Only a few areas of the United States were able to offer sports betting prior to 2018. From 1992 until 2018, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection outlawed sports betting in the United States.
This legislation was passed in 1992 by the US Congress in an effort to protect athletes all over the country.
As the nation moved into the 21st century, bettors began turning to offshore sportsbooks in massive numbers. State economies were losing money because of PASPA and advocates were pushing for a change.
This change came in 2018 when PASPA was deemed unconstitutional in a 6-3 decision by the Supreme Court.
Indiana was a proponent of sports betting leading up to the 2018 decision. In 2016, Governor Mike Pence legalized Daily Sports Fantasy. The bill that Pence signed into law characterized DFS as a game of skill.
Indiana was the second state to make this ruling. Indiana’s DFS ruling was the first step for the Hoosier State in enacting sports betting legislation once PASPA was removed.
Indiana began drafting a sports betting bill prior to the PASPA decision. There were a few key issues surrounding sports betting that were debated in the Indiana legislature, but the legislative process was relatively smooth.
On May 8, 2019, Governor Eric Holcomb signed Indiana’s sports betting bill into law. It legalized widespread mobile betting and retail sportsbooks throughout the state.
The Indiana Gaming Commission was given the power to oversee sports betting in the state. Retail and mobile betting launched in September and October of 2019 respectively.
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Start Your Indiana Sports Betting Here
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[section label=”Steps to Start Betting”]
Steps to Start Legal Indiana Sports Betting
Because Indiana has legalized online and retail sports betting, it’s very easy to start the wagering process. To begin betting in IN, you must be 21 years of age and within the state’s legal limits. If you fit these criteria, you can register for a sports betting account.
In Indiana, you have the ability to register online or in person. Most bettors choose to register for an account through one of the state’s mobile books. To register on a mobile book, download the provider’s app or visit their website.
After this, go to the registration page and you will be asked to fill out some required information to make sure you’re legally allowed to bet in Indiana. Once your account is created, make a deposit and you’ll be ready to fill out your first betting slip.
- Decide if you would like to register on one of the state’s mobile sportsbooks or in person at a retail betting location.
- Pick your desired sportsbook. You can register for multiple accounts.
- Enter the required information for account creation. This is to assure that you’re legally allowed to bet in Indiana.
- Make your first deposit and you’ll be ready to start betting.
[section label=”Mobile Betting Apps”]
Mobile Betting Apps in Indiana
Indiana has ten mobile books that are currently operating in the state. Three more have been approved to enter the state including FOX Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, and SBK Sportsbook. Indiana has become one of the most desired American states for sports betting operators around the world.
[section label=”DraftKings Indiana”]
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook launched in Indiana on October 3, 2019. Since this date, DraftKings has been a frontrunner in the Indiana sports betting market. DraftKings offers bonuses that other books simply can’t match. DraftKings will match your first deposit up to $1,000. In addition to this tremendous promotion, the company provides multiple freebies throughout the year to keep you betting on the site. DraftKings Sportsbook leads the industry in nearly every category. You will never have a bad sports betting experience using this platform.
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel was popular in Indiana prior to the legalization of sports betting. FanDuel was one of the leading DFS providers in the state when Mike Pence legalized the game of skill in 2016. FanDuel doesn’t offer a superior bonus. The company gives you a risk free bet up to $1,000. If you lose, you’ll receive your risk back in the form of free bets. FanDuel is the best book on the market when it comes to website design and app layout. It’s easy to navigate the book’s extensive markets.
BetRivers
BetRivers launched on October 3, 2019 in the Hoosier State. This platform offers a 100% match on your first deposit up to $250. This isn’t as large as DraftKings, but the bonus is still very competitive compared to other sports betting providers in the state. BetRivers offers some decent odds and a lot of betting markets. BetRivers shouldn’t be your first choice, but it’s a great book to add to your rotation for line shopping.
BetAmerica
BetAmerica is the best book for horse racing in Indiana. The company has invested a lot of money into horse racing to separate their platform from other legal sportsbooks. BetAmerica offers a 100% matched bonus up to $100. You’re able to watch horse racing in real time which adds to the betting excitement. BetAmerica doesn’t neglect sports, but there are better books to wager traditional competitions in Indiana.
