New Hampshire Legal Sports Betting Overview
Welcome to our comprehensive overview of legal sports betting in New Hampshire. In this article, we will explore the details of New Hampshire’s sports betting laws, explore the licensed sportsbook operators, discuss the legal wagering options available, and provide insights into the sports and banking options for bettors in the Granite State. So, whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the world of sports betting, we’ve got you covered!
NH Sports Betting Law Details
Let’s start by examining the key details of New Hampshire’s sports betting laws:
Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: August 12, 2020
Online Sports Betting Launch Date: December 30, 2019
New Hampshire legalized sports betting in July 2019 when Governor Chris Sununu signed HB 480 into law. The bill, sponsored by Representative Timothy Lang and others, aimed to welcome five online sportsbook operators to the state. However, an exclusivity agreement with the New Hampshire Lottery Commission led to DraftKings becoming the sole operator in the state. DraftKings launched online sports betting in December 2019 and opened the first retail sportsbook in August 2020.
Licensed Sportsbooks: DraftKings
DraftKings is the licensed sportsbook operator in New Hampshire. They offer both online and retail sports betting options to bettors in the Granite State.
Legal Wagering Options:
As a bettor in New Hampshire, you have a wide range of legal wagering options at your disposal. These options include:
- Futures
- Moneylines
- Parlays
- Point spreads
- Same game parlays
- Teasers
- Totals
Legal Gambling Age in NH: 18+
In order to participate in sports betting activities in New Hampshire, bettors must be 18 years of age or older.
Sports to Bet On:
New Hampshire bettors can wager on a variety of sports, including:
- NFL (National Football League)
- NBA (National Basketball Association)
- MLB (Major League Baseball)
- NHL (National Hockey League)
- MLS (Major League Soccer)
- MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)
- Tennis
- Golf
- Boxing
- Motorsports
- Cricket
- European soccer
- College sports betting (no in-state betting)
Please note that while college sports betting is available, there are restrictions on betting on in-state college teams.
Permitted Banking Options:
New Hampshire sports bettors have several permitted banking options to choose from, including:
- Mastercard
- PayPal
- Play+
- Visa
- Check by mail
- Online bank transfer
- Wire transfer
New Hampshire Gambling Regulator: New Hampshire Lottery Commission
The New Hampshire Lottery Commission serves as the regulator for gambling activities, including sports betting, in the state. They oversee the implementation of the sports betting laws and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
DraftKings New Hampshire Review
Now, let’s take a closer look at DraftKings, the exclusive sportsbook operator in New Hampshire:
Mobile App
DraftKings offers a highly regarded mobile app that provides a seamless betting experience. With its user-friendly interface and easy navigation, you can quickly switch between betting markets and access exclusive features like live streaming of popular sports events such as tennis and soccer. You can even customize mobile notifications to stay updated on the latest promotions.
Welcome Bonus
When you sign up with DraftKings in New Hampshire, you’ll be greeted with a competitive welcome bonus. The sportsbook matches 20% of your initial deposit, up to $5,000, with bonus funds that can be used for sports betting. The maximum reward for this welcome bonus is $1,000 in bonus funds, and the minimum deposit required is just $5. While the wagering requirements are slightly higher than some other sportsbooks, with a 25x rollover, it still offers a valuable opportunity to boost your bankroll and explore the world of sports betting.
Competitive Odds
DraftKings provides competitive odds across all sports and leagues. Whether you’re betting on major league sports like the NFL or NBA or niche sports like MMA and NASCAR, DraftKings offers generous betting lines that can rival other top sportsbook brands in the US. The sportsbook also partners with professional sports competitions, such as the NHL, which allows them to offer attractive odds on every NHL game, including the Stanley Cup.
Market Coverage
With DraftKings, New Hampshire bettors have access to a wide range of sports and bet types. DraftKings covers 18 sports, including major league sports like the NBA and NFL. As an official betting partner of these leagues, DraftKings offers a comprehensive selection of bet types, from traditional moneylines to teaser bets, allowing you to customize your betting experience. Even for niche sports like MMA and NASCAR, DraftKings often provides special promotions and odds boosts, making it a favorite choice for bettors interested in these sports.
Suitability for Beginner Bettors
Whether you’re new to sports betting or an experienced bettor, DraftKings caters to all skill levels. The user-friendly website layout and intuitive mobile app make it easy for beginners to navigate and place bets. DraftKings also provides educational resources, including beginner tutorials and guides, to help new bettors understand different bet types and wagering strategies. Additionally, the popularity of DraftKings’ Daily Fantasy Sports offering has made the brand familiar to many people who may be considering sports betting for the first time.
