Michael boasts over two decades of experience in the gambling industry. During this time he has held various product development, commercial and marketing positions at innovative online bookmakers, including Blue Square and Unibet.
An experienced bettor with a decade writing about sports and gambling, Dan's expertise includes college football, college basketball, golf, the NFL and more.
Our experts have reviewed and ranked the best sports betting sites available today. We detail what makes each betting site unique so you find your favorites and wager with confidence.
Recommended Betting Sites
Affiliate Disclosure:At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you.At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links.At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you. All product reviews and recommendations are still impartial as our editorial standards are designed to be commercially independent and follow a professional methodology.MoreLess
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700, CT (888) 789-7777, IA 1-800-BETS-OFF, MA (800)-327-5050, VA 1-888-532-3500
Well-known Sports Apparel Company
Prior Experience With Banking & Purchases
Owned & Backed By Billionaire, Michael Rubin
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
9
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin has assembled an impressive team for the company's sports betting project, including former FanDuel CEO, Matt King. The brand has announced plans to legally launch in all available states, including Ohio.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
Brand Ambassadors such as Jamie Foxx
MGM Rewards Redeemable at MGM Resorts
Official Sports Betting Partner of Cincinnati Reds
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLINGCOM
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
BetMGM is one of the biggest sportsbooks in the US. Brand offers a broad variety of sports betting markets. It's M rewards program is uniquely rewarding
Must be 21+ and present in OH. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Maximum bet credit $1,000. Must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Only US Sportsbook with NFL Streaming
Caesars Rewards Redeemable at Ceasars Locations
Improved Odds for Cleveland Cavaliers - Official Betting Partner
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLING1000
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
14
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
Backed by Caesars Entertainment, the sportsbook provides real-life loyalty rewards for bettors. Various bet credit offers on its promotions page.
Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Live Streaming on Dozens of Sports
bet365 NFL Streaming Rights Through Genius Sports Partnership
Improved Odds for Baltimore Ravens - Official Betting Partner
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLING
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
15
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
bet365 is a giant of European sports betting and brings its famous live streaming selection to the US. Its one of the best online sports betting brands.
Affiliate Disclosure:At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you.At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links.At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you. All product reviews and recommendations are still impartial as our editorial standards are designed to be commercially independent and follow a professional methodology.MoreLess
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700, CT (888) 789-7777, IA 1-800-BETS-OFF, MA (800)-327-5050, VA 1-888-532-3500
Well-known Sports Apparel Company
Prior Experience With Banking & Purchases
Owned & Backed By Billionaire, Michael Rubin
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
9
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin has assembled an impressive team for the company's sports betting project, including former FanDuel CEO, Matt King. The brand has announced plans to legally launch in all available states, including Ohio.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
Brand Ambassadors such as Jamie Foxx
MGM Rewards Redeemable at MGM Resorts
Official Sports Betting Partner of Cincinnati Reds
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLINGCOM
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
BetMGM is one of the biggest sportsbooks in the US. Brand offers a broad variety of sports betting markets. It's M rewards program is uniquely rewarding
Must be 21+ and present in OH. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Maximum bet credit $1,000. Must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Only US Sportsbook with NFL Streaming
Caesars Rewards Redeemable at Ceasars Locations
Improved Odds for Cleveland Cavaliers - Official Betting Partner
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLING1000
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
14
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
Backed by Caesars Entertainment, the sportsbook provides real-life loyalty rewards for bettors. Various bet credit offers on its promotions page.
Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Live Streaming on Dozens of Sports
bet365 NFL Streaming Rights Through Genius Sports Partnership
Improved Odds for Baltimore Ravens - Official Betting Partner
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLING
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
15
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
iOS App
Yes
bet365 is a giant of European sports betting and brings its famous live streaming selection to the US. Its one of the best online sports betting brands.
Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Best Betting Site for Niche Sports
If you’re a fan of golf, soccer, rugby or tennis, then bet365 Sportsbook is a perfect fit for you.
