All Sports Gambling Sites
As the premier destination for all things related to online sports betting in the Philippines, we can help you choose the best gambling destinations that can offer the best value for money, entertainment, and professional support. Top 10 Sports Betting Sites. A betting website is a website were sport’s enthusiast can make bets on different sports like football, horse racing, basketball, the list goes on and as a matter of fact, most young adults, especially in Nigeria seem to believe they would hit it big from these schemes, hence we decided to make a post on the best sports betting sites in Nigeria. With any online sports betting site, there will be options to place wagers on sports that are occurring in the US as well as all over the world and most sites have outstanding odds. Online Sports Betting at SportsBetting.ag. SportsBetting.ag is your ‘top spot’ for the best in sports betting excitement. No matter what your favorite game might be you’ll find it on the board along with a huge variety of sports and betting options. Great sports betting sites will cover all the major sports leagues – NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL – along with college football, college basketball, and many other sports, including soccer, tennis.
Maryland is home to major sports teams such as the Baltimore Ravens and
Orioles. As you’d probably expect, there’s a huge number of sports fans here,
many of which love to place wagers on major games. Unfortunately, this state has
taken an anti-gambling stance over the years, particularly when it comes to
online gambling. With that being said, there are still a number of great
Maryland sports betting sites available here.
For those new to internet sports betting in Maryland, choosing a website to play at for
the first time can seem daunting. To help out with this, our team of experts is
going to break down the four most important features that all online sportsbooks
should provide. We’ll also dive into why online sports betting in Maryland is
growing more popular every year.
Later on, we’re going to explain the current laws and regulations surrounding
online sports wagering in this state. There’s a lot of information to unpack.
Let’s get into it!
Of course, if you want to skip this entire breakdown and get straight to the
betting, you can check out the sports betting websites in Maryland that we
recommend below.
| Rank | Gambling Site | Deposit Bonus | Get Started | |
| #1 | 100% Up To $1,000 | Visit Site | ||
| #2 | BetNow | 100% Up To $1,000 | Visit Site | |
| #3 | 50% Up To $250 | Visit Site | ||
| #4 | BetUS | 100% Up To $2,500 | Visit Site | |
| #5 | 50% Up To $1,000 | Visit Site | ||
Here’s What to Look for in Maryland Sports Betting Sites Today
The US online sports betting industry has come a long way. Not long ago, this
entire market was limited to just a few websites offering limited odds with poor
designs. Today, some of the biggest online gambling companies in the world are
available throughout the country.
Finding a few sports betting sites in Maryland shouldn’t be
difficult, as long as you know what to look for. That’s what we are here for!
Below are four of the most important features that absolutely all internet
sportsbooks should provide to their members.
Safe and Transparent Payment System
Safety is and always will be the most important thing to make sure that a
gambling website provides. You could find a sportsbook with the best odds on a
wide range of different sports, yet if it doesn’t provide you with security,
it’s not worth joining. Fortunately, this is an easy thing to look into
nowadays.
There are a few ways to do this. One is to head over to our
sports betting sites page.
Over the years, our team has looked at hundreds of different online sportsbooks.
In each review, we dive into the payment systems for these websites. If we find
anything shady going on, we’ll let you know about it.
It’s also a great idea to simply check out these websites for yourself.
Almost all Maryland sports betting sites operating today provide their members
with information on exactly which payment methods are accepted. If you find that
a site doesn’t, there’s probably something wrong.
The best US online sportsbooks allow deposits to be made
using both debit and credit cards. Withdrawal (payout) methods are generally a
little more limited. Most of these sites only allow payouts to be made using
Bitcoin. Fortunately, Bitcoin withdrawals come with extremely low fees and are
processed within just a few days.
Some sites, including
BetOnline.ag, even provide entire pages that explain how Bitcoin
payouts are made.
Before joining any sports betting sites in Maryland, make sure that they
provide you with safe and transparent payment methods. There’s nothing more
important!
Great Design and Overall User Interface
Design may not seem all that important. On the contrary, it’s one of the most
crucial things to look for in a Maryland betting site. The style and functionality
of these websites will affect your entire gambling experience. If you find that
the sports betting sites in Maryland make it difficult to place bets, they’re
probably not great.
Much like the payment system, this is another extremely easy thing to look
into. In this case, your best option is to simply check out a few sites. The
ones we recommend at the top of this page are well-known for offering amazing
designs and interfaces.
Everyone’s design style differs. Some love simplistic websites that only
provide certain odds on major sporting events. Others love modern, complex sites
that provide a massive list of different odds and promotion offers. The
important thing is finding a site that fits your gaming needs.