BetMGM
BetMGM is starting to become a household name in the sports betting industry. MGM is doing this through bonuses. BetMGM’s welcome bonus provides players with a 100% deposit match up to $500. This ranks the company in second place behind DraftKings for best bonus in the state. BetMGM has an extensive market for traditional sports like football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. The sportsbook is constantly growing so continuous improvements are always occurring on BetMGM.
PointsBet
PointsBet matches initial deposits up to $250. The book launched in Indiana on March 6, 2020. The late start didn’t affect the book’s ability to gain traction in the state. The reason to bet on this sportsbook is because of its points betting feature. Points betting is a unique form of sports betting where you can win a lot of money if your predictions are accurate. You can also lose a lot of money as well so keep this in mind. PointsBet is a solid book when it comes to traditional bets as well.
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook knows how to treat the bettors appropriately. Caesars is a major name in the gambling market, so the company’s mobile sportsbook doesn’t disappoint in any capacity. Just for signing up, you’ll receive a $10 free bet. In addition to this, Caesars will match your initial deposit up to $300. This two-part welcome bonus will set you up for success on the platform. Caesars doesn’t go too far outside the box for its betting markets. The company focuses on major professional sports.
Unibet Sportsbook
Like Caesars Sportsbook, Unibet offers a two-part welcome bonus as well. Unibet gives players $20 in free bets for signing up to play on the book. The company will also make your first bet risk free up to $250. I don’t love risk free bets because if you win, you don’t receive any bonus.
However, it’s nice to see Unibet also give $20 in free play credit. It’s not a large amount, but it’s better than nothing. My favorite part about Unibet is the weekly promotions that are offered on the sportsbook. Weekly parlay boosts and sports specific themed bonuses create a lot of excitement on Unibet.
theScore Bet
theScore Bet is still developing. The company has a long way to go before making a splash in the sports betting market. theScore is known for advanced sports analytics, but the company went away from this on their sportsbook. theScore doesn’t offer many betting markets. However, odds are exceptional on theScore Bet so it’s a good place to steal some easy wins.
William Hill Sportsbook
William Hill is one of the most well-respected names in the sports betting industry. William Hill does the little things right. The book offers massive markets, great odds, and an easy-to-use interface. William Hill is based out of the United Kingdom, so the company offers countless European sports markets.
Soccer is a staple of the William Hill Sportsbook. My only issue with William Hill is that the company doesn’t provide a lot of promotions. They have a standard sign-up bonus. This is disappointing because I’d expect a company like William Hill to go above and beyond in this category.
[section label=”Physical Locations”]
Physical Locations to Bet on Sports in Indiana
Indiana is an excellent retail sports betting state. Commercial and tribal casinos throughout IN host 15 different landlocked sportsbooks. This gives bettors in the state a lot of options if they’re looking to wager in person.
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Ameristar Casino Resort
Ameristar Casino is the home of one of two Barstool Sportsbooks in IN. Barstool Sportsbook offers a grand betting experience. The sportsbook has 23 betting kiosks, a giant television wall, and a full-service kitchen and bar. Barstool also has weekly promotions that are only available inside the retail sports book. It’s worth the trip to Ameristar to bet at this retail location.
Belterra Casino Resort
Belterra Casino partnered with FanDuel for their retail sportsbook. The benefit of playing at Belterra is that you have access to FanDuel’s extensive markets and tremendous odds. The FanDuel sportsbook offers four self-service betting kiosks, 12 television screens, and a large video wall with a sports ticker.
Blue Chip Casino
Blue chip casino also partnered with FanDuel to create their retail sports betting experience. The FanDuel sportsbook at Blue Chip is similar to the book at Belterra. Blue Chip’s retail sportsbook has five betting windows, 22 television screens, and two sports tickers.
French Lick Casino
French Lick Casino has a solid retail sportsbook. The company partnered with Rush Street Interactive. The property has everything you’d expect in a retail sportsbook. There is plenty of seating, a bar, and multiple television screens to watch all the action.
Harrah’s Hoosier Park
Harrah’s Sportsbook is run by Caesars. The book offers a great television wall, premium seating, and advanced betting technology. There isn’t any food or drink options directly in the sportsbook. A short walk will be required to access these amenities. Additionally, the casino’s horse track is located next to the sportsbook for convenience.
Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg
Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg’s sportsbook is branded by Barstool Sports. Barstool Sportsbook at the Hollywood Casino is larger than the property at Ameristar. This sportsbook has 25 betting kiosks, 20 HDTVs, and countless food and drink specials. You won’t find a better sportsbook to watch the Colts on Sunday than at the Hollywood Casino.
