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Massachusetts Sports Betting
The sports betting industry in Massachusetts is now officially operational and lawful. Residents of the state have the option to select from seven different online sportsbooks. Play MA is here to assist you in choosing the most suitable sports betting app for your needs.
Make sure to also explore the various promotions offered by sportsbooks in Massachusetts.
Best Massachusetts sports betting apps for 2023
We will provide updated information here as it becomes available.
Massachusetts sports betting updates
- In April, MGM Springfield experienced a remarkable performance as retail bettors celebrated their victories, leading to a revenue hold of -13.84% for the casino.
- Want to place bets on the Preakness Stakes in Massachusetts? Take a look at the wagers being made by Play MA writer Jack Flaherty for this Saturday’s race.
- In April, Massachusetts sports fans placed bets totaling over $18 million each day, which provides a more accurate average representation of the state’s sports betting market compared to March’s figure of $25 million per day.
- In April, Massachusetts sportsbooks generated a total handle of more than $546 million. DraftKings dominated the market with a handle of $283.8 million, accounting for 52% of the market share.
- If you’re considering placing bets on the upcoming NFL season, it’s important to note that the Patriots are predicted to be the favorites in only four out of their 17 games.
- On May 11, Betr officially commenced its real money gaming product in Massachusetts, becoming the seventh online operator to enter the Commonwealth’s market.
- Bally Bet is aiming to enhance its online presence for its sportsbook in preparation for its upcoming launch in Massachusetts, as part of its strategy to stay competitive in the US market.
- On May 9th, the MGC made a decision to prohibit residents of Massachusetts from participating in betting activities related to slap fighting events. Access to such wagers has been denied to Bay Staters.
Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?
Yes.
On March 10, MA mobile sports betting officially launched, allowing all bettors in Massachusetts to place their bets on seven different online sportsbook apps. These include DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, WynnBET, Barstool Sportsbook, and Betr.
According to existing regulations, Massachusetts allows a maximum of 15 online sports betting apps to operate within the state. Presently, there are seven apps already active, with Bally Bet and Fanatics Sportsbook expected to launch in the near future. Furthermore, Betway is scheduled to commence operations in January 2024.
Sports gambling was made legal by the state in the summer of last year. Massachusetts casinos began accepting the first legal bets on January 31, 2023, marking the launch of retail sports betting. It is worth noting that all three casinos now offer sports betting services.
Massachusetts sports betting news
Snapshot of MA sports betting
Below are several brief details about sports betting in Massachusetts:
| Launch status: | Retail sports betting launched on Jan. 31, 2023. Online sportsbooks went live on March 10. |
| Available formats: | Mobile sportsbook apps are available in both iOS and Android formats. |
| Number of licensed online sportsbooks: | Seven online sportsbooks are available now. Ten will be available by January 2024. In total, as many as 15 are allowed. |
| Number of retail sportsbooks: | As many as five. |
| Sportsbook tax rates: | 20% on online sports betting, 15% on retail sports betting |
Why we like each Massachusetts online sportsbook
Massachusetts online sports betting apps elevate the sports gambling landscape in the state, offering a plethora of choices for bettors to place their wagers.
There are currently seven active mobile sportsbook apps: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, Barstool Sportsbook, and Betr.
Now that they have expanded to Massachusetts, let’s examine each betting site closely and highlight their appealing features.
The launch date for MA is set to be on March 10, 2023.
Review: DraftKings MA Sportsbook
DraftKings Massachusetts
DraftKings Sportsbook stands as the nearest semblance of a local brand for Massachusetts residents. The company originated in Boston and continues to operate its headquarters in the heart of Beantown.
The sportsbook app is incredibly innovative and stands out in the market. It offers a unique betting carousel that enhances the personalized betting experience. Additionally, DraftKings holds the distinction of being the first major US sportsbook to introduce the widely popular cash-out option.
The scheduled launch date for MA is on March 10, 2023.
Review: BetMGM MA Sportsbook
BetMGM Massachusetts
MGM Resorts, an international gambling company that includes MGM Springfield among its properties, operates BetMGM as its online platform.
The option to edit open bets provided by the online sportsbook allows customers to enjoy a great deal of flexibility. This includes the ability to add new legs, replace existing ones, or even increase the bet amount. This feature seamlessly integrates with the standard cash-out option, empowering bettors with more control over their open bets compared to other apps.