Take a little time to find a few Maryland sports betting sites
that provide a modern style. It should be extremely easy to actually place bets
through these websites. Check to make sure that they don’t crash as well.
Wide Range of Betting Odds
More often than not, the more odds that a website offers, the better the
entire sports betting site really is. This is the case now more than ever. All of the
modern sports betting sites in Maryland provide thousands of different betting
odds to their members every single day.
Some sites are known to provide more odds than others. Major sites such as
Bovada provide odds on a huge number of both big and small sporting events.
Others tend to focus on the major US sports leagues. As long as you can find
odds on the sports you plan to bet on, you’re good to go!
Are you a hardcore Ravens fan? Find some sports betting sites in Maryland
offering NFL odds for the entire season. Do you love the Orioles? Find some of
the best online sportsbooks in Maryland that provide a range of MLB bets.
A few of the MD sports betting sites operating today also
provide odds on fun novelty events. You can find wagers for things like politics
and movie outcomes! Do a little research and find a few betting websites that
offer the types of odds that you are looking for.
Helpful Customer Service Options
This is probably the feature of Maryland betting websites that players fail to look for
the most. It’s unfortunate because a solid customer support system is sometimes
crucial. Maryland does not currently regulate its sports betting market. That
means, if you ever encounter an issue with your gambling experience, you’ll have
to rely on the site you play at to help you out!
For this reason, we highly recommend when betting online in Maryland to select a site with excellent customer service.
Much like design, this is something you will want to check out on the sites themselves. These internet
sportsbooks should clearly list which support options are provided directly on
their homepage.
In our opinion, a live chat feature is the best option available right now.
This allows you to speak directly with a website representative over text chat.
It’s the best and easiest way to have your questions answered instantly. A
direct phone line is also fantastic.
Some of the less-reputable sports betting sites in Maryland
only offer email support. We don’t recommend joining these sites. Email support
can often take weeks to answer any questions you have. Always look for online
sportsbooks that provide instant customer service whenever you need it.
Why Are Online Sports Betting Sites in Maryland Becoming so Popular Now?
Maryland, and Baltimore, in particular, is known to have one of the most
passionate sports fan bases in the country. Unfortunately, there are very
limited options here to actually bet on sports. Since PASPA was struck down back
in May of 2018, every state now has the ability to completely legalize sports
betting.
Lawmakers in Maryland have not yet taken the steps to do so. A few bills have
been introduced that could change this, yet they have not been passed in the
State Senate.
We wanted to know exactly why the popularity of online sports betting in
Maryland is growing so much. Our team asked a number of bettors here why they
love to wager online. There are two responses we heard over and over.
Most Convenient Option Available
There may be a time when land-based sports betting options are available in
MD but till then, online betting in Maryland is one of your options.
Until that happens, the only real options to make bets here are online or
through an illegal bookie on the ground. For obvious reasons, the internet route
is significantly more convenient.
For one, you can make these wagers from the comfort of home. In fact, all of
the sports betting sites in Maryland operating today allow you to place bets
from anywhere with an internet connection. The majority even let you make wagers
on the go using a smartphone!
Forget trying to find a local bookie. There are a huge number of amazing
Maryland sports betting sites that offer thousands of odds every single day.
Don’t believe us? Check out the sites at the top of this page and see for
yourself!
Massive Range of Different Betting Options
We’ve touched on this a few times. The fact is, even if Maryland did allow
for land-based sports betting, sportsbooks here wouldn’t provide as many betting
options as internet sportsbooks do. You would not believe some of the things you
can bet on nowadays.
The huge number of different wagering options is certainly a reason why these
sites are growing so popular. Bettors here can find great odds on sporting
events taking place around the world. That means at any time of the day, you’ll
have something to throw money on.
The best online sportsbooks in Maryland provide more betting
options than even the biggest sportsbooks in Las Vegas. Whether you love
basketball, football, or ice hockey, there are odds available through these
websites.
So, Is Online Sports Betting in Maryland Actually Lawful?
As we mentioned earlier, Maryland has some pretty restrictive laws when it
comes to gambling. It makes no sense, as legalized sports betting could earn the
government here millions in additional revenue every year. The specific legality
of Maryland sports betting sites is a little vague.
First, let’s look at the definition of gambling in Maryland.
Section 12-102 of the State Statutes declares that:“A person may not
1) bet, wager, or gamble;
(2) make or sell a book or pool on the result of a race, contest, or
contingency;
(3) establish, keep, rent, use, or occupy, or knowingly allow to be
established, kept, rented, used, or occupied, all or a part of a building,
vessel, or place, on land or water, within the State, for the purpose of: (i)
betting, wagering, or gambling; or (ii) making, selling, or buying books or
pools on the result of a race, contest, or contingency; or
(4) receive, become the depository of, record, register, or forward, or
propose, agree, or pretend to forward, money or any other thing or consideration
of value, to be bet, wagered, or gambled on the result of a race, contest, or
contingency.”
