Did you know that Indiana has one of the largest sports betting markets in the US? If you live in the Hoosier state and are curious about how to get in on the action, you’re in luck! Indiana offers various sports betting options, from online sportsbooks to physical sportsbooks.
On this page, we will guide you through the legal landscape of Indiana sports betting and the best sportsbooks in the jurisdiction. You will also learn tips and strategies to help you maximize your sports bets in the Hoosier State.
So let’s get cracking. When did sports betting become legal in Indiana?
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Find out about the best Indiana sportsbooks, the sports betting app sites, and the most advantageous promos.
- Discover all the latest news concerning legal sports betting in the state of Indiana.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Indiana?
Yes, Indiana is one of the US states where online betting is legal. The jurisdiction legalized sports betting on May 8, 2019, when Governor Eric Holcomb signed HB 105 into law.
Introduced by Senator Mark Messmer, HB 105 authorizes sports betting in Indiana at both physical facilities and on mobile devices. The proposal also establishes the Indiana Gaming Commission as the regulatory body responsible for overseeing and regulating sports betting in the state.
The bill gained bipartisan support, passing 59-36 in the House and 37-12 in the Senate before getting directed to the Governor for signing. Following the legislation of sports betting, the first retail sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook, was unveiled at Horseshoe Hammond Casino on September 4, 2019.
Online sports betting launched in the state on October 3, 2019, with DraftKings and BetRivers becoming the first operators to go live. Today, Indiana is home to over ten sports betting sites, including FanDuel, Caesars, BetMGM, and Fanatics. As long as you are 21 years or older and within Indiana state, you can wager at any of the available sportsbooks in the state.
10 Quick Facts About Indiana’s Sports Betting Laws
- Indiana Law: Indiana legalized sports betting on May 8, 2019, after Governor Eric Holcomb signed HB 105 into law.
- Legal Age: You must be at least 21 years old to place a sports bet in Indiana. When registering at any sportsbook in the state, you will be asked to provide a valid ID to verify your age.
- State Borders: You must be physically located within Indiana to bet in the Hoosier State. Operators use geolocation technology to ensure all bets are placed within the state’s borders.
- Retail Bookmakers: There are several retail sportsbooks located in casinos and off-track betting facilities across the state.
- Taxes: Indiana taxes the monthly gross gaming revenue of retail and online sportsbooks at 9.5%. The state also taxes gambling wins at 3.23%.
- Regulation: The Indiana Gaming Commission oversees and sets rules for the state’s sports betting market.
- Responsible Gambling: Indiana has responsible gaming measures in place, including self-exclusion programs and resources for problem gamblers.
- College betting: Indiana limits wagering on collegiate events to NCAA Division 1 sports. It also prohibits in-play or live collegiate player proposition wagers.
- Handle: Since its sports betting market emerged, almost $5 billion has been wagered in Indiana.
- Favorite Sport: The NFL is the most popular sports league in the state, with the Indianapolis Colts having the highest following and wagers.
How to Place a Bet Online in Indiana: A Beginner’s Guide
Wagering on sports online in Indiana is straightforward. My first experience placing online bets in the Hoosier state was when I embarked on a family trip to the Indianapolis 500. I wanted to make the experience more thrilling by wagering on the event’s outcome. With a few clicks, I was able to create an account, deposit funds, and place my bets from the comfort of my hotel room.
I have detailed the quick and easy online betting in Indiana process in the step-by-step guide below:
- Choose a Sportsbook: The first thing you need to do is select your preferred bookie. As I stated earlier, there are several licensed Indiana sports betting sites. Pick one and sign up. You will be asked to provide basic personal information and verify your account and location. In my case, I created an account with three sportsbooks: Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel.
- Deposit Funds: Head to your chosen site’s cashier page and fund your account using the secure deposit methods available. Some of the options you will find include Debit/Credit cards, PayPal, ACH, PayNearMe, and bank transfers. At this point, you can also claim a welcome bonus code if available. Enter the code into the required field while depositing to redeem.
