Massachusetts Sports Betting - Legal Sportsbooks

SPORTS BETTING
Updated 24 December 2024

On March 10th, 2023, online betting officially launched in the state of Massachusetts. Since then, sportsbooks have been gradually enhancing their presence in the state. This has been done by building up partnerships with iconic Boston teams, as well as by offering attractive welcome packages and promotions. Here, we guide you through the landscape of Massachusetts’ sports betting industry, including its latest updates, the best bonus codes, and our favorite sportsbooks in the state. 

Massachusetts Legal Sports Betting Offers

Before anything, there are some details you need to be aware of. The table below is a briefing of the main facts related to Massachusetts sports betting so that you can be informed.

Official Launch Date (Online)March 10th, 2023
Official Launch Date (Retail)January 31st, 2023
Active Online Betting Sites 8 (FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, WynnBET, Barstool, Betr, and Fanatic)
Tax Rate15% for retail, 20% for online betting
Betting on College SportsYes, but no bets are permitted on in-state teams unless they are participating in a tournament like March Madness
Total Licenses (Mobile Sports Betting)10
Legal Age for Sports Betting21+
Retail SportsbooksBetMGM at MGM Springfield, Barstool Sports Book at Plainridge Park, and WynnBET Sportsbook at Encore Boston Harbor
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Latest Massachusetts Sports Betting Updates

June 29, 2023: Massachusetts regulators vote in favor of adding age-related language to sports betting advertising, so that any promotions clarify that betting is only for people aged 21 and older.

May 25, 2023: Fanatics Sportsbook announced its official launch in Massachusetts, which means that now there are eight sportsbooks operating in the state, even though Fanatics is still in the Beta phase.

May 11, 2023: Betr, the world’s first micro-betting app, became fully operational in Massachusetts, bringing an innovative proposition to state bettors.

Massachusetts Sports Betting Law Details

On August 10th, 2022, former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker signed Bill H.5164 into law. The bill legalized sports betting in Massachusetts and established a launch plan for operators to be able to start taking bets in the state.

Seven months later, on March 10th, 2023, online sports betting officially went live. Among the particularities of Massachusetts sports betting law, we find:

  1. The tax rate is 20% on online sports betting and 15% on retail sports betting
  2. Credit cards are not allowed to make deposits into betting accounts
  3. No bets are allowed on in-state college teams unless they are playing in a tournament (like March Madness)
  4. Bets on digital and virtual competitions (like esports) are forbidden

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission approved ten licenses for online sports betting companies. Of those, eight have been taken. The sportsbooks already operating in the state are FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, WynnBET, Barstool, Betr, and Fanatic. 

Best Massachusetts Sports Betting Offers and Bonuses

As it often happens when a state legalizes sports betting, sportsbooks in Massachusetts are offering very attractive welcome bonuses and promotions. Through these lucrative incentives, bookmakers aim to become the sportsbook of choice for bettors in The Bay State. Here are some bonuses worth looking into. 

Caesars Sportsbook: If you make a first wager with Caesars Sportsbook in Massachusetts, and it loses, the sportsbook will refund your stake up to $1,250. In addition to this, you will get 1,000 Tier Credits and 1,000 Caesars Rewards credits, which then you can redeem for travel experiences at any of Caesars’ properties. 

WynnBET: If you bet $100 on WynnBET, you will, automatically, receive $100 in bet credits. The great thing about this proposition is that you will receive the bonus regardless of the outcome of your bet. To qualify, your first bet needs to have odds of -150 or more. 

BetMGM: For new customers in Massachusetts, BetMGM has a promotion that, if their first wager fails, BetMGM will reimburse it up to $1,000. This will give you a second chance to bet on your favorite teams and take advantage of all the features that BetMGM has to offer. FanDuel: FanDuel has introduced a new promotion in Massachusetts. If you create an account with FanDuel, the sportsbook will give you ten times your initial stake in bonus bets up to $200. This means that to qualify for the $200, you need to place a $20 bet. If you place a $10 bet, you would get $100. 

DraftKings: Based in Boston, DraftKings offers a good welcome package with a very low threshold. By wagering $5 on DraftKings, you automatically receive $150 in six $25 bonus bets, which you can use to wager on any of the eligible markets on the platform.

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Massachusetts Sports Betting Tax Rate

An obvious reason why many states have opted to legalize sports betting is because the taxes collected from it represent a boost to the state’s coffins. Therefore, since the introduction of the Massachusetts sports betting bill, there was a lot of discussion surrounding what the tax rate would be for winning wagers. 