The launch date for MA is scheduled for March 10, 2023.
Review: FanDuel MA Sportsbook
FanDuel Massachusetts
FanDuel has established a reputation among Massachusetts bettors as a daily fantasy sports (DFS) platform. Today, it has also become one of the leading sportsbook apps in the Bay State.
The betting site is known for its extensive range of player props, making it unique among others. Additionally, it is widely regarded as the top app for placing parlays, as it was the pioneer in the US sportsbook industry to offer Same Game Parlays on a large scale.
FanDuel stands out for its impressive user-friendly interface and smooth navigation, complemented by highly competitive betting odds. Notably, it has gained a reputation for providing favorable odds on underdogs.
The launch date for MA is scheduled for March 10, 2023.
Review: Caesars MA Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook Massachusetts
Caesars Sportsbook, the representative of the renowned casino giant, has expanded its presence in the US by launching in Massachusetts. With only a handful of legal sports gambling locations where Caesars had not yet established its presence, the company has now joined the party in Massachusetts.
Caesars is known for its remarkable bonuses and promotions, which cater to both new and existing customers. These offerings reflect the brand’s luxurious image, providing a wide range of enticing promotions.
In addition to its Massachusetts app, Caesars Sportsbook has announced its intention to open a physical sportsbook at Raynham Park in the latter part of 2023.
The launch date for MA is set for March 10, 2023.
Review: WynnBET MA Sportsbook
WynnBET Massachusetts
Having made its debut in September 2020 in New Jersey, WynnBET Sportsbook is a fairly recent addition for US bettors. However, Massachusetts has now become the 10th state to embrace the launch of this online betting site. In fact, residents may have already experienced what WynnBET has to offer through its retail location at Encore Boston Harbor.
Although WynnBET Sportsbook is still being developed, its app stands out as one of the most seamless and rapid in the market, due to its collaboration with GAN. The app offers a wide range of live betting choices, including spreads, teasers, and moneyline bets.
Best offers and bonuses at Massachusetts sportsbooks
Currently, all operational sports betting apps in Massachusetts are providing promotional offers and bonuses exclusively intended for new users. These apps include:
- DraftKings MA: Avail yourself of bonuses worth up to $1,200.
- BetMGM MA: Receive up to $1,000 reimbursed in Bonus Bets.
- Until May 15, FanDuel MA is offering an exciting deal where you can receive $150 in Bonus Bets when you bet $5, regardless of whether you win or lose.
- Caesars Sportsbook MA offers up to $1,250 for your initial bet on Caesars.
- WynnBET MA: Place a $100 bet and receive $100 in bet credit.
- Get a bonus bet of up to $1,000 at Barstool Sportsbook MA.
- MA Bonus: Earn $50 in bonus bet credits.
Make sure to carefully review the fine print of any bonus offer you consider. Additionally, be cautious of playthrough requirements that have large multiples, as they can significantly impede the conversion of bonus funds into withdrawable money.
These are the primary sportsbook promotions available in Massachusetts:
- To avail of a no deposit bonus, all you need to do is create an account. The sportsbook will then credit your account with site credits or bet vouchers, without any requirement of depositing your own funds.
- Deposit bonuses are a type of reward that can match either the entire or a fraction of the amount you deposit, resulting in extra bonus funds or credits in your account.
- Odds boosts refer to a feature that enhances the potential payout on select wagers. The sportsbook app specifically designates which bets are eligible for a boost, typically resulting in increased payouts ranging from 15% to 35% for successful wagers.
- Earn points by placing bets and use them to unlock a range of perks and benefits in rewards programs. Some apps even allow you to use these points for purchasing items in a bonus store.
Furthermore, certain sportsbooks may provide exclusive bonuses specifically for playoff games. A notable instance is the ongoing offer by BetMGM MA for the NBA playoffs, where players can instantly win $200 by placing a $10 wager on any NBA Playoffs game.
Massachusetts retail sportsbook partnerships and locations
Massachusetts currently has three retail sportsbooks in operation, with a fourth, Caesars Sportsbook at Raynham Park, in the planning stages. Additionally, there is room for one more retail sportsbook at Suffolk Downs, although the horse racing simulcast facility has not yet revealed its retail partner.
At present, Massachusetts does not allow the operation of sportsbooks at sporting venues, although this may change in the future.
The following are the existing retail sports betting partnerships and their respective locations.
| Sportsbook | Mobile Launch Date | Retail Sportsbook Location |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | March 10, 2023 | N/A |
| BetMGM | March 10, 2023 | MGM Springfield |
| Caesars Sportsbook | March 10, 2023 | Raynham Park (expected to open in spring 2023) |
| Barstool Sportsbook | March 10, 2023 | Plainridge Park Casino |
| WynnBET | March 10, 2023 | Encore Boston Harbor |
| FanDuel | March 10, 2023 | N/A |
| Betr | May 8, 2023 | N/A |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | June 2023 | N/A |
| Bally Bet | Summer 2023 | N/A |
| Betway | January 2024 | N/A |
Who can bet on sports in Massachusetts?
To place bets on sports in Massachusetts, individuals must be at least 21 years old. Moreover, to participate in online sports betting within the state, it is essential to be physically present within Massachusetts borders.
In August 2022, the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act, also known as H5164, was signed into law by Gov. Charlie Baker, marking the official legalization of sports betting in the state. Here are a few key rules and regulations that were implemented:
| Legal age? | 21 |
| Can you bet online? | Yes ✅ |
| Is there remote registration? | Yes ✅ |
| Are there geolocation restrictions? | You must be within the Massachusetts boundary, which extends 3 miles off the coast into the Atlantic Ocean |
| Are there taxes on my winnings? | 24% federal tax and 5% state tax |
What you can and can’t bet on in Massachusetts
There are a total of 69 sports available for betting in Massachusetts.
Some popular sports and leagues available for betting include the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS. Additionally, you have the opportunity to place bets on college basketball, college football, and college baseball.
Aside from mainstream sports and leagues, there are also opportunities to place bets on less well-known sporting events like handball, floorball, and pesäpillo, among various others.
Here is a list outlining the sports and events available for betting in Massachusetts, including both permitted and prohibited options.
College sports ✅
In Massachusetts, there are certain rules surrounding betting on college sports. While you have the opportunity to place bets on college sports, there are exceptions to consider. Specifically, you are only permitted to bet on Massachusetts colleges when they are participating in tournaments like March Madness. However, it is important to note that wagering on individual college awards, such as the Heisman Trophy, is not allowed in Massachusetts.
Esports ❌
In Massachusetts, betting on esports is currently not allowed. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission holds the authority to modify this regulation by granting approval to a petition that includes esports in the Sports Wagering Catalog. However, as of now, no petitions seeking such approval have been submitted.
Pro league drafts ✅
Massachusetts allows betting on professional league drafts like the NFL Draft and NBA Draft, without any limitations on in-state college athletes participating in these events. For instance, you have the option to place a bet on an NFL team choosing a player from Boston College.
Cornhole ❌
Massachusetts bettors are prohibited from wagering on cornhole, despite its increasing popularity on platforms like DraftKings. The American Cornhole League, a highly reputable professional league, hosts major events that are even broadcasted on ESPN.
Awards shows, eating competitions ✅
In the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Catalog, you can find odds on shows like the Oscars and Emmys, provided they are available. Additionally, the catalog features eating competitions endorsed by Major League Eating, including the renowned Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest.
Chess ❌
In Massachusetts, it is prohibited for residents to engage in chess betting. While not widely practiced in the US, smaller platforms like Unibet do provide such betting options. These platforms primarily focus on offering odds for major chess tournaments held globally.
Olympics, X Games ✅ & ❌
In Massachusetts, betting is limited to select Olympics and X Games events. To be clear, events in these competitions that depend on judging for determining the outcome are not open for betting. However, all other events, including races, are allowed for wagering.
Where can I bet on sports in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, individuals have the opportunity to place bets on sports through both online platforms and in-person locations.
Retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts
Sports betting is available at all three Massachusetts casinos, namely MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino.
Massachusetts has the potential to accommodate 15 mobile sports betting apps at maximum capacity. Currently, 10 licenses have been granted, with seven already in operation. Presently, residents of Massachusetts can engage in online sports betting through various platforms, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, Barstool Sportsbook, and Betr.
Can you bet on sports in Boston?
Certainly! In Boston, you have the opportunity to place sports bets at the Encore Boston Harbor Casino, which happens to be the most recent addition among the three resort casinos in Massachusetts. Situated on a spacious 33-acre plot of land on the eastern side of the Mystic River, this casino is conveniently located just 5 miles away from the heart of the city. Accessing it is a breeze via the Alford Street Bridge.
Can you bet on sports in Worcester?
Certainly! Sports betting is permitted in Worcester; however, it is currently only available online. Unfortunately, there are no physical casinos or sportsbooks in Worcester as of now. Luckily, there are currently seven mobile sportsbook apps accessible for betting, with more expected to be introduced in the near future.
Can you bet on sports in Foxborough?
Indeed, Plainridge Park Casino has opened its doors to sports betting enthusiasts. Conveniently situated south of Foxborough and Gillette Stadium, it offers a golden opportunity for those attending a New England Patriots game to engage in sports wagering. Moreover, should the Patriots grace the Super Bowl once more in the future, individuals can easily swing by Plainville and partake in placing their bets at Plainridge Park.
Can you bet on sports in Springfield?
Certainly! MGM Springfield Casino, situated in the Metro Center of Springfield, is the proud host of sports betting since earlier this year. Spanning an impressive 125,000 square feet, the casino boasts an array of offerings including over 2,500 slot machines, numerous table games, a poker room, keno, and not to mention, dedicated sports gambling booths and kiosks.
Can you bet on sports in Raynham?
Indeed, sports betting can presently be done online in Raynham, and in the near future, in-person betting will also be an option. Subject to the MGC’s approval, a 30,000-square-foot retail sportsbook will be launched by Caesars at Raynham Park, a simulcast horse betting establishment located 30 miles south of Boston.
How to download, sign up and bet online in Massachusetts
Regardless of the online sportsbook you select, the process of signing up and initiating bets is generally similar, as the books aim to avoid a complex learning process. Here are the steps to follow:
- To begin, access the online sportsbook of your preference through one of the provided links. Afterwards, choose the appropriate download link for your device format, follow the given instructions, and install the application onto your computer, phone, or tablet.
- To create a new account, simply click on the registration or sign-up button. Afterwards, fill out the required fields with your personal information, including your name, date of birth, email address, phone number, Social Security number, and login details.
- To deposit funds, begin by setting up your account. Then, navigate to the app’s cashier section and select a deposit method. Please note that credit cards cannot be used for deposits. Additionally, it is advisable to opt for a withdrawal-friendly method. Lastly, make sure to redeem any available welcome bonuses.
- Make a bet by depositing money into your account. Return to the main lobby and search for a wager that interests you, such as a spread or moneyline bet, or even a parlay or teaser. Click on the button for your chosen wager and keep an eye on the progress through your bet slip.
How to make a withdrawal
When you are prepared to withdraw your funds, return to the cashier and select the withdrawal option. You might be required to use the same method for withdrawal as you used for deposit, or alternatively, you can choose from the other available methods.
On the other hand, if you possess additional funds or site credits, you will be required to meet their playthrough requirements before being able to withdraw the corresponding value. Most withdrawals will be processed within the same day.
How to read betting odds
Knowing how to interpret the various bets available is crucial when it comes to engaging in sports betting, given the wide range of options.
In moneyline betting, negative (-) odds indicate the amount you need to bet on the favorite in order to win $100. On the other hand, positive (+) odds indicate the potential winnings for every $100 wagered on the underdog. For instance, a team with +110 odds would yield a payout of $110 for a $100 wager. In contrast, betting on a team with -120 odds would require a $120 wager to win $100.
In the same vein, in spread betting, the negative sign denotes the favored team, whereas the plus-sign represents the underdogs. For instance, if the Celtics are favored by 7.5 points, they will be presented as -7.5 on US sportsbooks. Typically, spread bets carry -110 odds in most cases.
You can be grateful that every sports betting platform provides information about your potential winnings before finalizing your bet.
Different types of bets
With the launch of MA online sports betting apps, users now have a diverse range of bets at their disposal. Here, we’ll examine some of the frequently encountered bet types.
Moneyline bets
A moneyline bet involves selecting the game’s winner, regardless of the number of points obtained or the scoring of each team.
