7 Best Betting Sites in the US May 2025
Your search for the best legal U.S. betting sites starts here, as we've leveraged our industry expertise to uncover actionable and trustworthy information about the top sportsbooks you can access, including BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, and more.
Learn about online betting sites and their top features, such as payout speeds, sports betting apps, sportsbook promos, overall user experience, and other need-to-know qualities to make you a more educated sports bettor in 2025.
Best sportsbook bonuses in the US
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Sportsbook 🏆 |
Welcome bonus 💰 |
Promo code ✅ |
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⭐ BetMGM |
CVRBONUS1500 |
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⭐ Caesars |
COVERSBONUSDYW |
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⭐ bet365 |
COVERS |
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⭐ FanDuel |
No code required |
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⭐ Fanatics Sportsbook |
No code required |
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⭐ DraftKings |
No code required |
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⭐ BetRivers |
COVERSBONUS |
Top-rated betting sites 2025
2 days
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- BetMGM Benefits
- User-friendly mobile app
- Over a dozen deposit options
- Offers same-game parlays
- BetMGM Bonus Review
Within 24 hours
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- Fewer details
- Caesars Benefits
- Best customer support
- Top-tier rewards program
- Highly trusted legacy brand
- Caesars Review
Within 24 hours
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- Fewer details
- bet365 Benefits
- Best prices
- Gold standard layout
- World-class live betting
- bet365 Review
Within 24 hours
- More details
- Fewer details
- FanDuel Benefits
- Best user experience
- World-class mobile app
- Best for live betting
- FanDuel Review
Within 24 hours
- More details
- Fewer details
- Fanatics Sportsbook Benefits
- Flexible FanCash Rewards
- Unique promotions
- Improved app performance
- Fanatics Sportsbook Review
Within 24 hours
- More details
- Fewer details
- DraftKings Benefits
- Best mobile app
- Supreme navigation
- Best for grading winners
- DraftKings Review
Within 24 hours
- More details
- Fewer details
- BetRivers Benefits
- Weekly promotions
- Over 20 sports available
- NFL live streaming
- BetRivers Review
Top 7 betting sites reviewed
With the growth of sports betting across the U.S. comes an influx of new brands, including some with designs on disrupting the traditional model. While flashy features suit some, the Covers team of betting experts has evaluated several of the more established brands and shortlisted the top seven online betting sites for new bettors:
1. BetMGM - Best overall sportsbook
$1,500 First Bet Offer
Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new customer offer per user. Additional terms apply. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. CVRBONUS1500
BetMGM is arguably the sports betting industry's most well-rounded online sportsbook. Its headlining feature is its lucrative welcome bonus, which makes it our choice for the best NBA betting site, but there are plenty of reasons to use the sportsbook long-term. In particular, we love that BetMGM often takes less juice on player props and offers an unparalleled bet builder.
Who is BetMGM for?
Covers Expert Analysis
Covers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
"It is fun and easy to use and understand. There are great promotions, and great range of betting options on NBA players for points, rebounds, and assists. Stat's have each teams record of wins and losses right next to the betting lines, which gives me an ideal way to look at each bet, who to bet on, saving me time doing research."
“BetMGM is one of the best sportsbooks and sportsbook apps. The app is miles better than it was a year ago as far as performance goes. It has very competitive odds, a great variety of wagers, and very quick payouts. Deposits and withdrawals are painless, as there is no hassle like you get from other sportsbooks.”
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: support.nj@betmgm.com
- Phone: N/A
- Support languages: English
- X (Twitter): @BetMGMCare
Key features
- Live bet tracking: Despite delivering an already prodigious in-play betting section — notably featuring live streaming for numerous events — BetMGM continues to make improvements, now allowing you to track your live wagers in real time.
- Powered-up parlays: BetMGM isn't all talk when referring to itself as the "King of Parlays." Creating same-game parlays with its bet builder is a near-flawless experience, and on top of its refined SGP+ feature and pre-packaged parlays, you can now build parlays anywhere within the app.
- Enhanced football offering: Football betting is king, and BetMGM knows it. The sportsbook provides nearly 1,000 futures markets, over 450 ways to wager on each game, and unique in-app bet boosts for every day of the football calendar.
App Store rating
Google Play rating
Additional info
2. Caesars Sportsbook - Best rewards program
Double Your Winnings (10x)
New customers only. Must register using eligible promo code. Place a wager of at least $1 and you'll get 10x 100% profit boosts, up to $2,500 each, win or lose. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. COVERSBONUSDYW
Caesars Sportsbook opened its first location — Caesars Palace Casino in Las Vegas — almost 60 years ago and continues the legacy of providing an exceptional sports betting experience with great bonuses and boosts, an easy-to-use mobile app, and the industry's best sportsbook rewards program in 2025.
Who is Caesars Sportsbook for?
Covers Expert Analysis
Covers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
“I am learning how to bet quickly and responsibly with the Caesars Sportsbook app. There is a huge amount of help throughout the app. I am having fun placing bets and learning. I enjoy using the 'CASH OUT' button when I get a good bet. Thank you!”
"I had an initial hurdle with signing up and getting age verified, it took longer than my other sportsbooks. Eventually I had to deal with support, they did a great job though and I'm finally able to log-in and deposit funds. The app looks great, I like the layout, which is simple and fast."
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: customersupport@caesarssportsbook.com
- Phone: 855-474-0606
- Support languages: English
- X (Twitter): @CaesarsHelp
Key features
- World-famous brand: Caesars may occasionally catch flak for its Las Vegas-born flash and pomp, but the brand has decades of experience in the gaming industry, making it undeniably one of the most trustworthy sportsbooks on the market.
- NFL live streaming: Despite the immense popularity of in-play NFL betting, not every sportsbook provides complementary live streaming to enhance the experience. With Caesars, you can freely watch NFL matchups every game day.
- Play-by-play betting: Through its partnership with Simplebet, Caesars allows you the opportunity to wager on every play, including the next pitch result in an MLB game or who will make the next shot in an NBA matchup.
3. bet365 - Best odds
Choose: $150 Win or Lose or $1,000 Bonus
Bonus Bet amounts not returned with winnings. Minimum deposit required. Must register with the app only. T&Cs, time limits, and exclusions apply. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-GAMBLER (AZ/CO/IN/IL/LA/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA) 21+, (KY) 18+ COVERS
With decades of experience catering to European bettors, it's no surprise that bet365 has quickly become one of the best betting sites in the nation. If you're into live betting and streaming, there is no online sportsbook we'd rather recommend — the dedicated section is quick to update and seamless to navigate.
Who is bet365 for?
Covers Expert Analysis.jpg?w=40&auto=compress&auto=format)
Covers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
"The bet365 app is very easy to navigate, and placing bets is as easy as can be. It offers tons of wager options and is extremely easy to use any bet credits you have, but it’s just such a visually boring app.”
“bet365 is one of the best sportsbooks available, without question. What makes the bet365 app among the finest: Prompt payouts, fair odds, decent promotions, a plethora of wagering options, and cash-out early features that exceed what most of the competition is offering.”
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: support-eng@customerservices365.com
- Phone: N/A
- Support languages: English + 19 others
- X (Twitter): @bet365help
Key features
- Same Game Parlay+: Not only can you build regular and same-game parlays with bet365, but the sportsbook also offers a proprietary "Same Game Parlay+" feature. With this, you can combine SGPs from various games.
- Intuitive design: Adding to bet365's universal appeal is its impressively straightforward layout. Clear labels make finding whatever you're looking for simple, navigation is seamless on both desktop and mobile, and the betting menu is well-organized.
- Bet boosts: Accessing bet365's enhanced odds is easy — the sports betting platform hosts them all within a dedicated tab. Generally, boosts are limited to same-game parlays, but you'll also sometimes find them for futures and props.
4. FanDuel - Best user experience
Bet $5, Win $200
New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of min $5 and get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins. Possibly the most iconic of all sports betting sites, FanDuel earns its position as an industry staple with a product that excels in almost every respect. Whether it's the live betting, daily bonuses, exhaustive betting menu, or unique parlay options, we expect you'll be pleased with the FanDuel Sportsbook experience.
Who is FanDuel for?
Covers Expert Analysis
Covers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
“Best sportsbook app in the game. Loads fast as lightning, painless login, and a clean interface.”
“I've tried a few sports betting apps, and FanDuel is by far the most user-friendly and easier to navigate than others. They almost always have good promotions with every sport, especially during the playoffs.”
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: sportsbook@fanduel.com
- Phone: N/A
- Support languages: English
- X (Twitter): @FanDuel_Support
Key features
- Parlay Hub: As the inventor of same-game parlays, FanDuel Sportsbook holds itself to a rigorous standard in how it presents the bet type to its customers. That's clear with its dedicated Parlay Hub, which allows you to browse heaps of the most popular parlays across all online sports betting markets.
- Zippy loading times: You'll never miss a beat when wagering with FanDuel. The sportsbook's snappy loading speed ensures you won't have to deal with being timed out of a live wager or having a line shift while you await landing on a page.
- Top-notch live streaming: In partnership with Sportradar, FanDuel Sportsbook offers a plethora of live streams within its mobile app. You can view hockey games, tennis matches, soccer contests, and more while simultaneously having access to numerous in-play betting markets.
5. Fanatics Sportsbook - Best for merch rewards
$1,000 in No Sweat Bets
New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Choice of three offers. Daily bonus issued within 72 hours. One of the new betting sites to grace the industry, Fanatics Sportsbook is swiftly rising in popularity. While it's by no means perfect as a recent arrival, it does shine in several areas, none more noteworthy than its FanCash rewards program. Through this, you can redeem points you earn at the betting site's virtual store for various forms of merchandise.
Who is Fanatics Sportsbook for?
Covers Expert AnalysisCovers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
"I really enjoy everything Fanatics Sportsbook has to offer! I really like how you get Fanatics rewards faster than DraftKings too! I would highly recommend."