In this regard, state taxes on online betting are all over the place. For example, New York takes 51%, while Pennsylvania takes 36%. On the other hand, New Jersey only collects 8.5% in taxes. 

In Massachusetts, the tax rate was settled at 20%, which is a more moderate number that helped everyone–the state, bettors, and sportsbooks–find common ground. This number is for online betting–for retail, the rate was set at 15%. 

Massachusetts Online Sports Betting Apps

Since sports betting was given the green light in the state of Massachusetts, eight companies have set up shop in the state. According to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the governing body for sports betting in the state, ten licenses were approved for mobile sports betting, so we expect that some new brands will make their way to The Bay State soon. 

In the meantime, these are the main sportsbooks in the state. We will describe them in more detail further down, so, if you would like to learn more about the best promotions and features that they have to offer, keep reading. 

These are the top mobile sportsbooks in Massachusetts: 

  1. BetMGM: Great promotions, user-friendly interface, live streaming, extensive variety of betting markets
  2. DraftKings: Also offers fantasy sports, lucrative bonus bets welcome package, Massachusetts-founded company, partnered with top teams in the state–Celtics and Bruins. 
  3. Caesars Sportsbook: Amazing odds boosts and the best welcome package, easy-to-navigate app, able to handle large volumes of bets.
  4. FanDuel: #1 in market share, has initiatives like FanDuel TV to drive engagement, covers several leagues and betting markets, also offers fantasy sports, good bonus bets welcome package. 
  5. WynnBET: Retail presence, bonus opportunities, improved odds (through WynnBET’s Win Hour)
  6. Barstool: Extensive media presence, attractive promotions, good welcome package.
DraftKings Massachusetts:
Bet $5 Pre-Game Win $200 Bonus Bets If Your Team Wins
4.9
BET NOW
DraftKings is a company that already provides daily fantasy sports games to residents of Massachusetts. The company's headquarters are located in Boston. Additionally, it has already established itself as a major sportsbook in a number of states, which is mostly attributable to the excellent site design, various promotions, and variety of cutting-edge features that it offers to sports bettors. However, the existing users often say that there are little to no promotions tailored for them as a reward for loyalty.
App Store Rating
4.8
Google Play Rating
4.8
Payout Speed
1-7 Days
Live Streaming
Yes
Download Size
117.8 Mb
States Active
19
Football
Basketball
Baseball
Hockey
Golf
Caesars Massachusetts:
Get 100% Match Up $1,250 W/ First Bet If You Lose
4.9
BET NOW
Caesars Sportsbook has quickly become one of the most well-liked options for online sports betting in a number of states across the United States. You can anticipate that Caesars will offer the same sportsbook bonuses, a selection of bets, and other features on its online betting site in Massachusetts if it decides to bring that site here from other states. You may also anticipate having access to the well-known loyalty program known as Caesars Rewards. However, both the app and website are a bit simple and can lack some more advanced features.
Football
Basketball
Baseball
Hockey
Golf
PointsBet Massachusetts:
2nd Chance Bets $1,000 Bet Credits Get offer 2x
4.8
BET NOW
PointsBet Sportsbook, which was founded in Australia, has recently expanded its operations to the United States and is now available in various states. Since the website has made significant efforts to grow, there is another possibility that it will become available in Massachusetts once online sports betting becomes operational there. PointsBet offers a ton of different promos and unique features, one of which is an alternative sports betting system that is also offered by PointsBetting. The small downside of this app is that it can be glitchy sometimes.
Football
Basketball
Baseball
Hockey
Golf
Barstool Massachusetts:
Risk-free bet which is a sign-on bonus
4.9
BET NOW
The online betting site for Barstool Sportsbook became operational in September 2020. Because of the unique personalities displayed on the Barstool website and in the several podcasts that they produce, Barstool already had a massive following. The Barstool sportsbook app is jam-packed with unique daily odds boosts, personalized offers and promotions, and brand-new features that are all meant to improve the overall quality of your sports betting experience.One thing to keep in mind is that this app can be a bit glitchy sometimes.
Football
Basketball
Baseball
Hockey
Golf

How to Bet on Sports in Massachusetts

If you are eager to embark on your journey as a Massachusetts bettor, here is a step-by-step guide to help you get the ball rolling. 