Payout Speed
DraftKings offers fast and reliable withdrawal options. While withdrawals are not instant, they are typically processed quickly compared to industry standards. Play+ withdrawals take around 2-4 days, wire transfers are usually completed within 24-48 hours, and online banking withdrawals and PayPal transactions generally take 3-5 days. If you prefer a traditional method, you can also request withdrawals by checks, although the delivery time will depend on the speed of the mail service.
How to Place a Bet in New Hampshire
If you’re new to sports betting in New Hampshire, don’t worry! Placing a bet with DraftKings is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps to get started:
Step 1: Visit DraftKings
To begin, visit the DraftKings website or download their mobile app. The links provided on this page will direct you to the official DraftKings site. If you’re using a mobile device, you may be prompted to download the app. Alternatively, you can visit the app page directly or download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Once you’re on the DraftKings platform, you’ll need to create an account. Enter your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You’ll also be required to choose a username and password for your account.
Step 3: Make a Deposit
Visit the cashier section of your DraftKings account to make your first deposit. Choose a payment method that suits your preferences, such as Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, or Play+. Ensure that you deposit enough funds to meet the minimum requirements for any bonuses you wish to claim.
Step 4: Place Your Bet
Now comes the exciting part – placing your bet! Choose the sport you want to bet on and select a betting line that interests you. Add the selection to your bet slip, specify the amount you wish to wager, and confirm your bet. It’s that simple!
Step 5: Withdraw Your Winnings
If your bet is successful and you’ve accumulated winnings, you can withdraw your funds. Follow the instructions provided by DraftKings to initiate a withdrawal. You may need to verify your account by submitting documents such as a photo ID and proof of address.
Remember, responsible gambling is always important. Set limits for yourself and enjoy sports betting responsibly.
Banking Methods Available in New Hampshire
DraftKings offers several banking methods that are available for New Hampshire bettors. Here are the options you can use:
- Mastercard
- PayPal
- Play+
- Visa
- Check by mail
- Online bank transfer
- Wire transfer
Please note that while deposits can be made using Visa and Mastercard, withdrawals are not available with these cards. The available options for withdrawals include online bank transfers, wire transfers, and checks by mail. If you prefer to use an e-wallet, PayPal is available for both deposits and withdrawals. Additionally, DraftKings offers Play+, a prepaid card that can be linked to your account for convenient transactions.
Who is Eligible to Bet in NH?
When it comes to eligibility for sports betting in New Hampshire, there are certain criteria that must be met. To legally place sports bets in the state, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be physically located within the borders of New Hampshire
- Verify your age and identity
There are also certain individuals who may be prohibited from betting, including:
- Players, coaches, employees, or members of any professional sports team
- Officials, referees, or umpires of professional and/or college sports leagues
- Individuals with the authority to influence players or create/influence rules for a sports league
- Individuals with licensing from the New Hampshire Gaming Commission
- Individuals with an ownership stake in a sports team
- Individuals who have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities
- Individuals with access to non-public information about a sports team
- Individuals prohibited from betting at a state or federal level due to criminal history
Please ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements and gamble responsibly.
Latest New Hampshire Sports Betting Updates
Let’s take a moment to review the current status and recent updates regarding sports betting in New Hampshire:
Current Sports Betting Status in New Hampshire
Both online and retail sports betting are legal and available in New Hampshire. Online sports betting launched in December 2019, and the first retail sportsbook opened in August 2020. Bettors in New Hampshire can wager on professional major league sports like the NFL and NBA, as well as select college sports, with the exception of in-state teams.
Timeline for Sports Betting in New Hampshire
The journey of sports betting legalization in New Hampshire can be traced through key milestones:
- July 12, 2019: Governor Chris Sununu signs HB 480 into law, legalizing sports betting in New Hampshire
- November 26, 2019: The New Hampshire Executive Council approves the New Hampshire Lottery Commission’s contract with DraftKings, granting exclusive access to the state
- December 30, 2019: Governor Sununu places the first legal online sports bet in New Hampshire, wagering on the New England Patriots to win the Super Bowl
- August 12, 2020: The first retail sportsbook in New Hampshire opens at The Brook Casino, operated by DraftKings
- September 3, 2020: DraftKings opens a retail sportsbook at the South Side Tavern, a casino operated by Filotimo Casinos
- October 19, 2021: The third retail sportsbook in New Hampshire opens at Dover Bowl
New Hampshire Sports Betting Background
The history of sports betting in New Hampshire dates back to 1933, when the state legalized pari-mutuel betting on horse racing. In July 2017, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) became legal in the state with the signing of HB 580. DraftKings entered the market as one of the major DFS operators. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, New Hampshire legalized sports betting with the passage of HB 480 in 2019.
