The best Massachusetts sportsbooks are DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, BetMGM, Fanatics, and the newly returned theScore Bet. These licensed operators lead the Massachusetts sports betting market with competitive odds, exclusive local promotions, and deep markets for the Patriots, Celtics, Red Sox, and Bruins. We’ll show you how to maximize your betting experience with these top MA sportsbooks.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are paid (affiliate) links to licensed operators. If a link is used to sign up or deposit, we may earn a commission at no added cost to players. Compensation does not determine our scores, reviews follow the transparent criteria outlined in our rating methodology.
Best Massachusetts Sportsbooks Ranked 2025
Massachusettsâs online sports betting market is stacked with some of the most popular sportsbooks in the country.
Weâve considered the quality of service these Massachusetts betting sites provide: mobile apps, welcome bonuses, daily and local promotions, odds competitiveness, loyalty programs, and payment options.
Letâs take a closer look at some of the top Massachusetts online sports betting sites:
DraftKings â Best Overall & Hometown MA Sportsbook
As a Boston-based company, DraftKings is one of the best Massachusetts sportsbooks for many reasons. First, their mobile app is designed to work smoothly, allowing you to place live bets and watch games in real time.
Second, their daily promotions are worth claiming because they offer value to new and existing players.
|
MA Sportsbook |
DraftKings |
|
đ Our Rating |
4.7/5 |
|
â Operating Since |
2018 |
|
đïž Best For |
Overall market variety & game-day betting |
|
đ Top MA Markets |
Patriots, Celtics, Bruins |
|
đ± Mobile Apps |
iOS & Android |
|
âĄWithdrawal Speed |
1-3 business days |
At DraftKings Massachusetts, the odds are well above the industry standard, and daily specials like odds boosts and safety-net parlays for the Celtics, Bruins, or Red Sox fans only add to the excitement too.
When looking to enjoy your sports betting MA winnings, DraftKings offers plenty of payment options.
You can use all the payment platforms available in the state, like online banking, PayPal, Venmo, and others. The withdrawals are typically processed within 1-3 business days.
Continue reading: DraftKings MA review.
FanDuel â Top Sportsbook for Same Game Parlays
FanDuel is one of the most recognized online sportsbook brands in the US because of the premium sports betting experience this operator provides.
The main feature that makes FanDuel a popular online sports betting MA option is the same-game parlay (SGP). With SGPs, the bettors can wager on multiple in-game outcomes within the same matchup.
For example, if the Celtics are playing, you can bet on them to win, the total score to exceed a certain point limit, and Jayson Tatum to have a triple-double.
|
MA Sportsbook |
FanDuel |
|
đ Our Rating |
4.8/5 |
|
â Operating Since |
2018 |
|
đïž Best For |
Mobile betting & live wagering |
|
đ Top MA Markets |
Patriots, Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins |
|
đ± Mobile Apps |
iOS & Android |
|
⥠Withdrawal Speed |
1-3 business days |
Besides the odds boosts and daily specials tied to Boston teams and other local franchises, Massachusetts bettors can benefit from FanDuelâs loyalty program. Every bet earns points that can be redeemed for bonus bets and promotional offers.
When you want to cash in on your successful bets, FanDuel offers a good number of payment options. Withdrawing your funds with this sportsbook normally takes 1-3 business days.
Continue reading: FanDuel MA review.
Caesars â Best Sportsbook for MA Rewards Program
Caesars offers one of the top loyalty programs in the state, where you get to earn points and climb through ranks and tiers by stacking odds and placing bets. You can later redeem those for rewards like bonus bets, personally customized promos, or other benefits available at Caesars retail locations.
Even if youâre not their long-term bettor, Caesars MA has some great bonuses â their sign-up offer is perfect if you like making bold calls, and other specials like odds boosts and parlay profit boosts are useful tools to maximize your potential winnings.
| MA Sportsbook | Caesars |
| đ Our Rating | 4.6/5 |
| â Operating Since | 2018 |
| đïž Best For | NFL & NBA competitive odds |
| đTop MA Markets | Patriots, Celtics, NFL & NBA futures |
| đ± Mobile Apps | iOS & Android |
| âĄWithdrawal Speed | 1-3 business days |
When it comes to mobile sports betting, Caesars mobile app is among the best in Massachusetts. If you like placing live bets on the Celtics, Bruins, Red Sox, or any other MA franchise, Caesarsâ app is designed for reliability during the biggest moments.
