Is Skillz Legal? What You Need to Know Before Playing Real-Money Mobile Games in the US

With mobile games offering cash prizes on the rise, one question keeps coming up: is Skillz legal? And if you live in the United States, can you actually win and withdraw real money from these games without breaking any laws? The short answer is yes—Skillz is legal in most U.S. states and operates under a model that separates it from gambling through a focus on skill-based competition.

The legality of Skillz comes from its classification. Unlike games of chance like roulette or slot machines, Skillz games are structured to ensure that skill determines the outcome. That’s why games like Solitaire Cube, 21 Blitz, and Bubble Cash are legal in states that prohibit gambling. Since every player faces the same game conditions and the outcome depends entirely on their ability, these games fall under “skill gaming,” which is allowed in most jurisdictions.

However, not all states permit real-money competition apps. Skillz is currently unavailable in certain places like Arizona, Louisiana, and Montana. This is due to individual state laws and how they interpret the fine line between gambling and competitive play. Before depositing money into a Skillz app, it’s important to check whether your state is eligible. The Skillz website provides an updated list of supported states and offers free play versions in all regions regardless of legality.

Skillz also has several compliance mechanisms in place. It uses encrypted servers to protect user data and runs strict anti-cheat measures to keep games fair. It’s partnered with reputable developers and undergoes third-party audits to maintain transparency. For players who follow the rules and live in a supported state, Skillz offers one of the most legitimate pathways to earn real money through mobile gaming without legal risk.