"It is very quick page loading and very easy to navigate. It offers generous promotions that are easy to understand, along with opportunities to make FanCash with nearly every bet."
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: support@betfanatics.com
- Phone: (855) 438-9701
- Support languages: English
- X (Twitter): @FanaticsSupport
Key features
- Fanatics Fair Play: Fanatics Sportsbook's Fair Play policy permits you to claim a refund should a player injury impact your wager during a specified timeframe. For example, wagering on an NFL player who leaves during the first quarter with an injury and doesn't return would qualify.
- Live betting and streaming: Improving on an already impressive in-play betting experience, Fanatics now provides a new data visualization that refines ease of navigation between games as well as the ability to track player and team stats. Plus, thanks to its partnership with Genius Sports, the sportsbook offers live streaming of various sports and events directly on its platform.
- Lightning Bets: Streaming isn't the only way Fanatics has enhanced its live betting section — it also boasts a trademark proprietary bet type called Lightning Bets. With these, you can wager on the outcome of specific plays in real time.
6. DraftKings - Best betting app
Bet $5, Get $200 Instantly
New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of min. $5 and get $200 in bonus bets. Few betting sites are as ubiquitous as DraftKings — and for good reason. The online sportsbook rates above average in all categories, but we're especially fond of its well-organized betting menus, which make navigating pre-game and live betting opportunities a snap. The cherry on top? DraftKings also owns one of the leading mobile betting apps.
Full offer terms: dkng.co/ftball. Promo expires on {{bonus/draft-kings/primary/end_date/us}}, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).[1.5%] 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS).
Who is DraftKings for?
Covers Expert AnalysisCovers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
“I have an account with DraftKings, and it's been a great experience being able to have access to this kind of opportunity to bet and win from your home.”
“The app itself is relatively slow. The profit boosts are nice and unlike anything I’ve ever seen on any other app or site. So that’s a plus. The lag on placing bets is a bit annoying, but it’s understandable. The UI is nice, and the social hub is a huge plus and extremely underrated.”
Customer support
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Email: sportsbook@draftkings.com
- Phone: Callback request
- Support languages: English
- (X) Twitter: @DK_Assist
Key features
- DraftKings Social: With DraftKings Social, you can track other bettors' performances, chat, and take part in group challenges. The proprietary feature is one of the most unique and engaging ways of enhancing the experience of sports betting.
- Newbie-friendly: Despite being a giant of the sports betting industry, DraftKings does an excellent job of welcoming first-time bettors into the fold. A simple sign-up bonus, sleek layout, and smooth navigation make betting straightforward from the get-go.
- Noteworthy partnerships: As one of the country's top sportsbooks, DraftKings boasts a lengthy list of partnerships with franchises and celebrities. As a result, it offers special boosts and other perks regularly.
7. BetRivers - Best for new bettors
$500 Second Chance Bet
Terms & conditions apply COVERSBONUS
BetRivers offers all of the same features you can expect from top betting sites, such as live streaming, early cash outs, and a great mobile app. We love BetRivers Sportsbook's constant stream of promotions for both new and regular bettors, as the offers are straightforward and come without tricky terms.
Who is BetRivers for?
Covers Expert AnalysisCovers BetSmart Rating
Player reviews
“I had an extremely helpful and pleasant conversation with Jake from BetRivers Sportsbook. He was patient, listened well, and definitely tried extremely hard to accommodate my request. He was unable to do so, but my interaction with him has left me feeling totally fine about it. He explained why one of my requests was not able to be completed and was very thorough in answering my questions about it. I highly, highly recommend him (and, as an extension, other customer support personnel) for advice and support. Promote this man (but don’t keep him away from your customers, he’s amazing!)”
"Have had no problem with the app so far. Payment after winning is also fast, secure, and easy to transfer!"
Customer support
- Live chat: Available from 9:30 a.m. ET to 2 a.m. ET
- Email: PAsupport@betrivers.com
- Phone: 855-287-9947
- Support languages: English
- X (Twitter): @BetRivers
Key features
- Good SGP options: To be considered a top sportsbook in 2025, offering plentiful same-game parlay options is a must. BetRivers Sportsbook follows through here, allowing you to either make your own or use its “SGP Quick Pick” feature, which provides a pre-built suggestion.
- Solid live betting: In-play wagering is more popular than ever and the best online betting sites boast dedicated sections for it alone. BetRivers Sportsbook is no exception — you can bet on tons of sports as they happen, and the available bet types almost always feature up-to-the-second odds.
- Live streaming: Although many betting sites offer in-play betting, only some tender live streaming. BetRivers Sportsbook is one of those few, delivering streams for NHL games, tennis matches, and more.
More popular betting sites
We've outlined a few additional sportsbooks you can bet online at in 2025.
