Maryland sports betting
Maryland sports betting is live and legal! You can now register at 11 MD sportsbooks in the Old Line State. We guide you with the latest news, reviews, and an updated list of bonuses you can claim.
- Legal Maryland sportsbooks
- Latest news
- Best Maryland sportsbooks
- More MD sports betting sites
- List of Maryland sportsbooks
- Is online sports betting legal in Maryland?
- Latest developments in MD sports betting
- A quick overview of Maryland sports betting
- Popular teams to wager on in MD
- Bets available on Maryland sportsbooks
- How to join an MD sportsbook
- How to choose the best Maryland betting site
- Are sports betting winnings taxable in Maryland?
- Popular sports to bet on in Maryland
- Payment methods on MD online sportsbooks
- Retail sportsbooks in Maryland
- The history of Maryland sports betting
- Laws and regulations that sports betting apps need to follow in Maryland
- How are sportsbooks taxed in Maryland?
- Should I sign up for multiple MD sportsbooks?
- FAQ
Legal Maryland sportsbooks
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Best Maryland sportsbooks
- Caesars Maryland: Best sportsbook for NFL wagering
- DraftKings Maryland: Best sportsbook for UFC wagering
- Crab Sports Maryland: Best sportsbook for Maryland teams
- BetRivers Maryland: Best sportsbook for rewards
- FanDuel Maryland: Best sportsbook for live streaming
- BetMGM Maryland: Best sportsbook for welcome promos
1. Caesars Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
- Retail location in MD: Horseshoe Baltimore Casino
- Live in Maryland since: 2022
Caesars was one of the first seven sportsbooks to go live in Maryland on November 23, 2022. After acquiring William Hill’s United States gaming assets in 2021, Caesars has risen to prominence in the online sports betting space. They are an industry leader for high-end welcome offers, and they provide ongoing perks through the Caesars Rewards program.
Caesars owns the Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore, and they have installed a state-of-the-art sportsbook at the gaming facility.
Best feature: Caesars is the best sportsbook for betting on the NFL due to its partnership with the Baltimore Ravens.
2. DraftKings Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets
- Retail location in MD: Timonium Racetrack
- Live in Maryland since: 2022
DraftKings Maryland is owned and operated by DraftKings Inc. and is licensed by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. The online sportsbook offers its players competitive odds on football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, tennis, golf, boxing, and more.
DraftKings launched in Maryland on November 23, 2022, and has a retail location at Timonium Racetrack where players can visit to wager in person.
Best feature: DraftKings is best for betting on the UFC because of their partnership with the organization, and they run special promotions for big UFC events.
3. Fanatics Sportsbook Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Bet & Get Up To $1000 in No Sweat Bets
- Retail location in MD: FedEx Field
- Live in Maryland since: 2023
Maryland was one of the first four states where Fanatics planned to launch. The sports wagering app launched in August 2023.
At the moment, accessing the online sportsbook will take you to a page with a QR code to download the app. While Fanatics Sportsbook hasn’t announced a date when the desktop site will be available, it will be a necessary feature if the platform is to break through an active Maryland market.
Best feature: Players can earn “FanCash” on every wager they make with Fanatics, allowing them to build towards bonus bets as a percentage of every bet they place.
4. Crab Sports Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $500
- Retail location in MD: No Retail Location
- Live in Maryland since: 2023
Crab Sports Maryland launched its online sports betting platform on July 13, 2023. This state-focused site is taking advantage of Maryland’s inclusive approach to sportsbook licensing. They have been able to enter the marketplace through a partnership with Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Baltimore.
This operator should appeal to people who like to support endeavors with a local flair. When you support Crab Sports with your gambling dollar, you are also supporting a beloved Maryland culinary institution.
Best feature: Since Crab Sports is a local business, it is a good destination if you want to bet on Maryland teams.
5. BetRivers Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $500
- Retail location in MD: Bingo World
- Live in Maryland since: 2022
BetRivers is owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive, a division of Rush Street Gaming. They have a well-developed platform, and they provide a rock-solid player experience. Their site offers competitive odds, generous bonus rewards, and quality customer support.
BetRivers Maryland launched on November 23, 2022, so they have been around since day one. On top of that, BetRivers has partnered up with Bingo World in the brick-and-mortar realm, and they are operating a retail sportsbook at the popular Baltimore facility.
Best feature: The BetRivers loyalty program, called iRush Rewards, is one of the strongest loyalty programs around, with each bet earning points that can be redeemed for rewards, odds boosts, and added premiums.
6. FanDuel Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets & 3 Month Trial of NBA League Pass
- Retail location in MD: Live! Casino & Hotel
- Live in Maryland since: 2022
FanDuel is operated by Betfair Interactive US and is licensed by the state of Maryland to offer online sports betting. On FanDuel, you can bet on all sporting events of interest, and there are multiple betting markets to choose from.