If you place a bet on a winning team, you will earn money. It’s as straightforward as that.
Moneyline bets are available for a wide range of sports.
Spread bets
The point spread wager involves predicting the score difference in a specific game. When placing a bet on the favored team, they are required to win by a specific number of points, goals, runs, or similar.
The underdog is required to either win the game outright or lose by a narrow margin.
Spread bets are commonly available for complete games, halves, and specific quarters of various sports and leagues at the majority of US sportsbooks.
Total (over/under) bets
If you place a bet on the total, you are essentially predicting whether the overall points scored during the game will exceed or fall below a specific line determined by the sportsbook.
Similar to spread bets, totals are commonly available for full games, halves, and quarters. Furthermore, total betting also encompasses proposition bets.
An instance to consider is wagering on the over/under of a pitcher’s total strikeouts in a baseball game or a running back’s rushing yards in a football game.
Massachusetts sports betting revenue
A report from the MGC reveals that Massachusetts sports betting apps collectively generated over $546.2 million in sports betting handle during the month of April.
In terms of market share, DraftKings dominated by obtaining the highest handle at $283.8 million, accounting for 52% of the market. FanDuel closely followed, securing the second spot with $172.6 million, representing 31.6% of the market.
The combined revenue of all six active Massachusetts online sportsbooks amounted to $58.5 million, resulting in $11.7 million in state taxes.
Promo tax write-offs policy
The MGC restated its stance before the launch, making it clear that sportsbooks would not be permitted to deduct promotional credits from their tax expenses. This policy, based on the experience of promotional write-offs in other markets, has the potential to increase the state’s projected sports betting revenue twofold.
In the future, Play MA predicts that a fully developed sports betting market in Massachusetts could generate the following tax revenue…
The amount without promotional write-offs is $87 million.
After accounting for promotional write-offs, the total amount is $56 million.
MA sports betting law
Former Gov. Charlie Baker granted legality to Massachusetts sports betting by signing H.5164 into law on August 10, 2022.
According to the law, a total of 15 online sports betting licenses are permitted to be granted, with seven of them being standalone licenses. Moreover, the law also permits casinos and racetracks to obtain sports betting licenses.
The legislation clearly defined the permissible and prohibited subjects for betting. For instance, it is forbidden to place bets on local college teams unless it is part of a tournament involving four or more teams, like March Madness. Moreover, wagering on esports, specific Olympics events, cornhole, chess, jai alai, and sporting events supervised by governing bodies in Belarus or Russia is strictly disallowed.
Additionally, the legislation prohibits the use of credit cards for depositing funds into sportsbook accounts, and establishes the minimum legal gambling age for sports at 21.
Furthermore, the legislation mandates that online sports betting companies are subject to a tax rate of 20%, whereas brick-and-mortar retail operators are subjected to a tax rate of 15%.
Other legal betting options in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers several legal gambling options, aside from sports betting.
Horse race betting
Dating back to 1934, horse race betting holds a deep-rooted history in Massachusetts, making it the oldest legally recognized form of gambling in the state.
Currently, horse racing has experienced a decline in popularity, both within Massachusetts and across the United States. At present, Plainridge Racecourse stands as the sole operational racetrack in Massachusetts.
You can enjoy simulcast wagering for both horse and dog races at Suffolk Downs and Raynham Park.
Casino gambling
Starting from January 31, 2023, the residents of Massachusetts will have the opportunity to engage in sports betting at three renowned casinos located in the state, namely MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino.
In addition, they provide a wide range of options such as slot machines, table games, and poker.
Although both retail and online sports betting are permitted in Massachusetts, the legality of retail casino gambling and poker is limited to physical establishments. Unfortunately, online poker and online casinos are not currently legal in the state.
Daily fantasy sports
In 2016, DFS in Massachusetts commenced with the temporary legalization of daily fantasy sports as a component of a comprehensive economic development bill, initiated by then-Governor Charlie Baker.
In 2018, DFS was officially legalized in the state, leading to DraftKings DFS and FanDuel DFS emerging as the dominant forces in the market, collectively capturing an overwhelming 90% market share.
Additionally, there are other platforms such as Boom Fantasy and Jock MKT available as well.
Lottery
Since its establishment in 1972, the Massachusetts Lottery has accumulated over $143 billion in revenue, while distributing prizes worth over $100 billion.