Horseshoe Hammond Casino
Horseshoe Hammond’s Sportsbook is operated by William Hill. The 5,300 square foot sportsbook is located on the main floor of the casino. Horseshoe offers a high-resolution video wall, over a dozen 85-inch LED TVs, ten betting counters, deluxe lounges, and premium seating.
Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel & Casino
William Hill runs the sportsbook at Caesars Southern Indiana. There is never a dull moment at this sportsbook. There are multiple television walls inside the book. The sportsbook has VIP lounges that can be booked for events. These are very popular amongst sportsbook visitors.
Indiana Grand Racing & Casino
Caesars Sportsbook is in charge of retail betting at Indiana Grand Racing and Casino. The retail book is inside the casino’s sports bar. You’ll be able to grab some amazing foods and drinks while testing your luck on a variety of sports. The sportsbook has a large television wall, high top seating, and a sports ticker.
Majestic Star Casino
USA Sports Gaming runs Majestic Star’s retail sportsbook. This is a simple sportsbook that focuses on Indiana sports. If you want to bet hometown teams, this is a great retail location. The book has a television wall and nice seating, but there are better landlocked betting options available.
Rising Star Casino Resort
BetAmerica creates the odds for Rising Star Casino. This sportsbook isn’t the most luxurious book. Although, unique bonuses are available when you play in person at Rising Star. This is the main reason to take a trip to this book. On your first visit, you’ll receive a $25 free bet that can be used online or in person.
Tropicana Evansville Casino
William Hill Sportsbook at Tropicana is very nice. There are 65-inch monitors all around the sportsbook, a 16’ x 9’ video wall, and 12 different odds boards in the room. You have the ability to play video poker at the sportsbook bar and order food from their kitchen.
Winner’s Circle Clarksville
Winner’s Circle emphasizes horse racing at its sportsbook. They have a full-service bar, grab and go food options, and personal sports monitors. Sports betting is second at Winner’s Circle, but it’s still a great place to bet thanks to Caesars Sports.
Winner’s Circle Indianapolis
Winner’s Circle is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Caesars is in charge of the betting experience at this location. Sports betting is very popular here because of the location, but horse race betting is still valued. The pub at Winner’s Circle Indianapolis is outstanding. This location is a step up from Clarksville.
Winner’s Circle New Haven/Fort Wayne
Winner’s Circle New Haven/Fort Wayne has multiple kiosks with odds from Caesars. The lounge has flat screen televisions that make you feel like you’re at the event. Horse racing is a focus in New Haven/Fort Wayne, but all Winner’s Circles locations are becoming premier spots for traditional sports betting. The personalized monitors separate all the Winner’s Circle locations from other sportsbooks in the state.
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Future Indiana Sports Betting Venues & Locations
The Indiana sports betting market ranks high amongst other states where the form of gambling is legalized. Indiana’s mobile and retail sports betting options are widespread, so it doesn’t look like much change is coming soon to the state’s sports betting legislation. Retail books are allowed at casinos, horse tracks, and off-track betting facilities. With universal mobile betting, there is no reason for restaurants and bars to offer sports betting. In the future, retail sportsbooks could open inside professional sports stadiums in the state.
– Lucas Oil Stadium
– Bankers Life Fieldhouse
– Victory Field
[section label=”Regulation & Laws”]
Indiana Sports Betting Regulation & Laws
Indiana became the tenth state to legalize sports betting. Sports betting support never dwindled in the Indiana legislature. The state legalized DFS in 2016 so it was no surprise that the government was swift to bring sports betting to the state once the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act was overturned.
There was only one sports betting bill that was proposed in Indiana. This bill, H1015, was introduced to the House of Representatives in January of 2018. The bill was created prior to PASPA because officials all over the country knew that the law would be overturned at some point. The Indiana Senate saw the bill for the first time in February of 2018.
The House and the Senate made amendments to the bill, but the legalization process was very calm. The only disagreement was over mobile sports betting. Mobile betting was on the original draft, but it was then removed. Nevertheless, the final sports betting bill included mobile betting.
In April of 2019, the final vote occurred for the bill. It passed in the Senate and House with ease. Once this happened, the bill made its way to the desk of Governor Holcomb. Governor Holcomb didn’t hesitate to sign the bill into play.
The Indiana Gaming Commission was given the duties of being the regulatory body over the state’s legalized sports betting. Retail and mobile gambling were legalized under the bill. There is no Esports betting allowed and you must be 21 to wager in Indiana.
What are the Tax Rates for the Retail and Online Sports Betting Operators in IN?
The state charges a 9.5% tax on gross adjusted revenue for both retail and mobile sportsbooks. This is low compared to other states where sports betting is legal.
To be granted a license, a provider must pay $100,000 following approval to enter the state. There is a $50,000 annual renewal fee as well. H1015 calls for a portion of the betting tax revenue to be dedicated to problem gambling.
Legal Indiana Sports Betting Timeline
– H1015, the Indiana sports betting bill was proposed in January of 2018.
– The Senate got to read the bill in February of 2018.
– PASPA was struck down in May of 2018 which opened the door for legal sports betting.
– The final vote in both chambers took place in April of 2019.
– Governor Holcomb signed the bill into effect on May 8, 2019.
– Sports betting launched in Indiana on September 1, 2019.
List of Sports Wagers Allowed in Indiana
- Moneyline: Choosing the exact winner.
- Point spread: A team’s margin of victory or defeat.
- Totals: The number of points scored in a contest.
- Props: Side wagers on things that could possibly occur.
- Live betting: Real time wagers. Live odds are always changing.
- Futures: A bet on a future outcome.
- Parlays: Wagers that are grouped together. All legs must hit for a successful bet.
- Teasers: Spread or total bets where the bettor can put the odds in their favor.
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Indiana Sports Betting Bonuses & Bonus Codes
Indiana has a lot of books that operate in the state. Indiana online betting dominates in the area of bonuses. The top ranked books in American operate in the Hoosier State. This means that there are always great bonuses for players looking to test their luck on sports. The signature Indiana sports wagering bonuses occur right when players sign up for an account. Different books offer deposit matches, risk free bets, or free play credits.
The best books in Indiana sports betting offer deposit matches. This should be what you’re looking for when selecting a sportsbook. Most books automatically award you with your welcome bonus just by registering for an account. If this isn’t the case, you will just need to put a bonus code into a section of your betting slip to receive your betting bonus.
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Indiana Promos, Promo Codes and Promotions
Indiana sports betting has recurring promotions for sports betting. Promotions vary by sports betting operator. Some books offer deals when betting on local teams like the Colts or Pacers. Other books offer weekly promotions that are always available.
Nearly all of the sportsbooks in Indiana reward players during big sporting events. If it’s playoff time, betting in Indiana will be filled with promotional opportunities. These promotions give you a great chance to receive a huge payout.
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[section label=”Best Cities”]
Best IN Sports Betting Cities
All of the major professional sports teams in Indiana compete in Indianapolis, but the state has some other major betting cities. With 15 retail sportsbooks in the state, there is a lot of places for people to test their luck on sports.
Indianapolis
Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana. The city is the home of the Colts, Pacers, and Fever. These are the three major professional sports teams in the state. Most people in the state support these franchises no matter where they live. The best place to bet in Indianapolis is the Winner’s Circle. This is a premium off track betting location located directly in downtown Indianapolis. This is a popular hangout spot every weekend for residents of the city.
Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne is in the upper right corner of Indiana. It’s the second largest city in Indiana. Residents of the city usually wager at the Winner’s Circle for retail betting. However, mobile betting is abundant in this city. A lot of bettors choose to play from their mobile device.
Evansville
The Tropicana Casino in Evansville is one of the state’s premier retail betting locations. Evansville sits right on the Kentucky border, but locals still support Indianapolis franchises in droves. Evansville is three hours outside of the capital. The William Hill Sportsbook in Evansville is a frequent stop for people in the southwest corner of the state.
[section label=”Teams to Bet”]
IN Teams to Bet On
There are three professional sports teams to bet on in the state of IN across three different leagues. State law also allows you to bet on Indiana colleges.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts play in the AFC South Division of the NFL. The Colts moved to Indianapolis from Baltimore in 1984. The team’s home in the fall is Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts have won two Super Bowls in franchise history. However, the team is always very competitive in the NFL.
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers play in the NBA’s Eastern Conference Central Division. The Pacers home floor is inside Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The franchise has never won an NBA Championship, but they did win the Eastern Conference in 2000.