ESPN BET
ESPN BET leverages its position in the sports world to provide comprehensive coverage for all major North American leagues and events, a fantastic 'Live' section where you can watch and wager on many of these online sports betting markets in real-time, and a collection of great bonuses and ongoing promos crafted by top ESPN personalities like Stephen A Smith and Mike Greenberg. You do not need the ESPN BET promo code to secure any of the online betting platform's promotions in 2025.
Bally Bet
Backed by the iconic Bally's Corporation brand, Bally Bet is a reliable sportsbook that provides one of the most well-rounded iGaming experiences in 2025 thanks to the ability to seamlessly access its affiliated online casino — Bally Casino — under one account. Though it is only available in a limited number of states, you do not need the Bally Bet promo code to qualify for any ongoing bonus or welcome offer.
Betfred
Betfred is a UK-based online sports betting site that has been loyally serving punters since 1967. Today, Betfred has become a go-to online sportsbook for U.S. bettors seeking less traditional sports betting markets, such as snooker, greyhound racing, and esports. You can live bet on these leagues — along with every major North American sport — directly on the platform via its 'in-Play' section. You also don't need the Betfred promo code to claim any bonus the online sportsbook offers in 2025.
How to claim a sportsbook bonus
Most of the top U.S. betting sites in 2025 offer a welcome bonus for new users. We've outlined the straightforward process of signing up and claiming these offers below:
Select a sportsbook
With new betting sites emerging constantly, you'll want to browse the available options in your area and select operators that align with your betting preferences. Read our detailed betting reviews to learn about the sportsbook before registering; we highlight critical factors like betting markets, ongoing promotions, banking options, and more.
Register online
Now it's time to create accounts with your chosen U.S. sports betting sites. You'll need to provide some personal details — your full name, home and email address, date of birth, etc. — when prompted to complete this step.
Claim a bonus
After creating an online sportsbook account, you'll have the option to claim the operator's welcome offer. We suggest thoroughly reading the offer's terms and conditions before claiming any bonus.
Deposit
You'll often have to make an initial deposit — typically at least $10 — to secure the welcome bonus. Although there are some sports betting sites that let you deposit $5 to secure their welcome bonus like DraftKings. You can use a wide range of popular banking options like PayPal, credit cards, debit cards, and online banking, to make your initial deposits.
Start betting
Most of the welcome bonuses you can claim from the top U.S. betting sites do not have market restrictions, meaning you can wager the bonus funds on various types of bets, such as point spread, moneyline, Over/Under (totals), parlays, and futures.
Every online sportsbook may offer slightly different odds for a range of betting options, which is why line shopping is critical and can help you get more juice on every wager.
Withdraw
If you've satisfied the bonus' attached wagering requirements, which are outlined in the offer's terms and conditions, then you can withdraw the funds from your account using your preferred banking method. Withdrawals typically take between one to five banking days to process.
Tips for choosing the right betting site for you
- Know what you want in an online betting site. Think about your betting profile before anything else. What sports and markets do you bet on — do you want the best online March Madness betting sites or looking for novelty bets? Are you interested in the best social sportsbooks or the best prediction market sites? Do you need lots of options for props and derivatives? Do you usually bet on mobile or desktop? Knowing the answers to these types of questions will help you narrow down your list of potential betting sites.
- Do your research. Make sure you read a few of our betting site reviews so you know what’s out there before you make your choice. Be sure to check our betting site blacklist as well if you’re considering a sportsbook that isn’t on our recommended list.
- Read the bonus terms and conditions. Big bonuses are often best, but we have seen bonuses that are too good to be true. Be sure to check the rollover and odds requirements before taking a bonus from any online betting site.
- Check the payout options and speed. Being able to get your winnings out promptly should be one of the first things you look at when choosing an online sports betting site.
Learn more
State betting guides
With legalized online sports betting rolling out across the USA at the state level, we're providing U.S. sports bettors with comprehensive breakdowns of where sports betting is legal in each state and territory. Legal Missouri sports betting was approved in 2024, paving the path for up to 14 new betting sites to launch in the Show-Me State later in 2025. Florida occupies one of the country's most unique betting markets, as Florida sportsbook promos comprise one traditional operator and a mix of DFS and social betting sites.
Whether you're looking for the top political betting sites to get the best Canadian election odds or the betting site with the most in-play markets in 2025, we've assembled a list of the most trusted legal sportsbooks in your area:
Below, we track the states that do not have a legalized sports betting market in 2025:
How we rate and review sportsbooks
Covers BetSmart Rating
Covers has been rating sportsbooks for over 30 years. This experience has led us to develop the Covers BetSmart Rating to ensure that you're betting at a safe and legit betting site. The main factors that go into a sportsbook's overall rating are bonuses and promotions, banking and payout speeds, key features, security and trust, and customer support.
Of course, there are many other factors we look at as well as we strive to give you all the information you should know about every sportsbook we recommend. That's why our team spends a few days at each new betting website before submitting their reviews. They deposit, they collect bonuses, they place bets, and they withdraw — all so that you're getting the most in-depth sportsbook reviews on the internet.
Learn how we rate sportsbooksHow we rate betting sites
All bettors want their winnings quickly, so payout speed is important in our evaluation process of the best betting sites for withdrawal and deposit options.
While a big welcome bonus is always nice, we also check to ensure that the terms and conditions of the most common sportsbook sign-up bonuses are fair. We also evaluate promotions for existing customers, like reload bonuses and sportsbook referral bonuses.
This is a broad category, but we like to see legal sportsbooks and sports betting apps that push the envelope to deliver a fantastic experience to sports bettors. Some of the betting features we look for include a mobile app, competitive odds pricing, a wide range of betting options for major sports, live betting, early cash out, streaming options, poker and casino offerings, and responsible gambling features.
With real money at stake, you need to know you’re depositing at a site you can trust. Before recommending any online sports betting site, we’ll make sure they have a valid license for the jurisdiction from the appropriate regulators. We’ll also ensure the website is safe and secure so that your data is protected.
If an issue arises, you should be able to have it solved quickly and conveniently by a real person. We like to see a wide range of options to reach customer support and how quickly they resolve the issue.
While the five categories above are the basis for our sportsbook ratings, we dig deep and look at everything we possibly can at every online sportsbook we review: the sign-up process, verification process, limits, localization, VIP or loyalty program, and user experience.
Betting sites payment methods
The top U.S. betting sites offer a wide variety of fast and reliable banking options to add and withdraw funds from your account easily. We've highlighted the top five banking vendors in 2025 below:
An established e-wallet that accounts for roughly 22% of all online transactions in the U.S., PayPal is among the most trusted banking options for sports bettors. Caesars Sportsbook is one of the best PayPal betting sites in 2025.
Visa is one of the most popular banking options in the U.S., as over 340 million cards are used across the country in 2025. Caesars Sportsbook is our top Visa betting site, but almost every legal U.S. betting site accepts the vendor.
Banking with Mastercard is a breeze, allowing you to add funds to your sports betting site in a few clicks. All deposits with Mastercard are instant and have a reasonable minimum requirement of $5 - $10. We've found FanDuel to be one of the best Mastercard betting sites you can access.
American Express betting sites are more uncommon than the other banking vendors we've mentioned. Even so, you can still use Amex with several top operators, highlighted by BetMGM.
Most online U.S. betting sites allow you to transfer funds from your personal bank account to your sportsbook account for free and with minimal wait times. Unfortunately, online banking is often unavailable when withdrawing funds. FanDuel and DraftKings are two of the best betting sites that offer online banking.
Recent betting sites news
Betting updates
Below is an updated timeline of the latest relevant U.S. sports betting news:
May 5, 2025: U.S. election betting is 'here to stay' after Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) submits motion to drop its appeal against grey-area operators like Kalshi who were suppling election-related contracts.
May 2, 2025: Covers' Ryan Butler outlines the five state legislation shocks since the federal sports betting ban was repealed.
April 24, 2025: Covers' James Bisson shares a U.S. sports betting and iGaming bill tracker for 2025, including the status on several non-legal states like Hawaii, Georgia, and Texas.
April 22, 2025: Covers' Geoff Zochodne outlines which states are allow to bet on the NFL Draft in 2025, which takes place on Thursday in Green Bay.
April 18, 2025: U.S. sportsbooks need the NBA favorites in future markets to hedge against liabilities, like the Warriors and Lakers, the public is backing this postseason.
April 4, 2025: U.S. gaming stocks drop significantly amidst Donald Trump's global tariffs.
April 4, 2025: Covers' Ryan Butler outlines the four U.S. states — Utah, Idaho, South Carolina, and Alaska — that are least likely to legalize sports betting anytime soon.
April 2, 2025: Covers' Geoff Zochodne explains why many U.S. sports betting regulators have had it with event contracts that offshore operators like Kalshi and Robinhood have offered recently.
March 31, 2025: U.S. sportsbooks dodge huge March Madness week two upset payouts after all four number one men's teams advance to the Final Four.
March 24, 2025: March Madness' lack of upsets meant U.S. bettors had a successful weekend, capitalizing on moneyline parlays during the first two rounds of this year's NCAA tournament.
March 19, 2025: Covers' Geoff Zochodne explains how the rise of prediction and sweeps markets in the U.S. have made states' college betting rules irrelevant.
March 17, 2025: HBO 'Last Week Tonight' host John Oliver attacks the U.S. sports betting industry in a recent episode, stating their influence over North American sports league is 'unmistakable'.
March 13, 2025: The American Gaming Association President and CEO has doubts about the U.S. federal government providing sports betting oversight.
March 12, 2025: The trade dispute between the United States and Canada disrupts the North American gaming market.
March 12, 2025: A recent study reveals that the offshore sports betting market is twice the size as the legal market in the U.S.
March 7, 2025: U.S. gaming companies carry a rough 2025 start into the first week of March, as gambling operators' stock continues to decline as they face pushback at the federal and state-level.
March 4, 2025: Covers' Geoff Zochodne outlines a state-by-state guide of where you can wager on March Madness in 2025.
