Merge Poker Checks Continue Coming

The Merge Poker Network claimed it ceased taking new customers from the US in an effort to relieve a backup from immense growth over 100 percent since April 15^th’s “Black Friday”.  Customers were on edge waiting weeks for their checks.  As of June 20, players report receipt of checks within a one month time span and that payout period appears to be shortening.

One customer on the TwoPlusTwo.com posting forum reported receiving a check within a one month period this month.

It’s not quite business as usual but Merge appears to be getting caught up.

Following the indictments of PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker and UB.com as part of a money laundering/bank fraud investigation, Merge suddenly found itself as the largest US-facing online poker room.  Within a matter of weeks its business more than doubled and Merge was forced to announce a “temporary hiatus” from the US market due to the massive influx of players while having reduced payment processor platforms. 

Merge has been working on adding new payment solutions during the month of June and aimed at potentially allowing new US players to join the network and its partner skins some time in July.

Merge was believed to have been affected adversely by the shutdown of UseMyWallet, a popular eWallet solution.

Many online gambling websites have had issues with getting players paid in the USA due to limited processing capacities.  Waiting times have taken anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks since May 15 at some online poker rooms.

- Chris Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher