Every online sportsbook in PA offers the ability to place bets not only at home but also on the move using a mobile sports betting app. Further, the majority of Pennsylvania online sports gambling sites give new players either bonus bets, bonus bets, or deposit bonuses, which is a must to take advantage of when wagering on sports.
PA Sports Betting
All online websites listed on this page are legal and licensed by the Pennsylvania Division of Gaming Enforcement. We shall help you to find the best PA sportsbooks and provide you with PA sports betting apps that offer the most lucrative sign-up bonuses, in some cases, you can get up to $500. We review brand names such as BetRivers Sportsbook, FanDuel, DraftKings, and more.
Can I Sports Bet Online in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can bet on sports while within state lines. To legally bet, the online sportsbook must be regulated and licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Where Can I Place a Bet?
You can place a bet from anywhere using a personal computer or mobile device on a Pennsylvania sportsbook app. However, you must physically be within the state’s borders when you place your bet. There are also several oddsmakers located in various casinos throughout the state, such as SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia and Parx Casino in Bensalem.
PA Sportsbook List 2024
- BetAmerica Sportsbook
- BetMGM Sportsbook
- BetRivers Sportsbook
- Betway Sportsbook
- Caesars Sportsbook
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- Fox Bet Sportsbook
- Parx Sportsbook
- PointsBet Sportsbook
- SugarHouse Sportsbook
- Unibet Sportsbook
Do You Need To Live in Pennsylvania to Bet Online?
You don’t have to be a resident of the state to bet at Pennsylvania sports betting sites. However, you must be within the state when you place your wager.
Are Online Sportsbooks Legit?
Yes, online sportsbooks in PA are legit. Provided they are licensed and regulated by Pennsylvania’s Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Can I win Real Money At An Online Sportsbook?
Yes, you can win real money at PA online sportsbooks. There are several quick and convenient ways to cash out your winnings.
PA Betting Sites
As mentioned, sports bettors in Pennsylvania have several great licensed and regulated online oddsmakers to choose from.
BetAmerica Sportsbook
BetAmerica Sportsbook became the eighth online sports betting site to open in Pennsylvania. BetAmerica is owned by Churchill Downs Inc. and the online sportsbook went live in mid-December of 2019.
BetMGM Sportsbook
A few sports betting brands have chosen to advertise heavily to get their name out to the Pennsylvania masses, and BetMGM is one of them. They go beyond commercials though with a great welcome bonus, along with high-quality apps that you can use anywhere in the state.
Always be on the lookout for BetMGM promotions that give you a boost when you need it, including bonus bets, deposit bonuses, and more when tied to BetMGM online casino.
BetRivers Sportsbook
BetRivers opened its land-based sportsbook in December 2018. The sportsbook then took its Kambi-powered platform online in 2019. BetRivers offers competitive odds on a wide range of betting markets along with a host of features including the early cashout option. This allows bettors to settle their wagers before their game ends.
The site also has an online casino that features a decent selection of slots, table games, and specialty games. One of the most attractive things about BetRivers is their welcome bonus which only requires a one-time playthrough.
Betway Sportsbook
Betway may not be as popular in the US as some of the big names like DraftKings and FanDuel, but they’re one of the most well-known sportsbooks in the world who now operate in multiple states, including PA.
A high-quality rewards program coupled with some of the best odds you’ll find in the state across hundreds of markets gives Betway a leg up if you want to go with a proven worldwide brand.
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars is famous all over the world. The company opened its Pennsylvania sports betting site in conjunction with Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in 2020. Along with a generous welcome bonus and innovative promotions, Caesars sportsbook has a great loyalty program.
The sportsbook covers dozens of betting markets and offers bettors a variety of betting resources. Caesars also features an online casino. However, the selection of games is rather limited. Poker fans can expect the site to integrate the WSOP.com platform as it has done in New Jersey.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings was a daily fantasy sports pioneer. It has expanded its horizons in the wake of the PASPA reversal. Now, DraftKings is one of the most well-known sports betting brands. The mobile betting site launched in Pennsylvania in November 2019 after partnering with Meadows Racetrack and Casino.