Payment options are also what make betting with them an enjoyable experience â you get to withdraw your winnings quickly and without additional verifications, which usually takes 1-3 business days.
Continue reading: Caesars MA review.
BetMGM â Best for A Variety of Betting Markets
With the BetMGM online sportsbook in Massachusetts, you wonât have to worry about a lack of betting markets. They have all the major US leagues, International competitions, niche sports, and more. Their welcome offer is one of the most generous ones in the field, and their BetMGM Rewards loyalty program has a reputation of its own.
BetMGM Massachusetts also brings strong odds across all the big leagues, with daily specials and parlay boosts to enhance the experience. Youâll find a good betting opportunity with this sportsbook regardless of which MA team you support.
|
MA Sportsbook |
BetMGM |
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đ Our Rating |
4.5/5 |
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â Since |
2023 |
|
đïž Best For |
Rewards program & customer loyalty |
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đ Top MA Markets |
Patriots, Bruins, NFL futures |
|
đ± Mobile Apps |
iOS & Android |
|
⥠Withdrawal Speed |
24-72 hours |
With BetMGM, live betting is another thing you can enjoy worry-free thanks to their mobile app â the interface is simple and easy to navigate, the sections are clean so you can easily access sports betting catalog, promos, bet slip, and live-streamed games.
When you want to make a deposit or withdrawal, BetMGM offers a good range of payment methods. Most transactions are processed within 1-3 business days, usually faster if youâve already completed the identity verification.
Continue reading: BetMGM MA review.
Fanatics â Best for Merchandise & Fan Rewards
Fanatics is your go-to online sportsbook if you like to be rewarded for being a long-term bettor. Their FanCash program offers great rewards for sports fans like pro merchandise, from jerseys, caps, and other apparel. For those wanting more traditional sportsbook benefits, there are bonus bets and other promos customized for Massachusetts bettors.
|
MA Sportsbook |
Fanatics |
|
đ Our Rating |
4.5/5 |
|
â Operating Since |
2023 |
|
đïž Best For |
Apparel integration & personalized promos |
|
đ Top MA Markets |
Patriots, Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins |
|
đ± Mobile Apps |
iOS & Android |
|
⥠Withdrawal Speed |
24-72 hours |
Beyond rewards, Fanatics offers a solid mobile app thatâs easy to use and covers all sportsbook features you need for a premium sports betting experience. You can check stats, create your bet slip, and track live bets with just a few taps. The interface is clean, and odds are often boosted on local teams or big matchups.
The payment setup covers all the usual choices like PayPal, cards, and bank links. Most withdrawals take between 1-3 business days and are effortless once your payment method is cleared.
Massachusetts Sports Betting – Key Facts (2025)
The Bay State betting scene is growing larger and better every year, mostly due to stateâs clear rules that helps maintain quality standards in the market.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission keeps a close eye on all online sportsbooks operating within the state. They oversee every part of the MA sports betting market, update regulations when needed, and work to ensure strong player protection across the board.
|
MA Sports Betting Facts |
Details |
|
đïž Legal Status: |
Legal since March 10, 2023 (online) |
|
âïž Regulatory Body: |
Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) |
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đ° Tax Rate: |
20% on gross gaming revenue (online) |
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đ Legal Betting Age: |
21+ |
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đ± Betting Format: |
Online/Mobile Apps & Retail Sportsbooks |
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đČ Active Sportsbooks: |
8 licensed operators (as of 2025) |
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đ College Betting: |
Permitted, but no betting on in-state college teams (unless they are in a tournament) |
Massachusetts Sports Betting Updates – (December 2025)
Here are some of the most important Massachusetts sports betting updates you should be aware of:
|
MA Sports Betting Update |
Details |
|
đ theScore Bet returns to MA (Dec 2025) |
PENN Entertainment rebranded ESPN BET to theScore Bet following the termination of the ESPN partnership. |
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đ Monthly handle topped $600M (June 2025) |
Bettors stayed active and showed strong, steady growth in wager volume. |
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đŠ MGC approved one-year license renewals (May 2025) |
All current operators had their licenses renewed for another year. |
|
đ” MGC upheld college betting ban on in-state schools |
No changes: still canât bet on MA college teams unless they’re in tournaments. |
|
đ Fines issued for marketing violations (April 2025) |
A few operators were penalized for non-compliant promos, showing strict oversight. |
|
đ§Ÿ Tax revenue crosses $160M total since launch |
MA continues to benefit from sportsbook tax contributions to public funds. |
How to Start Betting Online in Massachusetts
In this section, youâll learn all the steps you need to take to place your first bet with Massachusetts sportsbooks licensed by the MGC:
Step 1: Register Your MA Sports Betting Account
Visit the sign-up page of any licensed sportsbook and provide these details:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Last 4 digits of your Social Security number
This step is mandatory, and is there to prove youâre 21 or older and compliant with Massachusetts laws. The sportsbook will run a quick check to confirm your age and identity, and once youâre verified, youâre good to go.
Step 2: Depositing Funds into Your Massachusetts Account
Before you can bet, youâll need to fund your account. Most sportsbooks in Massachusetts take a wide mix of payment methods, including:
- Credit/Debit Cards
- PayPal
- ACH/eCheck
- Play+ Prepaid Card
- PayNearMe (cash voucher)
- Cash at Casino Cage
Most of these platforms deposit your money instantly, so you can bet as soon as your funds hit your account.
Step 3: Placing Your First Bet on a MA Betting Site
You can place your first wager on any of the available sports betting markets: moneylines, spreads, props, or futures â basically any bet your sportsbook allows.
Step 4: Withdrawing Winnings from MA Sportsbooks
Here’s how to get your winnings from Massachusetts online sportsbooks:
- Sign-in to your account
- Go to your balance section
- Choose a payment method
- Enter the amount
- Confirm the transaction
First-time withdrawals may take a day or two and might need you to confirm your identity again for safety reasons. After that, every next payout will be processed much quickly.
Bet on Massachusetts Teams: Patriots, Celtics, Red Sox & More
Massachusetts is home to some of the most loyal sports fans in the country, packed with titles, dynasties, and deep rivalries that fuel the stateâs love of betting.
Whether youâre a die-hard Pats or Red Sox fan, or someone who just wants to ride the Bruinsâ hot streak, sports betting sites in MA now offer odds on every game, plus team-based boosts, local promos, and SGPs tied to your hometown heroes.
New England Patriots Betting (NFL)
In Massachusetts, betting on Patriots is a part of the culture. From the Brady-Belichick dynasty years to this next chapter under center, fans still follow every drive, snap, and Sunday line.
Whether itâs the season opener or a snowy December showdown in Foxborough, sportsbooks in MA bring you deep markets, local boosts, and all kinds of ways to bet on the Pats.
Popular Patriots Bets
Legal in-state sportsbooks cover every Patriots game with a wide range of bets. Hereâs what youâll find on most platforms:
- Moneyline: This bet is about picking who wins â itâs that simple. If the Pats are +120 underdogs at home, a $100 bet would win $120 if they pull off the upset.
- Point Spread: This one adds a margin. If New England is +3.5, they just need to lose by 3 or less, or win outright for your bet to cash.
- Totals (Over/Under): Bet on the combined score of the game. In winter matchups at Gillette, unders can be sharp with cold weather and heavy winds.
- Player Props: Wager on things like passing yards for the QB, rushing attempts for Rhamondre Stevenson, or anytime TDs. Local books often feature prop specials tied to popular Patriots players.
- Team Props: Bet on the Pats to score first, kick a field goal in every quarter, or win both halves.
- Live Betting: Odds shift with every play. Think New England will mount a comeback in the 3rd? You can grab new odds in real time.
- Futures: Before the season starts, or even mid-year, you can bet the Patriots to win the AFC East, make the playoffs, or take home the Lombardi.
Same Game Parlays on Patriots Games
Sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings â both with deep ties to the New England region â offer robust Same Game Parlay (SGP) tools for Patriots games.
You can stack multiple bets like the QB over 225.5 passing yards + Patriots moneyline + Hunter Henry anytime TD â all into one boosted wager. These SGPs have become a favorite for Pats fans looking to turn a small stake into a bigger win.
Local Promos & Odds Boosts
During the NFL season, you can expect these local promos at Massachusetts sportsbooks:
- Odds boosts on Patriots player props or team wins.
- Safety-net promos for SGPs (e.g., âBonus Back if You Lose”).
- Bet & Get offers (e.g., “bet $25 on Patriots vs Jets, get $10 bonus bets”).
Some offers are exclusive to Massachusetts users, especially with Boston-based DraftKings leading the charge locally.
Betting Tip for Patriots Fans
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Keep an eye on weather reports at Gillette Stadium, especially late in the season. Cold, wind, and snow can change the game flow fast, pushing sharp bettors toward unders and rushing props.
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Sometimes, the Pats are underdogs at home, which was a rare thing in the past, but more common now. You can add extra value to your sports betting experience by backing the Patriots when sportsbooks underestimate them.
Boston Celtics Betting (NBA)
With 18 NBA titles, the Celtics are the pride of Boston. Whether itâs a Tuesday night tip-off or a clash in the Eastern Finals, youâll find full betting lines, live odds, and team-driven boosts across all major MA sportsbooks.
Popular Celtics Bets
Most sportsbooks carry the full catalogue of NBA lines, but hereâs what Celtics fans bet on most:
- Moneyline: Back the Câs to win the game, straight up. Odds shift based on the matchup â for example, a home game against the Knicks might put Boston at -160.
- Spread: If the Celtics are -4.5, they need to win by 5 or more for your bet to win. Tight matchups can swing late, so this oneâs all about betting experience and timing.
- Total Points (Over/Under): Bet on the combined score. With Bostonâs deep bench and strong defense, totals can swing lower than the league average.
- Player Props: Think Tatum over 27.5 points, Brown to grab 6+ boards, or Horford to hit 2+ threes. Youâll see these front and center on most betting apps.
- Team Props: Bet on the Celtics to lead at the half, make 15+ threes, or outscore their foes in every quarter.
- Live Betting: NBA games can swing fast, especially in the second half. If you feel a run coming, live odds let you jump in on the fly.
- Futures: Bet the Celtics to win the East, top the league in wins, or hang banner #19 in the Garden.
Same Game Parlays for Celtics Matchups
With scorers like Tatum and Brown leading the charge, Same Game Parlays (SGPs) are a go-to play. Here are some bets you can stack:
- Celtics moneyline
- Tatum over 25.5 points
- Horford 1.5+ blocks
Celtics-Focused Odds Boosts and Promos
Most MA sportsbooks lean into Celtics games, especially when theyâre on national TV. The most common special promos include:
- Boosted odds on player stat lines (like Tatum double-double at +300)
- SGP safety-net, where you get money back if one leg falls short
- Win-and-get offers (e.g., “Bet $25 on Celtics vs Heat, get $10 if the Câs win”)
Sharp Tip for Celtics Bettors
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When blowouts happen, especially at home, the starters may sit early. That means unders on late-game props can hit, even if the pace was hot at the beginning. Keep tabs on the bench depth and coach patterns when building your SGPs or betting live.
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Also, watch for East Coast back-to-backs. If Boston plays two nights in a row, playersâ legs get heavy, so unders on team totals and player points might be a good choice.
Boston Red Sox & Bruins Betting (MLB/NHL)
In spring and summer, Massachusetts follows every crack of the bat at Fenway. When fall and winter roll in, itâs the roar of the Garden as skates hit the ice. In Boston, the sports never really stop, and neither does the betting.
Between the Red Sox and Bruins, fans have year-round ways to wager, from home runs and no-hitters to hat tricks and shootouts.
Both teams have loyal followings, rich history, and full betting menus at every licensed sportsbook in Massachusetts. If you’re from the Bay State, odds are you’re backing one, or both.
Popular Red Sox Bets
Baseball might be a slow-paced game, but betting on it is anything but. Here are the most popular bets when it comes to the Sox fans:
- Moneyline: Pick who wins. If the Sox are +135 against the Yankees, a $100 bet wins $135.
- Run Line: Like a spread. Usually +/-1.5 runs. Take the Sox -1.5, and they need to win by 2 or more.
- Total Runs (Over/Under): Bet on the gameâs total score. With Bostonâs hot bats (or cold ones), totals can vary.
- Player Props: Think Devers to hit a home run, the starter to go over 5.5 strikeouts, or the closer to notch a save.
- Innings Bets: Wager on the first 5 innings â popular when you trust the starting pitcher but not the bullpen.
- Futures: Bet the Red Sox to win the AL East, make the playoffs, or go all the way.