  1. Choose a sportsbook: At Lines, we take to the task of evaluating each sportsbook thoroughly. We consider every aspect of it, from bonuses and promotions offered to the user interface to how seriously they take security and customer support. Check our guide where we consistently update you on what to look for and help you find what you need. 
  2. Create an account: Once you’ve chosen your preferred sportsbook, go to their login page and create an account. All of the sportsbooks we feature at Lines have intuitive and easy-to-navigate homepages, so you will see the “Join Now” or “Sign Up” button properly highlighted. You will be able to go through the registration process both from your computer and your mobile device. 
  3. Apply the relevant promo codes: Most sportsbooks will automatically give you a bonus after clicking on a referral link or simply by signing up. However, some of them could still require a promo code, so make sure you apply the promo code appropriately, as once you’re past a certain stage of the registration process, you will not be able to use the code again. 
  4. Make a deposit: Once your account has been successfully created and verified, make a deposit. Remember that Massachusetts does not accept credit card deposits, so you will need to make your deposit either through bank transfer, digital wallets, ACH, prepaid cards, or, depending on the sportsbook, by paying in cash at a specified location. 
  5. Before betting, make sure you understand the odds and the types of bets available. Here at Lines, we have created a guide to help you navigate through the different types of sports odds: American, decimal, and fractional odds. Also, we have guides that explain, in detail, the main types of bets, and how they apply to the main competitions, such as the NHL, the NFL, and more. Check them out here
  6. Once you’re clear on what to bet on, find your favorite league and add your selection to your bet slip. If you are navigating on your mobile, you will most likely find your bet slip pop up once you choose a wager. Once you’re done making your selection, place your bet. 

     7.  If your bet is a winner, then, you can withdraw your payout. Most sportsbooks will send your payout to the same payment method that you used to make a deposit, but consult either your sportsbook’s website or our sportsbooks guides for more details. 

Top Picks For The Week

Moneyline Pick Cover
Moneyline Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
+130
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $230
MLB Computer Pick
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Run Line Pick Cover
Run Line Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
+1.5
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $163
MLB Computer Pick
Terms and conditions apply
Over/Under Pick Cover
Over/Under Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Over
9.5
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $197
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Massachusetts Sports Betting Tips

Betting is legal in Massachusetts. Now what? You’re poised to join your favorite sportsbook and start backing the teams you love. But before that, there are several things that you need to take into consideration. 

The first one is to understand the importance of research and analysis. If you are looking at the dashboard for the first time, and some teams have very high odds, it can be easy to want to jump in right away. But do you know, realistically, the chances that that team has of winning? At Lines, we strongly advise that you do your homework and assign teams with your own probabilities. This will lead you to one of our favorite strategies, which is value betting. In a nutshell, there is value in a bet when your estimated probability of an outcome is higher than the sportsbook’s probability. 

Another recommendation is to stick to sports you know. A mistake many bettors make is placing wagers on sports that they know little to nothing about. Then, this can lead to further problems, such as doubling down on your bets to make up for the losses. To prevent this, manage your bankroll and set limits. Most if not all sportsbooks nowadays offer you the possibility of setting deposit limits. Therefore, make sure you are only betting what you can afford to lose, as otherwise, you could compromise your personal financial situation, and this takes the enjoyment away. 

Betting is a long-term game. There will be days when we inevitably lose. We must accept those losses and move on, instead of trying to make up for them with a rushed and poorly-analyzed wager. We highly recommend keeping track of your statistics, as then, you can analyze your profitability as a bettor, and change or adapt your strategies accordingly. 

Also, take advantage of all the bonuses and promotions, and don’t be afraid to bet on more than one sportsbook. Shopping around will help you find the best odds, and also, access all the lucrative bonuses that each sportsbook awards to its users.

Legal Online Massachusetts Sportsbooks

Caesars Sportsbook Massachusetts

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When discussing which sportsbook offers the best promotions, Caesars Sportsbook is often at the forefront of the conversation. First, it has the highest risk-free bet available in the market. If you place an initial wager with Caesars, and it loses, the sportsbook reimburses your stake up to $1,250. But this is not all. Just by opening an account, Caesars gives you 1,000 Tier Credits and 1,000 Rewards Credits for its Caesars Rewards programs. The amazing part of this program is that it is not only about sports betting, but also, the points can be redeemed for travel experiences and accommodations at any of Caesars’ properties worldwide. 

Furthermore, Caesars has highly engaging promotions on a daily basis. It is common to see, while navigating the dashboard, new opportunities for odds boosts. This helps you increase your profitability as a bettor, and over time, it can make a big difference. 

In Massachusetts, Caesars is planning on building a top-notch sportsbook by partnering with Raynham Park, and we expect that the company will keep its foot on the gas pedal to acquire more bettors in the state. 

FanDuel Massachusetts

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In terms of market share, FanDuel is the #1 sportsbook in America, and in Massachusetts, the company is doing its best to earn this title. To start with, FanDuel offers you $200 in Bonus Bets. All you need to do is create a FanDuel account and wager your first $20, and the $200 will be credited to your betting account. FanDuel is also notorious for having one of the best betting market coverages available, giving bettors the chance to place very detailed wagers like player props, team props, and more.

Besides this, FanDuel has done a great job of engaging with customers. Through initiatives like FanDuel TV, they offer in-depth analysis of upcoming games and provide picks and predictions. Also, FanDuel offers live streaming, which allows bettors to watch the game, look at the key trends and statistics, and place wagers at the same time. 

BetMGM Sportsbook Massachusetts

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BetMGM has made a splash in the Massachusetts betting market, by building partnerships with one of the state’s favorite teams, the Boston Red Sox. In addition to this, BetMGM operates a retail sportsbook at its MGM Springfield Casino, elevating the bettors’ experience. 

The sportsbook–a joint partnership between MGM Resorts and Entain, which operates betting brands like Bwin–has plenty of promotions to offer to both new and existing customers. If you just joined BetMGM, you are eligible to receive up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets. Basically, the way this works is that if you place your first bet on BetMGM, and it is not successful, the sportsbook will reimburse you in the form of bonus bets. The refund is capped at $1,000. Besides this, BetMGM has gained acclaim because of its ongoing promotions, its speedy deposits and withdrawals, and the renovations it has done to both its web and mobile platforms, which have improved considerably. 

WynnBET Sportsbook Massachusetts

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WynnBET is making strides to capture a slice of the Massachusetts market, and for new customers, the sportsbook has a “Bet $100, Get $100” promotion. The way it works is that once you create your WynnBET account, if you bet $100 on any wager that has odds of -150 or more, you will receive a $100 bet credit. Something positive about this bonus is that you receive it whether your bet wins or loses. 

Other promotions offered by WynnBET include its WynnBET Win Hour, which happens on Thursdays from 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. ET. During this period of time, the sportsbook offers improved odds to its customers by reducing its juice–the commission it charges for taking bets. 

Another advantage that WynnBET offers to bettors in Massachusetts is that it runs the only sportsbook located in Boston proper. WynnBET’s sportsbook at the Encore Boston Harbor is a premier destination for sports betting in the city, and the excitement of watching your teams in a buzzing atmosphere will surely enhance your betting experience. 

Barstool Sportsbook Massachusetts

Barstool is one of the three sportsbooks that has been able to gain a presence in Massachusetts both for retail and online betting. Physically, bettors can visit the Barstool Sportsbook at Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville, Massachusetts, and online, they can revel in the extensive variety of betting markets that the sportsbook offers. 

In Massachusetts, Barstool developed two attractive promotions for new customers. If you create an account with Barstool, you will receive a $10 no-deposit bonus. What this means is that you don’t have to deposit anything to be eligible and see this $10 reflected in your betting account balance. As of now, it is the only no-deposit bonus in the Massachusetts market that we are aware of. If you do make a deposit, and your first bet is a loser, Barstool will refund your stake up to $1,000. This will be given in site credits so that you can place your bet again. 

Founded by media personality Dave Portnoy, Barstool has acquired popularity due to its extensive odds boosts offerings, its flexible parlay options, and its streamlined betting experience. 

DraftKings Sportsbook Massachusetts

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Headquartered in Boston’s iconic Back Bay neighborhood, DraftKings has quickly become one of the state’s favorite betting platforms. To further cement its presence and commitment to its home base, DraftKings has solidified partnerships with the Boston Celtics, the Boston Bruins, and the TD Garden itself.

For new customers, DraftKings offers two promotions. The first one is that, if you make an initial deposit and place a minimum wager of $5, DraftKings will give you $150 in bonus bets, regardless of whether your bet wins or loses. Also, DraftKings has a deposit match offer. The way this works is that once you make your first deposit, DraftKings will match 20% of the amount deposited up to $1,000. For example, to be eligible for the $1,000, you would need to deposit $5,000. If you deposit, let’s say, $1,000, your bonus would be $200. 

DraftKings’ mobile apps are highly-rated in both the Apple Store and Android, with users praising its user-friendly interface, daily promotions, and extensive variety of betting markets as the sportsbook’s main attraction factors. 

DFS in Massachusetts

Daily Fantasy Sports is alive and thriving in Massachusetts, and it is provided by PrizePicks, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Boom Fantasy. 

To incentivize players to participate in their contests, platforms are offering attractive bonuses. For example, PrizePicks offers an instant $100 deposit match and a unique gaming opportunity. After making their initial deposit, users are allowed to participate in daily over/under total contests. This is the only platform to offer such a specialized DFS market. 

In this industry, however, FanDuel and DraftKings are the pioneer companies, and in Massachusetts, DraftKings has rallied additional support, since it was founded in Boston. Both DFS platforms offer plenty of contests, for example, FanDuel has organized its MLB Home Run series, where participants construct a lineup of MLB players and earn points based on their performance in specific statistical categories. It also offers its NBA Slam and the NFL Sunday Million contest, which awards very lucrative cash prizes to the winners. 

DraftKings, on the other hand, has become very famous for its Millionaire Maker contest. Even though the original Millionaire Maker is associated with NFL games, the company has also adapted it to other sports. An example is the PGA Tour Millionaire Maker, in which participants build up a team of golfers and earn points depending on how they do in a particular tournament. 

All of this and more is available for Massachusetts DFS players, so, to find out more, log in to your favorite DFS platform!

Massachusetts Sports Betting: Teams and Odds

Because of its long-standing sports tradition and the success that its teams have accomplished over time, Massachusetts is poised to become a prominent hub for sports betting nationwide. The state is home to five teams in the five major leagues (MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLS), and it's also known for its prestigious universities and collegiate heritage. 

NFL Betting in Massachusetts

Having won the Super Bowl six times, the New England Patriots are considered one of the most successful sports teams in history. The team, which plays its home games at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, won the Big Game in 2001, 2003, 2004, 2014, 2016, and 2018. Their accomplishments include a “Perfect Regular Season” in 2007 (even though they lost the Super Bowl, they still went undefeated in the regular period), and one of the greatest comebacks in the history of the Super Bowl against the Atlanta Falcons. Led by the most victorious quarterback of all time Tom Brady, the team coached by Bill Belichick has a firmly-cemented place in the history of football, and some of its achievements will be forever embedded in every book about the sport. 

NBA Betting in Massachusetts

Established in 1946, the Boston Celtics are one of the most successful franchises in the history of the NBA. The Celtics play their games in green uniforms, and their strong and passionate fan base is known as “Celtics Nation.” They hold the record for the most NBA championships since the league was founded, and their streak has included many back-to-back titles, establishing the team as one of the top basketball dynasties. The Celtics have lifted the final trophy in 1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1076, 1981, 1984, 1986, and 2008, led by stars such as Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and Paul Pierce. The team’s home stadium is the TD Garden, which they share with the NHL Boston Bruins. 

MLB Betting in Massachusetts

Top Picks For The Week

Moneyline Pick Cover
Moneyline Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
+130
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $230
MLB Computer Pick
Terms and conditions apply
Run Line Pick Cover
Run Line Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
+1.5
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $163
MLB Computer Pick
Terms and conditions apply
Over/Under Pick Cover
Over/Under Pick
Toronto Blue Jays
Blue Jays
vs
Boston Red Sox
Red Sox
Over
9.5
Unlock this edge for $29.95 a month
Confidence Level i
Unlock
The Toronto Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:10 PM EDT
View this Pick
Bet $100 Payout $197
MLB Computer Pick

Originally founded as the Boston Americans in 1901, Massachusetts’ epochal baseball team changed its name to the Boston Red Sox in 1908. Since then, they have become one of the nation’s favorite and most valuable franchises, and have transformed its home grounds, Fenway Park, into a landmark that worldwide baseball enthusiasts strive to visit at least once. It is noteworthy to say that Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. A team that achieved success practically since its inception, the Red Sox have won the World Series nine times: 1903, 1912, 1915, 1916, 1918, 2004, 2007, 2013, and 2018. The squad’s victory in 2004 ended what became known as “The Curse of the Bambino,” in what was an 86-year title drought. Some of the most famous players that have worn the Red Sox jersey are Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and David Ortiz, also known as “Big Papi.” In addition to this, the team is known for its bitter rivalry with the New York Yankees, which is, by many sports experts and historians, considered the fiercest of duels in American sports. 

NHL Betting in Massachusetts

The Bay State is home to one of the most successful and popular teams in the National Hockey League, the Boston Bruins. The squad has won the Stanley Cup six times, in 1929, 1939, 1941, 1970, 1972, and most recently, in 2011. Some of the greatest players in hockey’s history have played for the Bruins, like Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, Ray Bourque, Johnny Bucyk, and Cam Neely. It is important to remark that the Bruins are one of the Original Six, which refers to the six founding teams of the NHL: the Montréal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Detroit Red Wings, the Chicago Blackhawks, and the New York Rangers. The team, which is known for its black-and-gold uniform, plays its home games at the TD Garden, which is in the heart of Boston. The Bruins hold the record for the most consecutive NHL playoff seasons, with 29, making the playoffs from 1968 to 1996. 

MLS Betting in Massachusetts

Massachusetts’ team in America’s top soccer league is the New England Revolution. The team is owned by The Kraft Group, which also owns the New England Patriots, and, like the Pats, plays its home games at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Even though the Revolution is yet to win a championship, they are one of the ten founding teams of Major League Soccer, and they have reached the MLS Cup Final five times, in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2014. Some of the most notorious players that have worn the New England Revolution’s shirt are former USMNT icons Clint Dempsey, Taylor Twellman, and Alexis Lalas, and El Salvador’s prolific goal scorer Raul Diaz Arce. 

College Sports Teams in Massachusetts

Before placing your bets on Massachusetts’ collegiate teams or athletes, it is important that you keep in mind that the rules and regulations of the state prohibit you from wagering on in-state teams, unless they are playing in a tournament like March Madness. College teams located outside the state are exempt from this restriction. 

Having said this, these are some of the main college teams in the state, in case you are interested in backing them in those scenarios in which it is allowed to do so. 

UniversityTeamSport
Boston CollegeEaglesNCAA Men's Basketball, Football
Boston UniversityTerriersNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
Harvard UniversityCrimsonNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
College of the Holy CrossCrusadersNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
University of Massachusetts (UMass)MinutemenNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
Merrimack CollegeWarriorsNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
Northeastern UniversityHuskiesNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football
University of Massachusetts at LowellRiver HawksNCAA Men’s Basketball, Football

As you already know, the collegiate sports programs in these universities and colleges extend beyond football and basketball. However, we highlight those sports since they are our primary focus here at Lines in regards to college sports. We actively follow them and offer our perspective through our NCAAF Picks Hub and NCAAB Picks Hub

And, since we’re here now, let’s reminisce about some of the memorable moments that Massachusetts college teams have given their fans. In 1985, the Boston College Eagles football team won the Cotton Bowl Classic, one of the most prestigious bowls in the NCAA. And in basketball, the Crusaders, from the College of the Holy Cross, made history by pulling off a major upset and winning the NCAA Basketball tournament in 1947. Since then, the closest a Massachusetts team has been from lifting a title in this sport was in 1996, when the UMass Minutemen made it all the way to the Final Four, coached by John Calipari and led by future NBA star Marcus Camby. 

Physical Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

In addition to being able to place their wagers online, sports bettors in Massachusetts can also go to the three retail locations that are approved to take bets. These are:

Encore Boston Harbor: Featuring more than 70 televisions, including a 10-foot high and 123-foot-long video wall, plenty of sports-related memorabilia and collectibles, and images of historical moments that every fan will surely remember, the sportsbook at Encore Boston Harbor–operated by WynnBET–is an iconic destination for Massachusetts bettors. The sportsbook also boasts a full-service bar, as well as restaurants operated by well-known brands Frank & Nick’s and Shake Shack. 

BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM Springfield: Boasting 18 sports betting kiosks, five betting windows, an in-venue bar with tabletop gaming machines, a massive video wall, and comfortable seating, the BetMGM Sportsbook is a great alternative for Massachusetts bettors to place their wagers. In addition to betting, visitors can enjoy some of the other activities that the property has to offer, such as a virtual golf range (operated by Topgolf), a bowling alley, and a cinema. 

Plainridge Park Casino: Operated by Barstool Sportsbook, this Plainridge-based property has over 20 high-definition TVs and 20 betting kiosks so that you can watch and wager on your favorite sports. The retail sportsbook is also connected to Barstool’s mobile app, so, if you are planning on visiting, you can build your bet in advance using the Bet Builder feature, and then, pay for it and receive your ticket once you are at the location.