Future of New Hampshire Sports Betting
DraftKings holds an exclusivity deal with the New Hampshire Lottery Commission until 2025. While there have been no official announcements regarding future changes to the state’s sports betting landscape, it is possible that more operators will enter the market after the exclusivity agreement expires.
New Hampshire Sports Betting Locations
Now, let’s explore the sports betting locations available in New Hampshire:
The Brook Casino
Address: 319 New Zealand Road, Seabrook, NH 03874
Website: https://www.livefreeandplay.com/
Phone Number: (603) 474-3065
Operator: DraftKings
The Brook Casino was the first retail sportsbook to open in New Hampshire, launching in August 2020. It offers a unique sports betting experience with hundreds of TVs, stadium seating, and cinema-sized screens. You can even book a private skybox or enjoy the tailgate experience with food and drinks.
South Side Tavern
Address: 1279 S. Willow Street, Manchester, NH 03103
Website: https://filotimocasino.com/manchester-nh/
Phone Number: (603) 668-6591
Operator: DraftKings
Located in Manchester, the South Side Tavern is home to another DraftKings retail sportsbook. With wall-to-wall TVs, multiple betting kiosks, and a 40,000 square foot space, the sportsbook offers a thrilling betting environment. While you’re there, you can also enjoy food and drinks from the Filotimo Casino’s South Side Tavern.
Dover Bowl
Address: 887 Central Avenue, Dover, NH 03820
Website: https://filotimocasino.com/dover-nh/
Phone Number: (603) 742-9632
Operator: DraftKings
Dover Bowl, operated by Filotimo Casino, is not just a bowling and entertainment venue but also a retail sportsbook. In addition to the DraftKings betting kiosks, you can enjoy bowling, bingo, and poker. The venue features a sports bar with 11 TVs, where you can grab food and drinks while watching your favorite games.
New Hampshire Lottery Locations
The New Hampshire Lottery Commission oversees all sports betting activities in the state. Here are the official New Hampshire Lottery locations:
- No sports betting available at lottery retailers
Please note that while the New Hampshire Lottery Commission regulates sports betting, you cannot place sports wagers at their retail locations.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
In addition to sportsbooks, New Hampshire offers off-track betting (OTB) options for horse racing enthusiasts. The New Hampshire Lottery Commission oversees horse and greyhound racing, including simulcast horse racing betting.
- There is one OTB location in the state, located at The Brook Casino.
While New Hampshire does not currently have sports betting options at stadiums, the New Hampshire Motor Speedway hosts the only NASCAR event in New England.
New Hampshire Responsible Gambling Resources
As always, responsible gambling is of the utmost importance. If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, here are some resources available in New Hampshire:
- New Hampshire Council on Problem Gambling: Offers education, prevention, and treatment for individuals with gambling disorders. Telephone: (603) 724-1605
- National Council on Problem Gambling: Provides self-screening tools, self-help resources, and live chat support. Telephone: (800) 522-4700
- Gamblers Anonymous: Operates meetings across the state where individuals can share their experiences and receive support. Meetings are also available online. Telephone: (855) 222-5542
DraftKings, as the licensed sportsbook operator, offers a self-exclusion program that allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities. DraftKings also provides links to local and national problem gambling assistance organizations and offers tools such as deposit limits and time-outs to help players control their gambling habits.
Teams to Bet on in New Hampshire
While New Hampshire does not have major league sports teams of its own, residents often support neighboring teams from Massachusetts and New York. Here are some popular teams:
Massachusetts
- New England Patriots (NFL)
- Boston Celtics (NBA)
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- Boston Bruins (NHL)
New York
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- Brooklyn Nets (NBA)
- New York Knicks (NBA)
- New York Mets (MLB)
- New York Yankees (MLB)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
- New York Rangers (NHL)
In addition to major league teams, New Hampshire residents often support minor league teams, such as the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (baseball) and the Manchester Monarchs (ice hockey and AHL).
