Blackjack basics
Should I take even money on blackjack?
No. Decline even money, the same as you decline insurance.
These answers are for a 6 deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, blackjack pays 3 to 2, and you can double on any two cards, including after a split.
Why
Even money is offered when you have blackjack and the dealer shows an Ace. Taking it pays you 1 to 1 right away instead of 3 to 2.
It is exactly the same as taking insurance on your blackjack. Declining means you will sometimes push, but over many hands you collect more.
The play against every dealer card
| Choice | What happens |
|---|---|
| Take even money | You are paid 1 to 1 every time |
| Decline, dealer has no blackjack | You are paid 3 to 2 |
| Decline, dealer has blackjack | Push, your bet comes back |
Questions players ask
- Is even money a good bet?
- No. Over time, declining pays more.
- Is even money the same as insurance?
- Yes. It is insurance on a blackjack, paid in a different form.
Related answers
- Should I take insurance in blackjack?
- What does blackjack pays 3 to 2 mean?
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
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