FanDuel launched online in Maryland on November 23, 2022, and they also have a retail location at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover.
Best feature: FanDuel is the best Maryland sportsbook for live streaming of games, and they provide informative betting content through FanDuel TV+.
7. BetMGM Maryland
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1500
- Retail location in MD: MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino
- Live in Maryland since: 2022
BetMGM is owned by Las Vegas-based gaming giant MGM Resorts International, and it went live in Maryland on November 23, 2022. On top of the online betting platform, they have established a beautiful retail sportsbook at MGM National Harbor Resort and Casino in Forest Heights.
When it comes to betting features, you can expect competitive odds and all of the standard markets. Some games can be streamed on the BetMGM site, so they offer a comprehensive user experience.
Best feature: The bonuses and promotions that are offered at BetMGM are the standout features. You get a welcome reward at the outset, and the promos keep rolling in after you become a regular player.
More MD sports betting sites
Maryland gambling laws are designed to be inclusive, and they encourage diversity and small business participation. As a result, there are a number of sports betting sites that fly under the radar, and the list will get longer as time goes on:
ESPN Bet Maryland
ESPN Bet has finally opened in Maryland. The front-facing brand of PENN Entertainment’s sportsbook, ESPN Bet took over what used to be Barstool’s sports betting site.
With PENN’s backing, ESPN Bet was able to carry many of the same features and characteristics of the Barstool platform, though the new-look sportsbook is a major upgrade. The site also features top-notch customer service resources, competitive bonuses, and a lucrative loyalty program to make the most of your gambling experience.
Best feature: Experienced players will appreciate wagering on ESPN Bet, which offers various wagering choices and options for multi-sport parlays.
LetsBetMD Sportsbook Maryland
LetsBetMD entered Maryland’s competitive sports betting market in July 2024, aiming to make its mark as the 12th mobile sportsbook in the state. Operated by Veterans Services Corporation and powered by Bee-Fee Limited, the platform offers both a mobile app and a desktop site, catering to a wide range of bettors.
However, LetsBetMD has been met with some criticism, particularly regarding its less competitive odds. For instance, a comparison showed that LetsBetMD listed the Washington Nationals’ moneyline at -129, whereas major competitors like DraftKings offered the same at -105, making LetsBetMD a less attractive option for odds-conscious bettors.
Best feature: LetsBetMD’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to navigate the site and place bets with confidence.
Bally Bet Sportsbook Maryland
Bally Bet officially launched in Maryland in July 2024, becoming the 13th mobile sportsbook available to bettors in the state. This marks the ninth state where Bally Bet operates, following expansions into markets like New York and Ohio. Despite its broad reach, Bally Bet has struggled to gain significant market share in its existing states, often ranking among the lower-tier operators.
Bally Bet offers a straightforward platform with a range of betting options, including spreads, moneylines, totals, in-game betting, and same-game parlays. However, the platform has been noted for its somewhat limited live betting options and a user experience that, while functional, doesn’t stand out in a crowded field.
Best feature: Bally Bet’s strong integration with its retail casinos provides a seamless experience for bettors who enjoy both online and in-person wagering, offering them the convenience of managing their bets across multiple platforms.
BetPARX Maryland
BetPARX Maryland is one of the newer Maryland sportsbooks on the block, but with 20 different sports for bettors to choose from, the sky is the limit. The betting website has carved out a niche for offering odds that are at times more player-friendly than what you might see on other platforms.
One unique aspect of betPARX is the daily odds boosts, which gives players better odds on bets. Many sites would only grant bonus bets following a loss, so the unique approach could work in betPARX’s favor.
Best feature: BetPARX features daily odds boosts that can add as much as +100 or more to select lines on the sportsbook.
List of Maryland sportsbooks
With as many as 60 sports betting licenses up for grabs, the roster of sports betting operators in Maryland is bound to change over time. Here is the full list of Maryland sportsbooks that are currently open for business:
| Sportsbook | Live since |
|---|---|
| DraftKings | 11/23/2022 |
| Caesars | 11/23/2022 |
| FanDuel | 11/23/2022 |
| BetMGM | 11/23/2022 |
| BetRivers | 11/23/2022 |
| Crab Sports | 07/13/2023 |
| Bally Bet | 07/29/2024 |
| LetsBetMD | 07/01/2024 |
| betPARX | 08/11/2023 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | 08/17/2023 |
| ESPN Bet | 11/14/2023 |
Is online sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Maryland. After the legislature passed HB 940, Governor Larry Hogan signed the bill into law in May 2021.
Starting in November 2022, adults over the age of 21 are free to place wagers on any of the online sportsbooks currently licensed in the Old Line State.
