West Virginia Legal Sports Betting Overview
West Virginia has established itself as one of the leading states in the United States when it comes to legal sports betting. With the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) in May 2018, West Virginia wasted no time in legalizing retail sports betting. In September 2018, the state became one of the first to offer this form of gambling. Additionally, West Virginia launched online sports betting in 2019, providing residents with even more convenience and accessibility.
WV Sports Betting Law Details
- Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: September 1, 2018
- Online Sports Betting Launch Date: December 27, 2018 (relaunched on August 26, 2019)
- Licensed Sportsbooks: Barstool Sportsbook, Betly, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet
- Legal Wagering Options: Futures, live bets, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, props, teasers, same game parlays, totals
- Legal Gambling Age in WV: 21+
- Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, WNBA, eSports, minor league baseball, motorsports, golf, mixed martial arts, boxing, UK and European soccer, Olympics, international contests, college sports
- Permitted Banking Options: American Express, Mastercard, Play+, Skrill, Venmo, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), casino cage cashiers, online bank transfers
- West Virginia Gambling Regulator: West Virginia Lottery Commission
With a wide range of licensed sportsbooks available, including popular brands like DraftKings and FanDuel, West Virginia offers a diverse and competitive betting market. Bettors can choose from a variety of wagering options, including futures, live bets, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, props, teasers, same game parlays, and totals. The legal gambling age in West Virginia is 21 or older, and sports enthusiasts can place bets on major sports leagues like NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, WNBA, as well as eSports, motorsports, golf, boxing, and even college sports.
West Virginia’s sports betting operations are overseen by the West Virginia Lottery Commission, which ensures fair and responsible gambling practices in the state. The commission regulates the industry and grants licenses to sportsbooks, upholding the integrity of the market.
West Virginia Online Sportsbooks Compared
West Virginia offers a variety of online sportsbooks for bettors to choose from. With household names like FanDuel and Caesars, as well as specialized sportsbooks like Betly, the state provides a diverse range of options. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top West Virginia sportsbooks:
Best Mobile App – FanDuel
FanDuel’s mobile betting app is highly acclaimed among bettors. With a user-friendly interface and a seamless betting experience, FanDuel offers a top-notch mobile app that is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app provides easy navigation between different markets and features push notifications for events, making it ideal for live betting enthusiasts.
Best Welcome Bonus – PointsBet
PointsBet offers an attractive welcome bonus for new bettors. With two risk-free bets, bettors have the opportunity to place their first bet on fixed-odds markets up to $500 and a second bet of up to $1500 on PointsBet’s unique point betting feature. If either bet loses, the money is returned as free bets that can be used on fixed-odds wagers, adding extra value for new users.
Best for Competitive Odds – BetMGM
BetMGM stands out for its consistently generous betting lines on markets like point spreads and props. The sportsbook also offers a selection of daily odds boosts, providing bettors with enhanced odds and additional value. With competitive odds, BetMGM ensures that bettors have access to favorable betting lines.
Best for Market Coverage – DraftKings
DraftKings offers a comprehensive selection of more than 20 different sports markets. From popular sports like NFL, NBA, and NHL to niche international sports like rugby and snooker, DraftKings ensures that bettors have a wide range of options to choose from. The sportsbook also provides great live betting options for most sports, enhancing the excitement of in-game wagering.
Best for Beginner Bettors – Betly
For new bettors, Betly offers a user-friendly sportsbook that simplifies the betting process. The platform provides clear and intuitive presentation of betting options, making it easy for beginners to navigate. The bet slip at Betly breaks down odds clearly, showing stake and potential profit, which is helpful for bettors looking to calculate their odds accurately.
Best for Payout Speed – Caesars
Caesars sportsbook boasts fast payout speeds, guaranteeing 72-hour withdrawals on all payment methods. While additional checks may be necessary in some cases, Caesars ensures rapid and efficient payment processing. With quick withdrawals, bettors can enjoy the fruits of their winnings without delay.
How to Place a Bet in West Virginia
If you’re new to sports betting in West Virginia, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
- Choose the best West Virginia sportsbook for your preferences and needs.
