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How much money do you need playing poker to ensure that a bad run will not put you on the rail?

In poker lessons and tips, number 54, Team Full Tilt gives their opinion of your bankroll requirements playing online poker. "Jennifer Harman says, "Some players can be effective on a relatively short bankroll, but others need more of a cushion. They'll get stressed out and play scared if they don't have enough money behind them." So you need to be aware of your comfort level at the table. If you're nervous about what you stand to lose in a given pot, you're probably playing too high for your bankroll. Harman, like most Team Full Tilt members, recommends a conservative approach and suggests maintaining a bankroll that leaves plenty of room for downswings. "If you're playing $10-$20 limit, I think $10,000 is about right," says Harman.

John D'Agostino agrees, "You should never play a limit where you feel uncomfortable." He suggests that a player shouldn't put more than five percent of his bankroll in play at any time.

The need for a sizable bankroll exits for tournament play as well as cash games. Erik Seidel, a tournament specialist, notes that long droughts are common for tournament professionals and that entry fees can add up quickly.

Read the full poker lesson for more information on your bankroll.

Where should you deposit your money to play online poker?

I have played at numerous online poker rooms and three stand out above the rest. Poker.com, Full Tilt Poker, and Poker Stars. Read my review of these top poker rooms to see which one is best suited to your playing style. I also have an article, Making the Transition from Play Money to Cash, that will help you decide where to deposit your money to play online poker. You can easily double your initial bankroll by simply taking advantage of special first time deposit match bonus offers.

How important is your bankroll when playing online poker?

You must be able to get through some periods of losing streaks. Without an adequate bankroll, you will not be able to use your chips properly to take down pots, and you will be more likely to play very conservatively. The proper bankroll is an essential element of online poker that can not be dismissed.

For more poker tips and strategies, visit our poker lessons main page for invaluable information from real, professional poker players.