Does that mean all forms of gambling are completely banned here? Well, no.
And that’s why these laws are a little confusing. MD is one of the few states
that also specifically states that it’s not allowed to bet using a “gaming
device.”
(1) “Gaming device” means:
(i) a gaming table, except a billiard table, at which a game of chance is
played for money or any other thing or consideration of value; or
(ii) a game or device at which money or any other thing or consideration
of value is bet, wagered, or gambled.
Some feel this makes it illegal to bet on sports over the internet. There are
others that feel the laws aren’t specific enough to make a ruling on the
legality of sports betting sites in Maryland based in other
areas. We always recommend you abide by the law. With that being said, laws and
constantly changing, and they may decide to completely regulate online sports
betting in Maryland within the next few years.
Will I Be Prosecuted For Playing at Sports Betting Sites in Maryland?
It’s pretty unlikely. Technically, Maryland seems to have the power to crack
down on online gambling. It doesn’t seem to have happened yet, though. Our team
has not come across a single case of any individuals facing legal trouble for
betting on sports online here.
How Do I Stay Safe Playing at Sports Betting Sites in Maryland?
As we’ve already mentioned, online sports wagering is safer now than ever
before. Most of the Maryland sports betting sites operating today take strict
measures to ensure their members stay completely safe. There are, however, a few
basic steps that you can take to ensure your gambling experience online is
nothing but fun.
Our team has spent years finding the best ways to bet over the internet. We
have come up with five simple tips that everyone can follow to stay safe. Check
them out below!
Make Sure to Play at Trustworthy Sites
The easiest way to ensure you stay safe is to only play through reputable
sites! If you do this, there’s a very good chance you will never have a single
issue. Make sure that any of the sports betting sites in MD you
are thinking about joining offer safe payment options and a range of helpful
customer support options.
Track How Much You Are Betting
This one is your responsibility. Sports betting is extremely fun, and
sometimes, people wager a little more money than they probably should. Don’t
make this mistake! Always track exactly how much money you are betting online.
If, on the off chance, you realize you are betting too much, take a break from
your Maryland betting sites for a few weeks.
Bet on Sports That You Know About
With thousands of different odds available every single day, it can be
extremely tempting to throw money on the underdog of a sporting event you know
nothing about. This is almost never a good idea. We recommend that you only
wager on sports that you understand. Your chances of winning will go up
significantly.
Never Give out Your Account Information
You should think of your betting account as a bank account! Anyone with
access to this account information can spend your money as they wish. For this
reason, it’s hugely important that you never give the details of your username
and password to anyone. Reputable sports betting sites in Maryland
will never ask for this info. It’s also a good idea to change your betting
password from time to time.
Stay Updated on Changes to Online Gambling Laws in Maryland
Sports betting laws are changing fast around the country. There’s a very good
chance that in time, all Maryland sports betting sites will be completely
regulated by the state government. Make sure to follow our
industry news page for updates
on changes to gambling laws. If this state begins to completely legalize the
online sports betting industry, we’ll be the first to let you know about it!
FAQ on Internet Sports Betting in Maryland
What Are the Most Popular Sports That People Bet on Here?
Maryland’s sports fanbase is diverse. From what we have seen, most people
here tend to place wagers on the NFL and MLB. Fortunately, most Maryland sports
betting sites provide amazing odds on both of these sports and more.
How Much Money Can I Win Betting Online?
Sports gambling is happening throughout the country. Online sports gambling
is growing particularly popular in Massachusetts right now because it’s the
safest option available and offers more wagering options than even the top
land-based sportsbooks in the country.
Is Online Sports Betting in Maryland Easier Than Land-Based Betting?
It’s very similar! The major difference is that it’s significantly more
convenient. Online sports betting allows you to place wagers from anywhere in
the state with an internet connection. When it comes to actually placing bets,
the process is just about the same.
When Will Online Sports Betting in Maryland Become Fully Regulated?
It’s hard to say. Back in February of 2018, Maryland lawmakers introduced
Bill No. 989 that provides an outline to legalize and regulate sports gambling.
Since that time, the state has not made any progress to make Maryland sports
betting sites fully legal. In our opinion, this industry will be regulated
within the next few years.
Why Should I Play at Sports Betting Sites in Maryland?
We never want to push internet sports betting on anyone. The choice to bet or
not bet is always yours! From what we have heard from the players that we have
spoken to, online sports betting is the most convenient option available and
provides more odds than even the biggest and best land-based sportsbook.
Conclusion
It’s a shame that Maryland has not taken the same pro-sports betting approach
that nearby states like New Jersey have. There is obviously a massive market for
the industry here, and the state could earn millions every year if it becomes
fully legal. As more states around the country begin to legalize this industry,
we feel that Maryland will, too.
If you decide that internet sports gambling is for you, make sure to check
out the Maryland sports betting sites that we recommend at the top of this page.
Each one is amazing and provides some great odds on almost every major sport.
Feel free to take a look at our
gambling blog page for expert predictions on major sporting events taking
place around the country. Good luck making your bets!
Legal online sports gambling is increasing throughout the United States. Several states have already legalized sports betting, while many others have begun discussions on how sports betting bills will benefit their state and can be passed.
Locate your state below to see what the current legal status is and check out VegasInsider's list of online sportsbooks in each state to find reviews and get started with online sports wagering.
In a bold move, the US Supreme Court did away with the ban on legal sports betting in 2018. Since then, US states have been quick to move forward with bills and legislation allowing legal sports betting to operate on various platforms.
The first state to legalize sports betting since 2018 was Delaware, and others have quickly followed. Almost half the American states allow legal sports betting at brick and mortar establishments, although online sports betting is not as prevalent as yet.
As the concept of legal sports betting becomes more widespread, we anticipate more and more states to offer the best sports betting options through retail sportsbooks or sports betting apps.
To get the freshest US sports betting news and learn about recent developments, you can also check out our weekly industry report from December 15th : Weekly Sports Betting News
States With Legal Online Sports Betting
Wondering how to place an online sports bet now that it's legal where you live? Just click on your State for our expert review about the best betting sites and sports betting apps available near you!
Updated on :
The best us sportsbooks have great welcome offers to get you started with you online sports bet
| Rank | Sportsbooks | Welcome Offer | Legal States | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | FanDuel Visit Review | Risk-Free Bet up to $1,000 T&C’s Apply, 21+ | Available in CO, IL, IN, NJ, PA, TN, WV | |
| 2. | BetMGM Visit Review | Risk-Free Bet up to $500 T&C’s Apply, 21+ | Available in CO, IN, NJ, NV, TN, WV | |
| 3. | WynnBet Visit Review | Up To A $500 Risk-Free Bet T&C’s Apply, 21+, Only in NJ | Available in NJ |
States With Sports Betting in Retail Only
Online sports betting may not be available yet in theses states but there are other options when it comes to betting on your favorite sports or teams. Read our full coverage of all available sports betting options in your home state!
States With Legalized Sports Betting Launching Soon
Come find out what's currently being discussed in your State and wether legal sports betting or even online sports betting could be coming soon to you. Click on your State for all the information you're looking for!
- Louisiana
- South Dakota
States Discussing Legal Sports Betting
Most of theses states are still in the first stages of considering legal sports betting. But situations vary and you may be in for a surprise when it comes to your own state's status about online sports betting.
- Arizona
- Connecticut
- Oklahoma
States With No Meaningful Sports Betting Legislation
At the moment these states seem pretty far away from any meaningful legislation towards online sports betting. We've still gathered all interesting information available about sports betting over there.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Idaho
- North Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
Is Sports Betting Not Available in Your State? Try Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is a unique new way to bet on your favorite sports teams and players. If your interested in playing DFS, then read our Monkey Knife Fight review. Instead of playing against other players, you are playing against the MKF house.
Daily fantasy sports are available in some US states where online sports betting is not yet legal. This is because they are considered games of skill and not games of chance; therefore, they don’t fall under the gambling umbrella.
Daily fantasy games are a shortened version of the real thing, with competing teams handpicked by the DFS players. Contests can run for just one day or as long as a week. Traditional fantasy sports run for an entire season.
DFS is a fantastic alternative to legal sports betting. The fast pace and the excitement DFS generates makes it a growing market among US sports fans.
| Rank | Daily Fantasy Sports | Welcome Offer | Claim Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Monkey Knife Fight Visit Review | 100% Match up to $50 - Code: BONUSMAX T&C’s Apply, 21+ | |
| 2. | DraftKings DFS Visit Review | Deposit Bonus up to $500 T&C’s Apply, 21+ |
How To Bet On Sports In The US
Now that legal sports betting is taking off in the US, an increasing number of online sportsbooks are available with great offers and betting markets. If you want to experience online sports betting, the steps below can help you get started.
What Are The Laws In Your State?
Before you place your first bet, you need to establish that online sports betting is indeed legal in your state. Some states have legalized betting at a retail sportsbook but don't allow online betting. Others only have online options, and some have yet to make it a legal activity.
Choose Your Sportsbook
With legal sports betting still a growing area in the US, you may not have too many sportsbook options. Do some research as to which are the best sports betting sites, and then check each one individually, paying attention to the following:
Welcome bonuses
Payment options
Range of sports available
Terms and conditions
Register With A Sportsbook
You may have to visit the physical casino where a sportsbook is based, as some states don’t allow online registration. In other states, you can register online by completing a form with personal details. The sportsbook may request some documents to verify your identity, but this is a standard procedure for legal sports betting.
Fund Your Account
Choose from the options available to find your sportsbook account. Deposits are usually immediate, whether you pay by debit card, e-wallet, or prepaid card. Ensure that you activate any promotions or deposit bonuses by entering a promo code when requested.
Place Your First Bet
Select a sport and match from the list, and locate your betting slip. This slip is usually clearly displayed on the right-hand side of the screen. Enter your bet and follow any prompts that appear. Betting is a straightforward process, but don’t finalize your bet until you’ve checked the slip to ensure that all details are accurate. Submit your wager, and wait in anticipation to see if you're a winner!
Available Bet Types
The best sports betting sites have a variety of bet types. From straightforward moneyline bets to multi-selection accumulators, online sportsbooks cater to all levels of bettors. Here are some of the popular bets you may encounter at sportsbooks and on sports betting apps.
Moneyline
In a moneyline bet, you bet on a team to win the game outright. Although these are very straightforward bets, they aren’t always lucrative unless you bet on the underdog. Backing the favorite to win rarely gives you good odds.
Point Spread
Point spread wagering is standard in basketball and football. The sportsbook allocates either a negative or positive number to each team. This number indicates the number of points that must be subtracted from or added to the final score. The favorite in a match will have a negative number.
In a point spread bet, the winner or loser doesn’t matter. The important thing is that they cover the point spread. The favorite must win by the number of points allocated, whereas the underdog must win outright or lose by less than the number of points allocated.
Here’s an example. Team A is the underdog with a point spread of -3.5, and Team B has a point spread of +3.5. For team A to win the bet, it must win by 4 points or more. To win a bet on Team B, the team must either win outright or lose by 3 points or less.
Totals (Over/Under Bets)
A total bet is another straightforward wager. You are betting on whether both team’s combined score will be under or over the specified number. If the sportsbook sets the number at 50 and you believe that the total game score will be more than that, you bet over. Alternatively, you bet under if you feel that the teams won’t reach that combined total.
Parlays
Simply put, a parlay bet allows you to combine multiple bets on one slip. You can include different bet types and wager on various games, all on the one ticket. To win a parlay bet, all individual selections on the slip must win.
In-Play Bets
You place an in-play bet when a match or game is already underway. This type of betting is also called live betting. It allows you to wager when you feel the odds are more favorable in a game or more reflective of the state of play. Online sportsbooks often combine in-play betting with live streaming of matches.
Props
Props bets, or proposition bets, are smaller wagers placed on specifics within a game and don’t rely on a game’s outcome. They are popular in football betting, but we see prop bets more and more on the best sports betting sites.
You can wager on anything from the Most Valued Player to the time of the first touchdown in a game. These bets are more for entertainment and fun than the serious side of online sports betting.
Futures
As the name suggests, a futures bet is one on a game that’s taking place some time from when you place the wager. The NFL Super Bowl and NBA Finals are popular options for futures betting.
You would usually place a futures bet at the start of a season for the final game. To win the bet, the team you’re backing must make it through to the finals and then win.
Popular US Sports Betting Events
Legal sports betting in the US hasn’t been around long and has yet to reach some states. However, US bettors have embraced this activity and regularly wager at online sportsbooks or sports betting apps on various sports and tournaments. Some of the best sports betting is on these popular events.
- Super Bowl
- Kentucky Derby
- NBA Finals
- World Series baseball
- FIFA World Cup
- Stanley Cup Final (NHL)
- PGA Golf
- College Football Playoffs
- Rugby World Cup
- Triple Crown
- Major League Soccer (MLS)
- UEFA Champion's League
Where Is Sports Betting Legal In The US
Ever since Nevada made the initial move to legal sports betting, there has been a steady stream of states following suit, with many states keen to provide the best sports betting options. Some states are in the process of passing the necessary bills, while others are lagging a bit further behind and still deciding on the relevant structures for regulation.
It’s interesting to note that during 2019, a whopping $13bn passed through sportsbooks’ coffers. This turnover shows that the American public was more than ready for legal sports betting and have eagerly welcomed this pastime. Here’s a rundown of 20 of the states where legal sports betting is in the making.
Nevada Legal Sports Betting
Nevada has operated legal sports betting since 1949. It was one of the few states exempt from the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act implemented in 1992 to ban sports betting countrywide.
Sports betting is thriving in Nevada. Players can bet offline at one of the many casinos in the state or online at some of the best sports betting sites. Bettors must be within the state lines to wager at online sportsbooks.
Delaware Legal Sports Betting
After Nevada, Delaware was the second state to legalize sports betting, and it did so on June 5th, 2018. Before this, though, residents could still place 3-team parlays on NFL games. The reason was that some sports bets had been allowed before the implementation of PASPA.
Although online gambling is legal, Delaware does not yet allow online sports betting. Players must visit one of the three physical casinos in the state to wager on a sports match or team.
New Jersey Legal Sports Betting
New Jersey launched legal sports betting soon after Delaware, on June 11th, 2018. In the state, wagering is widely available at physical casinos, racetracks, and online at various sports betting apps.
The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement regulates legal sports betting in New Jersey. Players must be within state lines to bet online, although they don’t have to reside in the state.
West Virginia Legal Sports Betting
Sports Gambling Forum
West Virginia became the fifth US state to join the ranks offering legal sports betting. The activity was legalized in March 2018, with the first bets placed in August that same year. There are currently five casinos where you can wager offline on sports.
Online sports betting became legal in December 2018, with BetLucky.com. After four months, however, this app shut down due to a dispute with its technology provider. FanDuel and DraftKings stepped up and have been operating their online sportsbooks and sports betting apps in WV since 2019.
Pennsylvania Legal Sports Betting
After the Supreme Court dropped the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, Pennsylvania activated its 2017 law legalizing sports betting in the state. Retail sportsbooks were the first to open in November 2018, with online sportsbooks following about six months later.
SugarHouse was the first sports betting app in Pennsylvania. Not to be outdone, others like DraftKings and FanDuel quickly followed, and there are currently eight online sportsbooks available to bettors.
Rhode Island Legal Sports Betting
Joining the list of states with legal sports betting was Rhode Island in November 2018. Residents and visitors to the state can visit the two brick and mortar casinos in Rhode Island for the best sports betting on sports teams and matches.
In early 2019, online sports betting went live across the state. To register, bettors must present at one of the two Twin Rivers casinos to verify their identity. Once verification is complete, you can wager on the sports betting apps from the comfort of your own home.
Colorado Legal Sports Betting
After gaining approval for the bill allowing sports betting in November 2019, Colorado launched legal sports betting on May 1st, 2020. There are 33 casinos in the state, and each can apply for a license to operate a sportsbook. At present, over twenty have secured licenses for legal sports betting.
Online sportsbooks must partner with a physical casino to secure a license to offer online sports betting. There are already numerous sports betting apps live in the state for Coloradans to wager on, with a handful more waiting in the wings.
Iowa Legal Sports Betting
August 2019 saw the launch of both retail and online sportsbooks in Iowa. Iowa was the first state in the upper midwest to offer legal sports betting and the first in America to simultaneously launch both retail and online betting. All 19 casinos in the state have secured licenses to provide their best sports betting options.
To wager online in the state, bettors must first register at a physical sportsbook. Once registered, you can place bets on sports betting apps from anywhere in the state. By January 2021, bettors should be able to register online.
Illinois Legal Sports Betting
Legal sports betting in Illinois went live in March 2020. This was nine months after Governor Pritzker signed the capital bill that included legislation for legal sports betting. Residents of and visitors to Illinois who are over 21 and within state lines can wager on professional, collegiate, and international sports events.
BetRivers was one of the first online sportsbooks to operate in Illinois. It opened to the public in June 2020, and other sports betting apps soon followed. There are now five in Illinois, including some of the best sports betting sites, such as DraftKings and FanDuel.
Montana Legal Sports Betting
Montana was one of the few states where PASPA didn’t restrict sports betting. Running sports betting in bars and taverns, albeit via a lottery system and not a sportsbook, remained legal.
Legal sports betting launched in Montana in March 2020 and the Montana Lottery oversees this process. You can choose to wager via the sports betting app from Sports Bet Montana or at one of 180 kiosks for legal sports betting located throughout the state.
Best Sports Gambling Sites
Indiana Legal Sports Betting
Indiana was the 13th state to legalize sports betting, and it went live in September 2019. Fittingly, Governor Holcomb placed the very first sports bets. The industry has developed enormously, and fourteen gambling establishments now hold licenses to operate sportsbooks.
Online sports betting took off one month later in October 2019. DraftKings and BetRivers were the first of the best sports betting sites to launch in Indiana. Other online sportsbooks followed, and an estimate shows that 80% of all sports wagers in Indiana take place online or through sports betting apps.
Michigan Legal Sports Betting
Michigan welcomed the first legal sports bets at casinos in Detroit in March 2020. For a sportsbook to operate, it must have a land-based, physical partner. This partner can be one of the three commercial casinos in Michigan, or one of the twelve Indian tribes that operate 23 tribal casinos.
Online sports betting is yet to get going in Michigan. Although plenty of the best sports betting operators are ready to hit the ground running, they are likely to only get the green light in 2021.
New York Legal Sports Betting
New York first legalized sports betting in 2013; however, it couldn’t go live until after lifting the federal ban. Legal sports betting finally got underway in July 2019, at sportsbooks located in commercial and tribal casinos only.For now, mobile and online sports betting isn’t an option in New York. Sports betting apps can launch in the state after lawmakers draft new laws to expand the reach of current legislation.
New Hampshire Legal Sports Betting
Free Sports Gambling Sites
Legal sports betting started in New Hampshire at the end of 2019 and is still somewhat limited. DraftKings currently has a monopoly, and the only way to wager on sport in the state is through the DraftKings sports betting apps.
DraftKings has a firm grip on sports betting in New Hampshire, although the state Lottery intends to offer a sports betting option. We also expect multiple retail sports betting facilities to open in the future.
Tennessee Legal Sports Betting
Tennessee opened up to legal sports betting from the beginning of November 2020. It is the only state offering wagering through sports betting apps and online sportsbooks only. There is currently no option for retail outlets.
BetMGM and FanDuel were among the best sports betting operators to open in Tennessee. Other sportsbooks are waiting for the go-ahead to operate online, but there are no plans at this stage for any physical outlets for legal sports betting.
Virginia Legal Sports Betting
Sports betting became legal in Virginia in April 2020. Legal sports betting falls under the Virginia Lottery Board’s control, which anticipates going live in 2021. Initially, only online sportsbooks will operate; however, the Board has earmarked six cities to develop casino complexes in the future.
Twenty-five of the best sports betting operators have applied for licenses to operate their sportsbooks in Virginia. It’s possible that we won’t find out who they are until the Lottery Board announces the successful applicants.
Oregon Legal Sports Betting
Sports betting became legal in Oregon in August 2019 and is controlled by the Oregon Lottery. The following month, the first sportsbook for legal sports betting went live at Chinook Winds, a tribal gaming facility.
Oregon Lottery launched an online sports betting app called Scoreboard to facilitate sports wagering in the state. There are no other sports betting apps available in Oregon.
Maryland Legal Sports Betting
Maryland voters made it clear in a recent referendum that they want legal sports betting in the state. It’s now up to the lawmakers and regulators to develop the framework for sports betting and decide on the necessary rules.
There are currently no legal sports betting options in the state, apart from horse racing. This situation is likely to change in 2021, provided the legislature passes the sports betting bill. Once this happens, the governor can sign the legislation into law, and legal sports betting will become a reality.
South Dakota Legal Sports Betting
In November 2020, voters in South Dakota chose to allow legal sports betting, but only in Deadwood. Deadwood is a gaming town in the Black Hills region of South Dakota and home to most of the state’s casinos.
While lawmakers are pushing for legal sports betting to launch in 2021, it doesn’t allow for online sports betting at this stage. We’ll have to wait a while longer before sports betting apps and online sportsbooks are signed into law.
Louisiana Legal Sports Betting
In November 2020, Louisiana’s voters chose to legalize sports betting in the state. While it’s clear from the recent referendum that legal sports betting is very much in demand, it won’t happen overnight. If all goes well, you could see sportsbooks launching later in 2021.
Online sports betting may take longer to reach Louisiana. The recent vote didn’t include either online sportsbooks or sports betting apps, and lawmakers may only discuss it after finalizing legal sports betting.
Legal Sports Betting FAQ
What Is The Minimum Age For Online Sports Betting?
The minimum age for legal sports betting varies. Some states allow people 18 years and older to bet, while in others, bettors must be 21-years-old. You must check the laws of the state that you reside in, or are visiting, for the correct minimum age.
Which Of The Online Sportsbooks Should I Join?
You can join as many sportsbooks as you would like to. Do your research and choose those with the best sports betting options and payment methods you’re comfortable with.
How Much Money Should I Bet?
Online sportsbooks have minimum and maximum wager limits. You can wager as much or as little as you would like to, but the amount must be within the set limits.
Can I Download An App For Betting?
The best sports betting operators tend to have downloadable sports betting apps, usually for both iOS and Android devices. If not, then you can access online sports betting through your web browser on your device.
