Can I use Polymarket in the US?

Yes, through the Polymarket US iPhone app, which is CFTC-regulated and available in 49 states plus D.C. (not Nevada).

Do I need crypto to deposit?

No. The US app is funded in US dollars; the deposit screen shows the payment methods available to you.

What is the Polymarket welcome offer?

Deposit at least $10 with code WCPREDICTS and get a $50 trading bonus, for new users only. Terms apply.

Can I use Polymarket US on Android or desktop?

Not for US sign-ups at the moment: the US app is iPhone-only.

How long does a deposit take?

The app shows the expected timing for each method when you deposit.

Are prediction markets legal in the US?

Yes. federally-regulated event-contract platforms operate under federal commodities law, which preempts state gambling statutes. That makes Kalshi, Polymarket, Sleeper, Chalkboard, Novig and Crypto.com legal for US traders to use today — even in states where traditional online sportsbooks remain unavailable.

Who regulates the platforms I am trading on?

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) — the same federal agency that regulates futures, options, and swaps. Platforms operate as Designated Contract Markets (DCMs) and must follow rules on disclosures, market integrity, customer protection, and segregation of customer funds.

Do I need to pay tax on my winnings?

Yes. Profits are taxable, but the IRS has not issued guidance on how event contracts are classified. Tax professionals argue for gambling income, ordinary income or capital gains, or (more aggressively) Section 1256 treatment; from 2026, gambling losses are deductible only up to 90% of losses. Kalshi provides a profit-and-loss statement for your trades and issues 1099s for interest, rewards and crypto transfers. Keep your own records; general information, not tax advice.

Is my money protected if a platform fails?

federally-regulated event-contract platforms are required to keep customer funds segregated from operational capital. That gives meaningful protection in the event of operator bankruptcy, but it is not the same as FDIC insurance. Only fund accounts with money you are prepared to lose.

What disclosures should I read before trading?

Read each platform's contract resolution rules carefully — they vary across venues for the same event. Also review our editorial Disclosure for how we earn revenue from affiliate partnerships and how that affects (and does not affect) our coverage.

What are the age and residency requirements?

You must be 21 or older and a US resident with a valid government ID. KYC verification is mandatory and typically completes in 5–60 minutes.

Guide · 5 min read

How to Deposit on Polymarket US (2026 Guide)

By Catie Di StefanoPublished April 21, 2026Updated September 29, 2026

Polymarket US is an iPhone app that works in US dollars. Here's how to fund it, claim the $50 welcome bonus with code WCPREDICTS and start trading football markets.

Some links on this page are affiliate links — we may earn a commission if you sign up, at no cost to you. How we make money.

Independent educational guide. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to FIFA or any official World Cup body.

How to Deposit on Polymarket US (2026 Guide)

Sources

Every figure on this page is checked against primary sources — regulator filings, exchange documentation and official results. Prices and rules change; verify with the operator before trading.

1.Polymarket Learn — how the exchange works — Polymarket
2.Customer advisories and investor protection notices — U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission
3.Designated Contract Markets (DCMs) — U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission
4.The Commodity Exchange Act & regulations — U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission

Editorial coverage

Polymarket is the world's largest prediction market, with a US iPhone app for event contracts.

We don't operate Polymarket and don't accept signups on this site. For state-specific availability and guidance, jump to the sibling editorial site for your jurisdiction.

Learn more about prediction markets in soccer

Beginner's Guide

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Polymarket in the US?: Yes, through the Polymarket US iPhone app, which is CFTC-regulated and available in 49 states plus D.C. (not Nevada).
Do I need crypto to deposit?: No. The US app is funded in US dollars; the deposit screen shows the payment methods available to you.
What is the Polymarket welcome offer?: Deposit at least $10 with code WCPREDICTS and get a $50 trading bonus, for new users only. Terms apply.
Can I use Polymarket US on Android or desktop?: Not for US sign-ups at the moment: the US app is iPhone-only.
How long does a deposit take?: The app shows the expected timing for each method when you deposit.

Legal & Compliance

Legality, regulation, and your protections

For full guardrails, see our Responsible Trading guide and our editorial Disclosure. This page is informational, not legal or tax advice.

Responsible Trading

Trading safely: the questions that matter

Is trading prediction markets the same as gambling?: No. Prediction markets are federally-regulated event contracts — financial derivatives, not casino games. That said, you can still lose every dollar you put in. Treat capital at risk as money you are prepared to lose.
How much should I trade with?: Only with money you can afford to lose without affecting rent, bills, or savings goals. A common rule of thumb: cap total prediction market exposure at 1–5% of your discretionary income.
What are the warning signs of problem trading?: Trading to recover losses, hiding activity from family, borrowing to fund deposits, missing work or sleep, or feeling unable to stop. If any of these apply, step away and call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Where can I get help in the US?: Call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (free, confidential, 24/7) or visit ncpgambling.org. Most platforms also offer self-exclusion and deposit limit tools in account settings.
Can I set deposit or loss limits?: Yes. Kalshi, Polymarket, Sleeper, and Chalkboard all offer self-imposed deposit limits, loss limits, and cooling-off periods. Set them when you open the account, not after a bad week.

If you or someone you know needs help, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit ncpgambling.org.

Next steps

Ready to get started?

Kalshi

The regulatory leader.

Certain limitations apply. The offer is available to new users only, subject to the terms and conditions at kalshi.com/tc/500. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information.