Indiana Legal Sports Betting Overview
IN Sports Betting Law Details
Status
– Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: September 1, 2019
– Online Sports Betting Launch Date: October 3, 2019
– Licensed Sportsbooks: Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Betway, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet, SBK Sportsbook, theScore Bet, TwinSpires, Unibet, WynnBET
– Legal Wagering Options: Futures, live bets, moneylines, parlays, props, same game parlays, spreads, teasers, totals
– Legal Gambling Age in IN: 21+
– Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLS, NHL, MLB, tennis, MMA, golf, boxing, cricket, European soccer, college sports (no prop bets)
– Permitted Banking Options: Mastercard, PayNearMe, PayPal, Play+, Skrill, Venmo, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), online bank transfers, wire transfer
– Indiana Gambling Regulator: Indiana Gaming Commission
Sports Betting in Indiana: A Comprehensive Guide
Sports betting has gained legal status in Indiana after legislative efforts led by Representative Jerry Torr and others successfully pushed for its legalization. In May 2019, Governor Eric Holcomb signed HB 1015 into law, laying the foundation for the launch of the state’s first retail sportsbook. On September 1, 2019, Indiana witnessed the opening of its inaugural retail sportsbook at the Indiana Grand Casino, with Governor Holcomb himself placing the first wager. A month later, in October 2019, BetRivers became the first online sportsbook to operate in Indiana. Fast forward to July 2022, and the Hoosier State boasts a thriving sports betting market, hosting 14 online sportsbooks, including prominent names like DraftKings and Caesars. Alongside these major operators, smaller sportsbooks also provide a wide range of betting options. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with all the necessary information about sports betting in Indiana, including the best sportsbooks, bonuses available, and the legal landscape of sports betting in the state.
Indiana Online Sportsbooks Compared
Indiana sports betting enthusiasts have the privilege of enjoying a variety of top-tier sportsbooks, each with its own unique strengths. To help you find the perfect sportsbook for your needs, we have compared some of Indiana’s leading operators in key areas:
Best Mobile App – DraftKings
When it comes to mobile apps, DraftKings takes the crown as the leader in the Indiana sports betting market. Available for both Apple and Android devices, the DraftKings sportsbook app offers a user-friendly interface that allows for easy navigation. The app provides a wide selection of boosted odds and promotions that can be conveniently accessed and redeemed. Additionally, the DraftKings app allows users to participate in betting pools, adding an extra layer of excitement to the overall experience. Don’t forget to claim your DraftKings Sportsbook Promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting journey.
Best Welcome Bonus – PointsBet
For the best welcome bonus in Indiana, look no further than PointsBet. This operator offers a whopping $2,000 in free bets as part of their welcome package. The bonus is split into two components: $500 for fixed odds betting and an incredible $1,500 for PointsBet’s unique points betting feature. In the event that either of your bets loses, PointsBet will refund your wager as free betting money. Unlike many other welcome bonuses, PointsBet’s offering does not come with any wagering requirements. This means that any winnings you accumulate with your bonus funds are immediately withdrawable, putting you in full control of your betting rewards.
Best for Competitive Odds – Caesars
When it comes to competitive betting odds, Caesars Sportsbook stands out from the crowd. This popular sportsbook consistently offers better odds on both sides of moneylines, making it an attractive option for bettors looking to maximize their potential winnings. Caesars Sportsbook is especially renowned for its competitive odds on player props and NHL bets. Moreover, the sportsbook provides daily odds boosts for major league sports and European soccer, giving customers even greater value for their wagers. Make sure to check out the latest Caesars Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting experience.
Best for Market Coverage – BetMGM
If extensive market coverage is what you seek, BetMGM is the sportsbook for you. As the official partner of the MLB, NBA, and NHL, BetMGM offers an impressive selection of betting options for these popular leagues. Furthermore, BetMGM also covers lesser-known sports and any Olympic events approved by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Whether you’re a fan of mainstream or niche sports, BetMGM ensures that you have ample betting opportunities. To enhance your BetMGM experience, don’t forget to claim your BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Beginner Bettors – FanDuel
For novice bettors looking for a user-friendly platform, FanDuel is the ideal choice. Both the FanDuel mobile app and desktop website offer a straightforward and intuitive betting experience. From registration to withdrawing your winnings, every step is clear and simple. Navigating through the site is a breeze, and contacting support or managing your account settings is hassle-free. FanDuel prioritizes ease of use, ensuring that even beginners can confidently engage with sports betting. Take advantage of the latest FanDuel Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting journey.