The sportsbook has an excellent welcome bonus and plenty of features including live streaming. DraftKings recently added an online casino. While the game selection is small at the moment, it should soon boast as many as 300 titles.
FanDuel Sportsbook
Like DraftKings, FanDuel made a name for itself by offering daily fantasy sports to the American market. The DFS giant turned its attention to the American sports betting market soon after PASPA was reversed. FanDuel’s Pennsylvania online sportsbook went live in the summer of 2019.
The site covers an array of betting markets and offers special features such as the Daily Odds Boost. The site launched its online casino in January 2020. Like other brands that have recently launched PA online casinos, the selection of games is sparse. However, it continues to add new titles on a regular basis.
FOX Bet
One can only expect the best when a media titan like FOX Sports teams up with an online poker giant like PokerStars. FOX Bet opened its virtual doors to Pennsylvania in September 2019. The site is basically a rebrand of BetStars and it operates through Mount Airy Casino’s license. The sportsbook offers odds on almost every betting market and features like odds boosts, custom bets, and pro picks. You can also take advantage of the cashout feature. The app gives users access to hundreds of games at PokerStars Casino. Of course, you can use your FOX Bet account to play poker at PokerStars too.
Parx Sportsbook
Parx Casino held the grand opening of its new retail sportsbook in January 2020. In June, the sportsbook launched its mobile app. Parx Sportsbook covers the full spectrum of betting markets including in-play wagering on the Kambi platform. The app also gives players access to a variety of slots, table games, video poker, and other online casino staples. It will soon have a live dealer section. Those who open a new account can claim a very generous welcome bonus.
PointsBet Sportsbook
PointsBet has been making waves in the sports betting community for two main reasons: the unique PointsBetting system that give you a chance at higher payouts but at a bigger risk, and their Good Karma payouts when something screwy happens in a game that affects bets. You may recall this in the news from the NFC Championship game a few years back, as well as when Zion Williamson’s shoe blew up on the court.
Ongoing promotions and tie-ins with many sports legends and Hall of Famers make this brand an interesting one to Pennsylvania players who look for new and exciting ways to bet on sports.
SugarHouse Sportsbook
SugarHouse is the sister site to BetRivers. They are both powered by Kambi and outside of cosmetics are almost identical in how they operate.
Unibet Sportsbook
Unibet recently entered the American online sports betting scene. The company is looking to replicate the success it has experienced in Europe and elsewhere. Unibet launched its Pennsylvania online sports betting site in November 2019. It operates through Mohegan Sun’s gambling license. The sportsbook has a great welcome bonus and a variety of exciting promotions. Those who enjoy playing NFL parlays have several opportunities to win a whole lotta extra cash. Unibet also has an online casino. Could a poker room be in the cards too? It’s possible.
Why Play At Sports Betting Site vs. A Land-Based Sportsbook?
The most obvious advantage that Pennsylvania sports betting sites have over land-based venues is convenience. On top of that, you never have to wait in line and your bets are processed in the blink of an eye. You need to only pull out your mobile device, open your Pennsylvania sports betting app, and place your bets. It takes mere seconds.
There are many other benefits too. Pennsylvania online sportsbooks offer great welcome bonuses and other promotions. It’s a cinch to deposit, withdraw, and keep track of your account balance and betting history. There are also several excellent VIP and rewards programs that give online sports bettors a lot of added value.
How Do Sports Betting Signup Offer Work?
Signup offers at Pennsylvania online sportsbooks are easy to understand. It always starts with the player registering a new account. Some sports betting sites will give you a small bonus just for doing that. However, it’s more common for Pennsylvania online sportsbooks to dole out your bonus when you make your first deposit.
In either case, there may be certain wagering requirements that you must meet before withdrawing your welcome bonus winnings. Once you’ve successfully satisfied the conditions, your bonus funds are converted into real cash and become eligible for withdrawal.
Types of Online Sportsbook Offers
Here are the most common types of bonuses at PA online sportsbooks:
First Deposit Offer
The most common type of signup offer at Pennsylvania online sports betting sites is known as a match bonus. In short, the sportsbook will match a percentage of your first deposit. The sportsbook might match it by 25%, 50%, 100%, or even more. The bonus money is typically placed in a separate bonus account and is not withdrawable until certain conditions such as a playthrough requirement have been met.
No-Deposit Offer
Although they are sometimes rare for PA sports betting sites, oddsmakers may award no-deposit bonuses for opening a new account. These bonuses usually come in the form of a cash reward or a bonus bet. Of course, claimants must meet the bonus conditions before they are allowed to cash out the funds. No-deposit bonuses are normally much smaller than deposit bonuses.
Sports Betting Apps
Pennsylvania sports betting enthusiasts who love the convenience of mobile betting have many sports betting apps to choose from. The apps are responsive, a cinch to navigate, and easy on the eyes. They are specifically designed for smaller screens. Just remember that you can only place mobile wagers at a PA online sportsbook if you are physically located within state lines.
Can I Bet on Sports with My iPhone or Other iOS Devices?
Yes, you sure can. It takes mere seconds to open your app, find your game, and place your bet using your iPhone or other iOS devices. You don’t even need the app in most cases. Simply use your device’s mobile browser.
Can I Bet on Sports with My Android Phone?
Absolutely, yes you can. Use the Android app or mobile browser to place bets using your Android phone or tablet.
Do I need To Create a Second Account to Play on a PA Mobile Sportsbook App?
No, a single account is accessible by both mobile and desktop devices. In fact, opening a second account is usually a breach of a sportsbook’s terms and conditions.
How To Download A Sportsbook App For iPhone
Downloading a PA mobile sports betting on your iPhone is a straightforward process when you follow these steps.
- Go to your PA sports betting site using your iPhone.
- Find and select “Get the App at the App Store” or similar button. You can also go to the App Store or iTunes and search for the app.
- Allow the app to download and install.
- Open the app once the setup is complete.
- Make a secure deposit, claim a bonus, and place your bets while you’re on the go.
How To Download A Sportsbook App For Android
You won’t currently find any betting app at Google Play. However, you can get your Android betting app right at your Pennsylvania online sportsbook if you follow these steps.
- Go to your Pennsylvania sportsbook using your Android’s mobile browser.
- Find and select the “Get Android App” button.
- Select “Download”, then allow it to install.
- Open up the app after it has completed the installation phase.
- Make a deposit, claim a bonus, and make your wagers.
No Download Sportsbooks
You place bets online without downloading an app. You can do this by either using your desktop computer, tablet, or laptop, or your smartphone’s web browser. HTML5 software is what makes this possible.
There may be some limitations, but you should expect a similar experience as you would through an app.
How To Sign Up At A PA Sports Betting Site
It only takes a few seconds to open an account at a PA sports betting site. Be prepared to give out some basic personal information such as date of birth, your email address, residential address, and mobile number. The last four digits of your social security number may be required from sports betting sites. First, click on our “Get Bonus” links to get the welcome bonus from the PA sports betting site of your choosing. Then, follow the following steps:
- Select the “Join Now” or similar button.
- Fill out and submit the registration form.
- Most PA online sportsbooks require you to verify your email address. If yours does, check your email and click on the link provided.
- You now have a PA online sports betting account.
How to Deposit At A Sportsbook
PA online sportsbooks support a variety of convenient payment options. Credit/debit cards, eWallets, and online banking are among the most popular payment solutions. Don’t forget to claim any available bonuses when you make your deposits. Here’s how to load your betting account:
- Go to your PA online sportsbook and log in using your desktop or mobile device.
- Click on the “Deposit” icon that is usually located along the top of the main page. Alternatively, go into your player profile and select “Deposit” in the banking section.
- Select a payment option.
- Enter the deposit amount and claim any applicable bonus.
- Verify the transaction.
- You should see the deposit reflected in your updated account balance.
How To Withdraw From A Sportsbook
Performing a withdrawal is every bit as easy as making a deposit. However, withdrawals usually take a bit longer to process. It’s also important to know that you will need to submit some documentation that proves your age and identity before you can make a withdrawal. Completing this process as soon as you open your new account can save you from experiencing any unnecessary delays. To withdraw, do the following:
- Go to your PA online sportsbook and log in using your desktop or mobile device.
- Enter the banking section and select the “Withdraw” option.
- Choose your preferred payment method.
- Enter the withdrawal amount.
- Confirm transaction.
- You’re done. Your sportsbook will process the withdrawal in a short time.
Attention: Some sites require you to use the same method to withdraw as you did to make your deposit.
Online Sportsbook Payment Options
Let’s take a look at some of the most common payment options for Pennsylvania online sports bettors. Bear in mind that some payment options may entail fees. Make sure you find out what fees apply and what the limits are before you deposit or withdraw.
Credit Card
Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are among the most frequently used payment options. While transaction fees are relatively low, users must be aware that their provider might charge a cash advance fee too. Also, know that some card providers won’t process credit card transactions with betting sites.
Debit Cards
Debit cards basically work the same as credit cards. The big difference is that you can only deposit funds that are available in your bank account. Because of this, you won’t face any extra charges like cash advance fees.
Play+ Card
Play+ Plus cards are reloadable cards that are issued by casinos. They are insured by FDIC and users can make instant deposits and fast withdrawals with them. You can use your Play+ Card to access funds at online betting sites, land-based casinos, and at select ATMs.
Prepaid Cards
There are several types of prepaid cards out there. Some sportsbooks have their own prepaid cards that you can purchase using a variety of methods. Even major credit card companies offer prepaid cards that you can buy online or at retail outlets.
PayPal
PayPal is one of the best-known and trusted eWallets on the planet. Not only does PayPal allow you to make instant deposits, it also enables you to make fast withdrawals. This method has some of the lowest fees of any payment method.
Skrill
Skrill is also a widely used and trusted eWallet that facilitates instant deposits and quick withdrawals. Skrill users should know that this payment option is sometimes ineligible for bonuses. Be sure to check your sportsbook’s terms and conditions to find out if your Skrill deposit is eligible for bonuses.
PayNearMe
PayNearMe is the perfect solution for anyone without a bank account or credit card. You can purchase a PayNearMe voucher at participating 7-Elevens throughout the state. You then use the voucher to make your deposit.
ACH
Often listed as ACH/eCheck or ACH/Transfer, this method rapidly moves funds between your bank account and PA online sportsbook account. You must first verify your banking details before using this convenient method.
Check
Good old-fashioned checks are accepted at some PA online sports betting sites. Of course, unless you’re talking about an eCheck, your check deposit will take a bit of time to process.
Cash at Casino Cage
You can go to the sportsbook at your local casino, open an account, and conduct your deposits and withdrawals right at the casino cage. This is a great option for those who like combining a true sportsbook experience with mobile betting. Use this method to make near-instant withdrawals.
What Is The Best Online Sportsbook?
There are many incredible online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania, but DraftKings Sportsbook may very well be the best. A fixture in the sports betting world, DraftKings may be the most recognizable brand there is.
They also happen to give you a great welcome offer that includes up to $1,200 in total bonuses. This amazing welcome offer breaks down like so. Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets Instantly PLUS 20% match up to $1,000 (25x playthrough) + $50 Bonus Bet with $5 deposit.
So not only do you get a ton of markets and great lines if you sign up right now, you also get this excellent welcome bonus from DraftKings!
New Online Sportsbooks
Sports bettors in Pennsylvania have a good selection of online sportsbooks to choose from. They will have even more to choose from in the near future as more betting companies enter the Pennsylvania online sports betting market. Let’s take a look at three of the state’s newer online oddsmakers.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings is quickly becoming one of the most recognizable sports betting brands in the United States. After partnering with Meadows Racetrack and Casino, DraftKings commenced operations in Pennsylvania in November 2019. Despite having so much competition, DraftKings is expected to be among the top PA online sportsbooks like it has in several other states.
Unibet Sportsbook
Veterans of online sports betting are probably familiar with the Unibet brand. It is one of the biggest and most successful names in international sports betting. Unibet is attempting to gain the same level of brand recognition as it has achieved in Europe. Partnering with a giant like Mohegan Sun will only bolster the brand. The site has been up and running since November 2019.
FoxBet Sportsbook
After a successful launch in New Jersey, FoxBet set its eyes on the Pennsylvania online sports betting market. The company is a partnership involving Fox Sports and PokerStars. FoxBet went live in Pennsylvania in September 2019. It operates under a license agreement between The Stars Group and Mount Airy Casino.
Sports Betting Types
There are several different types of bets available for any single game across a range of sports. In some cases, a PA online sports betting site can have hundreds of betting options listed for a single event. Read on to find out what types of wagers you can make at PA sports betting sites.
Moneyline Bets
This is perhaps the easiest type of bet to understand. With moneyline bets, you are simply betting on a team to win or lose.
The price of a given side is determined by bookmakers, with favorites getting a negative line next to their odds and underdogs getting a positive line. Moneyline odds should be looked at relative to the number 100. A team at -120 would be the favorite while a +120 team would be an underdog.
With favorites, the moneyline (ML) is the amount bettors would need to risk in order to win $100. For underdogs, the ML is the amount the bettor would win if risking $100.
Point Spread Bets
Point spread betting requires choosing a side based on a line set by the sportsbook, referred to as a “spread.” Not all teams are equal and point spreads are the oddsmakers’ way of evening out the game from a betting perspective.
The favorite is “giving” points and will have a negative symbol (-) next to their spread, just as they do next to their moneylines. The favorite has to win by a certain amount of points in order to cover the point spread and secure a win for NJ sports betting players.
The underdog is “getting” points and has a positive symbol (+) next to the number. The underdog can cover by winning the game outright, or by losing by a lesser amount than the point spread.
If you wager on a team that is -3, that means you need them to win by at least four in order to cash your bet. Conversely, betting on the underdog at +3 means that the team has to lose by two or less, or win outright, in order to secure a payout. The bet is a push if the final score lands on the set spread number.
Parlay Bets
A parlay is a wager that allows bettors to combine two or more sides into the same wager in exchange for a larger payout. The catch is that in order to win, each selection must be correct. You can build a parlay by mixing and matching moneylines, spreads, totals, and even prop bets.
Parlays are a risky wager but a favorite among sports bettors because a small investment can garner huge winnings if every part of the wager winds up winning.
Teaser Bets
A teaser is another type of exotic bet that allows bettors to combine multiple teams into the same wager, but it does work a little bit differently. Rather than grouping several sides and their original odds together, a teaser offers the chance to adjust point spreads and totals in the direction of your choosing.
Like parlays, all sides of a teaser need to hit for the bet to be declared a winner, and the number of points you’re allowed to work with varies based on the sport.
Let’s say you wanted a teaser among the following teams and spreads:
- New England -3
- Arizona +4.5
- Philadelphia -6.5
- Pittsburgh +2.5
In the NFL, you can generally choose between a 6-point, 6.5-point, or 7-point teaser. If you were to play a seven-point teaser, the lines would become:
- New England +4
- Arizona +11.5
- Philadelphia +.5
- Pittsburgh +9.5
It’s important to keep in mind that the potential payout decreases with the more points you add to each side, and the payouts are much more modest than parlays because you are altering the original spread.