- Download the sportsbook app on your Apple or Android device. If no app is available, you can visit the sportsbook through its mobile browser site.
- Ensure that your device’s geolocation services are enabled for the app to verify your location within West Virginia.
- Register an account with your chosen sportsbook, providing the required information like your name, address, date of birth, phone number, and social security number.
- Make your first deposit, taking advantage of any welcome bonuses or promotions available.
- Browse the sportsbook’s markets and select the bets you wish to place.
- Add your chosen bets to the bet slip, specify your stake, and place your wagers.
- If your bets are successful, you can request a withdrawal and enjoy your winnings.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the excitement and thrill of sports betting in West Virginia.
Banking Methods Available in West Virginia
West Virginia offers a variety of banking methods for sports bettors to conveniently deposit and withdraw funds. Accepted payment options include:
- American Express
- Mastercard
- Play+
- Skrill
- Venmo
- Visa
- Automated Clearing House (ACH)
- Casino cage cashiers
- Online bank transfers
These banking options ensure that bettors have flexibility and convenience when it comes to managing their funds on sports betting platforms in West Virginia.
Who is Eligible to Bet in WV?
In order to place sports bets in West Virginia, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. The criteria for bettors in West Virginia are as follows:
- Age Requirement: Bettors must be at least 21 years old to engage in sports betting activities in West Virginia.
- Physical Presence: Bettors need to be physically located within the state’s borders to place bets. Residency within the state is not a requirement.
- Restrictions: Certain individuals are prohibited from betting in West Virginia, including employees of companies with a sports betting license, sports team members and staff, individuals with the authority to influence players, and those restricted from betting at a state or federal level, among others.
By adhering to these regulations, West Virginia ensures the integrity and fairness of its sports betting industry.
Latest West Virginia Sports Betting Updates
As of the current status, both online and retail sports betting are legal and operational in West Virginia. Bettors over the age of 21 who are physically present within the state can download sportsbook apps and place bets. Additionally, there are retail sportsbooks available at five land-based casinos in West Virginia. The state has adopted open laws for college betting, allowing betting on local college teams and various bet types, setting it apart from other states.
Current Sports Betting Status in West Virginia
West Virginia has positioned itself as a prominent player in the sports betting market, standing out with its early adoption and comprehensive offerings. The state has a thriving sports betting industry, with a variety of sportsbooks available both online and at retail locations. West Virginia offers an open and diverse market, encompassing college betting and a wide range of sports for wagering.
West Virginia Sports Betting Background
West Virginia has been at the forefront of sports betting since before the repeal of PASPA. Delegate Shawn Fluharty, a driving force behind the legislation, presented a bill to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2018, prior to the repeal. This bill gained significant support and enthusiasm, leading to the passage of SB 415 in March 2018. The bill, which legalized sports wagering, was passed even before the repeal of PASPA, highlighting West Virginia’s proactive approach to legalizing sports betting.
The state quickly launched its first online sportsbook, BetLucky, in December 2018, making it one of the earliest adopters of online sports betting in the United States. However, BetLucky faced operational challenges and ceased operations just three months later due to a dispute between the providers. Despite this setback, West Virginia remained committed to providing a robust and regulated sports betting market.
West Virginia has also been progressive in other forms of gambling. For example, the state legalized Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) in 2016, demonstrating its willingness to embrace new betting formats.
While online poker is not yet live in West Virginia, the state legalized it in 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the launch of state-regulated online poker platforms was delayed. Nonetheless, the state looks forward to the future launch of these platforms, further expanding its gambling offerings.
Future of West Virginia Sports Betting
West Virginia’s sports betting market continues to evolve and expand. The state is exploring the legalization of eSports betting, with HB 4826 passing the House of Representatives and moving on to the Senate. This potential inclusion of eSports betting highlights the state’s commitment to embracing new and emerging forms of sports wagering.
West Virginia is also welcoming additional sportsbook operators. Recent partnerships between casinos and renowned brands like WynnBET and theScoreBet indicate the growth and future potential of the market. As more operators enter the state, bettors can expect a broader range of options and enhanced competition, leading to improved offerings and better experiences.
