Dealer Button Rules
Rules governing how the dealer button moves, especially when players are eliminated in tournaments or seats become short-handed.
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What Is Dealer Button Rules?
In a normal full-ring hand, the button simply passes one seat clockwise after each hand. Complications arise in tournaments when a player busts, tables are broken, or players are moved to balance seating, requiring rules like the dead button to ensure the blinds are posted correctly without skipping or doubling a player's obligation. Most tournaments use a dead button rule, where the button can sit in an empty seat if the previous button player was eliminated.
Examples
A player in the small blind seat busts out, so the button moves to an empty seat (dead button) to preserve correct blind rotation.
When two tables are combined, the tournament director follows specific button and blind assignment rules to keep everyone's blind obligations fair.
Strategy Tips
Pay close attention to button movement after eliminations, since a dead button can temporarily change your position relative to the blinds. When tables merge or break, verify your new seat and blind assignment before playing a hand, as mistakes in button placement can lead to disputes. Understanding these rules helps you anticipate short-handed dynamics and adjust your opening ranges accordingly. If you're ever unsure about button placement, ask the dealer or tournament director to confirm rather than guessing.