Latest developments in MD sports betting
A quick overview of Maryland sports betting
| Sports betting legal since: | May 18, 2021 |
| Number of online sportsbooks: | 11 |
| Number of retail sportsbooks: | 12 |
| Legal betting age: | 21 |
| Licensing body: | The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission |
| Governing body: | The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency |
Popular teams to wager on in MD
The state of Maryland is home to a handful of popular sports teams that you can place your wagers on. They include:
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a major source of pride for Maryland football fans. They have enjoyed a lot of success since John Harbaugh took the reins in 2008, and M&T Bank Stadium is electric on Sundays during the NFL season. Now that sports betting in Maryland is legal, fans can add a layer of betting excitement.
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles are the other major sports franchise in the state. Oriole Park at Camden Yards is one of the best places in the country to watch an MLB game. The franchise was founded in 1901, and they have fielded many memorable teams. This is another option for people that like to support local teams.
Maryland Terrapins
A lot of sports fans in Maryland are very passionate about the University of Maryland Terrapins. Their teams compete in the powerful Big Ten Conference, so they play against some of the toughest competition in the country. You are free to place wagers on the Terrapins and other in-state teams in the Old Line State.
Bets available on Maryland sportsbooks
You have a lot of options when you are placing bets at Maryland sportsbooks. Below is a run-through of the most common bet types you will find:
Moneyline
Live betting
Over/Under
Parlay bet
Point spread
Futures bets
Prop bets
How to join an MD sportsbook
In order to start wagering online, you’ll need to create an account with any of the licensed MD sportsbooks. To get started, just follow these simple steps:
- Choose a legal Maryland sportsbook: The first step is ensuring that the sportsbook has a license to accept players from Maryland. When you’ve chosen your preferred operator, you can visit their website and initiate the registration process.
- Create an account with your personal details: Here is the part where you provide your personal information to the MD sportsbook you want to join. After providing this data, your location will be verified, and your account will go live.
- Deposit funds and claim your promo: After that, you need to choose a payment option so you can fund your account. You can use online banking, a credit or debit card, PayPal, or another method. When you complete the process, you can claim your Maryland sportsbook promo for new players and place your first bet.
How to choose the best Maryland betting site
With a number of online sports betting sites in Maryland currently active, it might be a bit tricky to know which one to pick. Here are a few things to consider:
Make sure they have an app
You should choose a site that has a good mobile betting app. This makes it possible to make bets on the go instead of having to sit down in front of a computer each time you want to place a bet. Plus, you can access exclusive in-app promos.
Read their terms and conditions
You also need to check the terms and conditions of the sportsbook before joining. Head over to their terms and conditions page to learn more about how they operate. Key details include verification, deposits, withdrawals, privacy, and bonus information.
Check their transaction methods
Funding and withdrawal options should be reviewed before you take the final step. The most popular operators accept fast, safe, and secure payment methods including PayPal, online banking, and all major credit cards.
Are sports betting winnings taxable in Maryland?
The state deducts a tax between 2% and 5.75% on all winnings from sports betting in Maryland, depending on how much you win. If players land a big win, they receive a W-2G Form from the gaming operator (retail location, pari-mutuel operator, casino, online betting site, and so on). The form gives a breakdown of the amount won and the tax withheld.
Also, the IRS requires the payer to withhold 24% of winnings above $5,000 if the payout was at least 300 times the bet increment. The actual amount you will wind up paying depends on your tax bracket.
Popular sports to bet on in Maryland
From football to basketball to horse racing, Maryland offers a wide range of sports to bet on, each with their own unique thrills and challenges. Here are some of the most popular:
Payment methods on MD online sportsbooks
When choosing a Maryland online sportsbook, the available deposit and withdrawal methods should be considered. Most operators accept a variety of payment methods, but the most convenient and popular ones include:
PayPal
Most online sportsbooks in Maryland accept PayPal. This online wallet allows you to complete quick transactions of all kinds. PayPal also protects sensitive banking information by acting as a middleman when you make purchases.
Online banking
Using online banking on sportsbooks in Maryland is another simple, straightforward option. It is fast, secure, and widely accepted by operators in the state. This is the preferred method at the leading sites.
Credit cards
Credit cards can be used to fund your online sports betting account, with Visa and Mastercard leading the way. We can’t say that many MD betting sites accept American Express, but there are plenty of other options.