Encore Boston Harbor
Encore Boston Harbor
1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
Directions
MGM Springfield
MGM Springfield
1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
Directions
Plainridge Park Casino
Plainridge Park Casino
1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
Directions

Sports Betting States Around Massachusetts

The New England region–where Massachusetts is located–is one of the most active hubs for sports betting activity in the United States. 

One of the first states to legalize sports betting activity in the country was Rhode Island, which in 2018 opened up both online and in-person wagering opportunities at Bally’s casino locations. Then, New Hampshire followed suit, granting DraftKings essentially a monopoly over its sports betting market. 

Other neighboring states such as Connecticut (October 2021), and New York (January 2022) launched sports betting shortly after, and besides Massachusetts, the two states that have recently legalized wagers are Maine and Vermont. 

In the case of Maine, Gov. Janet Mills officially signed the sports-betting-related legislation into law on May 2, 2022, however, licenses are yet to be awarded, and analysts estimate that sportsbooks will not be able to operate until the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024. It is also expected that there will be up to ten retail sportsbooks and four online betting operators. 

Vermont, on the other hand, just legalized sports betting on June 14th, 2023. The bill signed by Gov. Phil Scott states that up to six companies could set up shop in the state, and betting will only be allowed online. Vermont joins Tennessee in being the only state nationwide that permits online wagering but bans retail sportsbooks. Similarly to Maine, we expect the official launch in Vermont to happen between the second half of 2023 and the first part of 2024, but are still awaiting official news. 

Banking Options in Massachusetts

Like in every state, Massachusetts sportsbooks prioritize agility and convenience, in order to make it easy for customers to make deposits and withdraw their winnings. 

However, there is one exception. Joining the likes of Iowa, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Tennessee, Massachusetts does not permit the use of credit cards for sports wagers. Therefore, keep this in mind when planning on funding your account. This is done in order to prevent players from betting over their financial possibilities, which is a responsible gaming principle, only bet what you can afford to lose. 

Besides this, most sportsbooks will offer the following banking options:

  1. Digital wallets: PayPal, Skrill (depending on the sportsbook)
  2. Bank transfer
  3. Cash at a retail location or through PayNearMe
  4. Prepaid debit cards
  5. Online banking

Deposit and withdrawal options may vary, so, before making a definite selection of a preferred sportsbook, ensure that they offer the payment method that works the best for you. 

Sportsbooks to Avoid in Massachusetts

Since the digital world is borderless, even if you are physically located in Massachusetts, you will see pop-ups advertising a variety of betting houses that are based elsewhere, and some of them might offer attractive promotions. However, that doesn’t mean that they are authorized to take your bets. 

Offshore sportsbooks like Bovada, MyBookie, and BetUS are not legal in Massachusetts. What this means is that, if an incident happens–like the bookmaker refusing to pay out your winnings–you have no legal basis to sue them, so your funds would be lost. 

Other betting houses like AmericasBookie, CR Sports Bet, and Zenit Bet have received numerous complaints in relation to seized winnings, poor or non-existent customer support, and sudden account closures. Therefore, we highly recommend that you avoid them. 

Remember that, at the moment of publishing this, there are only eight sportsbooks that have the necessary permits to operate legally in Massachusetts. These are: BetMGM, Caesars, WynnBET, DraftKings, FanDuel, Barstool, Betr, and Fanatics. To safeguard the integrity of your money and ensure that your payouts are honored promptly, we strongly advise that you stick to these. 

Massachusetts Sports Betting Key Takeaways

Since March 10th, 2023, sports betting is legal in Massachusetts for residents 21 years of age and older. Bettors can place their wagers both online and in person with any of the authorized bookmakers. Throughout these documents, we have covered the eight sportsbooks that are currently live and have been granted approval to take bets in Massachusetts. We expect Bally Bet and Betway to be the next sportsbooks to launch. 

As we discussed, betting is legal in all major sports and in many international leagues and competitions. College sports betting is permitted, with the exception of wagers on in-state teams, which are only allowed in specific tournaments or circumstances. Betting is not allowed on esports or digital sports, and competitions like the Winter and Summer Olympic Games are also out of bounds for Massachusetts betting houses. 

Most sportsbooks currently operating in the state have very attractive bonuses and promotions, and the legacy and pride of the state teams–like the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins–is likely to make Massachusetts one of the best betting markets nationwide. For more updates, stay tuned. 