Indiana Fever
The Indiana Fever share Bankers Life Fieldhouse with the Pacers. The Fever play in the Eastern Conference of the WNBA. The team has had a lot of success since they were founded in 2000. The Fever have won three conference titles and one WNBA Championship.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame’s football and basketball programs are the teams that most Irish fans wager. Notre Dame competes in the ACC Conference. Notre Dame’s rival is the University of Michigan.
Indiana Hoosiers
The Indiana Hoosiers compete in the Big Ten Conference. The team’s basketball and football programs are both popular in Indiana.
Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue also competes in the Big Ten Conference. The Hoosiers are one of their biggest rivals. Purdue has had a successful basketball and football program, but the teams fluctuate every year.
[section label=”IN Sports Betting Revenue Numbers”]
Indiana Sports Betting Revenue Numbers
Indiana sports betting launched in September of 2019. The market was growing at a rapid rate before the COVID pandemic shocked the nation. In February of 2020, the handle hit a record high of $187,186,221. After February, the handle dropped substantially to a low of $26,304,128 in April of 2020. Following April, the handle began to rise once again. In November, the state experienced a record handle of $250.9 million.
– May 2020: $37.3 million
– June 2020: $29.7 million
– July 2020: $70.8 million
– August 2020: $169 million
– September 2020: $207.4 million
– October 2020: $230.9 million
– November 2020: $250.9 million
Quick Glance at Indiana Gambling & Industries
Sports betting is one of many gambling options that Indiana provides to bettors in the state. Sports betting has emerged quickly in IN, but Indiana has a strong gambling foundation.
[section label=”Indiana Horse Racing”]
Indiana Horse Racing Status
Indiana has a strong horse racing market. People in the state love to bet on horse racing. There are two major horse racing tracks in Indiana. One is located in Anderson and the other is in Shelbyville. These races are streamed all over the state. Bettors can wager at tracks or in select off track betting locations.
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DFS / Daily Fantasy Sports in Indiana
DFS is legal in IN. Indiana was the second state to legalize DFS in the United States. Governor Mike Pence legalized DFS in 2016. IN classified DFS as a game of skill in their respective territory. This was a groundbreaking law which helped shape other DFS decisions throughout the nation.
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IN Online Casino Play
There is no online casino gaming allowed in Indiana. This is surprising because of the implementation of sports betting. However, the Indiana legislature is strongly opposed to online casino play.
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Indiana Online Lottery
The Indiana online lottery is legal. You have the ability to make an account on the website, so you never miss a contest or drawing. The Indiana lottery has a premium online feature where you can receive personalized jackpot alerts and other extras from the state.
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Indiana Poker Rules
It’s illegal to play online poker in IN. Poker is allowed at card rooms throughout the state in tribal and commercial casinos. Poker is very popular inside landlocked casinos all over IN.
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Indiana Esports Scene
IN doesn’t have a large Esports scene. It’s illegal to bet on Esports in the state so bettors don’t focus on this type of gaming. The illegality of Esports was evident during the COVID pandemic. The state’s betting handle collapsed because of the lack of wagering options without numerous professional sports leagues.
[section label=”Betting Affiliates”]
How to Become a Sports Betting Affiliate in Indiana
To become a sports betting affiliate in IN, you must fill out an application from the Indiana Gaming Commission. A mobile operator doesn’t need to partner with a landlocked book to operate in the state. It costs $100,000 to receive a license following approval. There is a $50,000 annual fee and a 9.5% tax on gross adjusted revenue for all betting affiliate in IN.
[section label=”FAQ”]
FAQ for Indiana Sports Betting
1. Is it legal to bet on sports in Indiana?
Yes, it’s legal to bet on sports in Indiana.
2. Does Indiana offer mobile sports betting or retail only?
IN offers retail and mobile sports betting.
3. Can I sign up to bet on sports in IN remotely or do I have to physically visit the retail sportsbook location?
In IN, you have the ability to sign up for a sports betting account remotely and in person. This is all based on personal preference.
4. Who regulates Indiana sports betting?
The Indiana Gaming Commission regulate sports betting in the state.
5. When was Indiana sports betting legalized?
Indiana sports betting was legalized on May 8, 2019.
6. Who placed the first bet in the state of Indiana?
The first bet in the state of IN was placed on September 1, 2019 by Governor Holcomb.
7. Can you bet on “in state” college games in Indiana?
Yes, you can bet on “in state” college games in IN. However, no prop bets or live wagers are allowed on college contests.
8. Are wagers for all professional sports leagues and teams accepted in IN?
Yes, all professional sports wagers are accepted in Indiana.