Pennsylvania Legal Sports Betting Overview
PA Sports Betting Law Details
Status:
- Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: November 2018
- Online Sports Betting Launch Date: May 2019
- Licensed Sportsbooks: Barstool Sportsbook, Betfred, BetMGM, BetRivers, Betway, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, FOX Bet, betPARX, PointsBet, SugarHouse Sportsbook, Unibet, TwinSpires
- Legal Wagering Options: Futures, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, same game parlays, teasers, totals
- Legal Gambling Age in PA: 21+
- Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, college sports
- Permitted Banking Options: Mastercard, PayNearMe, PayPal, Play+, Skrill, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), casino cage cashier
- Pennsylvania Gambling Regulator: Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
Pennsylvania was well-prepared for sports betting even before the US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) in 2018. In 2017, Governor Tom Wolf and PA lawmakers passed HB 271 to legalize sports betting. The state wasted no time and swiftly launched retail sports betting in November 2018. Online sports betting went live in May 2019, with SugarHouse Sportsbook leading the way. Today, Pennsylvania boasts 14 online and retail sportsbooks, including popular brands like Caesars and BetMGM. With successful franchises in major sports, Pennsylvania has established itself as one of the largest sports betting markets in the US, serving as a model for other states. To fully understand sports betting in PA, read our comprehensive guide below.
Pennsylvania Online Sportsbooks Compared
Pennsylvania is home to 14 sportsbooks, including renowned US brands such as FanDuel and Fox Bet, as well as international operators like PointsBet and Unibet. Our experts have compared these sportsbooks based on key criteria such as usability, features, promotions, odds, and market coverage. Continue reading to find the best sports betting site or app that suits your needs.
Best Mobile App – DraftKings
The DraftKings mobile app, available on both Apple and Android devices, has been consistently ranked as one of the best sports betting apps in the US on Google Play and the Apple App Store. The app is user-friendly, offering stable connectivity, easy navigation, and clear sports betting markets. It also provides exclusive mobile features such as live streaming, event notifications, and mobile-only promotions, setting it apart from the competition. Take advantage of the DraftKings Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best Welcome Bonus – PointsBet
PointsBet offers the most attractive welcome bonus in Pennsylvania, allowing new bettors to claim $2,000 in risk-free bets. This includes $500 in fixed odds betting and $1,500 in points betting. If your wager loses, you will receive your losses back in the form of free bets. The best part is that this offer has no wagering requirements, meaning you can withdraw your winnings without any restrictions. Take advantage of this generous offer and get started with PointsBet today.
Best for Competitive Odds – Caesars
While many Pennsylvania sportsbooks offer competitive betting odds, Caesars sportsbook stands out as the leader in this category. Caesars consistently provides the best odds across all markets, with a particular focus on generous prop betting options. Additionally, Caesars offers regular odds boosts on major league sports, enhancing the value for bettors. Claim your Caesars Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 and enjoy the best odds available.
Best for Market Coverage – FanDuel
While most sportsbooks cover a broad range of sports markets, FanDuel takes it a step further by offering horse racing betting in addition to traditional sports betting. This gives FanDuel the edge over its competitors, such as BetMGM and BetRivers, which also offer odds on a wide range of US and global sports. To make use of their market coverage, claim your FanDuel Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Beginner Bettors – BetMGM
BetMGM is the ideal choice for beginner bettors, offering an excellent sportsbook app with a user-friendly interface. The platform provides a generous welcome bonus, regular odds boosts, and a seamless betting experience. While other sportsbooks may excel in specific areas, BetMGM offers an all-around package that caters to new bettors. Get started with BetMGM today using the BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Payout Speed – DraftKings
When it comes to fast payouts, DraftKings sportsbook leads the way in Pennsylvania. The sportsbook offers instant withdrawals through many payment methods, ensuring a quick and convenient experience for bettors. FanDuel and PointsBet also provide instant payouts to bettors in the Keystone State. While other Pennsylvania sportsbooks offer fast payouts within 48 hours, these three sportsbooks stand out for their rapid payout processing.
NFL Betting Guide
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NBA Betting Guide
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MLB Betting Guide
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How Does Pennsylvania Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage
Pennsylvania offers a highly inclusive betting market, covering most sports available in other legal gambling states. Furthermore, there are no restrictions on college sports betting, setting Pennsylvania apart from states like New Jersey, which prohibit wagering on in-state games, and Tennessee, which doesn’t allow prop bets on athletes.