College sports are also popular in New Hampshire, with notable programs including:
- Dartmouth Big Green
- New Hampshire Wildcats
Furthermore, New Hampshire hosts the only NASCAR event in the New England area at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, attracting racing enthusiasts from the state and beyond.
How Does New Hampshire Compare to Other States?
Let’s compare New Hampshire’s sports betting landscape to other states:
Market Coverage
With 18 legal sports to bet on, including major league sports and niche options, New Hampshire provides a diverse range of betting opportunities. While some states have no restrictions on college sports betting, New Hampshire imposes limitations on in-state college teams. This aligns with states like New Jersey, a major betting market in the US.
Competitive Odds & Prices
Although DraftKings is the sole sportsbook operator in New Hampshire, it offers competitive odds that are on par with those of other states where it operates. DraftKings frequently offers odds boosts, providing even more attractive betting lines to bettors in the Granite State. The sportsbook also offers excellent odds for in-play events, particularly in partnership with professional sports competitions like the NHL.
Gambling Revenue
New Hampshire boasts impressive gambling revenue, with a total betting handle exceeding $1 billion as of May 2022. DraftKings, as the exclusive sportsbook operator, has generated substantial revenue in the state. The New Hampshire Lottery Commission collects a higher percentage of DraftKings’ online and retail revenue compared to many other states. This collection has resulted in significant state taxes, which contribute to the state’s general fund.
Betting Taxes
New Hampshire does not impose state taxes on gambling winnings, following a legislative change in 2011. Therefore, bettors only need to consider federal taxes on gambling winnings. It is important to comply with IRS regulations and declare all gambling earnings. DraftKings, like other sportsbooks, may withhold a portion of your winnings for tax purposes.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Lottery Commission serves as the regulator for sports betting in the state. They ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and monitor the operations of DraftKings, the licensed sportsbook operator. With three members appointed by the Governor, the Commission oversees all forms of gambling in New Hampshire and collects taxes from the sportsbook’s revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is betting legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, sports betting is legal in New Hampshire. You can place bets through DraftKings, the licensed sportsbook operator, via their desktop site or mobile app. Additionally, there are retail sportsbooks available in the state.
Who governs sports betting in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Lottery Commission is responsible for regulating sports betting in the state. They ensure compliance with the law and enforce player safety measures.
How old do you have to be to bet in New Hampshire?
You must be 18 years or older to place sports bets in New Hampshire.
When did sports betting launch in New Hampshire?
Sports betting in New Hampshire launched in December 2019 for online betting and August 2020 for retail sportsbooks.
What sportsbooks are legal in New Hampshire?
DraftKings is the only licensed online sportsbook available in New Hampshire. You can download their app or visit their website to place bets. For retail sportsbooks, DraftKings operates three locations in the state.
Are sportsbooks in New Hampshire safe?
Yes, DraftKings is a trusted and reputable sportsbook operator. As a major player in the industry, DraftKings places a high priority on player safety and security. The New Hampshire Lottery Commission also ensures that player information is kept confidential and secure.
Do I have to pay taxes on betting winnings in New Hampshire?
Yes, you are required to pay federal taxes on your gambling winnings in New Hampshire. However, there are no state taxes on betting winnings following a legislative change in 2011.
Can you play DraftKings in New Hampshire?
Yes, DraftKings is available for sports betting in New Hampshire. Their platform, both the website and mobile app, allows you to place bets and enjoy the full range of betting options offered by DraftKings.
Can you play FanDuel in New Hampshire?
No, you cannot place sports bets using FanDuel in New Hampshire. However, FanDuel’s Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) platform is available for players over the age of 18.
Can you play BetMGM in New Hampshire?
No, BetMGM is not currently licensed to operate in New Hampshire. Only DraftKings is authorized to offer sports betting in the state.
Can you play Caesars in New Hampshire?
No, Caesars is not available for sports betting in New Hampshire. DraftKings is the exclusive licensed sportsbook operator in the state.
Can you play TwinSpires in New Hampshire?
No, you cannot bet with TwinSpires in New Hampshire. The sportsbook has announced its impending closure.
Which sportsbooks will be available in New Hampshire in the future?
As of now, DraftKings holds an exclusivity agreement with the New Hampshire Lottery Commission until 2025. There have been no official announcements regarding additional sportsbook operators entering the market during this period.
