What is even money in blackjack?

Even money is the tempting little offer that appears at the best possible moment - you have a blackjack, but the dealer is showing an Ace. Taking the sure thing feels wise, yet it is really insurance wearing a friendlier name, and the math says decline it.

Quick answer: Even money is an offer made only when you have a natural blackjack and the dealer shows an Ace. Instead of risking a push if the dealer also has blackjack, you take a guaranteed 1-to-1 payout right away. It sounds safe, but it is mathematically the same as taking insurance and costs you value in the long run.

When even money appears

You are offered even money only when you hold a natural blackjack and the dealer's upcard is an Ace. Normally your blackjack pays 3 to 2, but if the dealer also has blackjack it is a push. Even money lets you skip that risk for a guaranteed 1-to-1 win.

Why it is really insurance

Taking even money is mathematically identical to buying insurance on your blackjack. And like insurance, it pays off less often than it needs to - the dealer completes blackjack under a third of the time, so over many hands the 3-to-2 payout wins you more.

The smart choice

Basic strategy says decline even money and let your blackjack ride for the full 3 to 2. Yes, you will occasionally push, but you come out ahead in the long run. The only exception is a card counter who knows the deck is ten-rich.

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Related questions

Should you take insurance in blackjack?

For almost everyone, no. Insurance is a side bet offered when the dealer shows an Ace, wagering that their hidden card is a ten. It pays 2 to 1, but the dealer completes a blackjack less than a third of the time, so the bet loses money over the long run. Only card counters can occasionally beat it.

What is a blackjack (a natural)?

A blackjack, also called a 'natural,' is an Ace plus any 10-value card (10, Jack, Queen or King) dealt as your first two cards, for an instant 21. It is the strongest hand in the game and normally pays 3 to 2, more than a regular win. A 21 made from three or more cards is not a blackjack.

How do you win at blackjack?

You win more consistently by playing correct basic strategy on every hand, not by chasing 21. That means standing on stiff hands when the dealer is weak, doubling 11 and splitting Aces and 8s, never taking insurance, and choosing good-rule tables. You cannot erase the house edge, but smart play cuts it to about 0.5%.