- Place a Bet: Upon a successful deposit, the funds will be instantly credited to your account. Now, you can browse through the various sports and markets on the site and choose the event you wish to bet on. Select your desired bet type, like moneyline or point spread, and input your stake amount.
Personal Fact: My first stake was a prop bet on the 2022 Indy 500, where I wagered $25 on Alex Palou to be in the top three finish. The bet won, and I received a payout of $75.
Top Indiana Sports Betting Sites and Apps
After two years of testing Indiana’s sports betting sites, I’ve gained valuable insight into their features and offerings, from their sign-up process to withdrawal methods.
To help you find your next favorite IN sports betting platform, I have shared some reliable selections below. While each bookie has its strengths and weaknesses, here are the top three sports betting sites and mobile apps in Indiana.
Caesars
| Name of Sportsbook | Caesars |
| Recommended bet markets | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA Football |
| Welcome offer | $5000 bonus bets |
| Rating | 4.9/5 |
Caesars has several positive talking points that make it dear to the hearts of bettors in Indiana. First, it offers the highest welcome bonus in the state, a risk-free bet of up to $5,000.
To qualify, place a wager of at least $10 on an event with odds of -200 or higher within 30 days of you signing up. If the bet ends as a loss, Caesars will give you a bonus equal to the amount of your original wager.
Additionally, Caesars offers appealing features, including live betting and cash-out options. It supports many popular and secure payment methods like Play+, Visa, Mastercard, and ACH e-check.
BetMGM
| Name of Sportsbook | BetMGM |
| Recommended bet markets | Football, basketball, hockey, baseball, soccer |
| Welcome offer | $1500 bonus bets |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
BetMGM can be accessed through its website or by downloading the app on your Android or Apple device. The bookie offers a large and comprehensive sportsbook where you can wager on a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, hockey, and over 20 other events. You can also select from various markets, including multiple gambling options like parlays, if bets, and reverse.
As a new user, you can claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets on the platform. All you need to do is sign up, deposit at least $10, and place your first bet. If the wager loses, the sportsbook automatically credits you with the bonus cash.
DraftKings
| Name of Sportsbook | DraftKings |
| Recommended bet markets | American football, basketball, baseball, ice hockey, PGA tour |
| Welcome offer | 20% up to $1000 |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
DraftKings offers many betting options, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. It also comes with various markets, including point spread, money lines, over/under, prop bets and futures bets.
The app also provides unique features including a betting carousel, parlay boosts, and a cash-out option for each wager. The platform supports deposits and withdrawals in the Hoosier State using credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.
DraftKings welcomes new Indianan residents with a 20% deposit bonus of up to $1,000. To claim, deposit $5 or more and place a qualifying bet. If your bet loses, you will receive a bonus bet equal to your initial stake.
Popular Sports and Teams in Indiana Betting Scene
Indiana is known for its rich sports heritage. The state hosts two major professional sports franchises and several college sports teams. It also has a strong auto racing culture, with various high-profile events drawing millions of fans yearly.
| Sports | Team Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Football | Indianapolis Colts | Colts Nation, stand up! The NFL Colts have a strong fan base, with many fans attending their games, and wagering on them. |
| Basketball | Indiana Pacers | The NBA Pacers’ games are widely watched and attended. They are one of the most popular teams to bet on in Indiana. |
| Basketball | Indiana Fever | A pro WNBA franchise, the Fever team has local passionate fans and generate betting activity when they are playing well. |
| Soccer | USL Super League Indianapolis | Established in 2023, Illinois bettors and residents are expectant about the entertaining and wagering opportunities that the team will offer. |
| Baseball | Indianapolis Indians | Although participating in the Minor League, the Indians are highly popular amongst baseball lovers in the state. |
| College sports | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | The Irish represents the Univeristy of Notre Dame in all sports like football, and basketball in the collegiate level. |
| College sports | Indiana Hoosiers | Representing the Indiana Univeristy Bloomington, the men’s basketball team competes in the Big Ten Conference. |
| College sports | The Bulldogs participate in the Big East Conference and Pioneer Football League | Boilermakers has a strong reputation in both basketball and football |
| College sports | Butler Bulldogs | The Bulldogs participate in the Big East Confernce and Pioneer Football League |
| Auto Racing | Known as the Racing Capital of the World, Indiana hosts some of the most prestigious events in the nation, including the Indy 500, Backyard 400 and Grand Prix. | |
| Golf | Golf is another popular sport in Indiana with many courses throughout the state, including the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course in Indianapolis. |
The Impact of Local Teams on Sports Betting
A dynamic relationship exists between local teams and sports betting in Indiana. Since Indianans are passionate about their hometown clubs, this fan loyalty and enthusiasm often drive betting activity. Supporters are eager to back their team, especially when they’re playing on their home ground.
Furthermore, the success and popularity of teams like the Colts, Pacers, and Hoosiers significantly shape betting trends in the state.
When the Colts are on a winning streak, we see a surge in bets placed on them, especially among casual bettors.
John Smith, Local Sports Analyst
Fans want to make money from their teams by riding on the momentum of their winning streak. Other happenings and events in the Indiana teams can also influence the way bettors make wagering decisions.
Example: Matchups against rival teams like the Colts vs. the Patriots tend to generate more betting action.
When a key player is injured or suspended, or if a team acquires a new star player, bettors may adjust their wagering decisions based on the perceived impact on the team’s chances.
Even non-game-related events, such as changes in coaching staff, can influence bettors’ wagering habits.
Example: The betting lines favored the Colts after they fired Frank Reich in November 2022 and appointed Shane Steichen in February 2023.
Sportsbooks adjust their offerings to meet the demand, providing more attractive odds and promotions on local home teams. This, in turn, fuels more betting activity among Indiana residents.
Upcoming Events
Lots of sports action is going down in Indiana! As a bettor, you need to stay updated about the schedules to make informed betting decisions. Find online a list of upcoming events featuring your favorite Indianan teams, including the Colts, Pacers, Hoosiers, and more.
Are There More Gambling Options in Indiana?
Indiana offers several legal gambling options beyond sports betting:
- Horse Racing: Enjoy live horse races at Hoosier Park and Indiana Grand Racing & Casino.
- Sweepstakes and Social Casinos: While real money online gambling isn’t legal, you can play for fun and cash prizes at sweepstakes casinos like Luckyland Slots and Chumba.
- Lottery: Try your luck with lottery games like Powerball, Mega Millions, Hoosier Lotto, and Cash4Life.
These alternatives add to the vibrant sports betting industry that flourished after the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which previously restricted sports betting. Indiana online sportsbooks and daily fantasy sports also provide more ways to engage in legal gambling activities.
Maximizing Your Bets
To get the most out of your sports betting experience in Indiana, learn how to make smart decisions, manage your bankroll, and take advantage of bonuses with my proven tips and strategies below.
Tips and Strategies for Indiana Bettors
- Manage your Bankroll: Managing your bankroll is crucial for stress-free sports wagering. Set a budget for each day or session—only what you can afford to lose. Allocate specific amounts for each bet and avoid chasing losses. Stick to your budget, whether you’re winning or losing. I once went on a hot streak and got carried away, only to lose it all. Don’t make the same mistake.
- Shop for Lines: Indiana offers more than ten online sports betting sites, providing various odds and bonuses. Sign up at multiple sportsbooks to compare their odds and find the best value. Take advantage of welcome bonuses and promotions to maximize your potential returns.
- Hedge your Bets: Hedge your bets to minimize losses or lock in profits. Consider placing opposing bets, such as if bets, reverse, Yankee, and Against the Spread (ATS). For example, I placed an ATS bet on an underdog in a close match, and even though the team lost, I won the bet because they covered the spread.