Prop Bets
Prop bets are wagers on whether or not a given event will take place in a game. The majority of prop bets are essentially over/unders or “yes or no” questions regarding a specific person, statistic and/or outcome. Most of them, although not all, are completely independent of the final result of the event.
Will Carson Wentz throw an interception? Will Ben Roethlisberger throw for over 200.5 yards? Which team will score first? These are all examples of prop bets. Online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania usually offer dozens of prop bets for each game.
Over/Under Bets
Over/unders are simply wagers on the total number of points scored in a given game, based on a total number of points set by oddsmakers at PA sports betting sites.
For example, let’s say the point total for an NFL game featuring the Philadelphia Eagles vs. the Dallas Cowboys is set at 44.5. An Under bet would be a winner if the combined score equaled 44 or less, while an over bet would need a total of 45 or more points to win.
There are also odds offered for individual team totals, which oftentimes fall under the umbrella of props bets. Depending on the sport, there will also be specific totals for player statistics, which also fall under the props category.
Futures Bets
Futures bets are exactly what the same suggests: wagers on whether or not a future event will take place. These are essentially a type of prop bet, requiring bettors to make a yes/no pick on a specific player/team long before the outcome is decided.
For the most part, these wagers are placed at the beginning of a season for a future event down the road but futures can last hours, days, weeks or even months depending on what sports betting players are trying to wager on. Here are some examples:
- Division Winners
- Conference Champions (AFC/NFC, AL/NL, East/West)
- League Champions (Super Bowl, Stanley Cup, NBA Finals, World Series, College Football Playoff, March Madness)
- Individual tournaments (Golf, Tennis, Soccer, etc.)
Even though many futures are placed prior to the start of a season, these lines oftentimes remain up throughout the course of the regular-season schedule and are constantly adjusting based on standings.
In-Play/Live Betting
Live betting, also known as in-play betting, is another form of wagering that sounds exactly like the term(s). Simply, live betting is the process of wagering on a game after it has already started, and it’s quite popular in several states including at PA sports betting sites.
As the game progresses and the time remaining and score continue to change, live odds on the moneyline, spread, total (among other markets) are constantly being updated on betting apps.
Wagering live is a common strategy for those looking to hedge or middle pregame bets, or for those who prefer to let part of the gameplay out before committing to a side.
PointsBetting
Do not confuse this type of wagering with standard point spread betting. PointsBetting, which is currently only offered by PointsBet, offers an unusual high-risk, high-reward wagering option that alters the size of its payouts based on how many points your bet wins or loses by.
Traditionally, it doesn’t matter how much the team you gamble on wins by as long as the spread is covered, whether it’s by one point or by 20. In PointsBetting, you can win more if the team you’re wagering on covers the spread by a huge margin, but it can also mean losing more if your team suffers a blowout loss.
If this sounds like it’s for you, be sure to understand what exactly you’re doing by visiting our PointsBet review.
Round Robin Bets
Round robins, or combination bets, are essentially parlays. Rather than just one wager with several teams, round robins are a number or small parlays with all possible combinations of the teams being included. Bettors enjoy round robins because they minimize but offer a potentially large reward.
These bets are great because they provide some margin for error. You could still wind up breaking even or better if you miss one or more selections (depending on the size of the round robin), whereas a traditional parlay requires all selections to be correct.
What Sports Can I Bet on in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania gambling laws allow bettors to wager on an enormous range of professional and collegiate sports, including the following:
- Football (NFL, NCAA)
- Baseball (MLB, MiLB, KBO)
- Basketball (NBA, NCAA, European Leagues)
- Golf (PGA, Cactus Tour)
- Hockey (NHL)
- Boxing/MMA
- NASCAR
- Soccer (MLS, EPL, La Liga and more)
- Tennis (WTA, ATP)
Learn How To Bet On NFL OnlineOnline College Sports Betting
Betting on college sports is wildly popular across the country and the Keystone State is no different.
