Pennsylvania Sports Betting
Editor’s note: As of Jan. 19, 2021
The Keystone State became the sixth in the nation to offer sports betting after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in May 2018 which opened up wagering on sports to the nation and not just Nevada.
With fans of Penn State football and basketball, the NFL’s Eagles and Steelers, NHL’s Penguins and Flyers, MLB’s Pirates and Phillies, and NBA’s 76ers and other collegiate and professional teams rejoicing, sports wagering hit the ground running and haven’t looked back.
Neighboring New Jersey may have had a head start and now is in a battle with Nevada to be No. 1, but Pennsylvania touts its betting success while leveraging the fact bettors can wager for in-state colleges, a perk New Jersey does not offer.
Is sports betting currently legal in the state?
Yes. Both retail and mobile sportsbooks are operating in a dozen casinos in the state.
When did Pennsylvania start accepting bets?
Retail sports betting launched in Pennsylvania at Hollywood Casino at Penn National on November 16, 2018.
SugarHouse Casino, now River Casino Philadelphia, went live with online sports betting on June 1, 2019.
What is the legal age to bet on sports in Pennsylvania?
21 years old
What restrictions are there on sports betting in Pennsylvania … is online wagering allowed?
Online betting is permitted with DraftKings' leading charge. FanDuel, Fox Bet, and Unibet are also among the mobile operators available in the state.
Pennsylvania is among the states that allow wagering on college sports while prohibiting wagers on anything non-sports. So, no betting on the Academy Awards or the presidential election. Also, no bets on e-sports.
Where can you open an account in Pennsylvania?
At any venue offering sports betting or on your mobile device.
What do I need to open an account in Pennsylvania?
Potential bettors need a valid photo ID and proof of address (bank statement or utility bill); you also may be asked for your Social Security number (or at least the last four digits) and an email address.
What are the betting-related banking options in Pennsylvania?
Deposits and withdrawals are easy in the Keystone State.
Options include: Credit cards such as VISA and Mastercard; prepaid gift cards or branded sportsbook cards; electronic wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller; e-checks (ACH transfers); PayNearMe, cash and check and money orders.
What about horse racing?
With online sports betting available you will probably already know that parimutuel wagers on horses have been available in the state for some time.
