Legal online gambling sites will require your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number. If they aren’t able to ID you, no wagers can be placed. Much like real estate, online. As of now, all 50 states have the legal ability to legalize and offer online gambling such as casinos, poker, bingo, and sports wagering. To date, only a handful of states have taken advantage of legal domestic online gambling. However, many states have pending bills to allow various forms of sports betting.

When discussing legal online sports betting, the majority of America's government has a very regressive, prohibition-style attitude towards it, buying into a negative perspective concerning the morality of gambling entertainment. This is what has led to a variety of state gambling laws in the past.

There are no US federal laws that make it a crime for Americans to place bets at offshore sportsbooks that are operating legally within the industry. There are two states that legally prohibit all online gambling, domestic or offshore, leaving residents in Connecticut and Washington without legally sanctioned online betting options, though they have yet to start enforcing those restrictions.

For the most part, state lawmakers are becoming more progressive concerning betting entertainment and recognize the value that this type of revenue stream can bring to a state. Individual states are actively analyzing what the legalization of domestic sports gambling can provide them with in terms of opportunities, tourism, and tax revenue, and many have already taken action one way or the other through new legislation.

Iowa, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia currently permit state-regulated online sports gambling, with nearly two dozen additional states having launched land-based sportsbooks. Individual territories began embracing sports betting the moment that PASPA was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in the infamous NJ case, with multiple states having had their legislation ready and waiting should the ruling go in the Garden State's favor.

Below we'll take a look at the relevant US federal gambling laws, and explain how state gambling laws intersect with federal laws to impact online and brick and mortar sportsbook gambling, as well as what these laws have to say about the legal status of offshore sports betting entertainment.

The Federal Laws on the Books

The sections below will detail and explain how each major federal law affects domestic gambling opportunities in the US.

The Federal Wire Act

Passed back in 1961, the Federal Wire Act was made law in an effort to curtail the illegal gambling activities taking place over the phone by organized crime syndicates. It prohibited the transmission of wagers or betting information from being carried across state lines via telegraph or telephone. The Federal Wire Act targeted these illegal bookie operations as a means to curb the mafia from manipulating games and making a profit through these tactics.

This law was strictly focused on interstate gambling, and only targeted those accepting bets and not the individuals placing the bets. The goal was to crack down on illegal gambling services, not prosecute bettors. Between the DOJ Legal Opinion of 2011 and the repeal of PASPA, today's application of the Wire Act prohibits any gambling business from accepting bets across state lines or from foreign sources.

With the changes still being implemented, we are not sure yet how this will affect those states that had entered into interstate gambling pacts with one another, sharing player pools for their online gambling initiatives. Once that aspect of the legal situation becomes more clear we will update that information here.

The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act

Also known as the Bradley Act, or just PASPA, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act was a sweeping federal regulation that passed in 1992, with the supposed intent of protecting the integrity of sports by making sports betting illegal.

At the time the bill was passed, there were sports lotteries in Delaware, Montana, and Oregon, as well as licensed and regulated sports betting in Nevada, so those four states were exempt.

The law effectively prevented the expansion of the sports betting market throughout the United States in what many categorized as a discriminatory law that favored a few states while restricting others.

New Jersey took on the mission of challenging the law and after several years of court battles, was given a favorable outcome by the highest court in the land as SCOTUS ruled PASPA as unconstitutional, nullifying the law.

As of May 14, 2018, each individual state now has the authority to dictate sports betting laws within their borders. They can now choose to authorize or prohibit sports betting at their pleasure. Following PASPA's repeal, we have seen multiple states move forward with legislation that legalizes sports gambling at the state level.

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act

This is the big one that shook the gambling industry to its core. Online gambling really started to explode during the early 2000's, especially in the realm of online poker. In 2006, then-President Bush signed into law the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, known all over as the UIGEA. In a nutshell, the UIGEA placed very stringent regulatory restrictions concerning how gambling-related transactions could be processed.

The most reputable sites started a countdown and allowed Americans to withdraw and closeout their accounts. Many trusted gambling sites left the US market at this time. After the dust settled, and the financial and gambling industries learned how to comply with the regulatory oversight provided by the UIGEA, many of these reputable gambling sites have returned to provide services to US sports bettors.

The UIGEA did end up making the online gambling market safer for both the bettors and the operators by imposing a more reliable and stricter regulatory structure for how gambling-related transactions are processed. Gambling sites invested in top tier payment processors while all parties implemented higher-level security protocols to ensure the validity and safety of those transactions that are processed.

While US online gambling funding options are still somewhat limited in some regards, things have stabilized. The emergence of cryptocurrencies have filled the void left by the elimination of US-friendly e-wallets and failed credit card transactions. The UIGEA does not make it illegal for Americans to gamble online. The law simply regulates how online gambling transactions are processed.

The 2011 Department of Justice's Interpretation of Federal Laws

With the growth of online commerce, several states became interested in offering lottery game services online. This raised questions concerning the application of the Federal Wire Act, driving the DOJ to issue a clarification of the law's reach.

The Department of Justice ruled, and accurately so, that the federal government had no right to tell states that they could not sanction online gambling and therefore established that each US state has the authority to determine their own fate concerning online gambling with the exception of sports betting.

The repeal of PASPA took care of freeing sports gambling as the last remaining federally prohibited form of state-regulated online gambling. As of now, all 50 states have the legal ability to legalize and offer online gambling such as casinos, poker, bingo, and sports wagering. To date, only a handful of states have taken advantage of legal domestic online gambling. However, many states have pending bills to allow various forms of sports betting.

The 2019 DOJ Interpretation of Federal Gambling Laws

Following the repeal of PASPA in 2018, the reach of the Federal Wire Act has again come into question. In a new interpretation, which many believe was coerced by anti-online gambling activist Sheldon Adelson, the Department of Justice has indicated that the Wire Act prohibits not only interstate wagers but also the sharing of information across state lines.

This determination will certainly harm those states that have entered into interstate gambling compacts to share player pools and resources with other states. The opinion is being formally challenged through a lawsuit headed up by New Hampshire. As the situation unfolds, we will provide updates here.

What You Need to Know Going Forward

All of this legal information is good knowledge to have under your belt, no doubt about it. However, all you really need to know going forward is that there are no federal laws making gambling illegal in the United States either online or offline, and this includes domestic and offshore sports betting. States now determine the legal status of all gambling entertainment within their borders. As a sports betting resource guide, we want to make this point clear.

For those of you interested in betting on sport but who live in a state that has not authorized state-regulated sportsbooks, you'll have to either travel to a state with legalized sports betting or use a legitimate offshore sportsbook such as the ones you find listed on this site. You can check out our list of states that allow sports betting here or follow our list of recommended online sportsbooks.

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The online sportsbook industry is filled with options when it comes to betting on teams and games. Just like any industry; some do their job much better than others. Our mission is to break this industry down on a book by book basis and our goal is to find the best online betting sites for US players.

In the table below, you'll find our top rated sportsbooks and welcome offers We will continue adding more great offers and reviews as states continue to legalize online sports betting, so check back often!

Top Online Sportsbooks Betting Offers

Updated on :

In order to place bets on these sportsbooks, you must be in a state in which sports betting is regulated and where the corresponding sportsbook has a sports betting license. Welcome offers through VegasInsider are currently available in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, West Virginia, Tennessee, and Colorado.

Welcome offers may differ depending on where you register. Please visit the sportsbook using any of our links, change to your location and confirm your welcome bonus offer and requirements before you register.

Sports betting in the United States alone generates billions of dollars of revenue every year. One of the fastest-growing segments of this industry is online sports betting. There is a wide array of online sportsbooks that cater specifically to US players. This makes it easy to generate some action on Sunday’s big game or any other live sporting event. You can also check out which sportsbooks offer Live Stream Betting.

Recent changes in the law have enabled individual states to offer legal sports betting within their borders. Many of these states are also expanding the sports betting market with online access to sports betting sites, with Colorado sports betting and Tennessee sports betting going live, and states like Michigan, Virginia, and Maryland, close to launching online gambling.

To get the freshest US sports betting news and learn about recent developments, you can also check out our weekly industry report from February 2nd 2021 : Weekly Sports Betting News

How We Pick Our Top Sportsbooks

Comprehensive and unbiased online sportsbook reviews are the best source of information for today’s avid bettors. By analyzing online sports betting sites over a wide array of criteria, we can drill down into features they provide. By testing their services, we can verify this information to a very high degree.

With so many online betting options to choose from, sports bettors can benefit from these expert reviews. However, we also recommend that bettors perform a personal search. The ultimate goal is to find a quality online sportsbook that best meets any bettor’s overall sports betting needs.

To make our list as the “best of the best”, simply being good is not good enough. Areas such as overall customer service, betting options, bonuses and incentives and ease of use are closely examined. One of the most important aspects is a bookmaker’s payment record on requested withdrawals.

Everything that goes into running an online sportsbook is under review and graded on an unbiased basis. This adds a very high level of authenticity to every online sportsbook review we produce.

Best Sports Betting Sites 2020

Online Sports Betting in the USA: Where is it Legal?

Legality issues when it comes to betting on sports is always a hot topic with US players. This is a global industry that offers legal betting in a number of different jurisdictions.

The Caribbean and Central America were some of the earliest markets. This gave rise to the offshore sportsbooks that started the first online sportsbooks that serviced the US market illegally. However, now that the PASPA act has been lifted, some states are starting to have regulated and legal sports betting. On VegasInsider, we only promote legal sportsbooks, that have active licenses in certain states. Check out our state by state info pages in order to know which ones you can bet on.

As mentioned above, legal sports betting in the US is currently broken down on a state by state level. The federal government still has certain laws on the books aimed at bookmakers (not actual bettors).

Individual states now have the right to determine the legality of sports betting within their borders. Some states are more progressive than others. Utah, Vermont, Alaska, and Hawaii have laws on the books prohibiting state-regulated sports wagering. However, in today’s favorable sports betting environment everything is subject to change.

Nevada was the only state with legal sports betting in the US. That all changed in May of 2018 with a landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. This paved the way for more states to join the mix.

Best Online Sports Betting Apps

Today’s sophisticated sports bettor expects more from the bookmaker where they place their sports bets. Major advances in technology and online gambling software have catered to this crowd with advanced online betting apps.

A mobile betting platform allows bettors to manage their online accounts from the ease of any handheld device with internet access. From checking account balances to placing a bet just minutes before kickoff, this has revolutionized the bookmaking industry.

bet365 Sports Betting App

Bet365 sits at the top of the list of the best sports betting platforms worldwide. The app, available for iOS and Android, is easy to download and install. One account grants access to the casino, sportsbook, and a few sections with a few other operators.

A significant feature is the in-play multi-view. Sometimes, swapping between pages and tabs can cause frustration. The application allows you to maintain up to 12 different events on your screen to avoid this problem.

The bet365 notification settings also stand out. You can set reminders for events or matches to stay on top of your betting plans. Also, considering the relatively simplistic and appealing interface, it’s easy to change settings to fit your needs. Additionally, you can access customer support through the app, something essential for players that make a plethora of transactions and bets.

• Review: bet365 Bonus Code
• Bonus: $500
• Bet365 is legal in: NJ, NY
• iOS review: 3/5

BetMGM Sports Betting App

BetMGM is one of the more unique platforms. With one set of login credentials, you gain access to an online casino, poker, and sports betting. The operator’s application for sports bets, specifically, is fantastic.

The BetMGM app is another example of excellent design and functionality. A comfortable and easy to navigate interface mixed with a healthy amount of settings to tweak make for a fantastic experience. A mobile application should make it simple and straightforward to place bets; BetMGM does just that.

One critique thrown at this operator rather frequently is that it does little to educate and inform its players. While this has no significant impact on the app’s quality, it’s worth considering before joining the platform.

In terms of sports, betting types, and promotions, the BetMGM application does a great job providing plenty for each category.

• Review: BetMGM Bonus Code
• Bonus: $500
• BetMGM is legal in: CO, IA, NJ, MI, NV, WV, IN, VA
• iOS review: 5/5

FanDuel Sports Betting App

FanDuel stands out with some of the most terrific promotions around. It’s another of the sportsbooks that provides a smooth, seamless experience for users. It’s also considered one of the safest in the industry.

Like a small handful of other operators, it offers a majority of the titles available on the website and the same promotions for the players using the application. Welcome bonuses, for example, are accessible for first-time users signing up on a mobile device.

You can track your winnings, place bets, request withdrawals, and much more, thanks to a clean background makes it easy to read links, odds, and other necessary information.

The betting slip configuration stands out the most. When you select a team, sport, or event to bet on, a slip pops out over the app interface. This provides all the information you need for placing a wager.

• Review: FanDuel Betting Site
• Bonus: $1000
• FanDuel is legal in: NJ, PA, CO, IN, IA, WV, IL, MI, VA
• iOS review: 4/5

PointsBet Sports Betting App

You can download and install the PointsBet sports betting app on iOS and Android. The interface is complicated and frustrating, to say the least. You can access the deposit, withdrawal, and bonus sections with some ease, but other features are challenging to find. The color scheme is jarring, despite the black background that many consider more appealing.

There’s a stark contrast, though, between the desktop and mobile experience. While there are notable flaws with the app, it’s smoother than the alternative. Yes, betting, depositing and withdrawing funds, and setting notifications, is much easier on the application when compared to the website for desktops.

Despite the visual setbacks, the PointsBet sports betting app is efficient. If you can get past specific frustrating details, you’re left with a fantastic choice for placing wagers on teams, matches, and events.

• Review: PointsBet Promo Code
• Bonus: $250
• PointsBet is legal in: NJ, IA, IL, IN, IO, CO, MI
• iOS review: 4/5

BetRivers Sports Betting App

BetRivers enters the scene having only a few payment and withdrawal options. The application is also only readily available for Android devices; iOS users need to take extra steps to gain access. It makes up for these issues with plenty of other highpoints.

The BetRivers application itself is fast and responsive. It stuffs all the functionality of the desktop website into a small and easy-to-navigate application. It also makes all the betting markets and sports from the web page available on mobile devices.

A vital feature involves bet slips. These can pop up in the form of smaller windows, and you can minimize them without losing any data you’ve entered. The interface is simple, but some of the colors pop out and make it feel slightly obnoxious. The BetRivers sports betting app matches the minimum expectations for players.

• Review: BetRivers Promo Code
• Bonus: $250
• BetRivers is legal in: PA, IN, CO, WV, MI, VA
• iOS review: 3/5

SportsBetting.com Sports Betting App

SportsBetting.com is one of the few platforms that accept cryptocurrency. Although the website is overall fantastic, the application has a few issues. For example, sometimes the resolution is a problem, and images or information might not appear.

Despite its faults, the SportsBetting.com app is quite comfortable and easy to use. If you can get past the cluttered interface and visual errors, you’ll find a few fantastic features. We recommend accessing the application in landscape mode, as the portrait is uncomfortable. Consider using an above-average device; the app demands a lot from the hardware.

While most of the same events and matches are available on mobile devices through the app, there are sometimes differing bet amounts and types. Regardless, this has minimal impact on the overall experience. It’s basic, but offers more than enough for players of any sort.

• Review: SportsBetting.com Sportsbook
• Bonus: $300 Double your Deposit
• SportsBetting.com legal in: CO
• iOS review: 4/5

William Hill Sports Betting App

William Hill stands as one of the most well-designed and optimized sports betting platforms worldwide. These qualities are on full display with the William Hill app. It’s easy to use, has a fantastic interface, and provides a plethora of information on each screen without feeling cluttered.

You’ll find a smooth blue that sits well next to a white background. The home page allows access to plenty of features on the application. Icons are simple and easy to understand and following different elements is a breeze. You won’t find lag spikes, slow loading times, or freezing with this app.

The William Hill sports betting application boasts one-tap functionality. You can make deposits, withdrawals, and place bets with up to five screen interactions. One of the best components is swipe compatibility. You can drag the screen to access additional options, place bets, and monitor your current wagers.

• Review: William Hill Promo Code
• Risk-Free Bet : $500
• William Hill is legal in: NJ, IA, CO, IL, WV, MI, VA
• iOS review: 5/5

FoxBet Sports Betting App

FoxBet is another operator that keeps the same bonuses consistent for the website and the mobile app. The application, though, is less appealing than some other platforms. The colors feel jarring, but this is one of the only negatives that come with the app.

The downloading and installation processes are fast and easy, and it’s available for iOS and Android. Upon opening it for the first time, you’ll find the homepage and the current popular wagers. This makes it easy for new players to jump right into the action.

A huge benefit is the wide variety of payment options for the application available on the website. Aside from this, you’ll find a satisfying and engaging rewards program. Playing on your mobile device offers the unique option to add rewards to chests that grow over time.

• Review: FoxBet Promo Code
• Bonus: $500
• FoxBet is legal in: NJ, PN, CO
• iOS review: 4/5

DraftKings Sports Betting App

DraftKings is known for its excellent interface and easy-to-navigate website. The same qualities are available on the mobile app. You can gain access to the application for devices that run iOS and Android.

We found that the app was easy to install and set up. The overall user experience is excellent. It covers the essentials, along with additional bells and whistles for some extra interactive components and fun.

Ease of use is a priority for gambling on a mobile device. DraftKings provides fantastic useability for players. It’s quick and easy to make deposits, place bets, and request withdrawals. Additionally, you’ll find all the same games and promotions on the app as you would on the site. This level of quality is rare in the market and sets high standards for the competition.

• Review: DraftKings Sportsbook
• Bonus: $500
• DraftKings is legal in: IO, NJ, PN, IN, IL, NH, WV, CO, TN
• iOS review: 5/5

SugarHouse Sports Betting App

The SugarHouse betting app presents its users with a pretty decent interface. It boasts fast deposits and wagers, along with a simplistic design that appeals to new users. While the company is still struggling with the Apple iOS Store approval, you can download it through third-party websites for Android right now. However, iPhone users can access the platform through a web browser.

The SugarHouse sports betting app excels in deposit and withdrawal methods and stability. However, as many alternatives shine in the same categories, it’s worth noting that this application offers a ton of variety for its users. This is what makes SugarHouse worth a look.

The platform also sprinkled in a few fantastic bonuses and promotions to expand its audience; the competition is quite fierce. For this reason, despite its flaws, it still stands as an excellent right choice.

• Review: SugarHouse Betting Site
• Bonus: $250
• SugarHouse is legal in: NJ, PA
• iOS review: 3/5

Unibet Sports Betting App

Unibet is one of the largest online gambling operators in the world, with over 16 million customers. After the company debuted in a single U.S. state market in late 2019, it began a slow process of expansion. As of 2021, the app is available in NJ, PA, and IN.

That said, the Unibet sportsbook app is one of the best sports betting apps in the market. Owing to the company’s industry expertise, it’s a robust and reliable platform for sports betting. Unibet offers excellent betting odds, numerous markets and leagues, and a diverse selection of promotions and bonuses.

• Review: Unibet Sportsbook
• Bonus: Multiple Free Bet Offers
• BetMGM is legal in: IN, NJ, PA
• iOS review: 4/5

WynnBET Sports Betting App

WynnBET is Wynn Resorts’ contender in the digital sports betting sector. Wynn Resorts is a well-established land-based casino and sportsbook operator known across the U.S. The company has offered its sports betting services in Nevada for a number of years now.

More recently, Wynnbet launched in New Jersey, and revealed a planned expansion to Colorado and Indiana. The app offers sports betting action across college, professional, and international leagues, with many promotions and player rewards. It also incorporates a full online casino, including live casino tables, making it one of the best betting apps on the market.

• Review: WynnBET Sportsbook
• Bonus: $500
• BetMGM is legal in: CO, NJ, MI
• iOS review: 4/5

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.

Online Sports Betting Legal In Canada

1. 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.

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

.Some of the most popular money transfer services include Skrill and Neteller. Paypal is less commonly used in the online sports betting industry. One of the fastest growing ways to make deposits is through Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The transactions are devoid of personal information and many can be made with no added fees.

5. 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!

6. Withdrawals

Online Sports Betting Legal In Texas

When it comes to requesting a withdrawal from an online betting site, most of the same methods can be used. Bettors should always consult the banking section of an online sportsbook to determine its available options.

Best Sports Betting Events and Markets

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

NFL Betting

Professional football in the US is the most popular betting sport. The primary league is the NFL which is made up of 32 different teams. The regular season consists of 16 weekly games played on Thursday night, Sundays and Monday night. The season starts in early September and runs right through the end of the year.

The NFL postseason consists of three rounds of games leading up to the league championship. Known as the Super Bowl, the title game is considered to be the biggest single-day sports betting event of the year.

Most online betting action for NFL games is placed on the point spread and total line. Multiple bets can be grouped together in a parlay wager. To win a parlay, a bettor needs to win every bet grouped together.

NBA Betting

The NBA is the biggest professional basketball league in the US. It ranks second to the NFL in popularity among sports betting customers. The point spread and total line also bring in the most action when it comes to online betting in the USA.

There are 30 NBA teams. They play an extended 82-game regular season that runs from mid-October through early April. There are three rounds of best-of-seven playoff series leading up to the NBA Finals. The top team from the Eastern Conference faces off against the Western Conference Champion in one final best-of-seven tilt.

MLB Betting

Major League Baseball is considered America’s Pastime. Yet, it ranks third on the list when it comes to betting action bookmakers take in for a professional US league. There are 30 MLB teams playing an extended 162-game regular season.

A wild card game plus two rounds of playoffs will designate the American League Pennant and the National League Pennant. Those two winners meet in the best-of-seven World Series. Played in late-October, this championship series is also known as the Fall Classic.

The MLB regular season gets underway in late-March. The most popular online bet is on the moneyline along with the total. Baseball also has a run line that acts as a spread. The favorite gives 1.5 runs and the underdog gets 1.5 runs. To win a bet on the favorite, that team must win the game by two or more runs.

NHL Betting

The top professional hockey league for online betting in the USA is the NHL. It is comprised of 31 teams with seven franchises based in Canada. There is an 82-game regular season running from October through early April. Very similar to the NBA, there are three rounds of best-of-seven playoffs series leading up to the championship series. This is referred to as the Stanley Cup Finals.

Similar to baseball, the moneyline and total are the most popular online sports betting activities. Hockey also uses a 1.5 goal spread for its puck line bet. Sportsbooks will set a corresponding moneyline as part of the puck line bet.

NCAA Betting

Online betting sites will also set betting lines for most college football and college basketball games. Each sport is a huge part of the total revenue generated by bookmakers. Point spreads and totals account for the bulk of the online betting action.

College Football Betting

The college football regular season mirrors the NFL with most games played on Saturdays. One of the biggest online betting events of the year is the college bowl season in late-December and early January. There are over 40 different games highlighted by the College Football Playoff National Championship.

College Basketball Betting

The college basketball regular season runs from November through early March. Conference championship tournaments set the stage for the annual men’s basketball NCAA Tournament. Referred to as March Madness, this is the most heavily bet tournament of the year.

Online Sportsbook Bonuses

One of the most effective marketing tools incorporated by the best online sportsbooks to attract new bettors is a welcome bonus.

1. Welcome Bonus

These bonus offers are normally based on the initial deposit made to open a new online account.

A typical example of a welcome bonus would read:

“A 100% Cash Bonus on First Deposit up to $500”

A new bettor could earn up to an additional $500 in cash if all the rollover or playthrough requirements are met. This refers to how many times the amount of the initial deposit must be bet. There could also be a rollover requirement attached to the actual bonus amount.

2. Free Play

Sometimes the sportsbook bonus will be designated as Free Play. This means the earnings will be in the form of free bets. There are also bonuses offered for reloads. This refers to additional deposits to an online betting account.

3. Customer Referrals

Another popular sportsbook bonus for cash or free play is offered for customer referrals. A referral needs to open an online betting account with an initial deposit that may have rollover requirements.

Some of the other ways sports bettors can stretch their bankroll with incentive offers include:

4. Reduced Juice Betting Options

This offer lowers the amount of commission that is charged to book a bet. The (-110) next to point spreads and total lines designate juice of 10 percent. A reduced juice offer next to a betting line might read (-105). This designates a five percent commission.

