Buying in and topping up in live cash games
Live cash games have a minimum and maximum buy-in — for example, a game might allow buying in for 40 to 100 big blinds, or more. The exact numbers depend on the casino and game. Once you’re seated, a few rules decide when and how you can add chips.
Table stakes
Section titled “Table stakes”Poker is played table stakes: you can only bet the chips that are in front of you when the hand starts. You can’t go to your pocket for more money in the middle of a hand. If someone bets more than you have, you can call all in for what you have, and a side pot is created.
Topping up and rebuying
Section titled “Topping up and rebuying”- Top up: add chips between hands, as long as your total doesn’t go over the maximum buy-in.
- Rebuy: if you lose your stack, buy in again — again within the min and max.
- Many rooms let you buy chips at the table from the dealer or a chip runner; others require the cage.
Taking chips off the table
Section titled “Taking chips off the table”In most rooms you can’t remove chips from the table while you stay in the game (“ratholing”). If you leave and come back to the same game soon, you may have to buy in for at least the amount you left with. Check the house rules.
How much to buy in for
Section titled “How much to buy in for”| Situation | Suggested buy-in |
|---|---|
| You’re comfortable post-flop and the table is soft | Maximum: deep stacks win more from weak players |
| You’re new and nervous about big decisions | Medium: simpler decisions, but fewer chips to win with |
| Your bankroll is tight | Consider a lower stake rather than a short stack at a higher one |
See bankroll management and live cash game strategy.
See also casino poker room and poker chip values.
What does table stakes mean?
Section titled “What does table stakes mean?”You can only bet the chips on the table at the start of the hand; you can’t add money mid-hand.
Can I add chips during a live cash game?
Section titled “Can I add chips during a live cash game?”Yes, between hands, as long as you stay within the maximum buy-in.
Can I take chips off the table?
Section titled “Can I take chips off the table?”In most rooms, not while you stay in the game; check the house rules.
How much should I buy in for?
Section titled “How much should I buy in for?”The maximum if you are comfortable post-flop and the table is soft; otherwise a medium buy-in or a lower stake.