US Legal Online Sports Betting

With the landscape of online sports betting evolving rapidly in the USA, enthusiasts need a reliable guide to navigate the nuances of placing bets online. This comprehensive breakdown provides the most current information, legal regulations, and tips for ensuring a rewarding online sports betting experience in the USA.

Legal Landscape of Online Sports Betting in the USA

The legalization of sports betting in the USA has undergone significant changes in recent years. It’s crucial for punters to understand the state-wise legal nuances. Right now, sports betting is legal in more than 30 states among the US. 

Federal Laws Impacting Online Sports Betting

• Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) (1992): Previously prohibited sports betting, but was declared unconstitutional in 2018.
• Federal Wire Act (1961): Initially intended to combat organized crime, it prevents wagering information from being transmitted across state lines electronically.
• Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) (2006): Targets online gambling platforms, especially payments.

State-wise Legalization Status

States like Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania lead the charge, offering fully regulated online sports betting. However, several states only permit in-person betting or have pending legislation.

Top Recommended Platforms for US Bettors 

Choosing the right platform is key to a seamless legal online sport betting experience. Here are our top picks for US bettors:

BetUS: Known for its excellent customer service and diverse betting options.

MyBookie: Offers a user-friendly interface with an array of sports events.

Bovada: Highly rated due to its speedy payouts and diverse prop bets.

Do not miss the best promos and bonuses from the top US sportsbooks.

Legal Sports Betting Across the US

Arkansas 

Betting on sports found its legal ground in July 2019, solidifying Arkansas as the ninth state to welcome it. Currently, enthusiasts can place their bets at the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Hot Springs.

Colorado 

Embracing sports betting in May 2020, Colorado favored mobile wagering with four available operators. Plans for physical sportsbooks are in the pipeline, albeit delayed by the COVID-19 crisis.

Delaware 

Though previously permitted, Delaware quickly amplified its sports betting offerings post the PASPA decision, with three casinos now accepting bets. A move towards mobile betting is anticipated.

Illinois

Illinois became the 15th state to green-light sports betting. However, its introduction was overshadowed by the pandemic in March 2020, mere days after Rivers Casino began accepting wagers.

Indiana 

Embracing the trend in September 2019, Indiana now allows sports enthusiasts to bet both on mobile devices and at select retail outlets.

Iowa 

Legalized in August 2019, Iowa offers both retail and mobile betting options. But, initial mobile registration necessitates a physical visit.

Kentucky 

A groundbreaking move in June 2023 made Kentucky a haven for sports bettors, ensuring they no longer needed to cross state boundaries.

Massachusetts 

2022 saw Massachusetts enabling legal wagers on sports events, both online and offline. Meeting the age criteria of 21 opens doors to a myriad of betting platforms.

Michigan 

Just two days post-Illinois, Michigan gave the nod in March 2020. The pandemic, however, cast a shadow on its retail operations. Expectations for mobile avenues are set for 2021.

Mississippi 

Mississippi surprised many by legalizing sports betting in August 2018, a swift move post-PASPA. For now, bets are restricted to terrestrial casinos.

Montana

Despite the pandemic’s presence, Montana introduced sports betting in March 2020. Bettors can now find their spots at the licensed Sports Bet Montana kiosks.

Nevada 

The post-PASPA era saw Nevada, unaffected by the changes, upping their game with enhanced sportsbook services.

New Hampshire 

July 2019 marked the legalization, with operations beginning by year-end. Mobile wagers are managed exclusively by DraftKings Sportsbook.

New Jersey 

Having led the charge against PASPA, New Jersey was quick to legalize in June 2018. With ample mobile and physical sportsbooks, it’s a favorite for many, including some New Yorkers.

New Mexico

August 2018 placed New Mexico sixth in line, allowing its casinos to start sports betting. Online avenues remain under consideration.

New York 

Taking a deliberate pace, New York gave its nod in June 2019 after extensive regulatory groundwork. Currently, bets are restricted to in-casino activities.

North Carolina 

July 2019 saw the state legalizing sports betting, albeit limited to its two tribal casinos.

North Dakota 

Tribal casinos have welcomed bettors since December 2021. However, broader legislative efforts faced challenges, especially concerning in-state college events.

Oregon 

August 2019 saw Oregonians betting at Chinook Winds Casino. A mobile expansion followed in October via the state lottery’s platform.

Pennsylvania 

Post-PASPA, Pennsylvania was quick to join in August 2018. By June 2019, mobile betting platforms were also active.

Rhode Island 

This diminutive state began its sports betting journey in August 2018 and quickly introduced mobile betting by September 2019.