There is a wide range of lottery games available for residents to enjoy, such as draws and instant-wins, pull tabs, and charitable games. Among the most favored options are Keno, Powerball, Mass Cash, and Mega Millions.
Popular Massachusetts sports teams to bet on
Massachusetts has been a hub for renowned and esteemed sports franchises for a considerable amount of time. In the current century, all four of the state’s major professional teams have successfully secured championships.
Massachusetts is home to numerous college teams that attract a significant amount of betting interest.
These are the most favored sports teams among bettors in Massachusetts:
New England Patriots
With the legalization of betting on the New England Patriots, the football enthusiasts in Massachusetts now have an added level of excitement and engagement when cheering on their team.
The playoffs were missed by the Patriots as they concluded the 2022-23 NFL season with a record of 8-9.
However, it is never too soon to evaluate New England’s chances for Super Bowl 58.
Boston Celtics
Most Massachusetts sportsbooks had the Boston Celtics as the frontrunners to win the NBA Finals for the 2022-23 season.
Having consistently performed at a high level throughout the regular season, they are now aiming to make another impressive playoff journey. Their next challenge awaits in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat.
Boston Red Sox ⚾
At the start of the 2023 MLB season, the Boston Red Sox had a World Series winning chance of +6000. Additionally, their odds of clinching the American League pennant stood at +2800, while their chances of taking the AL East title were +1500.
Masataka Yoshida, a promising newcomer, is expected to captivate audiences throughout the season and has a strong chance of winning the AL Rookie of the Year award. Keeping an eye on his performance could prove to be the most rewarding bet for Red Sox enthusiasts.
Boston Bruins
In the 2022-23 regular season, the Boston Bruins had an outstanding performance, creating a remarkable record. However, their journey came to an end in the first round of the playoffs when they faced the Florida Panthers and unfortunately lost in a nail-biting seven-game series.
Prior to that point, wagering on the Bruins had gained immense popularity nationwide.
Other Massachusetts teams
Professional
- New England Revolution (MLS)
- The Massachusetts Pirates are a professional indoor football team competing in the Indoor Football League.
- Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL)
- Boston Thirteens (rugby)
- The rugby team known as the New England Free Jacks.
College
- Boston College
- Boston University
- Harvard
- Holy Cross
- Merrimack
- UMass
- UMass Lowell
- Stonehill
- Northeastern
Massachusetts responsible gambling
In Massachusetts, there are numerous resources available 24/7 to support responsible gambling.
To explore options for problem gambling treatment, you have two avenues to reach out: The Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPG) at the Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline can be contacted at (800) 327-5050, or you can utilize the live chat feature on their helpline website. Another option is to contact the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, which operates its own helpline at (800) 426-1234 and also offers a live chat function on their website.
Massachusetts responsible gambling offers a voluntary self-exclusion list, which is an advantageous feature. By participating in this state-run program, individuals are prohibited from visiting any gambling establishments within Massachusetts. Once you add yourself to the list, you will be unable to engage in any form of gambling at these venues, and if caught, may face certain penalties. The duration of your inclusion on the list can be chosen by you, ranging from a minimum of 6 months to indefinitely.
Additionally, a valuable source of information is the MGM GameSense page, which provides state-specific details. The website’s objective is to ensure that gambling remains enjoyable by offering tips and information tailored to casino visitors.
Need help with a gambling issue? Reach out to 1-800-327-5050 or check out gamblinghelplinema.org for assistance.
Further information can be found regarding responsible gambling services in Massachusetts.
Where is sports betting legal in the US?
The sports betting industry is experiencing rapid growth within the nation.
