Is Online Poker The New Income For Teenagers?

It seems every year teenagers are becoming smarter and learning new ways to make money. As for one California teen, he has found the perfect way to earn an income from the comfort of his own home. Chris Benton, age 19, has learned that playing Texas hold'em online can be a primary source of income.

Chris plays online poker up to five hours a day and can make up to $50 an hour. "It's much easier than working in a restaurant," said Benton who is a sophomore at Sonoma State University. He used to work as a waiter but quit when he learned he could play poker online and make more money. Since online gambling has become more readily available, more teenagers are taking advantage of this source of income. Benton also states that most of his friends look at poker as a job and not a hobby.

Federal law has made it difficult for enthusiasts since online gambling is banned. Even so, people have found ways around this poker ban. A player can gamble on offshore sites and use a visa gift card or some other national credit card companies gift card to have access to money. With this growing trend, more teenagers will be playing poker for money and supplementing their income with their winnings.