Washington Online Sports Betting Guide 2024
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The Evergreen State provides some gambling opportunities with specific restrictions; online sports betting is legal in Washington but limited to tribal casinos.
In this guide, we’ll break down the current WA laws and particularities, share the latest updates, and explore the best platforms for making smart sports picks. You’ll also learn how to manage taxable winnings and more. Let’s dive into Washington’s sports betting scene!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Learn about the current situation of sports betting in Washington.
- Find out the top sports betting sites available to WA bettors.
Best Sports Betting Sites for Washington Bettors
Washington allows legal sports betting, but all betting activities—online or in-person—must occur on tribal lands. The state features over 15 casinos for in-person wagering. To guide your decision, we gathered the top five sports betting sites available for WA residents:
- Snoqualmie Casino
- Muckleshoot Casino
- Tulalip Resort Casino
- Angel of the Winds Casino Resort
- Emerald Queen Casino
Note: Only Snoqualmie Casino provides a sportsbook app for on-site mobile betting.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Washington?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Washington, but it’s limited to tribal casinos. Governor Jay Inslee signed HB 2638 into law in March 2020, and betting launched in September 2021. Currently, nearly 20 tribal casinos offer in-person wagering.
Here is an overview of Washington sports betting legalization:
- May 2018: Federal ban on sports betting lifted.
- March 2020: HB 2638 signed into law.
- September 2021: Sports betting launches at Snoqualmie Casino; FanDuel partners with Suquamish Clearwater Casino.
- December 2021: Snoqualmie introduces on-site mobile betting.
- January 2024: New bills aim to expand betting to racetracks and card rooms.
Other Gambling Options in Washington
While Washington’s gambling scene is tightly regulated, the following gambling options provide a mix of in-person and online opportunities for WA residents to explore:
| Type of Gambling | Current Situation | Legal Gambling Age |
|---|---|---|
| Retail Sports Betting | Available exclusively at tribal casinos. | 18 |
| Lottery | Operated by the Washington Lottery, offering draw games, scratch-offs, and more. | 18 |
| Land-Based Casino Gaming | Limited to tribal casinos offering games like poker, blackjack, slots, and roulette. | 18 |
| Horse Racing Betting | Legal at racetracks and off-track betting facilities. Online pari-mutuel wagering is available via apps. | 18 |
| Charitable Gaming | Bingo and raffles are allowed for licensed charitable organizations. | 18 |
10 Facts About Washington’s Sports Betting Laws
Here are ten essential things you should know about the Washington sports betting scene:
- Washington Law: Sports betting in Washington is regulated under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and House Bill 2638, allowing wagers exclusively within tribal casinos.
- Legal Age: You must be 18 or older to bet in Washington’s tribal casinos.
- Where You Can Bet: Sports betting is only allowed on tribal lands. Idaho prohibits sports betting, while Oregon allows online and retail wagering.
- Retail Sportsbooks: Many tribal casinos offer in-person sportsbooks. Some partner with brands like Caesars and FanDuel, while others, like Little Creek Casino, run independent operations.
- Tax Rules: Washington has no state gambling tax, but federal taxes apply to winnings over $600 at a rate of 24%.
- Online Betting: Online betting is limited to on-premises wagering at tribal casinos. Currently, only Snoqualmie Casino offers this option.
- College Betting: Betting on college sports is allowed, but wagering on in-state teams is prohibited.
- Betting Markets: Washington sportsbooks offer a wide range of bets, including moneyline, spreads, props, and futures.
- Sportsbook Partners: Casinos like Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort have partnered with FanDuel, while others offer proprietary sportsbooks.
- Responsible Gambling: The Washington State Gambling Commission ensures sportsbooks provide tools like self-exclusion programs and responsible gambling resources.
Washington Popular Sports and Teams
Washington boasts a proud sports culture, with iconic teams and athletes driving local pride. Here’s a breakdown of the top WA teams and sports you can place bets on:
Seattle Seahawks
Washington’s NFL team, the Seattle Seahawks, delivered an unforgettable moment by winning Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014. Regular playoff appearances keep fans engaged and bettors hopeful.
Seattle Kraken
The Seattle Kraken, Washington’s NHL expansion team, debuted in 2021-22 and made headlines by defeating the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Colorado Avalanche, in the 2023 playoffs.
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners may be the only MLB team never to appear in a World Series, but fans enjoy high-level baseball at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm dominate women’s basketball with four WNBA championships since 2004, continuing to bring success to the city after the departure of the NBA’s SuperSonics.
Seattle Sounders
The Seattle Sounders, a two-time MLS Cup champion, achieved international glory by winning the 2022 CONCACAF Champions Cup, cementing their status as Washington’s top soccer team.
College Sports
While betting on Washington’s college teams is prohibited, the Seattle Redhawks (three-time National Champions) and Eastern Washington Eagles remain fan favorites.
Famous Athletes from Washington
Washington is home to several sports legends, including:
- John Stockton: Nine-time NBA All-Star
- Ryne Sandberg: Ten-time MLB All-Star
- Nathan Adrian: Five-time Olympic swimming gold medalist
- Fred Couples: Former world number one golfer
- Drew Bledsoe: Super Bowl winner
With such a diverse lineup, Washington’s sports scene has something for every fan and bettor!
Reporting Winning Taxes at Washington
One benefit of sports betting in Washington is that no state-level taxes are imposed on your winnings. However, the IRS considers sports betting profits as taxable income, meaning federal taxes may apply.
Here’s when federal taxes are triggered:
- Winnings exceed $600 and are 300x times your wager.
- Net profits are $5,000 or more.
For more details on managing taxes on your sports betting winnings properly, refer to our linked guide.
Ready to Place Your Bets in Washington?
Now that you’re equipped with the latest on Washington’s sports betting scene, you’re ready to confidently dive into wagering in the Evergreen State. Head to your favorite tribal casino, explore the available sportsbooks, and apply the tips and strategies we’ve shared to make the most of your bets.
Want to elevate your betting game even further? Visit our Betting 101 section for expert advice and strategies to maximize your success.
References
- Washington Gambling Commission Sports Wagering Requirements — Retrieved Nov 25, 2024
- Washington State Legislature HB 2638 — Retrieved Nov 25, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, online sports betting is allowed in Washington but is limited to on-site mobile wagering at licensed tribal casinos.
You must be at least 18 years old to place sports bets at tribal casinos in Washington.
There are no state taxes on winnings, but federal taxes apply if you win over $600 or net $5,000 or more. All winnings must be reported to the IRS.
