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Push in Blackjack

A push in blackjack occurs when your hand total equals the dealer's hand total. It's a tie—no one wins, no one loses. Your original bet is returned to you.

When Pushes Happen

ten of diamonds
eight of clubs
Both Have 18Result: Push

If you have 18 and the dealer also has 18, it's a push. Your bet stays in front of you for the next hand.

Common push scenarios:

  • Both have 17, 18, 19, or 20
  • Both have blackjack (Ace + 10-value)

Push vs. Blackjack Tie

When both you and the dealer have blackjack, it's a push. You don't win, but you don't lose either. This is actually favorable compared to some older rules where dealer blackjack beat player blackjack.

Note: A natural blackjack (Ace + 10 in first two cards) beats a non-natural 21 (three or more cards totaling 21). Only blackjack vs. blackjack is a push.

Strategy Implications

Pushes are neutral outcomes. Basic strategy doesn't try to avoid pushes—it tries to maximize wins and minimize losses. Sometimes the best play results in more pushes, and that's fine.

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