Best for Payout Speed – BetRivers
If you’re looking to quickly cash out your winnings, BetRivers is the sportsbook for you. This operator offers instant payouts for bettors using Play+ and PayPal. While some payments may require additional security checks, most transactions are processed much faster compared to other sportsbooks. BetRivers understands the importance of timely payouts and ensures that you receive your hard-earned winnings with minimal delay. Don’t miss out on the BetRivers Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to make the most of your betting experience.
NFL Betting Guide
Our comprehensive NFL betting guide provides you with access to all the information you need in one place. From live markets and schedules to valuable tips and up-to-date scores, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned football bettor or just starting out, this guide will help you navigate the intricacies of NFL betting and maximize your chances of success.
NBA Betting Guide
If you’re an NBA fan looking to explore the world of sports betting, our NBA betting guide is your ultimate resource. We provide a curated list of the top sportsbooks for NBA betting and offer expert tips to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re interested in moneylines, spreads, totals, or prop bets, our guide covers it all. Join us on this journey to elevate your NBA betting experience and increase your chances of winning.
MLB Betting Guide
Baseball enthusiasts, rejoice! Our MLB betting guide is designed to assist you in navigating the intricacies of wagering on America’s favorite pastime. From understanding odds and lines to exploring prop bets and futures, this comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge needed to make informed and profitable MLB bets. Join us as we explore the world of MLB betting and uncover strategies to enhance your overall experience.
How Does Indiana Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage
When it comes to market coverage, Indiana stands out among other states. The Indiana Gaming Commission approves a wide variety of sports for betting, offering a greater range compared to many other jurisdictions. Notably, college sports betting, including in-state teams, is legal in Indiana. However, prop bets on college sports are not permitted. This restriction aims to protect non-professional athletes from undue pressure and reduce the risk of match-fixing. It is also worth mentioning that Indiana does not allow eSports betting at this time.
Competitive Odds & Prices
In terms of odds and prices, there is little disparity between Indiana sportsbooks and those in other states. Major brands available in Indiana offer consistent odds across jurisdictions, ensuring that bettors in Indiana receive the same odds as their counterparts elsewhere. This level playing field ensures fairness and equal opportunities for all bettors.
Gambling Revenue
Indiana has witnessed remarkable success in terms of gambling revenue, ranking fourth in terms of betting handle in US history, with over $7 billion recorded. Since the launch of sports betting, Indiana has generated a staggering $570,854,900 in sportsbook revenue. The overall hold percentage is 7.7%, which aligns with the nationwide average. It is worth noting that Indiana sportsbooks are subject to a 9.5% tax rate, resulting in $54,231,218 in tax revenue for the state. While some states have lower betting taxes, such as Iowa and Nevada with 6.75%, Indiana remains competitive in terms of tax rates compared to jurisdictions like Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Hampshire.
Betting Taxes
Under the Internal Revenue Code, every sportsbook operator in Indiana pays a 0.25% excise tax on sports betting handles. Additionally, there is a $50 tax imposed on every employee involved in receiving bets for sportsbooks. Indiana imposes a 9.5% tax on betting revenue generated by operators, which is relatively low compared to other states. This favorable tax rate explains the abundance of sportsbooks available in Indiana. In contrast, jurisdictions like Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Hampshire impose significantly higher betting taxes.
It is important to note that all gambling winnings, including sports betting winnings, are taxable in Indiana. Any winnings exceeding $600 require the completion of tax form W-2G. Sportsbooks may also withhold a portion of your winnings for tax purposes, which can be claimed back through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is the bettor’s responsibility to pay taxes to both the IRS and the state of Indiana. The tax rate in Indiana is 3.23%.
How to Place a Bet in Indiana
Placing a bet in Indiana is a straightforward process, especially with the abundance of online sportsbooks available. If you’re new to sports betting, follow these simple steps to get started:
1. Explore the Available Sportsbooks: With 14 sportsbooks to choose from in Indiana, take the time to research and compare their offerings. Each operator may have unique features, promotions, and betting options, so find the sportsbook that best suits your preferences.
2. Download the App: Most sportsbooks offer dedicated mobile apps for both Apple and Android devices. Download and install the app from your preferred sportsbook’s website or from your device’s app store.
3. Registration: Provide the necessary information, including your full name, date of birth, address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to register an account. Ensure that you enable geolocation services as required by most sportsbooks to confirm that you are within Indiana’s borders.
4. Deposit Funds: Head to the cashier section of the sportsbook app and follow the specific instructions to make a deposit. Most sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses that may require a deposit, allowing you to maximize your betting experience. Take advantage of these bonuses, and don’t forget to redeem any available promo codes.
5. Place Your Bet: Select the desired sports event or market you wish to bet on. Add it to your bet slip, specify your stake, and place the wager. Once your bet is successfully placed, you can track the progress of your wagers and potential winnings within the app.
6. Withdraw Your Winnings: If you win, head back to the cashier section to initiate a withdrawal. Follow the instructions provided by the sportsbook to cash out your winnings.
Remember, responsible gambling is essential. Set limits for yourself, both financially and in terms of time spent betting. Sports betting should be an enjoyable and entertaining activity.
Banking Methods Available in Indiana
Indiana sportsbooks offer a wide range of convenient payment options to facilitate deposits and withdrawals. Here are some commonly accepted banking methods:
– Credit and Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at most sportsbooks.
– E-wallets: Popular e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill are available for secure transactions.
– Bank Transfers: You can deposit directly from your bank account using wire transfers or online bank transfers.
– Gambling-Specific Wallets: Some sportsbooks accept gambling-specific wallets like Play+, which offer added convenience and security.
– Prepaid Cards: PayNearMe prepaid cards can be used for in-person deposits at select retail locations or at partner land-based venues for online transactions.
– Counter and Cage Deposits: If you prefer in-person transactions, some sportsbooks allow you to deposit funds at the casino cage or designated betting counters at affiliated physical locations.
Please note that availability may vary depending on the chosen sportsbook. It is advisable to check the specific banking methods offered by each operator to find the one that suits your preferences.
Who is Not Eligible to Bet in IN?
While sports betting is legal in Indiana, certain individuals are ineligible to participate. The following are examples of those excluded from betting in Indiana:
– College and professional athletes and sports team members.
– Individuals holding key positions within sports league organizations responsible for setting rules and regulations (e.g., NFL, NBA).
– Sports team staff, including coaches, referees, or directors.
– Owners of professional sports teams.
– Individuals restricted from betting at the state or federal level due to criminal history.
– Individuals who have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities.
It is essential to ensure compliance with the regulations and restrictions in place to maintain the integrity of sports betting and safeguard the interests of all participants.
Latest Indiana Sports Betting Updates
As of the latest update, sports betting in Indiana remains both retail and online, offering betting options across various sports. The Indiana Gaming Commission, comprising seven members selected by the Governor, oversees the state’s sports betting industry. The following timeline highlights key developments in Indiana sports betting:
– April 14, 2022: Milt Thompson is appointed as the new chairman of the Indiana Gaming Commission by Governor Holcomb.
– March 10, 2022: SBK Sportsbook enters the Indiana sports betting market, just in time for March Madness.
– February 11, 2022: The Indiana Gaming Commission reports record betting handle in January, exceeding $500 million for the first time.
– December 2021: WynnBet, Barstool Sportsbook, Betway Sportsbook, and Bally Bet launch in Indiana.
– December 2020: Additional sportsbooks, including BetMGM, PointsBet, Caesars Sportsbook, Unibet Sportsbook, and theScore Bet, enter the Indiana market.
– March 16, 2020: Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indiana Gaming Commission mandates the closure of land-based casinos and retail sportsbooks. Online sportsbooks, however, continued to operate despite the limited sporting events available for wagering.
– October 3, 2019: DraftKings and BetRivers become the first two online sportsbooks to launch in Indiana, with BetRivers accepting the first legal online wager. FanDuel Sportsbook follows suit, launching on October 22.
– September 1, 2019: Indiana’s sports betting industry officially launches, with Governor Eric Holcomb placing the inaugural wager at the Indiana Grand Casino. The bet placed was on the Indianapolis Colts and Indiana Pacers to win their respective championships in the upcoming seasons.
– May 8, 2019: Governor Eric Holcomb signs HB 1015 into law, making retail and online sports betting legal in Indiana. This historic moment makes Indiana the 13th state in the US to legalize sports betting.
– April 24, 2019: The House passes a compromise on HB 1015, including provisions for mobile betting, with a majority vote of 59-36. The Senate also approves the bill, voting 37-12 in favor.
– March 27, 2019: SB 552 is introduced, which initially excludes mobile betting. This leads to conflicts between lawmakers regarding the inclusion of mobile betting in the legislation.
– January 3, 2019: Representative Torr introduces HB 1015 to the House, paving the way for the legalization of sports betting. The bill passes the House with a vote of 76-8.
– May 2018: The United States Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA), granting states the authority to legalize online sports betting.
Indiana Sports Betting Background
The legal gambling industry in Indiana dates back to 1988 with the establishment of the Hoosier Lottery. In subsequent years, the Hoosier Park Horse Track opened in September 1994, followed by off-track betting facilities in 1995, all overseen by the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. The Indiana Riverboat Gaming Act, enacted on July 1, 1993, authorized ten riverboat casinos, expanding gambling options within the state. In 2007, changes in Indiana’s gambling regulations allowed racinos to operate, bringing 2,000 slot machines to the state’s two racetracks. These legislative developments formed the foundation for the successful launch of sports betting in 2019.
Future of Indiana Sports Betting
Indiana’s sports betting market is poised for further expansion, with several new operators set to enter the scene. FOX Bet, MaximBet, Hard Rock Sportsbook, and Tipico Sportsbook have all obtained licenses from the Indiana Gaming Commission and are preparing to launch in the near future. The Commission also allows each of the 12 casinos in the state to partner with three online sports betting operators, potentially increasing the number of available sportsbooks even further. The future of Indiana’s sports betting industry is bright, offering a wealth of options for bettors across the state.
Online Sportsbooks
Explore our selection of top-rated online sportsbooks offering the best promotions and biggest bonuses. With our carefully curated list, you can confidently choose a sportsbook that suits your preferences and enhances your betting experience.
Odds Calculator
Our user-friendly odds calculator simplifies the process of calculating your potential profits. Simply enter your stakes and odds, and our tool will provide you with an accurate calculation of your potential winnings.
Betting Lines
Learn how to effectively use betting lines across major league sports with our comprehensive guide. We break down the intricacies of betting lines, empowering you to make informed decisions and optimize your betting strategy.
Indiana Sports Betting Locations
Indiana offers various retail sportsbooks across the state. Here are some notable locations where you can enjoy sports betting:
Horseshoe Casino, Hammond
Address: 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond, IN 46320
Website: [Horseshoe Casino, Hammond](https://www.caesars.com/horseshoe/)
Phone Number: (866) 711-7463
Operator: Caesars
The Horseshoe Casino in Hammond is home to a retail Caesars sportsbook, covering an expansive 5,300 square feet. It features multiple betting kiosks, a racebook, and a video wall with 16 flat-screen TVs. Enthusiastic bettors can enjoy a seamless betting experience within this state-of-the-art sportsbook.
Blue Chip Casino
Address: 777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City, IN 46360
Website: [Blue Chip Casino](https://www.bluechipcasino.com/)
Phone Number: (219) 879-7711
Operator: FanDuel
The Blue Chip Casino offers sports enthusiasts a chance to engage in sports betting from 10am to 11pm daily. Operated by FanDuel, the sportsbook features five betting windows, ten self-service kiosks, and 22 TV screens that stream the latest sporting events, providing an immersive betting experience.
Belterra Casino Resort
Address: 777 Belterra Drive, Florence, IN 47020
Website: [Belterra Casino Resort](https://www.belterracasino.com/)
Phone Number: (812) 427-7777
Operator: FanDuel
The Belterra Casino Resort boasts a retail FanDuel sportsbook that opened its doors on September 9, 2019. This sportsbook offers four self-service booths, 12 high-quality TV screens, and a large video wall with a sports ticker. Bettors can enjoy their favorite sporting events while engaging in exhilarating sports betting.
(Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Other land-based casinos and their corresponding sportsbooks are available throughout Indiana.)
Indiana Lottery Locations
The Hoosier Lottery, operated by the Indiana State Lottery Commission, does not currently offer sports betting at its retail locations.
Off-Track & Stadium Betting Locations
Although stadium betting is not available in Indiana, residents and visitors can engage in off-track betting at three licensed locations authorized by the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. Winner’s Circle, operated by Caesars Entertainment, operates all three locations.
– Winner’s Circle Brew, Pub, and OTB: 1304 Minnich Road, New Haven, IN 46774
– Winner’s Circle OTB: 650 Eastern Boulevard, Clarksville, IN 47129
– Winner’s Circle Pub, Grille, and OTB: 20 N. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Please note that off-track and stadium betting venues may have specific operating hours and other requirements, so it is advisable to contact the location directly for the most up-to-date information.
Teams to Bet on in Indiana
Indiana boasts a variety of professional and college teams for sports enthusiasts to bet on. Here are some notable teams:
Pro Sports
– Indianapolis Colts: The Indianapolis Colts, representing the state in the NFL, have a rich history, including two Super Bowl victories in 1970 and 2006. The team has achieved seven Conference championships.
– Indiana Pacers: The Indiana Pacers, a prominent NBA team, experienced success in the 1970s when they won three titles during the ABA era. They won a Conference championship in 2000 and have featured iconic players like Reggie Miller and Chris Mullin.
College Sports
– Ball State Cardinals: The Ball State Cardinals often find themselves as underdogs, but their history is filled with inspiring stories, such as their unexpected victory in the first round of the 2009 NCAA women’s basketball tournament.
– Buster Bulldogs: The Buster Bulldogs from Union University engage in an intense rivalry with the Valparaiso Beacons and annually compete for the Hoosier Helmet Trophy in football.
– Evansville Purple Aces: The Evansville Purple Aces have a proud yet tragic history in basketball. The team tragically lost its entire roster in a plane crash in 1977. The Purple Aces have represented the University of Evansville five times in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
– Indiana Hoosiers: The Indiana Hoosiers boast a world-renowned basketball program with five national championships, including the famous 1976 squad, which was the last undefeated NCAA basketball champion.
– Indiana State Sycamores: While not achieving much national success, the Indiana State Sycamores earned a notable victory in gymnastics at the 1977 NCAA championship under the leadership of Kurt Thomas.
– IUPUI Jaguars: Represented by Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), the Jaguars participate in various sports, including basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, and softball.
– Notre Dame Fighting Irish: The University of Notre Dame is highly regarded for its sports program. With a strong football team and notable achievements in basketball and ice hockey, the Fighting Irish have earned a reputation as a top-tier sports college.
– Purdue Boilermakers: The Purdue Boilermakers have won three national championships, with two titles secured in golf and one in women’s basketball.
– Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons: The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons boast 16 varsity teams and participate in the Horizon League. The men’s volleyball team competes in the Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association.
– Valparaiso Beacons: Although the Valparaiso Beacons discontinued their men’s soccer and tennis teams in 2019, the university continues to compete in football, basketball, and golf.
Women’s Sports
– Indiana Fever: The Indiana Fever compete in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). They secured their only championship in 2012 by defeating the Minnesota Lynx in the final.
– FC Indiana: FC Indiana is a team participating in the United Women’s Soccer League. Although not recognized by the United States Soccer Federation, it offers a platform for semi-professional women’s soccer players in the US and Canada.
Indiana Responsible Gambling Resources
Indiana provides various resources to promote responsible gambling and assist individuals who may be affected by problem gambling:
– Indiana Council on Problem Gambling: The Indiana Council on Problem Gambling offers self-tests, resources for prevention and treatment, and access to helplines and live chat support. Contact them at (800) 994-8448.
– Life Recovery Center: Certified by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Division of Mental Health & Addiction, the Life Recovery Center provides a helpline and therapy groups for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Contact them at (317) 887-3290.
– Indiana Problem Gambling Awareness Program: This program offers online and in-person training sessions to raise awareness about problem gambling. The hotline for assistance is (800) 994-8448.
Sportsbooks operating in Indiana are required to offer responsible gambling support, including tools to limit betting activities and links to organizations specializing in problem gambling support. If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling-related difficulties, seek assistance from the resources mentioned above.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Indiana?
The Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) oversees the sports betting industry in Indiana. Comprising seven members appointed by the Governor, the IGC is responsible for creating and enforcing regulations, issuing licenses, and ensuring the integrity of sports betting operations within the state. The Commission prioritizes player protection and fair practices to maintain a thriving and responsible sports betting environment.