Legal Betting States

When, on May 14th, 2018, the United States Supreme Court opted to repeal PASPA, also known as the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act–which subsequently led to the legalization of sports betting–it granted state-level legislatures the freedom to decide whether they would allow sportsbooks to operate in their state. 

Since then, sports betting has gradually gained acceptance, and leading sportsbooks have been granted approval to take bets in a growing number of states. 

As of now, this is how the sports betting landscape looks in terms of legality.

StateOnlineRetail
ArizonaYesYes
ArkansasYesYes
ColoradoYesYes
ConnecticutYesYes
District of ColumbiaYesYes
DelawareNoYes
IllinoisYesYes
IndianaYesYes
IowaYesYes
KansasYesYes
KentuckyYes (Launching September 28, 2023)Yes (Launching September 7, 2023)
LouisianaYesYes
MaineYes (Launch expected 2023-2024)Yes (Launch expected 2023-2024)
MarylandYesYes
MichiganYesYes
MississippiNoYes
NevadaYesYes
New HampshireYesYes
New JerseyYesYes
New YorkYesYes
North CarolinaYes (Launch expected 2024)Yes
OhioYesYes
OregonYesYes
PennsylvaniaYesYes
Puerto RicoYesYes
Rhode IslandYesYes
TennesseeYesNo
VermontYes (Launch expected 2023-2024)No
VirginiaYesYes
WashingtonNoYes
West VirginiaYesYes
WisconsinNoYes
WyomingYesYes

It is important to mention that, as lawmakers introduce new bills to eliminate the bans on sports betting in their respective states, the landscape is expected to keep changing, and we foresee that more states will gradually permit their residents to place wagers both in person and online. 

To stay on top of the news in regards to whether sports betting is legal in your state or not, go to this guide that we have created for you. We are constantly updating it so that you can have the latest information, and ensure that you stay on the right side of the law. To see how new ballot initiatives are progressing, visit the American Gaming Association’s website

Responsible Gaming in Massachusetts

Since sports betting was legalized in Massachusetts, the state has taken several measures to promote responsible gaming, and to protect its citizens from the potential negative effects of reckless behavior. 

An important measure here, as discussed before, is that Massachusetts does not allow bettors to fund their accounts with credit cards. This is a positive step towards responsible gaming, because it encourages players to only wager what they can afford to lose. 

In addition to this, there are institutions that can assist anybody who has a potential gaming problem. 

One of them is the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), which has created a voluntary self-exclusion program. Even though most sportsbooks offer bettors this option individually, the VSE was set up as a one-stop shop to prevent people with a gambling problem from bouncing from one platform to another. Bettors who voluntarily exclude themselves will be prohibited from entering any retail casino or sportsbook venues, and also, banned from creating accounts with online betting houses. To enroll in this program, call 1-800-426-1234 or connect with either the MGC or GameSense through their official channels. 

Another support organization that assists with responsible gaming in Massachusetts is the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, which is often referred to as the MCGH. This is a private, not-for-profit agency that provides several resources for bettors who are experiencing a gambling-related disorder. 

Last, but not least, if you or someone you know shows signs of a gaming issue or engages in excessive betting activity, call 1-800-GAMBLER so that you can receive the help that you need.

Massachusetts Sports Betting FAQ

Can you bet on sports in Massachusetts?

Yes. On any of the eight legally-authorized sportsbooks in the state, you can place a wager on your favorite sport. Bets in competitions like the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and MLS are allowed. In sports like the Winter and Summer Olympics and esports leagues, wagers are not permitted.

Can I bet on DraftKings in Massachusetts?

Yes, DraftKings is one of the eight sportsbooks authorized to operate and take bets in Massachusetts.

Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?

Yes. The Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act was signed into law in August 2022, and online sports betting officially launched in Massachusetts on March 10th, 2023. Retail sportsbooks had launched sometime prior, on January 31st, 2023.

What are the age requirements for sports betting in Massachusetts?

To be able to place a bet in Massachusetts, you need to be 21 years or older.

Can I bet on college sports in Massachusetts?

Yes, you can bet on college sports, but you cannot bet on Massachusetts-based collegiate teams. For example, you cannot bet on Harvard, Northeastern, or Boston College, unless they are playing in a tournament like March Madness.

What are the tax implications for sports betting winnings in Massachusetts?

If you win a bet in Massachusetts, you will get taxed at 20% if you placed your wager online, and at 15% if you placed your wager at a retail outlet.
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