Understanding Taxes and Payouts
As exciting as it is to cash in on your sports betting skills, it’s essential to understand the tax requirements of your winnings. In Indiana, both the federal and the state want a cut from your gambling wins.
The IRS taxes all gambling winnings, including sports betting earnings, and requires you to report them on your tax return, regardless of the amount. Even if it is just $10, you must include it in your tax filing. The tax you pay depends on the amount you earn from your overall gambling activities—however, the IRS taxes gambling winnings over $5,000 at 24%.
Indiana also taxes sports betting wins at 3.23%. The state considers winnings from sports betting taxable income, and thus mandates that you include them on your tax return.
Need more knowledge on this topic? Learn more about sports betting taxes on our dedicated page.
What About Physical Sports Betting Locations?
You can place bets on sports in person at a range of retail sports betting locations in Indiana. These establishments are situated within casinos and racetracks in the state. Let’s look at some popular venues; I’ll start with my top three land-based sports betting site choices.
- Horseshoe Hammond Casino: Located in Hammond, this casino offers a state-of-the-art sportsbook featuring a massive video wall, comfortable seating, and a variety of betting options.
- Indiana Grand Racing & Casino: This racetrack and casino in Shelbyville offers a sportsbook focused on horse racing and other sports.
- Caesars Southern, Indiana: This sportsbook in Elizabeth features comfortable seating, a luxurious atmosphere, and several betting markets.
- Ameristar Casino: Located in East Chicago, Ameristar Casino’s sportsbook has 23 betting kiosks and a giant video wall for viewing games.
- Blue Chip Casino: The FanDuel sportsbook in this location is open seven days a week. It has 22 large-screen televisions, two sports tickets, and five betting windows.
- Belterra Casino: FanDuel also partners with this casino. It is near the main entrance and has ten self-service wagering kiosks and 12 TV screens.
- Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing and Casino: Caesars Sportsbook at Harrah’s features dozens of seats, 10 flat-screen TV monitors, and a wide range of markets.
Other notable locations include: French Lick Resort Casino, Hollywood Casino in Lawrenceburg, Winner’s Circle Clarksville, and Rising Star Casino Resort.
So, Will You Bet From Indiana Tonight?
Indiana offers a lucrative sports betting market with plenty of opportunities. You can bet on sports in Indiana at retail locations or through mobile sportsbooks.
Sign up at an online sportsbook or an Indiana sports betting app to explore various markets. Take advantage of their odds and promotions to boost your cashouts. However, always have a budget and bet responsibly.
Are you curious about other states with similar sports betting opportunities? Check out this detailed guide to sports betting in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sportsbook in Indiana?
BetMGM Sportsbook is our top recommendation for beginners. The best Indiana sports betting sites also include DraftKings, and FanDuel. These platforms offer competitive betting odds, user-friendly interfaces, and attractive promotions to help Indiana sports bettors get started. Each site provides a wide range of sports and betting options.
When did mobile sports betting launch in Indiana?
Mobile sports betting launched in Indiana on October 3, 2019. This made it easier for Indiana sports bettors to place wagers from anywhere within the state. The launch in Indiana has since seen the introduction of several top-tier sportsbook mobile betting apps.
Are there any promo codes for online sportsbooks available in Indiana?
Yes, many online sportsbooks offer promo codes for new users in Indiana. To find the best sports betting promo code offers, you can further explore our website TrustnBet, or consult online forums.
How do I find the best betting odds on an Indiana sportsbook app?
To find the best betting odds on an Indiana sportsbook app, it’s wise to compare odds across multiple sportsbooks like BetMGM, Caesars, FanDuel, and DraftKings. By shopping around, you can ensure you get the best value for your bets.
Is Fanatics Sportsbook live in Indiana?
Yes, Fanatics Sportsbook is live in Indiana and offers a robust platform for both new and experienced bettors. They provide competitive betting odds, various sports and sporting event occasions to bet on.