Competitive Odds & Prices
When comparing odds offered by Pennsylvania sportsbooks to those from other states, we found no significant differences. Most sportsbooks in the state provide competitive odds, ensuring that bettors can find favorable prices for their wagers.
Gambling Revenue
Since the legalization of sports betting in Pennsylvania, the state has processed a staggering $13,746,491,797 in sports bets, generating $1,013,751,455 in revenue for sportsbook operators. This betting handle ranks as the third-largest in US history. What’s even more impressive is the impact of the 36% tax rate imposed on sportsbook operators, which has resulted in $240,853,837 in tax revenue for Pennsylvania. This figure surpasses the tax revenue generated by New Jersey, despite having less than half the betting handle. Pennsylvania’s success in revenue generation serves as a testament to the viability of high tax-rate models for other states. While Pennsylvania may be overtaken by other states in the future, such as New York with its 51% tax rate, the Keystone State’s accomplishments have firmly established it as a frontrunner in the industry.
Betting Taxes
Each sportsbook operating in Pennsylvania is required to pay an excise tax of 0.25% of the sports betting handle. The state imposes a high tax rate of 36% on sportsbook operators, although it is lower than the 51% tax rate in New York. Bettors are obliged to declare all their betting winnings when submitting taxes to the IRS. If your sports winnings exceed $600, sportsbooks may withhold up to 24% of your gambling winnings. However, you can claim a portion of this amount back through the appropriate channels. Additionally, Pennsylvania levies a 3.07% income tax, which encompasses betting winnings.
How to Place a Bet in Pennsylvania
If you’re new to online sports betting in Pennsylvania, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you place your first bet within minutes:
- Choose one of the many PA sportsbooks available in the Keystone State.
- If your chosen sportsbook has a mobile app, you can find it on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Alternatively, download it directly from the sportsbook’s website.
- Register an account by providing your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Create a username and password for your account.
- Follow the sportsbook’s instructions to make your first deposit in the cashier section of the website or app. Many deposits qualify for a sportsbook’s welcome bonus, so be sure to read the terms and claim the offer.
- Browse through the sportsbook’s markets and select a wager that interests you. Add the desired selection to your bet slip and place your first bet using your welcome offer or deposited funds.
- If your first bet is successful, you can proceed to the cashier section to make a withdrawal. The sportsbook will guide you through the process.
Banking Methods Available in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board regulates the payment methods available at PA sportsbooks, ensuring that bettors have access to a wide range of banking options. While bank cards like Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted for deposits, they may not always be available for withdrawals. Some banks, such as American Express, still block transactions to sports betting sites. E-wallets like PayPal and Skrill are popular options for funding accounts and cashing out winnings. Many sportsbooks also offer Play+ prepaid cards or allow deposits at physical locations using PayNearMe. Pennsylvania regulations dictate a minimum deposit or withdrawal requirement of $10, although individual sportsbooks may set higher minimums.
Who is Not Eligible to Bet in PA?
To legally place wagers in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state’s borders. Certain individuals in specific job positions are prohibited from placing bets. These include university sports team staff, coaches, and athletes; referees in professional leagues, minor leagues, and athletics competitions; individuals with the power to influence players in a professional capacity; individuals employed by sports regulation organizations (e.g., NCAA, NFL); individuals who own a stake in a sports team; employees of organizations licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to provide sports betting services (including key staff, officers, owners, and directors); individuals with access to non-public information that may affect sports outcomes (e.g., player medical records); individuals who voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities; and individuals prohibited from betting at a state or federal level due to criminal history.
Latest Pennsylvania Sports Betting Updates
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Current Sports Betting Status in Pennsylvania
Both retail and online sports betting are legal and regulated in Pennsylvania. The state allows most forms of sports betting, including wagering on major league sports, top international competitions, minor leagues, and college sports. However, esports betting is not currently regulated.
Timeline for Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
Here is a timeline of key events in the history of sports betting in Pennsylvania:
- March 16, 2022: Parx Casino relaunches its online betting and gaming products with the betPARX app.
- March 2020: Reports indicate that 90% of wagers in Pennsylvania come from online sportsbooks.
- May 31, 2019: SugarHouse Sportsbook becomes the first online sportsbook to launch in Pennsylvania, accepting the first legal online bets.
- November 17, 2018: The Hollywood Casino at Penn National becomes the first sportsbook in Pennsylvania to start accepting legal sports wagers.
- May 2018: The US Supreme Court rules in favor of New Jersey, striking down PASPA and giving states the right to legalize sports betting.
- October 30, 2017: Governor Tom Wolf signs HB 271, making sports betting legal in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting Background
Efforts to legalize sports betting in Pennsylvania began in 2015 when Rep. Rick Kotik introduced HB 1627 to the House of Representatives. Rep. Rob Matzie co-sponsored the bill, but it failed to pass. However, Rep. Matzie re-introduced sports betting legislation in January 2017 with HB 519. Although the bill passed in the House, it did not progress further. It was ultimately Representative Jason Ortitay who brought success to the table in 2017 by presenting HB 271, which legalized sports betting in Pennsylvania. Governor Tom Wolf signed the bill into law on October 30, 2017. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and lawmakers took no further action until the US Supreme Court repealed PASPA on May 14, 2018.
Future of Pennsylvania Sports Betting
The future of sports betting in Pennsylvania holds the possibility of legalizing esports betting. HB 1580, introduced to the House of Representatives in June 2021, is currently under consideration. If passed, it could pave the way for a new wagering market in the state. Additionally, future legislation may modify the current restrictions on the number of casinos in Pennsylvania or allow sportsbooks to launch retail locations in stadiums, following the example set by Arizona. While these developments are not currently the focus of lawmakers, they remain potential topics for future discussions.
Online Sportsbooks
Explore our list of top-rated online sportsbooks offering the best promotions and the most substantial bonuses available in Pennsylvania.
Odds Calculator
Use our odds calculator tool to input your stakes and odds, and it will calculate your potential profit for you, simplifying the process of bet planning and bankroll management.
Betting Lines
Learn how to read and use betting lines in our comprehensive guide, which covers all major league sports and helps you make informed decisions when placing your bets.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting Locations
There are 13 retail sportsbooks located at casinos throughout Pennsylvania where you can visit and place sports bets. Here are some of the most popular casinos offering sports wagering in the state:
- Mohegan Sun Pocono
- Address: 1280 PA-315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
- Operator: Unibet
- Harrah’s Philadelphia
- Address: 777 Harrah’s Boulevard, Chester, PA 19013
- Operator: Caesars
- Mount Airy Casino
- Address: 312 Woodland Road, Mount Pocono, PA 18344
- Operator: FOX Bet
Pennsylvania Lottery Locations
The Pennsylvania Lottery operates all retail and online lottery draws in the state. However, the lottery does not have any partnerships with sportsbooks, meaning you cannot place sports bets at Pennsylvania Lottery locations.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
Pennsylvania has a rich horse racing history, with six racetracks spread across the state. The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission oversees all horse races and pari-mutuel betting. While multiple off-track betting (OTB) locations previously existed in Pennsylvania, many have closed down. However, some remaining OTB locations offer retail sportsbooks. Several sportsbooks have also formed partnerships with Pennsylvania stadiums, opening retail sportsbook lounges. However, due to Pennsylvania law, these lounges cannot offer sports betting through tellers or kiosks. Instead, patrons are encouraged to enjoy food and drink facilities while placing wagers in these sportsbook lounges.
Teams to Bet on in Pennsylvania
Pro Sports
When it comes to professional sports teams, Pennsylvania offers several options for bettors:
- Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles won their first Super Bowl in 2017, securing a passionate fan base.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: With six Super Bowl victories, the Steelers boast one of the most successful franchises in NFL history.
- Philadelphia 76ers: The state’s only NBA team has achieved consistent success, most recently winning their division in 2021.
- Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies have won two World Series championships and enjoyed a rich history in MLB.
- Pittsburgh Pirates: The Pirates have won five World Series titles in their storied history.
- Philadelphia Flyers: This NHL franchise has had sporadic success but retains a strong following.
- Pittsburgh Penguins: With five Stanley Cup victories, the Penguins are a force to be reckoned with in the NHL.
