Splitting your Hand in Blackjack

Frequently Asked Questions on "Splitting" in blackjack:

Q. When can I split in blackjack?

A. You can split when your cards match each other and sometimes when the cards are equal in value.  Some casinos allow you to split any two face cards even if they don't match each other.

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Q. How do I split?  How do I let the dealer know I want to split my cards?

A.  Wait until it is your turn to verbally tell the dealer "Splitting" or "I want to split these".  The dealer will ask you to place an identical bet next to your original bet, and he will physically separate the cards from each other to form two hands for you.  He will also separate the original bet and the split bet and put them next to each hand. 

NOTE: At a land based casino, it is very important that you do not touch your cards.  I also suggest not putting your hands or chips around your original bet.

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When playing blackjack online the split option appears only when your cards match. Screenshots taken while playing at Rome Casino - click here to download the software

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Q. What does splitting mean?

A. When you split your cards, you double your current bet and will now have two separate hands to play against the dealer. Each of theses hands will have one card and one bet, as seen below.

Here is an example of a split blackjack hand. You can see the two separate bets and hands after splitting.

Q. Can I double down after I split my cards?  What about splitting again?

A. Most of the time, yes for both.  When I split my cards, I am hoping for a double down chance.  Here are some exceptions.
    1.  If you split Aces, most casinos will only deal you one more card for each hand and not
         let you hit, split, or double down no matter what cards you are dealt.
    2.  Some online casinos do not let you split or double down after you have already split.

Q. When should I split my hand? 

A. Like doubling down, splitting in blackjack is often misunderstood and misused.  You do not have to split your hands every time they match, nor should you.  To simplify this, here are some general guidelines to follow:

1. Always split Aces and 8's

2. Never Split 5's and 10's (10's include face cards)

3. Always Split 2's and 3's when the dealer shows 4, 5, 6, or 7

4. Always Split 6's when the dealer shows 3, 4, 5, or 6

5. Always Split 7's when the dealer shows 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7

6. Always Split 9's when the dealer shows 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 or 9 (NOT 7)

If you can double after you split, then you can add the following:

1. Split 2's and 3's if the dealer is showing a 2 or 3

2. Split 4's if the dealer is showing a 5 or 6

3. Split 6's if the dealer is showing a 2

Update - February 10, 2009 - I have added the above blackjack splitting guidelines to a chart format for easier viewing below.

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