Popular Bruins Bets
Hockey is fast, wild, and great for live bets. Here are bets that Bruins fans like to place at MA online sportsbooks:
- Moneyline & Puck Line: Pick the winner or go puck line (usually -1.5). When Bostonâs defense is sharp, puck line covers are common.
- Over/Under Goals: Most games are set around 5.5 or 6. With the Bâs strong goaltending, unders often get sharp action.
- Player Props: Bet on Marchand to score, PastrĆĂĄk to notch an assist, or the goalie to rack up saves.
- Periods: Bet by the period â will the Bruins lead after 1? Who scores in the third?
- Live Betting: Momentum swings fast on the ice. Live odds let you jump in mid-game, especially on power plays or comeback chances.
- Futures: Bet the Bâs to win the East, take the Presidentsâ Trophy, or hoist the Cup.
Same Game Parlays for Sox & Bâs
While SGPs are more common in football and basketball, both MLB and NHL have added tools in recent years, and sportsbooks have followed.
- For Red Sox games: Stack Devers to get a hit + Sox moneyline + over 8.5 runs.
- For Bruins games: Stack PastrĆĂĄk to score + Bruins to win + under 6.5 total goals.
Boosts & Promos Tied to the Teams
Most MA sportsbooks know these teams drive action, especially on rivalry nights or during playoff pushes. Here are the most popular specials youâll see in the in-state betting scene:
- Odds boosts on home run hitters, hat tricks, or team wins
- Safety-Net SGPs tied to Fenway or Garden games
- Bet & Get deals (e.g., “Wager $20 on Bruins vs Leafs, get $10 bonus bets”)
Tips for Betting These Teams
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Red Sox: Watch the weather at Fenway. If the wind is blowing out to left, that could be a sign to try overs and home run props. Also, watch for bullpen rest, as tired arms late can swing both run lines and totals.
-
Bruins: Keep an eye on the goalie matchups. If the starter sits and the backup starts, the line and the total can move fast. Also, look for revenge spots, as the Bâs rarely drop two in a row to the same team.
MA College Sports Betting (NCAA)
In Massachusetts, college sports still draw strong crowds, and bettors across the Bay State keep an eye on local rivalries and hometown stars climbing the ranks.
While betting on in-state college teams is limited by law, thereâs still plenty to wager on, especially when March Madness rolls around or UMass football hits the field.
What You Can Bet on with College Sports in MA
Under current rules, you canât bet on Massachusetts-based college teams, unless theyâre in a tournament with four or more teams (like March Madness or a bowl game). However, when those games hit the board, itâs like a betting holiday.
Here are our proposed betting markets you can wager on for college sports with MA sportsbooks:
- Moneyline: Bet your team to win straight up, no spread
- Point Spread: For or against the line â maybe UMass +17.5 vs Michigan
- Over/Under: Total score across both teams
- Futures: Pick UMass to make a bowl, or Boston College to reach the Sweet 16
When those windows open, sportsbooks tend to run specially tailored promos, but theyâre often short-lived, so itâs worth checking your promo tab daily when March rolls around.
Top College Teams MA Bettors Watch
Even with the bet ban on most in-state games, local fans still pay attention to these colleges either by waiting for tournaments or crossing the state border:
- UMass Minutemen (Football/Hockey)
- Boston College Eagles (Football/Basketball)
- Harvard Crimson (Basketball/Ivy League Sports)
- Holy Cross Crusaders
- Northeastern Huskies (Hockey)
Even if you canât bet directly on the team, you can often wager on the opponent, the total, or prop bets tied to neutral outcomes.
Non-College Events to Bet on in Massachusetts
Sportsbooks also post odds on one-off events held in MA:
- Golf: Big tourneys at The Country Club in Brookline (like the U.S. Open)
- Boxing & MMA: Major cards at TD Garden
- Soccer: New England Revolution (MLS) games at Gillette Stadium
- Tennis: Exhibition matches at smaller venues across the state
- Esports: Some platforms offer markets when events are held in Boston (like DreamHack)
Most of these events come with single-game lines, props, and futures (like who wins the whole tourney or how far a certain player will go).
Some sportsbooks offer live betting during these one-off games, which bettors can use to extract the maximum value out of them.
Tips for College & Small-Market Betting
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Follow team news: In college sports, injuries and suspensions often donât get wide press. Beat writers and Twitter/X are your best friends.
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Watch for odds shifts: Since thereâs less action, even small bets can move a line. You might see UMass open +9.5 and close +7 within hours.
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Lean on futures: With fewer single-game betting windows for in-state colleges, many bettors opt for season-long props when theyâre available.
How We Rate & Review Massachusetts Sportsbooks
Every sportsbook we show here has been tried and tested by our team, with a sharp eye on what really matters to people betting in Massachusetts.
We evaluate these apps specifically for Massachusetts bettors. Whether you’re backing the Celtics or cashing out after a Red Sox win, local needs come first.
Hereâs what we focus on the most:
Local Teams & App Experience
We carefully evaluate how each sportsbook performs when it comes to betting on local favorites such as the Patriots, Celtics, Bruins, Red Sox, and top college squads. But our review doesnât stop at team coverage. we also test how fast the app loads, how smooth it runs, and how easy it is to place live bets or flip through your picks during a busy game day.
A sportsbook is designed to facilitate betting on your home team.
Odds & Bet Options
Our team of experts line up odds across sportsbooks, especially on big New England matchups, and dig into the range of bets. From straight moneylines to deep player props and same-game parlays, we look for Massachusetts sports betting sites that go beyond the basics.
Promos That Are Worth Your Time
To see if welcome offers and ongoing promos are legit, our experts analyze them to see how easy they are to claim, how useful they are for the way people actually bet, and whether the value holds up over time â not just on day one.
Fast, Simple Payments
We test how easy it is to make a deposit and how quickly you can get your winnings out. Itâs important for our team of experts that there are no long waits, no hidden fees, and no surprise steps.
Help When You Need It
Even though the MA online sportsbook market works like a well-oiled machine, issues can arise. Thatâs why we try the live chat, email, and support lines ourselves, to see who really shows up when something goes wrong. We want to know which sportsbooks are helpful, which are quick, and which leave you waiting.
Fully Licensed in Massachusetts
Every sportsbook we recommend is permitted to operate in Massachusetts by the MGC. That means your bets, your money, and your private info are all protected.
All of this goes into how we rank and rate these sportsbooks, so you donât have to second-guess when itâs time to place a bet.
Massachusetts Sports Betting Laws – Key Details for MA Bettors
Sports betting is legal in Massachusetts. As long as you stick with licensed sites and follow state rules, youâre in a good spot.
Here are some of the most important legal aspects of sports betting in Massachusetts:
Betting Within Massachusetts State Lines
You must be inside Massachusetts to place a legal online bet. It doesnât matter where you live â what matters is where you are at the time of placing the bet.
Every sportsbook app uses location tools to check where you are. It runs quietly in the background and makes sure you’re within the state lines. This setup keeps Massachusetts in line with federal law, protects the local market, and still lets out-of-state visitors bet while theyâre here.
Whether you’re in Boston for a weekend or catching a Cape Cod league game, as long as you’re on Bay State soil, you’re good to go.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC)
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is responsible for overseeing sports betting in the state, issuing licenses, and ensuring quality service. Sportsbooks undergo a thorough check before going live, and once cleared, they must maintain high standards to avoid losing their licenses.
The MGC also assists bettors with issues like payout delays or voided bets. They address these issues and provide support to bettors.
The MGC also promotes responsible gambling through deposit limits, self-ban options, and cooling-off options. By using MGC-licensed sportsbooks, bettors can trust a system that prioritizes health and safety.
Betting with Licensed MA Sites
If youâre betting in Massachusetts, make sure you’re doing it through a licensed sportsbook. Names like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, theScore Bet, and Fanatics are all cleared by the MGC, as theyâve passed full checks and follow strict rules on fairness and data safety.
Offshore sports betting sites pose a significant risk as they are not US-licensed and do not comply with local laws, leaving users without legal options if they refuse to pay winnings or compromise their data.
When you go with a legal, state-approved sportsbook, youâre not just staying out of trouble â you’re getting better odds, faster payouts, safer tools, and full access to the support you deserve.
Tax on Winnings in Massachusetts
If you win, the state wants its share. Just like in other places, gambling winnings in Massachusetts count as taxable income.
Here are the most important things to consider:
- Every sportsbook win counts. Even if you only win a few bucks here and there, the IRS and Massachusetts Department of Revenue expect it to be reported.