5. Risk-Free Bet

This offer is used for various online sportsbook betting options. For example, a book may offer a $20 risk-free bet for a player’s first mobile bet. They have also been used for the first live-in game wager.

Sportsbook bonuses and other customer loyalty incentives are a big part of the way online betting sites promote their business.

Sports Betting Apps vs. Online Sports Betting Sites

Now, let’s talk about sports betting apps and how they stack up against online sports betting sites. While both forms of sports betting offer similar advantages over retail sportsbooks, each has unique qualities. Mobile sports betting packs a number of perks that betting sites don’t.

For example, the best sports betting apps have excellent accessibility, with a mobile-first design that’s incredibly user-friendly. Online betting sites, on the other hand, can often be visually cluttered and hard to use. User experience tends to be far superior on mobile devices as well. Customers tend to feel very much at home inside a well-designed sportsbook app.

There’s also convenience to consider. While both forms of sports betting are more convenient than retail sportsbooks, betting apps have an edge over betting sites. You have to sit at your PC to use most betting sites. Meanwhile, the best sports betting apps are always with you, right in your pocket.

Also worth mentioning are the additional perks. The best sports betting apps often have special bonuses and promotions not otherwise available. These can range from simple offers to enticing rewards, depending on the operator.

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. DFS is available in many states throughout the country. If your interested in playing DFS, then read our Monkey Knife Fight review or check out other great resources such as Rotogrinders. Instead of playing against other players, you are playing against the MKF house. You play fantasy games by playing prop contests on different sports events like football, basketball, baseball, soccer, golf, and hockey.

Also consider checking out our Jock MKT and BetVigtory reviews for a different spin on fantasy sports!

Online Casino Gambling

There may be different laws involved for each state when looking for legal online casino gambling. Check out our Casino Directory for information on where casino betting is legal, our online casino reviews, and bonus codes for when you sign up. There are also legal online poker sites available in the United States. Check out our information to make sure you are playing with trustworthy websites.

Top States with Online Sports Betting

Nevada Online 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.

New Jersey Online 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.

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West Virginia Online Sports Betting

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 Online 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.

Colorado Online 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 Online 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 needed to register at a physical sportsbook. Since January 1st 2021, bettore can register directly online to place bets on sports betting apps from anywhere in the state.

Illinois Online 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.

Indiana Online 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.

Tennessee Online 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 Online 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.

Michigan Online Sports Betting

Online Sports Betting Legal In Missouri

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.

FAQ - Online Sports Betting

Check out this FAQ section to learn more about common questions.

Is online betting sites legal in the US?

Yes, depending on your location. It’s legal in 20 states, listed in the section above. Six states are moving to activate their online sports betting market, and another 21 are moving to legalize sports betting. It remains completely illegal in Utah, Idaho, and Wisconsin.

What is the best sports betting site in the US?

The answer depends on your personal preferences. Different apps have different strengths and will be ideally suited for different types of players. Check out the features each of the best sports betting site offers and choose the one that matches your needs.

Are sports betting apps safe?

They can be. There are disreputable operators out there, and they sometimes provide apps that don’t meet basic security standards. However, the best sports betting apps meet regulatory security protocols and requirements. They also guarantee that your funds and data remain safe.

How do I open an account with an online betting site?

There are two simple steps to get started:

1. Complete an online registration form. This will require personal information to confirm identity, age and permanent address.

2 Make an initial deposit using an approved banking method.

Is it safe to deposit money with an online sportsbook?

You should always perform your own due diligence when it comes to opening any online betting account. Key aspects of the vetting process include:

• Comprehensive and unbiased sportsbook reviews
• Rankings and/or ratings for any potential bookmaking service
• Customer reviews/complaints

What are the minimum/maximum betting limits?

Betting limits are determined by each individual sports betting site. Some of the determining factors include:

• The actual sports bet. Limits may be higher for straight bets on point spreads, totals and moneylines. They may be lower for exotics such as parlays, teasers/pleasers etc.
• The actual sport. There may be limits in place based on the individual sporting event. For example, there may be special limits set for Super Bowl prop bets.
• Individual bettors. High rollers and heavy bettors can request higher limits based on their overall betting activity.