Current Legal Status and History
Delaware holds a unique place in the history of sports betting in the United States. The state was one of the few that had a form of sports wagering, specifically NFL parlays, grandfathered in under the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. This positioned Delaware to move quickly after the Supreme Court struck down PASPA in 2018. On June 5, 2018, Delaware became the first state outside of Nevada to offer single-game sports betting, beating even New Jersey to the punch.
Retail sports betting has been available at the state's three casinos since 2018. However, it took several more years for online sports betting to become a reality. In January 2024, Delaware finally launched online sports betting, with BetRivers as the sole operator. The Delaware Lottery Office oversees all sports betting activities in the state, ensuring a safe and regulated environment for bettors.
Available Sportsbooks and Their Features
As of early 2026, the sports betting landscape in Delaware is unique. While retail options are available, the online market is a single-operator system.
Online Sportsbook
- BetRivers: The exclusive online and mobile sports betting provider in Delaware. BetRivers offers a comprehensive sportsbook with a wide range of betting markets, competitive odds, and a user-friendly app. New users can often take advantage of a welcome bonus, such as a second-chance bet. The platform is known for its iRush Rewards program, which offers loyal players various perks.
Retail Sportsbooks
For those who prefer to place their bets in person, Delaware has three retail locations:
- Delaware Park Casino: Located in Wilmington, this casino offers a full-service sportsbook.
- Bally's Dover Casino Resort: Situated in the state's capital, this location provides a comprehensive race and sportsbook.
- Harrington Raceway & Casino: This venue in Harrington features Murphy's Race/Sportsbook & Grill for in-person wagering.
While the online market is currently limited to a single operator, there is pending legislation (House Bill 365) that could open the door for more online sportsbooks to enter the Delaware market in the future.
Types of Bets Available
Delaware sports bettors have access to a wide variety of wager types, both online and at retail locations. Understanding the different types of bets is crucial for a successful betting experience. Here are some of the most common types of bets available:
- Moneyline: The simplest form of sports betting, where you are simply picking the winner of a game or event.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. The favorite is given a handicap, and the underdog is given a head start. To win a bet on the favorite, they must win by more than the point spread. To win a bet on the underdog, they must either win the game outright or lose by less than the point spread.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total number of points scored in a game by both teams combined. You can bet on whether the final score will be over or under the total set by the sportsbook.
- Parlays: A single bet that links together two or more individual wagers. For the parlay to win, all of the individual wagers must win. Parlays offer higher payouts than single bets, but they are also riskier.
- Prop Bets (Proposition Bets): Bets on specific events within a game that do not necessarily affect the final outcome. Examples include betting on which player will score the first touchdown or how many strikeouts a pitcher will have.
- Futures: A long-term bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl or the World Series.
- Live/In-Play Betting: Betting on a game or event while it is in progress. The odds and lines are updated in real-time based on the action in the game.
Tax Implications for Winnings
It is important for sports bettors in Delaware to understand the tax implications of their winnings. All gambling winnings are considered taxable income by both the federal government and the state of Delaware.
- Federal Taxes: For any winnings of $5,000 or more, the sportsbook is required to withhold 24% for federal taxes. You will receive a Form W-2G from the sportsbook, which you must report on your federal income tax return.
- State Taxes: Delaware has a tiered state income tax system. The tax rate on your winnings will depend on your total income. The rates range from 2.2% to 6.6%. It is important to keep accurate records of your wins and losses to ensure you are paying the correct amount of taxes.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options
Delaware offers both mobile and retail betting options, each with its own advantages.
- Mobile Betting: The primary advantage of mobile betting is convenience. You can place bets from anywhere in the state using your smartphone or computer. BetRivers, the state's sole online operator, provides a seamless and user-friendly mobile app. Mobile betting also allows for live, in-play wagering, which is a popular feature for many bettors.
- Retail Betting: Retail sportsbooks offer a more traditional and social betting experience. You can watch the games on big screens, interact with other bettors, and get assistance from knowledgeable staff. The three retail locations in Delaware are all located at casinos, which offer a variety of other entertainment and dining options.
Tips for Bettors in This State
- Take Advantage of Promotions: With only one online sportsbook, it is important to take full advantage of the promotions and bonuses offered by BetRivers. This can help you build your bankroll and increase your chances of winning.
- Shop for the Best Lines: Even with only one online option, it is still a good idea to compare the lines at BetRivers with those at the retail sportsbooks. The odds can sometimes vary, and finding the best line can make a big difference in your long-term profitability.
- Manage Your Bankroll: It is crucial to set a budget for your sports betting activities and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Do Your Research: Before placing any bets, it is important to do your research on the teams and players involved. Look at recent performance, injuries, and other factors that could affect the outcome of the game.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Delaware is committed to responsible gaming and provides a number of resources for those who may be struggling with a gambling problem.
- Delaware Council on Gambling Problems: This organization provides confidential help and support to individuals and families affected by problem gambling. You can reach them at 888-850-8888.
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: This is a national resource that provides support and referrals for problem gambling. You can reach them at 1-800-GAMBLER.
BetRivers and the retail sportsbooks in Delaware also offer a variety of responsible gaming tools, such as the ability to set limits on your deposits and wagers, and the option to self-exclude from gambling activities.