Casino Sites Compared

BetMGM, Caesars, FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, Horseshoe and Fanatics operate in New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Fanatics Casino supports a wide range of modern banking options, making it one of the best new online casinos for fast payouts.
Most casinos have security protocols to help you recover your account and secure your funds.
A casino is considered new if it has recently launched or undergone a major rebrand or platform overhaul in recent months or years.
By gambling in moderation, you’ll make sure you keep having a good time each time you come back to the casino.
If you already use the app for fantasy sports or sportsbook play, the casino drops right in — same login, same wallet, same rewards account.
BlueChip Casino places a strong emphasis on mobile usability, offering both a dedicated app and a full browser-based experience.
A polished onboarding flow that breaks under regular use doesn’t score well here.
Lucky Creek welcomes you with a 200% match up to $7500 + 200 free spins (over 5 days).
In addition to the above categories, you’ll also find hundreds of other games, from scratch and online craps, all the way to new arcade games.
Support is often available 24/7 to assist with any issues or questions.
Changes in legislation can impact the availability of new online casinos and the safety of playing on these platforms.
One of the best things about using an online gambling casino real money is that you have so many games to choose from.
We also found wide support for cryptocurrencies during our review.

If you’ve been burned by a casino that looked good on paper and fell apart in practice, bet365 is the one that tends to hold up. If you’re trying to decide where to play this month, or whether your current app is still the best fit, the breakdown below should make that easier. The history of gambling in the US is fascinating and dates all the way back to the 1600s. Here is a timeline of how the gambling landscape has changed in the country over the centuries.

Sweepstakes vs real money casinos: What’s the deal?

Most casinos will have anywhere between 15 to 100 live dealer games for their players.
It leads on game depth, jackpot access and loyalty value, and the welcome bonus is structured to give you immediate play without heavy wagering friction.
Choosing the best online casino for your needs boils down to deciding on what matters the most to you.
From classic three-reel machines to modern video slots with immersive graphics and bonus features, there’s a slot game for every taste.
Scott covers online casinos, sports betting, and platform design with a focus on how mechanics and features translate into real player experience.
These bonuses allow players to receive free spins or betting credits without making an initial deposit.
That integration doesn’t sound like much until you’ve used a fragmented platform and had to move money between separate accounts just to play a few hands.
However, it’s important to keep track of your bets and play responsibly.
Its Safety Index rating of 9.7 places it in the top 7% of all online casinos reviewed by Casino Guru.
Likewise, you should make sure that an online casino app accepts American Express if you want to fund your account with an American Express credit card.

Inclusion and positioning are based on evaluation criteria, not payment. Independent Canadian non-profit focused on prevention, research, and community support for problem gambling. Bingo is deeply embedded in Canadian community culture the online version has pulled that audience digital. Modern online bingo variants from Pragmatic Play are fast, social, and low-stakes. You can see which methods are available to deposit and withdraw funds on each state page. The type of payline you create determines the kind of payout you receive, and the number of paylines available depends on the game.

It’s worth noting that not every site accepts all payment methods. Daily fantasy games were legalized in 2016, and in 2019, House Bill 2934 legalized online casinos and poker rooms, expanding player options. Many companies are still pursuing licenses from the West Virginia Lottery Commission.

Widely available in live-dealer format, which drives strong engagement among experienced Canadian players. That’s why Bally Bet Casino has a variety of generous promotions and offers available at any one time. Empowering your online casino experience with expert reviews and insights.

Popular online casino games include blackjack, roulette, and poker, each offering unique gameplay experiences. With your account funded and bonus claimed, it’s time to explore the casino’s game library. Try out different slots, table games, and live dealer options to find your favorites.

A bonus that rewards a percentage of your losses back, usually in real money without wagering requirements. Raging Bull Slots is the best online casino for real money, striking a perfect balance between game variety, payment speed, bonus value, and reputation among American players. As the legal status of online casinos in the US varies from state to state, it is imperative for players to keep abreast of both current and prospective legislation. The legalization of online poker and casinos has been slower compared to sports betting, with only a few states having passed comprehensive legislation. By utilizing responsible gambling tools, players can enjoy online casinos in a safe and controlled manner.

Responsible gambling tools, such as self-exclusion options and deposit limits, help maintain a healthy gaming environment and prevent the negative effects of gambling addiction. Additionally, cryptocurrencies fuel innovation within the online casino industry. The decentralized nature of these digital currencies allows for the creation of provably fair games, which use blockchain technology to ensure fairness and transparency. Comprehending the terms and conditions tied to these bonuses is essential. This includes wagering requirements, minimum deposits, and game availability.

