Definition
A split pot (or "chop") occurs when two or more players have identical hand strength at showdown. The pot is divided equally among the winners.
When Do Ties Happen?
| Situation | Example |
|---|---|
| Same hand, same kickers | Both have A-K on A-K-7-4-2 board |
| Board plays | Both have 2♣ 3♣, board is A-K-Q-J-T |
| Same flush/straight | Both have Ace-high flush |
How Pots Are Split
Even Split
Pot = $100, 2 winners: Each gets $50
Odd Chips
When pot doesn't divide evenly:
| Method | Who Gets Odd Chip |
|---|---|
| Most common | Closest to button (left of dealer) |
| Alternative | First player clockwise from dealer |
| Online | Often splits to the cent |
Example: $101 pot, 2 winners
- Player closer to button: $51
- Other player: $50
Common Split Pot Scenarios
1. Both Have Same Pair + Kickers
Board: A♠ K♥ 7♣ 5♦ 2♠
Player A: A♥ Q♦ → Pair of Aces, K-Q-7 Player B: A♣ Q♠ → Pair of Aces, K-Q-7
Result: Split pot (identical hands)
2. Counterfeited Kickers
Board: A♠ A♥ K♣ K♦ Q♠
Player A: J♥ T♥ → A-A-K-K-Q (best 5) Player B: 9♠ 8♠ → A-A-K-K-Q (best 5)
Result: Split pot (J and 9 don't play!)
3. Playing the Board
Board: A♠ K♠ Q♠ J♠ T♠
Player A: 7♥ 2♣ Player B: 8♥ 3♣
Result: Split pot (Royal Flush on board, neither hole card plays)
When Suits DON'T Matter
Suits are never used to break ties in Texas Hold'em.
A♠ and A♥ are equal. There's no "better" Ace.
| Situation | Suit Matters? |
|---|---|
| Making a flush | Yes (need same suit) |
| Breaking ties | No (never) |
| Ranking hands | No |
Multi-Way Splits
Sometimes 3+ players tie:
Example: $120 pot, 3 winners
- Each gets $40
With odd chips: Button-closest gets extra first, then clockwise
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Reality |
|---|---|
| "My Ace of spades beats your Ace of hearts" | No—suits don't break ties |
| "I have 7-2, you have 5-4, I win on high card" | Only if those cards play in the best 5 |
| Forgetting board cards count | The board often makes kickers irrelevant |
Key Takeaway
When hands are identical, the pot splits equally. Suits never break ties. Always consider the best 5-card hand—sometimes your hole cards don't even play!