- Big win? Big form. If you hit $600 or more on a single bet, most sportsbooks will issue you a W-2G form, which means the IRS knows too.
- Federal + state taxes apply. Both federal income tax and Massachusetts state tax apply to your sports betting profits.
Itâs wise to keep track of both wins and losses. If you itemize your taxes, you might be able to write off some losses, but only up to the amount youâve won.
Permitted & Prohibited Bets in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, you can enjoy the standard bet types like moneylines, point spreads, totals, live bets, parlays, and futures. Theyâre all eligible for major sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, college games, international tournaments, niche sports, and more.
However, here are a few limitations to be aware of:
- In-state college teams â You canât bet on Massachusetts college teams (e.g., Boston College, UMass, Harvard) unless theyâre playing in a tournament such as March Madness.
- High school sports â Betting on high school events is strictly prohibited. This includes wagers on teams, players, or any aspect of the game.
- College player props â Props on individual college athletes are not allowed at all, even during tournaments. This rule is in place to help protect the integrity of college sports.
Responsible Sports Betting in Massachusetts (Play Responsibly, 21+)
Sports betting should be a fun activity, not a source of stress or harm. Thatâs why Massachusetts law requires all licensed sportsbooks to follow responsible gaming policies, and they must offer tools to help players enjoy a safe betting experience.
Here are some practical tips to maintain control over your betting habits:
Tips for Gambling Responsibly in Massachusetts
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Set a budget before you bet: Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Once you hit your limit, stop no matter what.
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Keep it light: Betting should be a way to enjoy the game, not a way to make rent. If the funâs gone, take a break.
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Donât chase your losses: Losing streaks happen. Trying to win it all back fast is how small losses turn into big ones, so avoid doing it at all costs.
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Walk away when needed: If sports betting feels more like a weight than a thrill, itâs okay to take time off, or stop altogether.
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Track your wagers: Use a notes app or a sheet of paper to log your bets. Youâll get a better sense of your habits, regardless of outcomes.
Utilizing Responsible Gaming Tools on MA Betting Sites
Every licensed sportsbook in Massachusetts must offer in-app tools that help you bet smarter and stay in control. Theyâre easy to use, donât cost anything, and theyâre there to help:
- Deposit limits: Set a cap on how much you can load into your account each day, week, or month.
- Bet limits: Stop yourself from wagering more than you planned, even in the heat of the moment.
- Session timers: Get reminders when youâve been logged in too long. Time flies when youâre chasing odds.
- Cool-off periods: Take a short break anywhere from a day to a few weeks, without closing your account.
- Self-exclusion: Lock yourself out of every legal sportsbook in Massachusetts for six months, one year, or longer.
Massachusetts Problem Gambling Resources & Helplines
If sports betting ever feels out of hand, or if someone close to you is struggling, help is close by, and itâs free of charge.
- Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline: Call or text 1-800-327-5050 anytime. Itâs private, free, and run by trained experts.
- Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health (MACGH): Offers local help, support groups, and player resources. Visit macgh.org.
- Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program: Offered by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. You can ban yourself from all online and in-person betting in the state with one form.
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER for support nationwide, 24/7.
Reaching for help is never a sign of weakness. The sooner you talk about the issue, the sooner you can get back on steady ground.
Massachusetts Sports Betting FAQs
When did online sports betting launch in Massachusetts?
Online sports betting launched in Massachusetts on March 10, 2023.
What is the legal age for sports betting in MA?
You must be 21 years or older to bet on sports in Massachusetts.
Can I bet on sports online anywhere in Massachusetts?
Yes, as long as you’re within state lines, you can bet online using any licensed sportsbook app.
What are the best MA sports betting apps?
Massachusetts has a strong group of legal, licensed sportsbook apps. Some of the most trusted names include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, theScore Bet, Fanatics, bet365, and Betr.
Do I have to live in Massachusetts to bet on sports there?
No. You donât need to live in the state â you only need to be physically located within Massachusetts when placing a bet.
Can I bet on Boston College or UMass?
In Massachusetts, you cannot bet on in-state college teams unless they are playing in a tournament like March Madness or a bowl season.
Who regulates sports betting in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC).
Are my sports betting winnings taxed in Massachusetts?
Yes. All sports betting winnings are considered taxable income, both by the IRS and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue.