Ohio Online Sports Betting Guide 2024
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Did you know? Online sports betting is legal in Ohio as of January 1, 2023. Whether you’re chasing top bonuses or the best betting apps, the state is now open for sports wagering! In this guide, we’ll bring you the latest updates on Ohio’s sports betting laws, uncover the top platforms to make your picks, and even walk you through how to manage taxable winnings.
Ready to explore everything the Buckeye State has to offer for sports bettors? Let’s dive in!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Find out what the best online sportsbooks are for OH bettors.
- Learn about Ohio’s latest online gambling updates.
Top 3 Ohio Sports Betting Sites
As of now, Ohio has legalized 15 online sportsbooks, leaving Ohioans with plenty of options to place sports bets. To guide your OH bookmaker’s choice, here are our top three legal sportsbook sites available in Ohio:
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Ohio. House Bill 29, passed in 2021, paved the way for its official launch in January 2023, making Ohio one of the top US states for legal sports wagering. Bettors can now place wagers online, at retail locations, or even through kiosks at liquor establishments, as regulated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC).
While sports betting is thriving, Ohio remains cautious about online casino gambling. Casino games are limited to select locations, and online slots and table games for profit are still prohibited.
Here is a brief timeline of legalization:
- December 2021: House Bill 29 passes, legalizing sports betting.
- March 2022: The bill is officially enacted.
- January 2023: Online and retail sports betting launches statewide.
Ohio’s sports betting laws include restrictions like age limits, which we detail further below.
Other Gambling Options in Ohio
Ohio offers several gambling opportunities beyond sports betting. Here’s an overview of what’s available:
| Type of Gambling | Current Situation | Legal Gambling Age |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Sports Betting | Popular venues like JACK Thistledown Racino, MGM Northfield Park, and Belterra Park offer sports betting alongside racing, dining, and live entertainment. | 21 |
| Ohio Lottery | Managed by the Ohio Lottery Commission, games are accessible through providers like DraftKings and FanDuel. | 18 |
| Land Casino Gaming | Casino games like poker, blackjack, roulette, and slots are available at regulated locations in Toledo, Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. | 21 |
| Sweepstakes Casinos | Online casinos for real money are banned, but sweepstakes and social casinos allow players to win prizes without deposits. | 18 |
10 Quick Facts About Ohio’s Sports Betting Laws
Here’s what you need to know about sports betting in Ohio:
- Ohio Laws: Ohio’s sports betting rules are detailed under Chapter 3775 of the state’s revised code, titled “Sports Gaming.”
- Legal Age: You must be 21 or older to place bets in Ohio, whether online, at kiosks, or retail locations.
- Neighboring States: Ohio borders five states where sports betting is also legal: Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
- Retail Sportsbooks: Numerous retail bookmakers now operate in Ohio following legalization.
- Taxes: Gambling winnings in Ohio are taxed at 20%, increased from 10% in mid-2023.
- Online Sportsbooks: Popular platforms in Ohio include BetMGM, Bet365, Caesars, Fanatics, and BetRivers.
- Casino Games: Online casino gambling remains illegal, except via sweepstakes or social casino sites.
- Horse Racing: Parimutuel betting on horse races has been legal since 2000, with participation allowed from age 18.
- Fantasy Sports: Daily fantasy sports have been legal in Ohio since 2017 for players aged 18 and up.
- Record-Breaking Year: Ohioans wagered over $7.6 billion on sports in 2023, ranking the state fifth nationwide for sports betting.
Popular Sports and Teams in Ohio
Ohio stands out for its rich sports scene, making it a top spot for both sports betting and fandom. Here is an overview of the sports and OH teams you can bet on:
Baseball
Ohio’s MLB teams, the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians, boast rich histories. While neither has won a 21st-century World Series, their legacies date back to the 19th century, making them staples for loyal fans.
Football
In the NFL, the Cleveland Browns have claimed eight championships, while the Cincinnati Bengals have made three Super Bowl appearances. Both teams have produced iconic players, including Ken Anderson for the Bengals and Ozzie Newsome for the Browns.
Basketball
The Cleveland Cavaliers brought Ohio basketball glory in 2016 with their first NBA championship. Legends like Larry Nance and Nate Thurmond have left an enduring mark, with their jersey numbers retired.
Hockey
Ohio’s NHL pride lies with the Columbus Blue Jackets, playing at Nationwide Arena since 2000. While they haven’t secured a title yet, their passionate fan base holds out hope for a breakthrough.
The Impact of Local Teams on Sports Betting
Ohio’s first year of legal sports betting was a major success, with $7.6 billion in wagers placed and $6 billion in revenue generated in 2023, mostly from online bets (97%).
Sports experts, like Steve Bittenbender, highlight that Ohio’s passionate fan base is fueling this surge. Professional teams, along with college and semi-pro sports, have clearly driven interest, contributing to $780 million in taxable revenue last year. Legalization is proving to be a win for the state and its bettors.
Reporting Winning Taxes at Ohio
Do you have to claim sports betting on taxes in Ohio? Yes, and with the state tax rate now at 20%, it’s essential to stay informed. If you win more than $600, sportsbooks will provide a W2-G form to declare your winnings to the IRS. However:
- Winnings below $600 must still be reported.
- For prizes over $5,000, bookmakers will withhold 24% for federal taxes.
This means you’ll pay taxes twice: at the state and federal levels. Keep track of all winnings and losses and report them on both Ohio and federal tax forms. Consider consulting a tax advisor to simplify the process.
While future changes to Ohio’s sports betting taxes are uncertain, one thing is clear—keeping accurate records is key! To make sure you understand how sports betting taxes work properly, visit our linked page.
So, Will You Bet from Ohio Tonight?
Now that you’re up to speed on Ohio’s betting laws, sportsbooks, and top betting locations, it’s your turn to dive into the action. Explore the markets and odds that align with your favorite sports and teams.
Need help getting started? Check out the online sportsbooks and apps we recommend, or take a trip to Ohio’s exciting retail betting spots.
Want to boost your sports betting experience in the state? Explore the best Ohio sportsbook bonuses.
References
- Ohio Sports Betting Revenues — Retrieved on November 25, 2024
- OH Chapter 3775 Sports Gaming — Retrieved on November 25, 2024
- HB29 Ohio Sports Betting Bill — Retrieved on November 25, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, mobile sports betting is permitted in Ohio. You can wager online using sportsbook apps as long as you are physically within the state’s borders.
Ohio law requires bettors to be 21 years old or older to legally participate in sports betting.
Sports betting was officially legalized in Ohio in December 2021 with the passing of House Bill 29. The first legal bets were placed in January 2023, marking the full rollout of sports wagering in the state.