Retail sportsbooks in Maryland
The state of Maryland allows land-based sports betting locations where players can wager in person. It can be fun to gather with others to dive into the action, and there are other forms of gambling at these venues. Some popular retail sports betting locations in Maryland are:
Hollywood Casino Perryville - partnered with ESPN Bet
MGM National Harbor - partnered with BetMGM
Ocean Downs Casino - partnered with Twinspires
Live! Casino and Hotel - partnered with FanDuel
Horseshoe Casino Baltimore - partnered with Caesars
Riverboat on the Potomac - partnered with Fanatics
Greenmount Station - partnered with betPARX
Long Shot's - no partner currently
The history of Maryland sports betting
The journey that led to legal sports betting in Maryland had some twists and turns along the way. Here is a timeline of the major events that culminated in the legalization of Maryland sports betting:
Laws and regulations that sports betting apps need to follow in Maryland
All Maryland sports betting apps must follow a set of guidelines that are outlined in HB 940 in order to operate legally and safely.
These guidelines are in place to protect consumers and ensure that sports betting is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. Some of the key laws, regulations, and requirements that online sportsbooks in Maryland need to follow include:
How are sportsbooks taxed in Maryland?
Large sportsbooks in Maryland, both retail and online, pay a fixed 15% gambling tax, while smaller ones pay 13% on their gross profits. In addition, the licensing fee for large Class A-1 retail operators is $2 million with a $500,000 renewal fee every five years.
The fees are tiered at lower levels for the three other classes of retail licenses. For mobile operators of all sizes, the initial fee is $500,000, and there is a $100,000 renewal fee.
Should I sign up for multiple MD sportsbooks?
When considering whether to sign up for multiple sportsbooks in Maryland, there are several factors to think about. First and foremost, it is important to remember that gambling can be a risky activity and should only be done responsibly.
With that being said, signing up for multiple MD sportsbooks can offer several advantages. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to shop for the best odds. Different bookmakers will often offer different odds on the same events, so by signing up for multiple sites, you can compare the odds and choose the most favorable option. This can ultimately increase your chances of winning and maximize your potential profits.
Another advantage of signing up for multiple betting sportsbooks is the ability to take advantage of promotions and bonuses. Operators will often offer sign-up bonuses, free bets, and other promotions to attract new customers. By signing up for multiple sites, you can take advantage of these offers and potentially increase your winnings.
Ultimately, whether or not you should sign up for multiple sportsbooks in Maryland depends on your personal preferences and gambling goals. If you are looking to maximize your winnings and are willing to put in the extra effort to manage multiple accounts, signing up for multiple betting operators could be a smart move. However, if you prefer to stick with one site or are concerned about the potential risks of gambling, it may be better to limit your activity to a single site.
FAQ
What is the revenue of Maryland sports betting?
According to a Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency report, the handle for the first full month of legal online betting (Dec. 2022) was $478.3 million. Retail handle was $18.85 million during the same period.
Who regulates sports betting in Maryland?
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency is responsible for the regulation of sports betting in the state. It requires licensed operators to use approved software and maintain certain operating requirements. The agency also regularly audits books, checks financial records, and randomly inspects gaming sites to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
What age do I need to be to bet on sports in Maryland?
You need to be at least 21 years old to bet on sports in Maryland.
Can I play online casino games at sportsbooks in Maryland?
No. Maryland online casinos are not legal as of now, but a bill aiming for a 2024 voter referendum (SB603) could change that. With significant voter support and potential for substantial revenue, the future of Maryland online casino gambling looks promising.
Who decides if a sportsbook can operate in Maryland?
The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission was established to review sports wagering applications submitted to the State of Maryland. The Commission is made up of representatives from various state agencies, including the Department of Legislative Services and the Office of General Counsel in addition to industry experts.
Can I bet on daily fantasy sports in MD?
Yes, you can bet on daily fantasy sports in Maryland. The Maryland General Assembly passed a law in 2012 that made it clear that DFS is considered a game of skill and is therefore not covered by the state's gambling laws.
How do I bet on sports in Maryland?
You can bet on sports in Maryland by signing up at an online betting site or going to a licensed retail location and placing a bet.
Can I bet on FanDuel if I live in Maryland?
Yes, you can bet on FanDuel if you live in Maryland. FanDuel is one of the 11 wagering sites that are live in the state right now. All you have to do is sign up for an account and make a deposit and you can start betting.
How much money does sports betting generate in Maryland?
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency reports that the cumulative contribution to the Blueprint for Maryland's Future Fund was over $6.5 million through the end of 2022.
Are all forms of sports legal to wager on in MD?
Almost all forms of sports are legal to bet on in Maryland except high school sports. Some states do not allow players to bet on college sports, but this is not the case in Maryland.
Is it safe to bet on Maryland sportsbooks?
Yes, it is safe to bet on Maryland sportsbooks. The legal sportsbooks that are licensed by the state are well-regulated by relevant authorities, so you can be sure that your money is safe.
Which Maryland sportsbook provides the quickest payout?
DraftKings, Caesars, ESPN Bet, FanDuel, and BetMGM are known for fast payouts. However, there is no one sportsbook in Maryland that definitively pays out the quickest. The payout speed will depend on the withdrawal method you use.