The rules surrounding betting on college sports can vary a little from state to state. For example, there is no wagering in New Jersey on games inside the state or on universities located inside the state. Luckily, no such rule exists in Pennsylvania and things are pretty straight forward.
College Basketball
College basketball generates a ton of betting action in Pennsylvania from November until early April, right after March Madness and the NCAA Tournament take over the sports landscape.
Before the season, futures odds are offered for every conference and during the regular season, there are hundreds of games throughout the week and thousands of betting options to choose from. Once March arrives along with conference tournaments and the NCAA Tournament, things reach a whole new level.
Because of March Madness, NCAA basketball competes with the Super Bowl and the College Football Playoff for the most profitable times of the year for sportsbooks.
College Football
College football has millions of fans all over the country and few sports are as popular to bet on. In Pennsylvania, sites accommodate in a large way by providing odds for a seemingly endless number of games.
Every Saturday features a slate of well over 100 contests on the schedule, which means literally hundreds of betting options. The season lasts from late August until December when bowl season arrives and betting on NCAA football in PA reaches a fever pitch.
Not only are there several markets offered for each of the 40+ bowl games on the schedule throughout a month-long stretch, but the College Football Playoff adds three more games between the semifinals and the championship, which amount to two of the biggest gambling days of the year.
Can I Bet On Pennsylvania College Sports Team?
Yes, you can bet on Pennsylvania college sports teams. Unlike the law in New Jersey, it is legal for sports bettors to make wagers on their local college sports teams.
Can I Bet On Pennsylvania High School Sports Teams?
No, Pennsylvania gambling laws specifically prohibit wagering on high school sports.
Can You Earn VIP Rewards From Sports Betting Site?
Yes, you most certainly can earn VIP points and other loyalty benefits when you bet at PA online sports betting sites. The typical Pennsylvania sportsbook VIP program usually has several tiers. The more you bet, the more loyalty points you earn and the higher you climb through the tiers. Each new tier gives members access to valuable perks such as higher limits, faster withdrawals, exclusive bonuses, and other benefits. Some even offer cashback. In most cases, VIP rewards carry over to land-based operations.
Legal History Behind Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
The modern history of sports betting in Pennsylvania dates back to 1971 when Act 91 was passed. This opened the door to legalized gambling in general by allowing a state lottery. Then, in 2004, Act 71 went into effect which legalized casino gambling, horse race betting, and brought about the creation of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Online poker, online casinos, and online sports betting were given the green light in 2017. However, sports betting was still illegal at the time. Then came the Supreme Court’s landmark reversal of PASPA on May 14, 2018. The decision essentially gave each state authority over sports betting. This marked the point in time that sports betting became legal in the Keystone State.
It didn’t take long for land-based casinos to build new sportsbooks and start accepting wagers. Within a year, many of these sportsbooks as well as some new ones started their online operations. Pennsylvania’s first online sports bet was placed with SugarHouse in May 2019. BetRivers and Parx were the next oddsmakers to launch their apps followed by FanDuel. DraftKings, FOX Bet, BetAmerica, and Unibet were also up and running before 2019 came to a close.
PA Authorized Online Sports Betting Vs. Illegal Online Sports Betting
One of the most important things that legalized sports betting offers is player protection. You can be confident that licensed and regulated Pennsylvania sportsbooks will treat you fairly. If you feel that you’ve been wronged, there are effective dispute resolution services in place. Pennsylvania sportsbooks also offer plenty of incentives such as welcome bonuses, promotions, and loyalty rewards. All of this is in stark contrast to illegal operators.
If you place sports bets with an illegal sportsbook, you aren’t afforded the same protections or benefits. While licensed and regulated online sportsbook located outside of the United States are generally reputable, Pennsylvanians have little to no recourse if something goes wrong.
PA Authorized Sports Betting
- Player protection
- Guaranteed payouts
- Bonuses and promotions
- Loyalty Rewards
- Fair odds
- Loads of betting options
Illegal Online Sportsbooks
- Little, if any player protection
- No proper dispute resolution
- Few, if any bonuses and promotions
- No loyalty rewards
- Limited betting options
Who Can Get a Authorized Sportsbook License?
Sportsbook licenses are issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Any company that possesses a “slot machine license” may apply for a sports betting license. In other words, licensed land-based casinos can apply for sports betting licenses. Applicants are subject to a one-time application fee of $10 million. If the application is successful and the PGCB grants a sports betting license, the operator’s revenue is taxed at 36%.
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board was formed in 2004 after the passing of Act 71. The board is made up of seven members. Three members are appointed by the Governor and four are appointed by the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The board has several duties including:
- Operating a slot-machine testing center
- Mitigating problem gambling
- Overseeing gambling operations
- Ensuring gambling business operate with honesty and integrity
- Ensuring regulatory compliance
- Issuing licenses
Responsible Gaming
Pennsylvania sportsbooks and online casinos offer resources and tools to help combat gambling addiction.
In most cases, you can go into your player profile and set limits on the amount of time and money you can spend gambling. Pennsylvania online betting sites also give you the option of taking a time out during which you cannot place wagers. You also have the option to self-exclude. There is also a variety of other resources and support groups that can help those who may be developing troubling patterns.
PA Online Gambling Frequently Asked Questions
Is gambling illegal in PA?
No, gambling is legal as long as you are 21 and gambling at a properly licensed land-based or online venue.
Is sports betting legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, sports betting is legal throughout Pennsylvania. You can make legal wagers online and at land-based sportsbooks within the state.
How old do I need to be to gamble in PA?
You must be at least 21-years-old.
Are PA online sportsbooks safe?
Yes, as long as the sportsbook is properly licensed and regulated.
Can I win real money at PA online sportsbooks?
You sure can. Just remember that you can also lose real money. It’s gambling.
Can you bet on college sports in Pennsylvania?
Ye, as long as you are at least 21 and within PA’s state lines.
How many sportsbooks are in PA?
There are currently 12 land-based sportsbooks in Pennsylvania and one more will soon open in Philadelphia. There are also nine online sportsbooks with more expected to launch.
Is MyBookie legal in PA?
No, MyBookie is not legal in Pennsylvania.
When did gambling become legal in PA?
While the state lottery was legalized in 1971, it wasn’t until 2004 that casino gambling and horse race betting was legalized. Online casinos, online sports betting, and online poker were legalized in 2017.
Can I bet on sports with my PC or Mac?
Yes, you can place bets using almost any desktop or mobile device.
Which PA online sportsbooks accept PayPal?
You can make PayPal sportsbook deposits and withdrawals at:
- Unibet
- DraftKings
- BetRivers
- FOX Bet
- FanDuel
- BetAmerica
How do PA gambling sites acquire my location?
Your IP gives your location away when using a desktop computer. PA gambling sites also use software that detects if you are using a VPN. Mobile users are tracked using location software. This is why Pennsylvania mobile bettors need to either enable location detection or use a geolocation app.
Do I have to pay taxes on winnings?
Gambling winnings in Pennsylvania are taxable and must be declared on your income tax form.
What is sports betting handle?
The handle refers to the amount of money wagered at a sportsbook over a period of time or on a certain event.
Who regulated online PA sportsbooks?
Pennsylvania online sportsbooks are regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Are there any sports betting restrictions in Pennsylvania?
Some of the basic sports betting restrictions include:
- You must be at least 21.
- You must place your bets while you’re in the state.
- Players and employees of professional and college teams may not place bets.
Check the terms and conditions at your online sportsbook to find out if they place any other restrictions on sports betting.
If you would like to know more about problem gambling or think you may need to speak with someone, you can find great PA’s resources about Self-Exclusion. You can also contact the helpline; 1-800-GAMBLER.