Any web site recommendations for a first-timer, Re: rakeback, ease of deposit/withdrawal, etc.? I have read other threads on the subject, but am still confused: newbie to the 10th power.
I want to start very small--in fact, with the smallest stakes possible--in a no-limit hold 'em environment.
(Also, I am in Washington state, and have read that our state laws are prohibitive with respect to online gambling. Does anyone know anything about that?)
To date, my only poker experience is with a game called Academy Pro 2.5, which appears to have some built-in biases that require one's playing to a given bias in order to succeed in one of its tournaments. I won't bore you with examples. But I suspect that I would have to develop some questionable poker habits in order to win at playing Academy Pro, which is not my goal. I'd prefer to develop sound poker habits, so I am hoping that an online web site might offer a truer poker environment.
Any comments would be appreciated.

I think it is illegal to gamble in Washington state as per law but I have come across to a number of people gambling online from Washington state. I would suggest you to read http://www.gambling-law-us.com/State-Law-Summary/


As far as playing online poker is concerned, for all kind of stakes http://www.casinoscorner.com/ list top online poker rooms for both US and non US players. Do give a read to the review option.
Hope this helps.

+1 nealsonparker.
I suggest you to go for play money poker first. You will get accustomed to the website, software and etiquettes. Then after you feel comfortable with your skills and the room's performance start with real money deposits.
Best of luck.

because i had a bit of background before moving to internet poker i went directly to small stakes. i dont know how the play money tables are at other sites but at pokerstars they are worthless. all-ins every hand. dont count on sharpening your skills on those tables. for a small deposit you can see lots of hands and play against thsoe who have something to lose. good luck

Thanks for the replies. I tried playing online for free at PokerStars to get the feel of site and the interface; but I gave up after about 50 hands: no one folded but me--and it's true: lots of all-in bets.
I'll follow some of the suggestions in this thread.
Thanks again to everyone.