This is a focused, action-oriented checklist for anyone who wants to decide quickly whether a new online casino is worth their time and money. Read each step and perform the suggested check before you make a deposit; the whole process should take 10–20 minutes if you follow the order below.

Step-by-step checklist

1. Confirm licensing and ownership. Look for a regulator logo (MGA, UKGC, Curacao). Click the license link to verify it on the regulator’s site. If the license page is missing or broken, move on.
2. Check SSL and site security. Ensure the URL begins with https and the browser padlock is present. Use a quick certificate check (click the padlock) to confirm the certificate issuer and validity dates.
3. Scan payment methods and withdrawal speed. Does the site list the payment providers you use? Note withdrawal processing times and any fees. Fast, transparent withdrawals are a green flag; vague timing and excessive fees are a red flag.
4. Read bonus T&Cs—specifically wagering requirements. A 35x wagering requirement on bonus + deposit is worse than 10x on free spins. Check maximum bet limits while wagering; exceeding those can void winnings.
5. Test customer support quality. Use live chat and email with a real question. Measure response time and clarity. Helpful, evidence-backed answers indicate reliable support.
6. Review game providers and RTPs. Reputable providers (NetEnt, Evolution, Pragmatic) are better than anonymous studio lists. Look for published RTPs for the games you play most.
7. Search independent player reports. Use forums and review sites to confirm withdrawal experiences and account closures. One or two isolated complaints are normal; dozens pointing to the same issue are not.

To see how these checks look on a real site, visit Tiki Taka and run through the list above. Use the image below to orient yourself to common navigation patterns on modern casino sites.

Quick red-flag vs green-flag table

Practical notes and a safety routine

Before you deposit: 1) Limit your first deposit to an amount you can afford to lose; 2) Complete identity verification early so withdrawals aren’t delayed; 3) Save screenshots of bonus pages and T&Cs when you claim offers.

If a site denies a legitimate withdrawal, escalate to the regulator with the evidence you collected. Regulators won’t act without documentation, so your screenshots and support transcripts are the best leverage.

Bonus takeaway

Use the checklist in order: license → security → payments → T&Cs → support → community reports. Running these checks turns guesswork into a short, repeatable routine that protects your bankroll and time. For a quick visual and walkthrough, watch this short review clip below.

Keep the checklist as a bookmark or screenshot on your phone. When a new casino looks tempting, run the list and make a decision based on concrete red/green flags, not marketing copy.