As of May 2023, this is the current legal status in the US:
| Alabama ❌ | Alaska ❌ | Arizona ✅ | Arkansas ✅ | California ❌ |
| Colorado ✅ | Connecticut ✅ | Delaware ✅ | Florida ❌ | Georgia ❌ |
| Hawaii ❌ | Idaho ❌ | Illinois ✅ | Indiana ✅ | Iowa ✅ |
| Kansas ✅ | Kentucky ⏳ – pending | Louisiana ✅ | Maine ⏳ – pending | Maryland ✅ |
| Massachusetts ✅ | Michigan ✅ | Minnesota ❌ | Mississippi ✅ | Missouri ❌ |
| Montana ✅ | Nebraska – Pending | Nevada ✅ | New Hampshire ✅ | New Jersey ✅ |
| New Mexico ✅ | New York ✅ | North Carolina ✅ | North Dakota ✅ | Ohio ✅ |
| Oklahoma ❌ | Oregon ✅ | Pennsylvania ✅ | Rhode Island ✅ | South Carolina ❌ |
| South Dakota ✅ | Tennessee ✅ | Texas ❌ | Utah ❌ | Vermont ⏳ – pending |
| Virginia ✅ | Washington ✅ | West Virginia ✅ | Wisconsin ✅ | Wyoming ✅ |
Where sports betting may launch next
By the end of 2023, Kentucky is set to join the list of states legalizing sports betting.
The bill recently approved by both the House and Senate in Vermont is currently awaiting the governor’s signature.
It appears that states like North Carolina and Missouri are on the verge of legalizing the industry.
Massachusetts sports betting history
Massachusetts has a rich history of legal gambling dating back almost a century. However, the current period is witnessing the most significant changes and disruptions. Below is a concise timeline highlighting Massachusetts’ recent gambling history, with a specific focus on sports betting.
- In 2016, the legalization of daily fantasy sports in Massachusetts provided the initial signal that sports gambling could potentially become a legally accepted practice. The presence of DraftKings, a leading company in the DFS industry, being based in Boston made it highly likely that the state would eventually embrace legal DFS gameplay.
- In 2019, the first significant legislation to legalize sports betting was introduced by lawmakers. Nevertheless, the bill, known as S201, did not receive approval from the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
- Lawmakers make a comeback in 2021 after a year-long break, introducing two sports betting bills. Unfortunately, similar to the outcome in 2019, neither bill gains significant support within the Massachusetts Legislature.
- In 2022, an amended H3993 is passed by the Massachusetts Senate. Subsequently, negotiations are initiated with the state House to achieve consensus on the bill. After gaining approval in both chambers, the bill proceeds to Governor Charlie Baker’s desk. In August, Governor Baker officially signs the bill into law.
- On January 31, 2023, the state’s three casinos kick off retail sports betting, offering odds on a whopping 69 sports options.
- Mobile sports betting will be launched in Massachusetts in March 10, 2023.
- On May 8, 2023, Massachusetts welcomed the launch of Betr, a platform that is dedicated to microbetting. This marks the seventh app to be introduced in the Bay State, joining the ranks of BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, WynnBET, and Barstool Sportsbook.
Resources:
- Gaming and Health Council of Massachusetts
- H.5164 – Massachusetts Sports Betting Legislation
- MA Problem Gambling Helpline
- Rules and Guidelines for Sports Betting
Massachusetts sports betting FAQs
Indeed, Massachusetts has launched its online sports betting platform. Bettors can now place wagers using a variety of seven mobile betting apps available in the state, namely DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, Barstool Sportsbook, and Betr. Additionally, there are plans for the introduction of more mobile betting apps in the near future.
Indeed, DraftKings Sportsbook MA is both legal and operational. While DraftKings Massachusetts lacks a physical store within the state, the DraftKings mobile betting app is accessible and functional in Massachusetts.
Certainly! If you would rather place your bets in a physical location, you have the option to do so at three casinos in Massachusetts: MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) serves as the governing body that oversees all forms of gambling within the state, including sports betting. In order to operate, any sports betting sites or platforms in Massachusetts must obtain approval from the MGC.
There is no requirement for Massachusetts residency in order to utilize sportsbook apps or visit the physical sports gambling facilities within the state. All you need is to be of legal age and physically located within state lines, which also extends up to 3 miles off the Massachusetts shore.
Each sportsbook app uses geolocation technology to verify the location of bettors in Massachusetts. This technology is highly precise and prioritizes caution, meaning it is more probable that you will be mistakenly denied service while in Massachusetts rather than being able to place a bet from outside the state.
Massachusetts sports enthusiasts can enjoy various enticing welcome bonuses. These typically include deposit bonuses, bonus bets, and first bet insurance. As an illustration, when you visit the Caesars MA website through the provided link, you have the opportunity to receive a refund of up to $1,250 for your initial losing bet on Caesars.