Feb. 27, 2025: The Indian Gaming Association urges the CFTC to prohibit sports prediction outcome markets, such as Kalshi.
Feb. 24, 2025: Several U.S. lawmakers are asking why not make online sports betting illegal again?
Feb. 19, 2025: U.S. commercial gaming revenue reaches a record $72 billion in 2024, which is up 7.5% over last year.
Feb. 19, 2025: The craze over the 4 Nation's Face-Off is felt at both U.S. and Canadian sportsbooks and is expected to continue into Thursday's final between the two countries.
Feb. 19, 2025: The American Gaming Association lauds U.S. President Trump's administration, remaining optimistic about reaching its long-standing policy goals.
Feb. 19, 2025: A campaign to eliminate federal taxes on sports betting returns to Capitol Hill for the fourth time.
Feb. 18, 2025: A new study by JAMA Internal Medicine finds that searches have increased for U.S. gambling addiction services since PAPSA legalized sports betting in 2018.
Feb. 18, 2025: U.S. online sportsbooks get off to a hot start in 2025 thanks to Super Bowl LIX, which helps after a tough, public-friendly, NFL season.
Feb. 13, 2025: President Donald Trump picks former Kalshi board member Brian Quintenz as the head of the federal commodities regulator.
Feb. 11, 2025: A recent TransUnion study reaffirms that sports betting participation continued to grow in 2024.
Feb. 6, 2025: The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission says that sports betting laws are an issue for prediction markets offered by Kalshi and others platforms.
Jan. 30, 2025: U.S. authorities are investigating NBA guard Terry Rozier for a potential gambling scandal after U.S. Integrity flagged an unusual number of wagers on Rozier's unders during a March 23, 2023, game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Jan. 20, 2025: Several U.S. sportsbooks are pulling for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2025 College Football Playoffs National Championship due to being over-exposed on Notre Dame underdog wagers.
Jan. 16, 2025: Covers' James Bisson shares the 2024 U.S. sports betting handle and revenue report.
Jan. 13, 2025: Covers' Ryan Butler breaks down how a U.S. gambling bill actually becomes a law in 2025.
Jan. 10, 2025: While the number of people partaking in sports betting surges, horse racing handle sags.
Jan. 8, 2025: Covers' Ryan Butler examines the seven more interesting U.S. gaming bills introduced in 2025, including Texas, Virginia, and Maryland.
Jan. 1, 2025: U.S. sportsbooks are taking varying approaches to settling Sugar Bowl bets after the College Football Playoffs match was postponed.
Dec. 25, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks share insights on NFL's Christmas Day doubleheader.
Dec. 13, 2024: U.S. gaming leaders reaffirm optimism in Trump's administration, stating that the incoming government will provide a friendly environment to the country's gaming industry.
Dec. 12, 2024: Covers' Geoff Zochodne examines how the current U.S. sports betting industry feels similar to how it was 2022, as it's facing bad press from the mainstream media once again and must adjust to adapt with these criticisms.
Dec. 10, 2024: A recent articled shared by the Oklahoma Voice examines whether the growing U.S. sports betting industry is contributing to higher debt rates.
Dec. 6, 2024: Two U.S. senators want DraftKings and FanDuel investigated for "possible anticompetitive conduct."
Nov. 26, 2024: Donald Trump's "hands-off" approach to gaming regulation will benefit the U.S. betting industry and his administration, say Rush Street CEO Richard Schwartz.
Nov. 18, 2024: Jake Paul-Mike Tyson was the most bet on combat sports event in history at various U.S. sportsbooks, including BetMGM and DraftKings.
Nov. 13, 2024: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's dream for Congress to adopt a country-wide framework for legal sports betting still hasn't materialized 10 years after publishing his New York Times op-ed in support of legalized gambling.
Nov. 8, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks have an October to forget after a favorable September due to a lack of NFL upsets leading to never-before-seen losses and adjustments of future revenue projections.
Nov. 6, 2024: Donald Trump's victory is a win for legal U.S. election betting markets, argues Covers' Geoff Zochodne.
Nov. 5, 2024: Missouri's sports betting ballot is approved by voters during the 2024 U.S. Election, projecting to go live by Dec. 1, 2025, at the latest. The Show-Me State will become the 39th U.S. state to offer legal sports betting when it launches next year.
Nov. 1, 2024: Covers' Geoff Zochodne argues and outlines why U.S. election betting should already be legalized in 2024
Oct. 28, 2024: U.S. bettors and sportsbook are set to enjoy a rare "Sports Equinox", as the four major U.S. professional leagues — NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB — all have games on Monday.
Oct. 22, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks and bettors get their 'dream matchup' with a Yankees versus Dodgers MLB World Series.
Oct. 18, 2024: Ahead of the upcoming season, the NBA asks sportsbook to prohibit under prop betting markets for players on short-term contracts in the wake of the Jontay Porter scandal last season.
Oct. 10, 2024: The American Gaming Association teams up with UK gaming groups — the Betting Gaming Council have teams up and the European Casino Association — to address several global gaming issues like illegal wagering and responsible gambling.
Oct. 7, 2024: The growth of online sports betting has caused retail sportsbooks' role to shift in the U.S. as their importance continue to dwindle in the legal market.
Oct. 4, 2024: Underreported gambling winnings on taxes leaves the IRS $1.4 billion short of their potential taxable dollars total, according to a new Bloomberg report.
Oct. 1, 2024: The American Gaming Association projects a growth slowdown for the betting industry following years of rapid expansion and high revenues.
Sept. 27, 2024: The U.S. gaming industry is investing $474 million annually in responsible gaming, which is a 72% increase from 2017.
Sept. 19, 2024: A group of leading gaming stakeholders continue to oppose a federal sports betting bill that could restrict advertising and implement a sweeping regulatory framework.
Sept. 19, 2024: A U.S. Congresswomen pushed back against the SAFE BET ACT, stating it is a "misguided approach" to try and pre-empt state regulators.
Sept. 16, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks turn a huge profit during NFL Week 2 Sunday after several heavy favorites get upset.
Sept. 12, 2024: U.S. Congressmen introduce the SAFE BET ACT bill, which aims to stop sports betting operators from using targeting problem gamblers and introduce several safe betting initiatives across the country.
Sept. 5, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks and bettors are split on the 2024 NFL season opener between the Ravens and Chiefs, as most betting sites report almost even action on both sides to win.
Aug. 28, 2024: A record-setting 55% of Americans are participating in gambling, as a recent gaming industry survey reveals that a majority of adults across the country say they partake in some form of wagering.
Aug. 22, 2024: Covers' Ryan Butler ranks which retail-only sports betting states are the most likely to legalize online betting in the future.
Aug. 14, 2024: After the proposed gaming tax surcharge failed, U.S. sports bettors may face murkier tax measures in the future.
Aug. 12, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks took differing approaches on how to settle which country won the most gold medals during the 2024 Olympic Games.
Aug. 1, 2024: U.S. sportsbooks weigh-in on the new NFL kickoff rule and how it affects football betting numbers.
July 26, 2024: Covers Geoff Zochodne examines who the real losers of the recent sports betting consolidation are after approximately 30 online sportsbooks have closed, pulled back their market availability, or have been purchased.
July 22, 2024: America Bettors' Voice officially launches, which is a new organization created by renowned sports bettors and aims to fill industry gaps in U.S. online sports betting markets.
June 24, 2024: The U.S. sports betting competition is shrinking with Tipico and BetFred planning to exit markets shortly.
June 11, 2024: Several MLB players shed light on the sports betting harassment they receive from bettors, describing the issue as "getting worse" and "out of hand".
June 3, 2024: Major U.S. sportsbooks have been impacted by Caitlin Clark's early WNBA struggles.
May 28, 2024: Covers' own Geoff Zochodne explores the fallout for bettors if states hike sports wagering taxes across the country.
May 21, 2024: Caesars launches retail sportsbooks in New Mexico, opening in-person betting at three casino locations via a partnership with the Laguna Development Corporation.
May 18, 2024: Female athletes face triple the threats compared to their male counterparts, a recent NCAA betting report shows.
May 16, 2024: U.S. commercial gaming sets 13th-consectutive quarterly revenue record, earning $17.67 billion in the first quarter of 2024.
May 13, 2024: Banning player props and other sports betting markets may make it harder to fight match-fixing, not easier.
May 9, 2024: The NCAA's memberships — the U.S. post-secondary institutions with athletic programs — will consider 'liberalized' sports betting rules for student-athletes and coaches.
May 8, 2024: ESPN BET will host an alternative telecast of the PGA Championship after announcing a partnership earlier this week.
May 7, 2024: Several legal U.S. jurisdictions — such as Illinois and New Jersey — threaten tax hikes for sports betting sites.
May 6, 2024: The 2024 Kentucky Derby sets a new betting handle record, reaching $320.5 million in all wagers for the day and $446.6 million across the week.
May 3, 2024: The Kentucky Derby may shed light on the success online sportsbooks are having with horse racing.
May 2, 2024: Sportstrade launches iOS betting app in Iowa, allowing bettors to buy and sell bets in real time.
Types of betting sites bonuses
As regulated online sports betting spreads across the USA, established sportsbooks and new betting sites deploy a wide range of bonuses to attract users.