The operator brings extensive experience from the UK, where it has established a long-standing presence. bet365 originally began as a European brand, and, as such, has solid features for North American sports that fall outside the “Big Four.”
These include live event tracking, evergreen promotions and live streaming on select sports.
No matter what sports you like to bet on, bet365's easy-to-use app will tailor your experience to you with personalized push alerts, bet editing, and more. Plus, bet365 uses proprietary odds that may just give you the most profitable prices among U.S. sportsbooks.
States Eligible: 10 (NJ, CO, OH, VA, IA, KY, LA, IN, AZ, NC)
Banking Options: Debit/credit, bank transfer, PayPal
Payout Time: 1-5 days
Customer Service Options: Live Chat, Email, Phone, Mail
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
Betting Site with Best Sign-Up Process
Recently, BetMGM Sportsbook was shown to have the fastest registration time among all available betting sites in North Carolina. That is a testament to just how easy it is to use BetMGM—no matter what state you’re in.
You can register with existing accounts through PayPal, Yahoo Sports or MGM Rewards. Once you have an account, the BetMGM's new-user promotions are typically among the best available.
States Eligible: 24 (CO, FL, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, NC, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY + D.C., Puerto Rico, Ontario)
Banking Options: Debit/credit, eWallets, bank transfer, Play+
While BetRivers Sportsbook doesn’t have the flashiest design or layout, it has a standout feature that no other sports betting site has: Prop Central. In Prop Central, you’ll find an extensive list of all available prop bets by sport.
Given how popular prop betting is in the U.S. today, this one-stop-shop makes it easy to add props to your betting slip without having to click into every single matchup.
Plus, BetRivers approves over 80% of withdrawal requests instantly, allowing you to access your winnings immediately.
States Eligible: 13 (NJ, PA, IL, WV, AZ, CO, IA, LA, IN, VA, MI, MD, NY)
Must be 21+ to participate & present in Ohio. Must be a new verified Betway customer. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Best Sports Betting Site for In-Game Stats
Outside of live game windows, Betway Sportsbook appears pretty simple and straightforward. But during live games is when this betting website really shines.
Follow the game in real time with a gamecast, box score, play-by-play, statistics, and latest standings. The interface will even show you the current win probabilities of each team compared to the pregame odds.
Don’t sleep on this one.
States Eligible: 9 (AZ, CO, IA, IN, LA, NJ, OH, PA, VA)
Must be 21+ and present in OH. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Maximum bet credit $1,000. Must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Best Online Sportsbook for Live Betting
Many betting websites have in-game options, but none quite like Caesars Sportsbook. Caesars has been leading the charge in live betting since adding “Watch & Bet” for NFL games. You can stream NFL games right to your phone and bet right alongside the action.
Recently, Caesars also added “FireBets” to its app, which allows bettors to microbet, or bet on short-term outcomes during a game, such as the next MLB pitch.
What’s more, with the Caesars Rewards program, you can exchange your credits at the Caesars Sportsbook and Casino Store for various rewards.
States Eligible: 24 (AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY + D.C., Puerto Rico, Ontario)
Banking Options: Debit/credit, Play+, online banking, eWallets, Paynearme, wire transfer
Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Best Sports Betting Site for the NFL
Make DraftKings Sportsbook your go-to NFL best sports, and you won’t regret it. This is one of the most popular choices for sports betting come the NFL season.
Once you click into an individual matchup in season, you’ll see alternate lines, historical stats, betting trends and player props by game. Live betting on the NFL, in particular, is easy with DraftKings. Odds update regularly as game action changes, so you can cash out bets and start new ones whenever you want.
DraftKings’ extensive NFL futures are available essentially year-round with tons of choices, so you can feel like its football season 12 months of the year.
States Eligible: 26 (AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, WY + Puerto Rico)
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
Best Sports Betting Site for Promotions
ESPN BET is one of the newest sportsbooks in the U.S., having just launched in late 2023. It’s rare that we see a brand-new sportsbook launch to such success these days, and a lot of that is due to its promos.
Backed by PENN Entertainment, ESPN BET Sportsbook offers attractive promotions paired with notable figures from the sports media giant. The promotions page changes substantially every day. Some are season-long, but new promotions, exclusives and specials rotate all the time with ESPN BET.
This is great for sports bettors on the hunt for a good deal because you’re likely to find some kind of boost or offer on the market on which you want to bet.
States Eligible: 18 (NC, WV, VA, TN, PA, OH, NJ, MI, MA, MD, LA, KY, KS, IA, IN, IL, CO, AZ)
Banking Options: Debit/credit, online banking, eWallets, wire transfer
Payout Time: 1-3 days
Customer Service Options: Live Chat, Social Media, Email, Request Callback, Submit Request
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700, CT (888) 789-7777, IA 1-800-BETS-OFF, MA (800)-327-5050, VA 1-888-532-3500
Best Sports Betting Site for Rewards
Fanatics has many years of experience building mobile apps for their apparel business, and that expertise has crossed over nicely to the betting app, enabling you to place your NBA bets with ease.
The Fanatics Sportsbook rewards program offers customers FanCash for every bet placed, regardless of the outcome.
Earn 1% back on straight bets, 3% back on traditional parlay bets, and 5% back on same-game parlays. You can then use your accumulated FanCash to redeem bonus bets or purchase merchandise.
Note: Fanatics acquired PointsBet’s U.S.operations and in the process of taking over PointsBet’s licenses. You might see PointsBet presented as a Fanatics experience (for now) in your state if you live in Kansas, Louisiana or New Jersey.
States Eligible: 18 (AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KY, MD, MA, MI, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV)
Banking Options: eWallets, bank transfer, wire transfer
Payout Time: 1-3 days
Customer Service Options: Live Chat, Social Media, Email
Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Best Sports Betting Site for Parlays
Parlays are incredibly popular on U.S. sports betting sites, and they are one of the many things FanDuel Sportsbook excels at. FanDuel’s parlay hub hosts pre-built parlays filtered by sport, odds range and bet types.
FanDuel will show a countdown clock next to parlays coming up soon, so you can get your bets in with plenty of time.
States Eligible: 26 (AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, NC, NJ, NY, NV, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WA, WV, WY + D.C.)
Customer Service Options: Live Chat, Social Media, Email
Rewards Program: None
How We Rate & Review Online Betting Sites
You should pick the US sports betting sites that work best for you. Here are the factors we weighed when creating our sportsbook rankings:
Sign-Up Process
Was it easy to sign up with this betting site? The process should be seamless, and the site should keep your personal account information secure.
Bonuses
All sites offer sports betting bonuses for first-time users, as well as existing bettors. Compare welcome bonuses to see which ones will give you the best bang for your buck.
Banking Options
How easy it is to fund your sports betting account? How many options does the site offer? Think about what banking methods you typically use and see which betting sites align with your personal portfolio.
Mobile Betting
All betting sites in the U.S. have associated sports betting apps, but not all have the same features. We tested the mobile versions of these betting sites and read reviews from other users to determine how easy it is to bet on the go.
Odds Selection
There can be meaningful differences in odds pricing on the same market across multiple betting sites. Comparing odds and price shopping can be very lucrative.
Navigation
Is it easy to find your way around the site? Can you find what you need quickly? We’ve tested every site’s menus to ensure they are not hard to use, no matter how tech-savvy you are.
Speed
How fast do odds update in real time? Do pages load quickly enough? When dealing with payments and betslips, the last thing you want is lag.
Betting Variety
How many sports does the site offer? How many markets are available within each of those sports? What bet types are allowed? We’ve looked at every betting site’s menu and considered what they all have to offer.
Betting Guides & Tips
Every betting site has its own set of guides, tips and advice. We’ve reviewed each one to see how they answer your most frequently asked questions about sports betting.
User Experience
Is the site easy to use? Is it fun to use? We tested these betting sites ourselves, as well as read other user reviews, to find the most user-friendly ones.
Security
Every one of our recommended betting sites is licensed and regulated by local governing bodies. They’ve been vetted through many channels to ensure security. This means that your data will stay safe.
Customer Service
When you need to get in touch about a problem, how easy is it to get help? How many customer support options are available? We reviewed every betting site’s help menu to rate its customer service.
Responsible Gambling
Every betting site we review is committed to stopping problem gambling. Each one has resources available if you think your betting is getting out of hand.
Guides to Betting Sites by Sport
We've already discussed some of the best betting sites for different leagues. Here I'll dive deeper into the best options for NFL, NBA, and NHL betting.
Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
DraftKings
✅ Official NFL Partner
✅ Linked to NFL.com and NFL App
✅ Free-to-play Fantasy Game
✅ NFL Game Highlights
✅ Next Gen Stats
As an official sports betting partner of the NFL, DraftKings integrates sports betting content directly into NFL Media outlets, including NFL.com and the NFL App.
The sportsbook also enhances their fan experience with NFL highlights, game footage and Next Gen Stats content though, unlike FanDuel, there is no option to stream live NFL games in full.
In addition to an attractive sign-up offers for new customers, improved odds, and numerous live betting opportunities, DraftKings also offers free-to-play daily fantasy sports games.
Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
FanDuel
✅ NFL live streams
✅ Official NFL Betting Partner
✅ Free NFL Fantasy game
FanDuel became an official sports betting partner of the NFL back in 2021, so you know that this betting site provides a high-quality NFL betting service.
Currently, FanDuel allows customers to stream live games direct to their mobile devices, allowing you to keep up with all the action wherever you are.
Along with an enticing sign-up offer for new customers, enhanced odds and lots of live betting options, FanDuel also offers a free-to-enter NFL fantasy game, making this one of the more attractive betting websites for NFL fans.
Another nice added bonus is the ability to boost profits on NFL same-game parlays, provided they meet certain odds requirements.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
BetMGM
✅ Partner of several NFL teams
✅ Survivor Pool game
✅ NFL Legend & ambassador Barry Sanders
BetMGM’s NFL partners include the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets, while former Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders is also a brand ambassador.
What’s more, as of the 2023 NFL season, BetMGM launched a free $100,000 Survivor Pool game for its customers to enjoy.
They’ve also made high-level changes to the app and bettors can now access the sportsbook from the same app even if they travel to a different legal state.
BetMGM also allows fans in their respective hometown states to access a 50% live odds boosts while their team is playing.
Must be 21+ and present in OH. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Maximum bet credit $1,000. Must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Caesars
✅ Parlay Boost for NBA games
✅ Sport Radar Partner
✅ NBA Optical Tracking Data
Caesars Sportsbook boasts a trustworthy, world-class sports betting environment for players, offering a range of markets, solid live betting, and the best customer service.
For fans of NBA betting, the sportsbook offers a range of offers and promotions, including the Parlay Boost, which can increase your winnings by up to 50%.
Caesars has also teamed up with Sportradar, allowing access to certain NBA optical tracking data for the first time, enabling new props and enhanced same-game parlays.
Must be 21+ to participate & present in Ohio. Must be a new verified Betway customer. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Betway
✅ Official Partner of 8 NBA Teams
✅ NBA Points Spreads & Betting Lines
Betway distinguishes itself as a top NBA betting site through its comprehensive live basketball betting options. Users can explore a variety of NBA point spreads and betting lines, available before the game starts and during play.
The platform, whether accessed via its user-friendly website or mobile app, allows for quick and easy betting on all NBA games while Betway regularly provides enhanced odds for NBA markets.
Betway are also proud partners of eight globally recognized NBA teams including Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks.
Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
bet365
✅ Live NHL Streaming
✅ Early NHL Payouts
Although bet365 is relatively new to the U.S., it is quickly becoming one of the more popular sportsbooks for fans of NHL betting.
Hockey fans can stream a range of games from leagues around the world, including NHL matchups if they have registered for an account.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
ESPN BET
✅ Official partners of the NHL
✅ Access to IP rights and media marketing
✅ Designated Hockey content
PENN Entertainment announced in 2023 that they will be official partners of the NHL, meaning they will have access to a host of entitlements, including IP rights, and media and marketing integrations across League programming and premium NHL experiences.
So expect to see personalities like Pat McAfee promoting ESPN BET’s generous promo code following his recent introduction of a segment called: "Hockey Is Awesome."
You can rest assured that our reviews are completely objective. Our goal is to provide sports bettors with reliable, up-to-date information they can trust, so that you can find the best online sportsbook for you.
Payment Methods for Sports Betting Sites
Funding your sports betting account is arguably just as important as choosing a site in the first place. Each site will have different deposit and withdrawal requirements, but these are some of the most common payment providers across US sportsbooks:
Online bank transfers: have funds directly deposited to and withdrawn into your account
VISA & Mastercard: popular credit, debit and prepaid card payment options
PayNearMe: allows you to make deposits at locations like convenience stores and chain retailers
VIP Preferred: E-check provider that facilitates sports betting transfers
Play+: reloadable card that can fund sports betting accounts
I find if you use a debit card or a direct deposit, you are more likely to stay within your means.
Sports Betting Sites FAQs
Are betting sites legal?
Yes, betting sites are legal in the United States, but not in every jurisdiction. There are currently 30 states, plus Washington D.C., that allow you to bet online on sports. Each state licenses and regulates the sports betting sites that operate within state lines.
Are online betting sites safe?
Yes, online betting sites are safe, as long as they are licensed by your state’s governing body. At the bottom of legal online betting sites, you’ll see a confirmation of their licenses in the state in which you’re accessing it. If you don’t see a message or icon, don’t bet with that site.
What is the best online sports betting site?
The best online sports betting site is up to you! Your favorite betting site might be different from your friend’s. The best online sports betting site will depend on what you’re looking for. It’s important to take into consideration banking options, user experience, customer service, security, betting variety and odds selection.
How do sports betting sites work?
Sports betting sites work by calculating the odds of specific outcomes in sporting events. Bettors can stake a wager on whether or not that outcome will happen. If they’re right, they’ll win back their stake plus the payout on the odds. If they’re wrong, the betting site keeps the wager.
Which sports betting sites accept PayPal?
Most major sports betting sites accept PayPal as a payment method, including our top ranked sites in this guide. They include BetRivers, bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Betway. PayPal is one of the most popular eWallets in the U.S.
Can you use a credit card on betting sites?
Yes, you can use a credit card on betting sites, but usually only for depositing funds. You’ll likely have to pick another banking method for withdrawing your funds. Betting sites will specify which types of credit cards they accept as a payment method. The most common are Visa and Mastercard.
How do betting sites calculate odds?
Betting sites rely on databases from odds compilers and analysts to display the odds you see on a betslip. Mathematical models and algorithms can analyze every possible outcome of a given sporting event to quickly assign odds in real time. That’s why you’ll see odds shift as a game unfolds.
How do sports betting sites make money?
Sports betting sites make money by essentially charging a commission on losing bets. This is called the “vig” (short for vigorish). This is the fee the sports betting site will charge for accepting a bet. The vig varies from betting site to betting site and from state to state.
How many betting sites are there?
There are over 40 legally operating sports betting sites in the U.S. New sportsbooks are popping up (like ESPN BET), while others are shutting down operations or merging with other sports betting sites (like PointsBet and Fanatics). Still, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and Caesars are the most widely available.
Michael boasts over two decades of experience in the gambling industry. During this time he has held various product development, commercial and marketing positions at innovative online bookmakers, including Blue Square and Unibet.
An experienced bettor with a decade writing about sports and gambling, Dan's expertise includes college football, college basketball, golf, the NFL and more.