Exclusive Promotions

That’s why it’s worth knowing that online slot games boast greater RTP rates than the slots you’d play at a land-based casino. For even more convenience, you can download an online casino’s app like ours. We’ve packed all the excitement of our website into something just as fun and easy to use but built with mobile devices in mind. There’s also a bundle of extra features available to enhance your overall playing experience. If you enjoy searching for and trying out different games, or if you want to play new slot games as soon as they’re released, an online casino is the place to be.

We’re confident you’ll find one that will give you a great gaming experience. While there are lots of nitty-gritty details that go into our reviews, we also like to take a holistic overview of the experience into account. All the best real money casinos online have elements that work together to make your journey smooth from the moment you register to the time you withdraw your funds. If a casino doesn’t offer your favourite game, you won’t enjoy playing there. That’s why our reviews focus heavily on what games you’ll find at each site. While we try to touch on everything you might encounter at a site, there are a few areas of critical importance where we ask our expert team to focus most of their time.

FanDuel and bet365 are the fastest overall on this list, with many verified withdrawals processed within a few hours or less. DraftKings is also consistently quick and Fanatics has generally delivered solid turnaround times as well. Exact speed depends on your account verification status and the payment method used — PayPal and ACH transfers typically process faster than paper checks. You earn points from both online play and in-person casino visits, so it actually feels like everything connects and adds up. Bet365 and BetMGM are close contenders, but Caesars edges them out with a solid welcome offer, dependable payouts and rewards you can actually use outside the app.

The rise of online gambling has revolutionized the way people experience casino games. With just an internet connection and a device, you can immerse yourself in a world of slots, table games, and live dealer experiences. The flexibility and variety offered by online casinos are unmatched, attracting millions of players worldwide. These days, tons of gambling casinos are out there that can be accessed online. The best real money online casino depends on details like your funding method and which games you want to play.

Finally, if you want to avoid traditional banking methods, look into cryptocurrency or prepaid deposits, both of which let you deposit sharing no financial details. Give the basic terms and conditions of each bonus a look before choosing. You’ll want to make sure you can play your favourite games to clear the bonus you’ve picked. As has been mentioned elsewhere, your first withdrawal will be subject to an ID-check by the casino. This means you will be required to submit a scanned copy of your photo ID as proof of identity.

Legal Status of Online Casinos in the USA

Currently, states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia have fully regulated online casino markets. Other states are considering legalization, which could expand access in the near future. Check the casino’s policies regarding fees and transaction limits.

Any online real money casino betting system that claims to offer guaranteed profits is either based on fantasy or fatally flawed. This betting system works in theory, but its fatal flaw is that it can’t be properly implemented due to casino table limits. Top-rated American online casinos support credit cards, e-wallets, crypto, and bank transfers, with crypto being the fastest payment method.

When you reload your account with another deposit, many American online casinos will reward you with another bonus.
We’re confident you’ll find one that will give you a great gaming experience.
They appeal to some players because of how accessible they are, while others like to make use of their high payout rates.
New players are often greeted with welcome packages that include deposit matches, free spins, and risk-free bets.
They use SSL encryption to protect your personal and financial information during transactions.
We deposited C$100 via Interac (instant) and ran through approximately 45 minutes of slots and three live blackjack rounds.
Many online slots feature unique themes, engaging storylines, and interactive bonus rounds.
The quality of your online casino experience depends largely on the software providers behind the games.
Larger brands tend to be more trustworthy, but transparency and accessible customer support go a long way.

Considerations when you choose an online casino

Bitcoin and Ethereum are widely accepted at new online casinos and often allow the fastest withdrawal processing (usually within minutes). The trade-off is blockchain confirmation times and exchange rate fluctuation. Bitcoin betting sites are worth considering if payout speed is a priority and you’re comfortable with crypto. If you want to play table games like blackjack, or you’re interested in live dealer games, we recommend taking a matching bonus. These offers give you bonus money based on the size of your deposit. We know that many of our readers have yet to try any real money casinos.

WOW Vegas is the highest-rated sweepstakes app for US players, scoring 4.9 on iOS and 4.6 on Android. However, our experts rank High 5 Casino as the best overall for mobile gameplay. Its interface is optimized for both performance and consistency with the desktop version. App Store and Google Play ratings reflect strong functionality (4.6 and 4.1, respectively). New players can claim a no-deposit bonus of up to 100,000 Sweeps Coins using a promo code, which is significantly stronger than most standard sign-up offers in the market.

This is a standard security measure designed to protect your funds.