Tennessee 

Legalized in May 2019, Tennessee’s sports betting operations are set to debut in September 2020.

Virginia 

Virginians started placing wagers in January 2021, with some collegiate restrictions. The groundwork for this was laid in August 2020.

West Virginia 

By August 2018, sports betting was green-lit, soon followed by the inclusion of the online platform, BetLucky app.

Events to bet on the US

One of the captivating facets of sports betting lies in its vast array of options. Bettors have the luxury to sift through various platforms and zero in on specific wagers that align with their strategy. From high-profile games to niche events, the range is extensive. Here’s a breakdown of some top picks you’ll find at authorized top sportsbooks:

NFL Odds: Undoubtedly, the NFL holds the crown as America’s favorite betting arena. An array of platforms caters specifically to NFL wagers. The Super Bowl isn’t just a game; for sportsbooks, it’s a gala event, offering an extensive list of prop bets for enthusiasts.

NBA Odds: Securing its spot as the runner-up in betting popularity, the NBA sees a notable surge in wagers, especially during the playoffs and the climactic NBA Finals.

MLB Odds: Though its golden era as America’s premier sport might have waned, MLB’s allure remains intact. Key moments like the opening day or the nail-biting MLB playoffs and World Series always magnetize attention.

NHL Odds: While it may not be in the limelight as much as its counterparts, the NHL boasts a fervent fan base. The excitement crescendos during the playoffs, peaking with bets on who will lift the coveted Stanley Cup.

College Basketball Odds: After the dust of the football season settles, expert bettors often turn their sights here. The regular season has its charm, but come March, the spotlight shines brightly on college basketball, culminating in the betting frenzy known as March Madness.

College Football Odds: During the autumn and winter, football fervor grips the nation. College football might play second fiddle to the NFL in terms of sheer popularity, but certain matchups witness a betting fervor rivaling professional games, especially during the bowl games and College Football Playoff.

Boxing Odds: Throughout the year, high-profile boxing clashes stand out as fan favorites. Sportsbooks typically provide odds and props for these bouts. While offerings can vary by platform, marquee PPV events are typically a staple across the board.

Sports Betting Types: Understanding Your Options

Bettors should familiarize themselves with the variety of bets available.

Moneyline

This is perhaps the most basic form of betting. A moneyline bet simply involves picking which team or player will come out victorious in a match. The odds are presented based on the likelihood of each outcome. For example, a strong team might have negative odds (like -150), meaning you would need to bet $150 to win $100, while an underdog might have positive odds (like +200), meaning a $100 bet could win you $200.

Point Spread

Especially popular in sports like basketball and football, the point spread is a way to level the playing field in mismatched games. The favorite will have points subtracted from their final score, while the underdog will have points added. This bet is not just about who wins, but by how much they win. For instance, if Team A has a point spread of -7, they need to win by more than 7 points for the bet to be successful.

Totals (Over/Under)

Instead of focusing on the winner, totals betting revolves around the combined score of both teams. The sportsbook sets a number, and bettors decide if the actual combined score will be over or under that number. For example, in a basketball game with a total set at 215.5, bettors can wager on the combined score being over or under that number.

Parlays

Parlays can be seen as the “jackpot” bets of the sports world. They involve making multiple selections across different games or events, and for the parlay to win, all selections must be correct. While difficult to hit, the payouts for parlays can be substantial, especially as more selections are added.

Prop Bets

Short for “proposition bets,” these wagers focus on specific events or occurrences within a match. Examples include betting on which team will score first, the number of touchdowns a player will score, or how many 3-pointers a basketball player might make. These bets add an extra layer of excitement, as they can be resolved long before the game ends.

Futures

As the name suggests, these bets concern events that will transpire in the future. This could be betting on who will win the Super Bowl next year, the MVP of a league, or even which team might finish at the bottom of the standings. Futures can provide long-term engagement as they might not be settled until the end of a season or even later.

Best Practices and Tips for Responsible Betting 

To make the most of your betting journey:

• Research: Always study teams, players, and match conditions.
• Budget: Set a budget and stick to it.
• Diversify: Don’t put all your money on a single bet or sport.
• Stay Informed: Changes in team line-ups or weather conditions can affect outcomes.
• Seek Help: If you feel you’re developing an addiction, there are numerous resources available for assistance.

US Legal Online Sports Betting

Is online sports betting legal in my state?

The legality varies by state. While some states fully allow online sports betting, others have restrictions or pending legislation.

How can I ensure a betting platform is legitimate?

Look for licensing information, user reviews, and payment security protocols.

Are winnings from sports betting taxable?

Yes, they are considered taxable income. Bettors should report their winnings during tax filings.