Not all bonuses are created equally, though. So, be sure to read the terms and conditions of the most common sportsbook sign-up bonuses before claiming it to ensure its validity.
| Bonus | Description | Find this bonus at |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit Match |
These are the most popular bonuses awarded by sportsbooks. They are usually given at first deposit as a percentage of your first deposit. For example, get a 100% deposit match bonus up to $150. |
 DraftKings
|
| Bet Credits |
A bet credit is money added to your account that can be used to make a bet but can’t be withdrawn. You can, of course, withdraw any winnings made from bet credits. |
 bet365
|
| Bonus Bet |
A bonus bet works just like a bet credit where you're given money to wager with, but it can't be withdrawn. Any winnings from a bonus bet are yours to keep, of course! Some sportsbooks will offer bonus bets just for signing up — no deposit required! |
 FanDuel
|
| Second Chance Bet |
A second-chance bet works exactly how it sounds. If you win your wager, you keep the winnings just like any other bet. But if you lose the second-chance bet or first bet insurance, the sportsbook will refund your stake up to the amount specified by the promotion. |
 BetRivers
|
Online sportsbooks vs. offline sportsbooks
Withdrawal times are slower online than in-person"Community-aspect" of wagering at a retail sportsbookBlacklisted sports betting sites
Covers takes pride in being the most trusted site for sports betting information, and we want you to have the best experience wagering at safe betting sites. So when a sportsbook doesn’t meet our standards, or when we get multiple reports of bad practices from our users, they end up on our blacklist. The following sportsbooks do not meet our rigid quality standards:
- Allegations of withdrawal issues
- No license information available on site
- Poor customer service
- Multiple reports of slow payments
- Allegations of non-payments
- Risk of account closure simply for winning bets
- Reports of confiscated winnings
- Slow customer support response times
Regularly seen on
We have had our finger on the pulse of the sports betting industry for more than 30 years, covering sports betting odds, lines, picks and news.
The sportsbooks we recommend have been personally reviewed, rigorously curated, and frequently updated by our team of experts.
News outlets turn to Covers for our earned reputation as a trusted and authoritative source of sports betting information. These are among the notable publications and media outlets that have referenced Covers.com and our industry experts.
US sports betting resources
We've identified the states with legal sports betting and those on the cusp, along with the best sportsbook promos and user-friendly mobile betting apps.
Responsible gambling
The top US betting sites prioritize responsible gambling, offering a wide range of resources to help those that struggle with trouble gaming. Most online sportsbook allow you to set deposit, wagering, and time limits to help you keep your betting in check. If your require further assistance, we encourage you to utilize any of the following responsible gambling resources:
National Council on Problem Gambling National Council for Responsible Gaming Gambling Therapy
Best betting sites abroad
Online sportsbook FAQ
On a federal level, yes, sports betting is legal following a Supreme Court ruling in May of 2018. However, each state is responsible for its own sports betting legislation, so the legality of sports betting depends on which state you're currently residing in.
Sports betting is now legal in 38 U.S. states, plus DC. Track states with legal sports betting through our U.S. legal tracker to stay up to date on the latest online sports betting launches.
Online sportsbooks are legal provided they are licensed by the gaming authority from the state in which they are operating. All of the sportsbooks listed above are licensed in New Jersey by the NJDGE.
Our top online sportsbook for U.S. players in 2025 is BetMGM. The rest of our favorite betting sites are listed above. All have been reviewed and vetted by our trademarked Covers BetSmart System.
Most regulated online sportsbooks in the U.S. accept PayPal as a payment method, including our top options FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars Sportsbook.
Yes, a few online sportsbooks accept American Express as a deposit option. BetMGM, Borgata, and Golden Nugget all support Amex transactions.
Football is king, with the NFL being the most popular sport for betting in the U.S. The NBA, MLB and NHL, along with men's college football and basketball, are other popular options among bettors. Major sporting events like the World Cup of soccer and Masters Tournament for golf tend to generate increased action as well.
Yes, any regulated sportsbook in the U.S. will pay out customers the winnings they are entitled to. If you're having an issue with a payout from a regulated sportsbook in the U.S., please let us know via the Covers Blacklist page.
Currently bet365 has our highest rating for banking and payout speed. Payout speed tends to depend on the method of payment, more than the sportsbook itself. Interac, iDebit and Instadebit can all process within 24 hours.
Technically, sportsbooks can ban you for any reason they like. Accounts can be limited or closed due to promotion abuse, multi-accounting, potential arbitrage (betting both sides) and yes, winning too much. It is not uncommon for a winning player to have their wagering amount restricted.
Customers in over 30 U.S. jurisdictions can access legal single-game wagering either through online or retail options or a mix of both. Pending legislation in several other markets signifies an increase in legal states, but some states likely will never authorize sports betting.
Sports betting sites and their operators collect a commission on losing bets, frequently called the vigorish, vig, or juice, in betting parlance. The vig represents the price a sportsbook charges for taking a bet. The standard vig used is -110, which means for every $1.10 bet, the bettor wins $1.
We continue to identify, collect, and share the best sports betting promotions available to customers across the USA. The offers on this page stand as the industry's best sign-up or welcome bonuses.
Yes, provided that you are in a U.S. jurisdiction that regulates legal sports betting and licensed sportsbooks.
Most U.S. betting sites use American odds — presented in hundreds or thousands, and defined by the positive (+) and negative (-) value assigned — as fractional odds are mostly used in horse racing and futures markets. You can easily switch between American and fractional odds by changing your account preferences at your online betting site.
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