Best Vermont Betting Sites 2024

Vermont Sports Betting Legal Timeline: The Story So Far 

Vermont’s transformation into the 38th legal US sports betting state ran relatively smoothly, with Governor Phil Scott signing the H.127 bill on June 14, 2023, and sportsbooks launching six months later. 

But this wasn’t always the case. Vermont legislators were strictly against almost all forms of gambling before the landmark decision to relax the rules to allow for legal sports betting. Even lotteries were approached with caution, with online versions spurned in favor of traditional options. That being said, the state lottery (launched in 1977) has become immensely popular and raised millions of dollars for the Vermont Education Fund. 

Due to the lottery’s financial impact and generally high approval ratings among residents, it was only a matter of time before the legal sports betting conversation became more significant. The decision to legalize paid-entry Daily Fantasy Sports channels in June 2017 was a huge step forward, placing Vermont as the 12th state to offer proper licenses to platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. 

But for every positive step, Vermonters had to deal with a negative. John Treadwell, an ex-state assistant attorney general, regularly stood in the way of moving things forwards, hailing Vermont’s “very strict limitations on gambling”. Indeed, the Green Mountain State saw several proposed legal sports betting bills struck down or stalled between 2020 and 2022. 

Fortunately, Governor Phil Scott enjoyed significant progress in the following years, culminating with the official launch in January 2024. 

Vermont Sports Betting Legal Timeline: Key Milestones 

Several key milestones have shaped Vermont’s legal online sports betting landscape. Here are some of the most important from the past decade: 

• January 2024: FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics launch on January 11. The first legal wager is a $10 same-game parlay on the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs. 
• December 2023: Vermont releases the legal Catalog of Approved Events for Sports Wagering. 
• September 2023: BetMGM sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and ESPN Bet submit bids to launch legal Vermont sportsbooks 
• June 2023: Governor Phil Scott signs H127 into law. 
• May 2023: The Senate passes H127. 
• February 2023: Representative Matthew Birong submits the H127 sports betting proposal. 
• October 2021: State researchers publish the US sports betting industry study, focussing on revenue, taxation, and more. 
• June 2021: Vermont passes HB313, demanding a sports betting industry study by October 2021. 
• February 2021: Senator Dick Spears proposes SB77 to legalize sports betting under the Department of Liquor and Lottery but fails to progress. 
• March 2020: The sports betting Bill S59 is revived and passes through the Senate to the House. 
• January 2020: S213 is filed to legalize mobile-only sports betting but stalls after the Senate’s first reading. 
• February 2019: Representative Thomas Burditt introduces H484 to legalize online and retail sports betting regulated by the Board of Liquor and Lottery but fails. 
• May 2018: The US Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, allowing states to pass their own gambling laws. 
• June 2017: Governor Phil Scott signs S136 into law legalizing paid-entry Daily Fantasy Sports channels. 

What Does Legalization Mean For Vermont Sports Bettors & Residents?

The most exciting aspect for Vermont sports bettors is the ability to finally wager on over 70 sports at legal and safe platforms. While offshore sites have always been available, placing wagers at these unlawful sportsbooks is dangerous and ill-advised. With the Jan 11 launch of DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics, Vermonters now have three of the best US sportsbooks to choose from. 

The eventual legalization has also benefited from the wait in many ways, with the HB 313 bill in June 2021 demanding an extensive sports betting study.

Consequently, Vermont’s sports betting landscape is one of the safest and most tightly regulated across the US. The Department of Liquor and Lottery restricts wagering on Vermont college sports (other than out-of-state competitions), bans credit card deposits, and has increased the DFS legal age to 21. Sportsbooks must also be very careful not to unlawfully advertise betting bonuses, with terminology like “free bets” closely monitored. 

Additionally, operators are obliged to provide annual responsible gambling plans and proof of problem gambling resources such as player limits and self-exclusion options. The Department of Liquor and Lottery will also work with the Department of Mental Health on annual responsible gambling reports. This all makes Vermont one of the best and safest US states to enjoy legal online sports betting. 

And the Green Mountain State’s legislative shift towards legal betting won’t just benefit sports wagering aficionados. Sportsbooks must pay 20% of all revenue to the state alongside an annual $550,000 fee, while all winnings are taxed at 6%. The Vermont Legislative Joint Fiscal Office forecasts $2 million in revenue for 2024, more than doubling for 2025 and beyond. As a result, non-wagering residents will enjoy significant reinvestment into education, state amenities, health facilities, and more. 

Top Online Sports Betting Sites in Vermont

Vermont sports bettors have three of the industry’s best platforms to enjoy. Check below for a rundown:

1. Fanduel Vermont - Market leader with powerful same-game parlay builder

FanDuel has the US sports betting industry’s largest revenue and customer share, growing from a popular Daily Fantasy Sports channel into a heavyweight legal sportsbook. Bettors can enjoy arguably the most comprehensive selection of sports and betting markets available, especially in popular leagues like the NFL. 

FanDuel Vermont also has a fantastic user interface, with the horizontal scrolling menus on major events offering an easy way to scan through almost 1,000 potential wagers. It’s also the best place for same-game parlay fans, with almost endless levels of customization. 

New customers enjoy a bet $5 get $200 welcome bonus – slightly less generous than DraftKings but ultimately more advantageous than Fanatics Sportsbook. FanDuel sportsbook Vermont also treats bettors to dozens of regular promos, including no-sweat same-game parlays, profit boosts, prize competitions, and more. To top things off, the 4.8 out of 5 rated iOS FanDuel app is regularly touted as the best on the market. Read our complete review here. 

FanDuel Vermont Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 Get $200 

2. DraftKings Vermont - Socially geared sportsbook with brilliant live betting 

DraftKings is the second-most popular US sportsbook, known for its in-depth betting markets, exceptionally generous promotions, and social atmosphere. One of our favorite features is the DraftKings Social network, where bettors can chat, share bets, create contests, and meet new friends. It’s a unique option in the Vermont sports betting landscape, injecting some much-needed social fun into the sports betting ecosystem. 

Another key advantage DraftKings Vermont has over competitors is the sheer variety of ongoing promotions. After taking advantage of the initial DraftKings Bet $5 Get $200 welcome bonus, you’ll also enjoy daily no-sweat same-game parlay tokens, “super” odds boosts, and a 50% profit boost on events like the Australian Open and Super Bowl. Even better, the operator currently runs an up to $1,000 first deposit bonus until the end of January. Chances are DraftKings sportsbook will revive this offer in the future, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for. 

The sportsbook uses a similar approach to FanDuel regarding its interface, providing ample search menus to enhance the user experience. Live bettors will be particularly happy with the design, as DraftKings offers unique filters for specific betting markets, sports, and competitions. The iOS and Android apps also have 4.8 and 4.6 ratings, pointing to their quality. 

DraftKings Vermont Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 Get $200 + Daily No-Sweat Same-Game Parlay Tokens OR $1,000 Deposit Match (Until Jan 31)

3. Fanatics Sportsbook Vermont - Brilliant FanCash rewards system 

Fanatics Sportsbook is one of America’s newest platforms, but most sports fans will instantly recognize the brand from its official merchandising empire. After acquiring the betting innovator PointsBet, Fanatics Sportsbook is perfectly poised to make a significant impact in Vermont and beyond. Currently only available as a mobile app, the sportsbook has a 4.7 out of 5 App Store reviews, with users praising the streamlined interface and tailored “Discover” page curated for each user’s personal preferences. 

Speaking of promos, Fanatics Sportsbook Vermont has one of the most unique rewards systems we’ve seen so far. Bettors can earn 5% cashback on same-game parlays, 3% on parlays, and 1% on straight bets and odds boosts. It’s a great example of the sportsbook’s determination to think outside the box. 

Other Fanatics Sportsbook highlights include the withdrawal tracker, allowing you to keep tabs on the withdrawal process. This does wonders for customer trustworthiness, so it’s no surprise the vigilant Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery chose Fanatics as one of the initial three sportsbooks. New customers can claim a Bet $50, Get $200 in FanCash welcome bonus by wagering $10 daily. 

Fanatics Sportsbook Vermont Welcome Bonus: Bet $50, Get $200

Vermont Betting Odds

Sportsbook odds can differ marginally state-by-state on certain events, especially when local teams are involved. Our expert investigations haven’t thrown up any differences so far, although this could change on major events involving regional teams like the New England Patriots. As an example, here are the DraftKings moneyline odds for the Baltimore Ravens vs Kansas City Chiefs in Vermont and Arizona: 

• Kansas City Chiefs +154
• Baltimore Ravens -185  

Deposit & Withdrawal Options

The credit card deposit ban is one of the most notable differences for Vermont sportsbooks compared to elsewhere. Some may find this frustrating, but it’s quite sensible. Credit card deposits make overspending far easier, so this regulation is another example of Green Mountain State’s beneficial approach to safe and responsible online sports betting. 

Other than this, Vermont sports betting payment methods don’t differ too much from other states. Just bear in mind physical cash deposits and withdrawals are unavailable for the time being due to the absence of physical retail locations. 

Here are the most common options and some essential information:

How to Deposit at Vermont Sports Betting Sites

Use the step-by-step guide below to deposit at Vermont Sportsbooks: 

1. Log into your account 
2. Go to the “My Account” section 
3. Navigate to the cashier page 
4. Select the deposit option 
5. Choose a payment method 
6. Input your preferred amount 
7. Confirm the deposit

How to Withdraw Winnings at Vermont Sports Betting Sites

Withdrawing at Vermont sports betting sites is similarly easy. Here’s how: 

1. Press the “My Account” shortcut usually located in the top right-hand corner 
2. Head to the cashier section 
3. Click the withdrawal option 
4. Choose how much to withdraw 
5. Confirm the withdrawal and wait for the funds to drop 

Vermont Promos & Bonuses

Vermont regulators closely monitor online sports betting promos and bonuses, but this hasn’t stopped the common options from being available. Vermont bettors can rest easy in the knowledge that the Department of Liquor and Lottery is regularly surveying sportsbook offers, helping to keep them safe. Here are four of the main bonus types up for grabs: 

Bet & Get

All three Vermont sportsbooks launched with bet and get promotions. These require new customers to make an initial qualifying wager ($5 for FanDuel and DraftKings, $20 for Fanatics Sportsbook) and receive a certain amount in subsequent bonus bets ($200 for all three). These bonus bets tend to expire within seven days and can have additional guidelines like minimum odds. The qualifying bet can also be subject to minimum odds and restricted markets, so read the terms and conditions thoroughly before taking advantage. 

Second-Chance Bet 

Second-chance bet promotions are increasingly popular across the US, with FanDuel and DraftKings both offering Vermonters “no-sweat” promotions on same-game parlays and other markets. These bonuses enable you to place a wager up to a certain amount and have it refunded in bonus bets if the prediction fails. Again, you must read the terms and conditions to understand the full guidelines. For example, the qualifying wager is usually capped at -200 minimum odds. 

Deposit Match 

Straightforward deposit matches can provide bettors with 100% on top of their initial deposit in bonus bets. DraftKings notably offers a 100% up to $1,000 deposit match until January 31st. These promotions often have slightly more guidelines than other bonuses, with wagering requirements on the bonus funds and other rules commonly attached. 

Odds & Profit Boosts 

DraftKings and FanDuel are two market leaders regarding odds and profit boosts. These regular promotions help bettors get a bigger bang for their buck on select events and markets. Check the “Promos” page regularly to get an idea of what’s available, there are typically several daily opportunities to take advantage. 

Available Vermont Sports Betting Apps

Vermont sports betting apps offer by far the most convenient experience, allowing bettors to wager on the move and keep consistently up-to-date with the action. Industry leaders like DraftKings and FanDuel offer additional benefits like mobile live streaming, app-exclusive offers, and push notifications. Vermonters currently have three sportsbook apps to choose from: 

• FanDuel Vermont Mobile App: 4.8 out of 5 App Store (1,300,000+ Reviews) / 4.7 out of 5 Google Play (266,000+ Reviews) 

• DraftKings Vermont Mobile App: 4.8 out of 5 App Store (650,000+ Reviews) / 4.6 out of 5 Google Play (127,000+ Reviews)  

• Fanatics Sportsbook Vermont Mobile App: 4.7 out of 5 App Store (9,400+ Reviews) / 3.6 out of 5 on Google Play (1,100+ Reviews) 

Popular Sports & Leagues to Bet on in Vermont

The Vermont sports betting catalog features over 70 sports. The Green Mountain State differs from other locations due to the ban on in-state college betting and politics wagering. Other than this, bettors can enjoy the same widespread options as elsewhere. As with the rest of the US, football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and soccer are the most popular sports to wager on. We’ll go into more detail regarding specific leagues and teams below: 

Vermont Sport Leagues

Vermont doesn’t have any state-specific sports leagues, but bettors enjoy wagering on the following competitions: 

• NFL 
• NBA 
• NHL 
• MLB 
• English Premier League 

Vermont Teams to Bet On

Vermont lacks any major league sports franchises, but fans can sometimes wager on smaller teams like Vermont Green FC. The Vermont Catamounts are a popular college basketball team competing in the NCAA Division 1 America East Conference, but Vermonters are only allowed to wager on the Catamounts if they’re featuring in out-of-state competitions like March Madness. 

Despite the absence of Vermont-specific major league teams, there are several popular regional teams in the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. For example: 

Tips for Responsible Gambling in Vermont

One of the major advantages Vermont has over other legal sports betting states is the notable commitment to upholding responsible gambling. The Department of Liquor and Lottery requires sportsbooks to provide annual reports on problem gambling and works together with the Department of Mental Health to understand the impact legal sports betting has had. As a result, Vermont sports bettors enjoy one of the safest experiences in the US. 

But don’t let this make you complacent. Responsible gambling always starts with the individual – if you don’t help yourself to keep sensible, it’s only a matter of time before things turn sour. Here are a few of the most important tips for responsible sports betting in Vermont: 

• Set Strict Budgets: Never bet without setting strict budgets first. Doing so will make it much harder to overspend and stop you from getting carried away. 
• Keep Betting Diaries: Start a betting diary to help you keep track of your spending and hobbies. This will help you notice unhealthy trends and ensure a better grip on your finances. 
• Be Open About Your Hobby: Trying to hide your betting hobby is a clear warning sign. Be open about your wagering so that you and others can keep you from falling into addiction. 
• Use Responsible Gambling Tools: Don’t hesitate to use responsible gambling tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion if necessary. DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics Sportsbook all have easily accessible responsible gambling sections that offer solutions. 

How does Vermont Compare to other States?

Vermont has notable differences compared to other legal sports betting states. Check below for three notable examples: 

• New Jersey: The Garden State was the first to launch legal sports wagering in 2018, so New Jersey betting sites benefit from more than half a decade's worth of experience. Bettors have far more choice than Vermont, with 27 currently available. While more practical, this can also water down quality, so be careful and read our New Jersey sportsbook reviews to find the best option. 

• Louisiana: Bettors in the Pelican State have complete freedom regarding college betting, with Louisiana betting sites permitting wagers on all college sports, regardless of markets. There are also five more options than Vermont, including notable platforms like bet365 Sportsbook and ESPN Bet. 

• Pennsylvania: Other than the increased number of Pennsylvania betting sites (13), residents in the Keystone State also have an edge over Vermonters due to the abundance of retail betting locations. These are particularly helpful for bettors who prefer cash deposits or withdrawals. 

Conclusion

Vermont sports betting is live – a sentence many residents in the Green Mountain State never thought they would hear due to the traditionally strict gambling laws. But the state turned a major page as of January 2024, and the future looks bright for VT sportsbooks. FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics Sportsbook are three of the industry’s best platforms, each offering generous promos, superb mobile apps, and extensive sports betting markets. 

But this is just the tip of the iceberg regarding Vermont’s exciting stature. We’re extremely happy to find such an emphasis on responsible gambling and keeping bettors safe, with the Department of Liquor and Lottery taking a very active role in monitoring sportsbooks and responsible gambling practices. 

Check back to this page regularly to find out the latest updates as our experts continue observing the Vermont legal sportsbook scene. Consider your primary objectives from a sportsbook and read our reviews to find the perfect platform for your preferences. Afterward, click through using our links to register, claim the welcome bonus, and get started.