West Virginia Sports Betting Locations
West Virginia boasts a range of sports betting locations, primarily based in its land-based casinos. The following are some prominent sports betting locations in the state:
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
Address: 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, WV 25414
Phone Number: (800) 795-7001
Operator: Barstool Sportsbook
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races offers a retail sportsbook operated by Barstool Sportsbook. Bettors can enjoy high-top table seating and a vibrant atmosphere while watching their favorite sporting events on large-screen TVs. The casino also hosts online sportsbooks from DraftKings and PointsBet.
The Greenbrier
Address: 101 W. Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
Phone Number: (844) 837-2466
Operator: FanDuel
The Greenbrier is a private establishment that features a retail sportsbook operated by FanDuel. Members and guests of The Greenbrier can enjoy the sportsbook’s offerings in a luxurious setting. Additionally, The Greenbrier is home to an online sportsbook provided by BetMGM.
Mountaineer Casino
Address: 1420 Mountaineer Circle, New Cumberland, WV 26047
Phone Number: (800) 804-0468
Operator: Caesars
Mountaineer Casino offers a retail and online sportsbook operated by Caesars. The retail sportsbook provides a relaxing betting experience with its giant wall of TVs, allowing bettors to enjoy live events while placing their wagers.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other sports betting locations available in West Virginia.
West Virginia Lottery Locations
The West Virginia Lottery Commission oversees the state’s sports betting industry. However, there are no partnerships between sports betting operators and lottery retailers. While residents can bet from anywhere in the state using mobile apps, retail bets cannot be placed with lottery ticket sellers. This cautious approach stems from previous challenges faced by the state regarding online betting providers.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
Although West Virginia legalized horse race betting in 2020, there are no off-track or betting locations available in the state. However, four casinos with retail sportsbooks also offer horse race betting and simulcast betting. West Virginia is one of the few states that still permits greyhound racing, and bettors can wager on this sport and watch races at two of the state’s casinos. The West Virginia Racing Commission oversees all racing activities in the state.
West Virginia Responsible Gambling Resources
West Virginia is dedicated to promoting responsible gambling and provides resources for individuals who may be experiencing gambling-related issues. Here are some helpful organizations and helplines:
- Problem Gamblers Help Network of West Virginia – Helpline administered by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (Phone Number: (800) 426-2537)
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Offers live chat, test, and call options for those seeking help (Phone Number: (800) 522-4700)
- Help 4 WV – Addiction recovery and mental health service offering a comprehensive database of resources and a live chat and phone line (Phone Number: (844) 435-7498)
West Virginia sportsbooks are required to include responsible gambling resources on their platforms. These tools allow bettors to set deposit, bet, and loss limits, view their account history, take temporary breaks, and self-exclude from the platform if necessary. Ensuring responsible gambling practices is a priority for the state.
Teams to Bet on in West Virginia
While West Virginia does not have any major league professional sports teams, residents can still place bets on teams from neighboring states. Here are some prominent teams in states close to West Virginia:
Maryland
Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
Baltimore Blast (MISL)
North Carolina
Carolina Panthers (NFL)
Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
Ohio
Cleveland Browns (NFL)
Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)
Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)
Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
These neighboring states offer a diverse range of professional sports teams to support and bet on.
How Does West Virginia Compare to Other States?
West Virginia’s sports betting market offers a range of features and advantages compared to other states:
Market Coverage
West Virginia provides one of the most welcoming environments for college betting, not imposing any restrictions on teams or bet types. Only Pennsylvania has college betting laws that are equally open. Additionally, West Virginia is one of the few states to allow online casino gambling, expanding the range of options for bettors.
Competitive Odds & Prices
Top sportsbooks like BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and PointsBet provide competitive odds that are on par with other states. Bettors in West Virginia can expect fair betting lines and competitive prices across a range of markets.
