PA Sportsbooks: Best PA Betting Sites for US Players

talkSPORT

29 September 2023

PA Sportsbooks: Best PA Betting Sites for US Players

Sports fans in Pennsylvania have been enjoying the thrill of sports betting since 2017 when the state gave it the green light, pending federal law changes. In 2018, the first legal retail sportsbook opened its doors, which was soon followed by the legalization of online sports betting.

The potential for legal sports betting in general is knocking on legislative doors all across the US, with some form of sports betting legal in over half the states in the country in 2023. However, Pennsylvania in particular has become a modern-day hub for the practice.

In this article, we’ll be filling you in on all the nitty and gritty legal parameters of Pennsylvania sports betting, but we’ll also be covering the best sites to join, the tips to make the most out of your sports betting experience and bonuses you can avail of along the way.

Best PA Sportsbooks

Here are a few of the best Pennsylvania sportsbooks on the market:

DraftKings
BetRivers
Unibet
BetMGM

How we chose the best PA betting sites: Methodology

Just like every other state with legal sports betting, we used a very careful process for identifying the best sportsbook brand in Pennsylvania.

Our approach involved a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including the betting markets on offer, customer support, innovation and originality, mobile responsiveness, legal status, history of PA sports betting, types of bets available, deposit and withdrawal methods, popular sports for wagering, age requirements, and overall safety and security. Let's go into a little more detail below.

Betting markets on offer: Sportsbooks in PA use a wide range of betting markets to guide you in making decisions when placing bets on specific sports. These markets encompass various aspects of a game or event, such as moneyline bets, point spreads, totals, parlays, futures, prop bets and live betting. The diversity and depth of betting options available at a sportsbook can greatly enhance the betting experience. Put simply, the deeper the betting markets available, the better.
Customer support: We always check out the different customer support channels when we review each betting operator's site. Live chat functions, frequently asked questions (FAQ) sections that are easy to navigate, and responsive customer service are vital for providing assistance and resolving any issues that may arise during the betting process. Sportsbooks like BetMGM have stood out with their efficient live chat support, ensuring that users can receive timely and helpful responses to their queries.
Sportsbook bonuses: Like their counterparts across the pond, sportsbook operators in the US and PA specifically, have promotional offers to entice new players and snag them from competitors. Therefore, a big part of choosing a sportsbook is reading the information on its promos: We went through every welcome bonus, promo code, bonus bet and reload deposit bonus and compared odds boosts, wagering options, and what customers can expect as a reward if they sign up with a given operator.
Innovation and originality: We found that some sportsbooks in Pennsylvania have demonstrated a commitment to innovation and have implemented player-friendly features that set them apart from the competition. BetRivers, for instance, offers innovative promotions and a unique rewards program that adds extra value for bettors. We looked for sportsbooks that bring fresh ideas to the table and continually strive to improve the user experience.
Mobile responsiveness: In today's digital age, mobile betting has become increasingly popular and is a huge part of the sports betting scene. Therefore, we paid close attention to the quality and responsiveness of the sportsbook app belonging to a certain brand. For example, DraftKings' Pennsylvania betting app, for example, has consistently been rated as one of the most player-friendly in the industry, offering a seamless and enjoyable mobile betting experience, as expected of a household name. The availability of mobile platforms on both Apple iOS and Android devices was an important consideration in our evaluation.

What’s the legal status of PA sportsbooks?

Sports betting is legal and regulated in Pennsylvania, both in-person and online. Generally speaking, the Pennsylvania betting laws are pretty lenient, but there are certain restrictions in place. You can’t bet on non-sporting events such as politics and entertainment, for instance, as they are illegal for betting almost everywhere in the US.

Betting on pretty much all the top sports and leagues, however, is a legal option. The state boasts numerous World Series titles and Super Bowl victories, making it a hub for sports enthusiasts. The popularity of major sports such as NFL, NBA, college football, and basketball has contributed to the thriving sports betting market in the Keystone State. However, be aware that alternative markets, such as politics and entertainment, are unavailable, as they are illegal for betting almost everywhere in the US.

The following sports can all be bet on in Pennsylvania:

NFL
NCAA Football
NBA
NCAA Football
NHL
NCAA Hockey
MLB
NCAA Baseball
Soccer (Premier League, Champions League etc…)
Golf
Tennis
Boxing
UFC/MMA
Motorsports/NASCAR
Table Tennis
Lacrosse
Australian Rules
Badminton
Billiards
Bowling
Chess
Cricket
Curling
Cycling
Darts
Esports
Field Hockey
Floorball
Handball
Horse Racing
Netball
Rugby League
Rugby Union
Snooker
Volleyball
Winter Sports

History of PA sports betting

Pennsylvania's journey with legal sports betting has been a prosperous one. The state's first racetrack was established in 1965, and it wasn't until the Race Horse Industry Reform Act of 1959 that the industry began to thrive. In the 1970s and 1980s, bingo and lottery laws were introduced, further expanding the gambling landscape.

However, the racetracks faced challenges, leading to the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act of 2004. This act allowed the introduction of casino games, including slot machines, in racetrack casinos to revitalize struggling establishments. In 2010, the state's casino laws were amended to permit table games, further diversifying the gambling options available.

The monumental year for Pennsylvania sports betting was 2017 when the Truck Stop and Satellite Casino Bill was passed. This bill not only legalized online gambling but also opened up opportunities for truck stop and satellite casinos, and paved the way for legal sports betting - all pending the removal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act by the Supreme Court.

When PASPA was struck down the following year, Pennsylvania became the fourth state to legalize online gambling, marking a significant milestone in its gambling history.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) oversees the sports betting industry, ensuring responsible gambling regulations and practices are followed.

What are the legal requirements for Pennsylvania sports betting online?

To bet online in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 21 years old. While registration can be done remotely from outside the state, bettors must be physically located within Pennsylvania to place bets.

Online sportsbooks must also have a physical partner location, such as Rivers Pittsburgh Casino or Betfred's location in Wind Creek Casino. It's important to note that player props on college athletes are not allowed under Pennsylvania's regulations.

ID verification is a necessary step to ensure the legal and responsible participation of bettors in online sports betting. The verification process helps establish the age and identity of the bettor, ensuring compliance with the legal requirements.

Types of bets at PA sportsbooks

There are lots of ways to bet on sports in Pennsylvania, perfect for a variety of different preferences and strategies. Here are some of the most common bet types you can find:

Moneyline bets

A moneyline wager is a straightforward bet on which team or individual will win the game or event, without considering the point margin or total score. It’s just about the easiest way to bet.

Point spreads

Point spread bets involve wagering on which team or player will win the match or game according to a predetermined point spread set by the sportsbook. It’s not just about betting on winning or losing, but also the margin of victory.

Totals

Totals bets, also known as over/under bets, allow you to wager on the combined final score of both teams in a game. You predict whether the total score will be over or under the specified number set by the sportsbook.

Parlays

Parlays combine multiple individual wagers into a single bet. To win a parlay, all the individual wagers within it must be correct. Parlays offer the potential for higher payouts but are riskier due to the increased number of selections.

Futures

Futures bets involve betting on the outcome of an event that will occur at a future date. Examples include predicting the winner of a championship or tournament before it takes place, like picking the winner of the Super Bowl at the start of the NFL season.

Live betting

Live betting, also known as in-play betting, allows you to place wagers on a game or event that has already started. This dynamic form of betting adds excitement as odds continuously change based on the current state of play.

How to deposit and withdraw at PA betting sites

Moving funds in and out of your account is a primary concern for Pennsylvania bettors. Pennsylvania sportsbooks typically provide a range of common deposit options to accommodate various preferences. Some common deposit methods include:

Visa, Mastercard, and other credit cards
PayPal or Skrill
Debit cards
ACH or e-checks
Branded prepaid cards like Play+
PayNearMe
Wire transfers
Cash at the cage

The minimum deposit requirement for most sportsbooks is $10. However, specific terms may vary between operators, so it's always essential to review their deposit options and policies.

There tend to be fewer methods available for withdrawals, although bank transfers and e-wallet transfers are both popular. It’s pretty standard to have to wait for a few days before you receive your winnings.

How old do you have to be to bet in PA?

You must be at least 21 years old to bet in Pennsylvania.

Which PA sportsbook has the widest selection of sports?

Among the Pennsylvania sportsbooks, Unibet stands out for having an extensive selection of sports and betting options. It has all major sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB available for betting, and provides a $100 second-chance bet to all new customers. The platform offers a host of other features to enhance the betting experience.

By providing a wide range of sports, diverse betting types, and attractive bonuses, Unibethas positioned itself as a top choice for Pennsylvania sports bettors.

Do I have to be a PA resident to bet online in Pennsylvania?

No, you don't have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to bet online in the state. However, you must meet certain requirements to participate in online sports betting. You need to have a valid US Social Security Number (SSN) and be physically located within the borders of Pennsylvania when placing bets.

This means that even if you're visiting Pennsylvania from another state, you can still create an account and bet online as long as you meet these criteria.

Can I use my PA online sportsbook account to bet outside of Pennsylvania?

No, you cannot use your Pennsylvania online sportsbook account to place bets outside of the state. Pennsylvania's online sports betting regulations require that bets can only be placed within state borders. This restriction is in line with the state legislation set after the US Supreme Court decision on the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA).

It's important to note that offshore sports betting sites are illegal, and it is advisable to only engage in regulated sports betting with licensed casinos or their affiliated apps.

Are Pennsylvania sports betting sites safe?

Yes, Pennsylvania sports betting sites that hold licenses from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) are considered safe and legal. Obtaining a license from the PGCB requires meeting strict criteria and adhering to responsible gambling practices. Licensed sportsbooks are subject to regulatory oversight, ensuring that they operate in a fair and transparent manner.

These sportsbooks often have support teams to assist users with any issues or concerns, and they provide legal protection to players in case of disputes.

Can I bet on my phone in PA?

Yes, mobile betting is legal in Pennsylvania. Since May 2019, mobile platforms have been available in addition to in-person and online sportsbooks. You can download mobile sports betting apps from licensed operators and place bets directly from your phone or tablet. These apps are typically available for both Apple iOS and Android devices, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of betting on the go.

Will the tax on sports betting in PA affect my winnings?

Yes, gambling income, including sports betting winnings, is considered taxable income in the United States. If you have net gambling winnings, you are required to report them on your federal income tax return.

In Pennsylvania, the tax rate for gambling winnings is 3.07%. Additionally, sports bettors in Pennsylvania could owe up to 35% of their winnings to the federal government, depending on their total income and tax bracket. To ensure compliance, you may receive a Form W-2G from the sportsbook, which declares your winnings to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Is DraftKings legal in PA?

Yes, DraftKings Sportsbook is legal in Pennsylvania. It entered the Pennsylvania market when it launched its sports betting platform in November 2019. DraftKings is one of the leading online sportsbooks in the United States and offers a range of betting options and promotions to Pennsylvania bettors.

Can I play online casino or poker games in PA?

Yes, you can play online casino games in Pennsylvania. Several online casino operators, such as BetMGM and DraftKings, offer online slots, live dealer games, and table games for real money. Online poker also became available in Pennsylvania in 2019, providing additional options for online gambling enthusiasts. These online gambling options are regulated and licensed by the PGCB, ensuring a safe and legal environment for players.

Top 5 tips for choosing the best PA sportsbook for you

Variety of sports and payment options: Choose a sportsbook that offers a wide range of sports and betting markets that suit your interests. Additionally, ensure that the sportsbook provides convenient payment options that you are comfortable using.
Competitive odds: Look for sportsbooks that consistently offer competitive odds and favorable payouts. Comparing the odds across different sportsbooks can help you maximize your potential winnings.
Welcome offers and bonuses: Take advantage of welcome offers and bonuses provided by sportsbooks. These promotions can add value to your betting experience and potentially increase your bankroll.
Check reviews and do your research: Before committing to a particular sportsbook, read reviews from other users and do thorough research. Look for feedback on the sportsbook's reliability, customer service, and overall user experience to make an informed decision.
User-friendly interface and mobile compatibility: Consider the user interface and mobile compatibility of the sportsbook's platform. A user-friendly interface and a mobile app or mobile-optimized website can enhance your betting experience and allow you to bet conveniently from anywhere.