Cheddar
iMessage games for cash
18+
Frequently Asked Questions (Regulatory & Legal)
1. What is Cheddar?
Cheddar is a skill-based gaming platform designed for iMessage, where players can challenge friends in head-to-head competitions with real-money stakes. Winners receive pre-determined payouts, and Cheddar collects a small platform fee.
2. How does Cheddar work?
Users select a game within the Cheddar app, send an invite via iMessage, and agree on a wager before the match begins. Once the game is completed, Cheddar facilitates the payout to the winner. Deposits and withdrawals are securely processed, with Venmo as the primary withdrawal method.
3. What makes a game ‘skill-based’?
A skill-based game is one where the outcome is determined primarily by the player’s ability rather than by random chance. Cheddar ensures that all supported games meet this requirement by removing elements of luck from scoring or outcomes.
4. Is playing for money on Cheddar considered gambling?
No. In California and Texas, Cheddar’s skill-based competitions are legally distinct from gambling. Both California Penal Code § 330 and Texas Penal Code § 47.01 define gambling as requiring a significant element of chance. Cheddar’s games do not meet this definition, as player skill is the dominant factor in determining outcomes. Courts have reinforced this distinction through the Dominant Factor Test, which recognizes that games where skill outweighs chance are not gambling.
5. Does Cheddar hold customer funds?
No. Cheddar is not a money transmitter and does not hold customer funds. Users may deposit funds to enter skill-based matches, and winnings are only available for withdrawal after completing a game. This structure ensures that: • Deposits are used solely for entry fees in skill-based competitions. • Withdrawals are limited to winnings—users can only cash out money they have won from matches. Cheddar does not function as a stored-value or digital wallet service, as funds are not retained for general use or transfer outside of skill-based gameplay. This approach aligns with legal and regulatory standards, ensuring that Cheddar operates as a skill-based gaming platform, not a financial institution or money transmission service.
6. Can I play against random opponents?
No. Cheddar does not offer matchmaking or tournaments. Users can only play against friends they invite directly through iMessage.
7. Where is Cheddar available?
Cheddar is only available in California and Texas. Users must be physically located in one of these states to participate in real-money gameplay.
8. What information does Cheddar collect?
To comply with legal and security requirements, Cheddar collects: • Identity verification (KYC) for withdrawals • Payment information for deposits and withdrawals • Usage statistics to enhance the gaming experience • Age verification (users must be 18+) • Phone number for account authentication No user data is sold, and all records are securely stored.
9. How do I deposit and withdraw money?
Deposits: Users can fund their Cheddar account securely through the app. Withdrawals: Winnings can be cashed out via Venmo after identity verification (KYC). Limits: Users may be subject to withdrawal caps based on state regulations and security measures.
10. What happens if I experience an issue with a game or wager?
If you encounter a dispute, contact our support team at Evan@thecheddar.app via iMessage or email. All disputes are reviewed to ensure fairness.
11. How does Cheddar prevent fraud and ensure fair play?
Cheddar implements multiple security measures to prevent fraud, including: • Identity verification before withdrawals • Requiring real phone numbers and valid IDs • Monitoring transactions for suspicious activity • Enforcing bans on users who attempt to exploit the system Intentional losing to transfer funds is strictly prohibited.
12. What happens if I try to use Cheddar outside of California or Texas?
Users must be physically located in California or Texas to participate in real-money games. Cheddar uses geolocation verification to enforce this rule. If you attempt to play outside these states, you will be restricted from entering wagers.
13. How does Cheddar ensure compliance with California and Texas laws?
Cheddar is a fully legal and compliant skill-based gaming platform that allows users to challenge friends in competitive games for real-money outcomes. Unlike gambling, where chance plays a dominant role, Cheddar’s platform is designed so that skill is the primary factor in determining winners. Legality of Skill-Based Gaming Skill-based gaming is widely recognized as distinct from gambling under legal and regulatory frameworks. Courts, regulators, and industry standards have consistently drawn a clear distinction between games of skill and games of chance. Cheddar operates under the same legal principles as other widely accepted skill-based gaming platforms. Compliance in California & Texas Cheddar’s games meet the established legal criteria for skill-based contests in both California and Texas, ensuring full compliance with state regulations. California: Legal precedent establishes that games where skill is the predominant factor in determining winners do not constitute gambling. Cheddar adheres to these standards by ensuring that player ability and decision-making determine success rather than random chance. Texas: Texas law explicitly distinguishes skill-based competitions from gambling. Cheddar operates within this legal framework, following industry standards recognized by regulators and payment providers. Why Cheddar is Legal Cheddar’s platform is carefully structured to align with legal and industry standards for skill-based gaming: • Skill-Predominant Outcomes – While some games may contain minor chance elements, skill remains the overriding factor in determining winners. • Direct Peer-to-Peer Competition – Cheddar facilitates head-to-head skill-based challenges rather than operating as a betting system. • Recognized Industry Model – Skill-based gaming platforms have been widely accepted by payment processors, technology platforms, and regulatory bodies. • Compliance-Driven Approach – Cheddar undergoes internal compliance reviews and implements fair play policies to maintain integrity and prevent abuse. A Well-Established Industry Standard Skill-based gaming platforms have been operating legally and successfully for years, offering real-money competitions in video games, fantasy sports, and esports. Cheddar follows the same legal framework and best practices as these established platforms, ensuring a secure, fair, and compliant experience for users. By ensuring that skill is the dominant factor in gameplay outcomes, Cheddar remains fully compliant with applicable laws in California, Texas, and beyond.
14. How does Cheddar promote responsible gaming?
Cheddar is committed to responsible gaming and provides: • Self-exclusion options for users who want to take a break from real-money play. • Deposit and withdrawal limits to prevent excessive spending. • Resources for users who need support managing their gaming activity. Users who wish to self-exclude can contact Evan@thecheddar.app via iMessage or email.
15. How do I close my account?
Users can delete their Cheddar account anytime through the app settings or by contacting Evan@thecheddar.app via iMessage or email.
16. How do I contact Cheddar for support?
For any questions, support requests, or account issues, reach out to Evan@thecheddar.app via iMessage or email.
17. Cheddar Contact Information
Mailing Address: Spill The Beans, Inc. (USA) 2925 Van Ness Avenue #6 San Francisco, CA 94109, USA iMessage: Evan@thecheddar.app iMessage: Evan@thecheddar.app