College Sports
For college sports enthusiasts, Pennsylvania offers a variety of teams to support:
- Bucknell Bison
- Drexel Dragons
- Duquesne Dukes
- Lafayette Leopards
- La Salle Explorers
- Lehigh Mountain Hawks
- Penn Quakers
- Penn State Nittany Lions
- Pittsburgh Panthers
- Robert Morris Colonials
- Saint Francis Red Flash
- Saint Joseph’s Hawks
- Temple Owls
- Villanova Wildcats
Women’s Sports
Pennsylvania is also home to professional women’s sports teams:
- Pittsburgh Passion: The Passion is a successful professional women’s tackle football team, gaining recognition for broadcasting games on a major TV network.
Pennsylvania Responsible Gambling Resources
If you or someone you know needs assistance with problem gambling, the following resources are available to support responsible gambling:
- The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania: Provides a free helpline, resources on problem gambling, and educational events. Contact them at (800) 522-4700.
- Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board: Offers an online chat, helpline, and links to further support organizations. Contact them at (800) 522-4700.
- Gamblers Anonymous PA: Hosts regular meetings in Pennsylvania to provide support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Contact them at (909) 931-9056.
Pennsylvania sports betting laws require all sportsbooks to provide responsible gambling resources and support, including self-exclusion tools that allow individuals to voluntarily block their access to sports betting. Additional tools are available for bettors to control their betting, such as setting spending limits and time restrictions on sportsbook sites. Sportsbook websites must also include links to problem gambling support organizations.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is responsible for overseeing sports betting in the state. The PGCB regulates and licenses sportsbooks that operate in Pennsylvania, including those that have partnered with qualifying casinos. However, only casinos with slot machines are eligible for licensing. The PGCB collects taxes from sports betting operations, issues fines for non-compliance, and enforces responsible gambling measures, such as self-exclusion programs.
FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Pennsylvania. Bettors can place wagers with any sportsbook licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Who governs sports betting in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is responsible for governing sports betting in Pennsylvania. This organization oversees the licensing and regulation of sportsbooks operating in the state.
How old do you have to be to bet in Pennsylvania?
To legally place wagers in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 21 years old.
When did sports betting launch in Pennsylvania?
Retail sports betting launched in Pennsylvania in November 2018, while online sports betting went live in May 2019.
What sportsbooks are legal in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers a wide range of legal sportsbooks, including DraftKings, Caesars, FanDuel, FOX Bet, betPARX, SugarHouse Sportsbook, Unibet, Betway, BetRivers, BetMGM, Betfred, Barstool Sportsbook, PointsBet, and TwinSpires.
Are sportsbooks in Pennsylvania safe?
Yes, sportsbooks licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board undergo strict safety tests to ensure the safety and security of bettors.
Do I have to pay taxes on betting winnings in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you must pay taxes on your sports betting winnings in Pennsylvania. You must declare all your gambling winnings when submitting taxes to the IRS. If your winnings exceed $600, sportsbooks may withhold up to 24% of your gambling winnings. However, you can claim a portion of this amount back through the appropriate channels.
Can you play DraftKings in Pennsylvania?
Yes, DraftKings is available for play in Pennsylvania. The sportsbook has partnered with the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows. Take advantage of our DraftKings promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting experience.
Can you play FanDuel in Pennsylvania?
FanDuel is available for play in Pennsylvania. The online sportsbook launched in PA on July 22, 2019. Discover our FanDuel promo code for Jul 2023 for extra rewards.
Can you play BetMGM in Pennsylvania?
Yes, BetMGM is accessible to Pennsylvania bettors. You can download the BetMGM app on both Apple and Android devices to place bets on your favorite sports and markets. Use the BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to maximize your betting opportunities.
Can you play Caesars in Pennsylvania?
The Caesars online sportsbook is available in Pennsylvania, and you can find its retail sportsbook at Harrah’s Philadelphia. Check out our Caesars promo code for Jul 2023 to make the most of your betting experience with Caesars.
Can you play TwinSpires in Pennsylvania?
Yes, TwinSpires sportsbook is available in Pennsylvania. However, it is worth noting that the operator plans to shut down its betting site soon.
Which sportsbooks will be available in Pennsylvania in the future?
Pennsylvania allows for a maximum of 14 sportsbooks to launch in the state. Each sportsbook must partner with one of the 14 licensed casinos. Currently, there are 14 operating sportsbooks in Pennsylvania, although TwinSpires is set to close in the future.