When Did Sports Betting Become Legal In The USA?
The Supreme Court overturned the law prohibiting sports betting in 2018. Since then, legal sports betting has become prominent in many states across America.
What Sports Can I Wager On?
There is a wide range of sports available at online sports betting sites, although each sportsbook is different. Find a sportsbook that offers the sport you want and register to place your bets.
Is Online Sports Betting Safe?
Betting online is perfectly safe as long as you do so with a legal, licensed sportsbook. Each sportsbook should be licensed and regulated by an appropriate authority, and you can find this information on the sportsbook’s website.
What Is In-Play Betting?
“In-play” or “live” bets in online sports betting are ones placed while a game is underway. You can watch the game unfold and place bets according to how the teams are performing.
Can I Register With More Than One Sportsbook?
Yes, you can. The number of online sportsbooks that you choose to register with is up to you. You might find better odds for some sports on other sports betting apps. For this reason, it can be beneficial to use different sportsbooks for different sports.
What Are Daily Fantasy Sports?
In daily fantasy sports, you select your team from an allocated pool of players and compete against other fantasy teams. Contests take place over a day or a week, but the timeframes are shorter than for classic fantasy games that unfold over a season.
History Of Sports Betting Legislation In The US
The Beginning
Like many countries, gambling in the United States of America has its roots in centuries-old history. It started with lotteries, which in the 17th and 18th centuries were excellent ways to raise funds. Among other things, these funds went towards developing schools and universities. Yale, Harvard, and Princeton all benefited from lottery funding.
Fast forward to the 19th century, and many people perceived gambling as linked to corruption. In 1860, authorities banned all forms of gambling and sports betting, apart from horse racing. In those days, horse racing was viewed differently to other sports betting types and was generally enjoyed by the elite society.
Horse racing experienced a boom in the latter part of the 19th century. This changed in 1910 when the gambling ban was extended to include lotteries. Although horse racing was still exempt, the stigma attached to gambling and sports betting resulted in many racetracks closing down.
The Middle
The gambling landscape changed again in the 1930s when funds were in short supply after the Great Depression. In Nevada, authorities lifted the ban on table games where players bet against the house, like poker and blackjack. One thing led to another and, in 1949, the state eventually legalized sports betting.
High taxes, organized crime, and various Acts prohibiting the movement of information and materials required for sports betting led to many sportsbooks closing down. However, in the mid-1970s, the government imposed lower taxes on sportsbooks, and for the first time, a sportsbook could operate inside a casino.
The Interstate Horse Racing Act of 1978 was a turning point for sports betting. This Act made it legal for bettors in states with legal gambling to wager on horse races outside their state. It was a sign that lawmakers recognized the potential in regulated sports betting. Congress reduced taxes on sportsbooks even further, resulting in a boom across Nevada.
Professional And Amateur Sports Protection Act
In 1992, Congress introduced the PASPA. This Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act led to a massive decline in sports betting. It prohibited states from allowing sports betting on professional and amateur sports, with a few exemptions. Horse and dog racing could continue, as could sportsbooks in Las Vegas and sports lotteries in Delaware, Oregon, and Montana.
Contrary to expectation, PASPA didn’t sound the death knell for sports betting. Some four years later, the internet became an integral part of connecting bookmakers to bettors. On January 17th 1996, online sports betting was born and the first wager was placed across state lines. Online sportsbooks started to flourish and became a viable form of legal sports betting.
Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act
Online sports betting hit a snag in 2006 when the federal government passed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA). This Act made accepting money from someone participating in illegal online gambling on US soil a criminal act.
While it didn’t specifically prohibit online betting, the UIGEA targeted the financial transactions linked to sports betting. The result was that online sportsbooks with any legal or financial connection to the US withdrew from the country.
The Future
In May 2018, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that PASPA effectively took away each state’s authority to regulate sports betting. SCOTUS overturned the federal ban imposed by PASPA. Each state now has the responsibility of determining how to monitor and control online betting within state lines.
Since the overturning of the ban, there’s been a massive movement towards legal sports betting. More and more states are putting structures in place to make the best sports betting available to its residents.
Final Thoughts On Legal Sports Betting
It’s no secret that legal sports betting is becoming popular worldwide. The age of technology and a general shift to an online environment has brought the best sports betting options to our screens.
Sports betting apps make connecting to the best sports betting operators as easy as a few clicks, and legal sports betting offers players of a range of sports and betting options without leaving our homes.
With most US states already embracing legal sports betting, the rest are sure to follow. As long as sportsbooks comply with regulations and bettors gamble responsibly, legal sports betting is here to stay.