Gambling Revenue
West Virginia has experienced significant growth in its sports betting market, with impressive revenue figures. The state has handled over $1.3 billion in wagers and generated over $105 million in revenue. These numbers reflect the popularity and success of West Virginia’s sports betting industry, positioning it as a key player in the US market.
Betting Taxes
West Virginia has one of the lowest gambling tax rates in the United States, with operators only required to pay 10% to the West Virginia Lottery Commission. This favorable tax rate provides a conducive environment for sportsbooks and encourages continued growth in the industry. Comparatively, other states have significantly higher tax rates, such as 51% in New York and 36% in Pennsylvania.
By offering a market with open college betting laws, competitive odds, impressive revenue figures, and favorable tax rates, West Virginia stands out among other states in the sports betting industry.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in West Virginia?
The West Virginia Lottery Commission serves as the regulatory body for sports betting in the state. Comprised of seven elected members, the commission oversees all aspects of gambling in West Virginia, ensuring compliance with regulations and upholding the integrity of the industry. The commission is responsible for granting licenses to operators, collecting taxes and fines, and enforcing minimum internal control standards.
Operators seeking a license from the West Virginia Lottery Commission must undergo background checks and pay a license fee. The commission ensures fair and responsible gambling practices are followed in the state, while allowing for a vibrant and competitive sports betting market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is betting legal in West Virginia?
Yes, betting is legal in West Virginia. Retail sports betting was legalized in 2018, and online sports betting was launched the same year. Bettors in West Virginia can legally place wagers at retail sportsbooks and online platforms.
Who governs sports betting in West Virginia?
The West Virginia Lottery Commission governs sports betting in the state. This regulatory body oversees licensing, compliance, and enforcement of regulations to ensure a secure and fair gambling environment.
How old do you have to be to bet in West Virginia?
To engage in sports betting in West Virginia, bettors must be at least 21 years old. The minimum gambling age for lottery games and bingo is 18.
When did sports betting launch in West Virginia?
Sports betting was legalized in West Virginia in 2018. The first online sportsbook went live in December 2018, while retail sports betting launched in September 2018.
What sportsbooks are legal in West Virginia?
The legal sportsbooks in West Virginia include FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Betly, Caesars, PointsBet, and Barstool Sportsbook.
Are sportsbooks in West Virginia safe?
Yes, all sportsbooks in West Virginia are closely regulated by the West Virginia Lottery Commission. These sportsbooks operate in partnership with licensed casinos and follow strict regulations to ensure the safety and security of bettors.
Do I have to pay taxes on betting winnings in West Virginia?
Yes, gambling winnings in West Virginia are taxable. If your winnings exceed $600 in a year, your sportsbook should provide you with a W-2G form, and you must report those winnings on your income taxes. West Virginia law requires sportsbooks to withhold 6.5% on taxable winnings.
Can you play DraftKings in West Virginia?
Yes, DraftKings is available for residents of West Virginia. DraftKings launched its sportsbook in the state in 2019, offering a wide range of betting options across various sports.
Can you play FanDuel in West Virginia?
Yes, FanDuel is one of the legal sportsbooks in West Virginia. The popular sportsbook went live in the state alongside DraftKings and offers a user-friendly platform for sports betting.
Can you play BetMGM in West Virginia?
Yes, BetMGM is available for sports betting enthusiasts in West Virginia. BetMGM offers a comprehensive sportsbook, online casino, and rewards program for optimal betting experiences.
Can you play Caesars in West Virginia?
Yes, Caesars operates a legal sportsbook in West Virginia. With its partnership with Mountaineer Casino, Caesars offers both retail and online sports betting services in the state.
Can you play TwinSpires in West Virginia?
TwinSpires currently does not offer sports betting services in West Virginia. However, residents can wager on horse racing at TwinSpires, which will soon be shutting down its sportsbook operations.
Which sportsbooks will be available in West Virginia in the future?
West Virginia has room for additional sportsbook operators, with each licensed casino permitted to partner with up to three sportsbook brands. Recent partnerships, such as WynnBET’s collaboration with Mardi Gras Casino, suggest that new sportsbooks will enter the West Virginia market in the future.
