The Sunshine State Gets in the Game: Florida's Sports Betting Landscape
After a whirlwind of legal and legislative action, sports betting is officially legal and operational in Florida. The journey to legalization was complex, but as of early 2026, Floridians and visitors can legally place wagers on their favorite sports. However, the market is unique compared to other states, with the Seminole Tribe of Florida holding exclusive rights. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about sports betting in the Sunshine State.
A Tumultuous Legal History
The path to legal sports betting in Florida was anything but straightforward. The key event was the signing of a new gaming compact between Governor Ron DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe in April 2021. This agreement granted the tribe a virtual monopoly on sports betting in the state. The legislature approved the compact in May 2021, and the federal government allowed it to pass into law that August.
However, legal challenges emerged almost immediately, arguing that the compact violated both the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and a Florida constitutional amendment requiring voter approval for gambling expansion. A federal judge sided with the challengers in late 2021, halting the newly launched Hard Rock Bet app after only a few weeks of operation. This decision was appealed by the Seminole Tribe, leading to a nearly two-year legal battle. In mid-2023, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the lower court's ruling, once again legalizing sports betting under the tribe's control. After the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a final appeal in June 2024, the legal path was cleared. The Hard Rock Bet app officially and fully relaunched for all eligible users in December 2023, with retail sportsbooks opening at Seminole casinos shortly thereafter.
Available Sportsbooks: A Market of One
Unlike states with open, competitive markets, Florida currently has only one legal online and mobile sports betting operator.
Hard Rock Bet
As the exclusive sportsbook of the Seminole Tribe, Hard Rock Bet is the only game in town for statewide online wagering. The platform, which underwent a significant redesign during its legal hiatus, offers a sleek and user-friendly interface. It stands out with its "Flex Parlay" feature, which allows bettors to win a parlay even if one or two legs lose. The app is integrated with the Hard Rock Loyalty Rewards program, allowing users to earn points that can be redeemed for bonus bets, odds boosts, and discounts at Hard Rock properties. While it is the sole option, Hard Rock Bet provides a quality and robust platform for Florida bettors.
It is important to note that while other major sportsbook brands like DraftKings and FanDuel may operate their Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests in Florida, their sportsbook products are not legal for use within the state.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting
Florida offers both statewide mobile betting and in-person retail options, providing flexibility for bettors.
Mobile Betting
The Hard Rock Bet app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices. Bettors who are 21 years or older can register and place wagers from anywhere within the state of Florida. Geolocation technology is used to ensure all wagers are placed within state lines.
Retail Sportsbooks
For those who prefer an in-person betting experience, retail sportsbooks are available at the six Seminole-owned casinos in Florida:
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Seminole Casino Coconut Creek
- Seminole Classic Casino (Hollywood)
- Seminole Casino Brighton
- Seminole Casino Immokalee
These locations feature dedicated sports betting lounges with betting windows and self-service kiosks.
Types of Bets Available
Bettors in Florida have access to a wide array of standard wagering types on the Hard Rock Bet platform:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team will win a game outright.
- Point Spread: Betting on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by more than the spread, while the underdog must win outright or lose by less than the spread.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total combined score of both teams in a game.
- Parlays: A single wager that combines multiple bets for a higher payout. All individual bets (legs) must win for the parlay to cash.
- Same Game Parlays (SGP): A parlay where all legs are from the same game.
- Futures: A long-term bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as a team to win the Super Bowl.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific occurrences within a game that may not be tied to the final outcome, such as a player to score a certain number of points.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Understanding the tax rules is a crucial part of sports betting. All gambling winnings are considered taxable income by the IRS. If you have a significant win (generally over $600 and 300x your stake), the sportsbook may issue you a Form W-2G. Even if you don't receive a form, you are required to report all winnings on your federal tax return.
The great news for Florida bettors is that Florida has no state income tax. This means your winnings will only be subject to federal taxes, which is a significant advantage compared to bettors in other states who pay both federal and state taxes on their winnings. It is highly recommended to keep detailed records of your wagers, including wins and losses, as you can deduct losses up to the amount of your winnings.
Tips for Florida Bettors
- Stick to the Legal Option: Only bet with the legal and regulated platform, Hard Rock Bet. Avoid offshore or illegal bookmakers, which offer no consumer protections.
- Understand the Odds: Before placing a bet, make sure you understand what the odds mean and the potential payout.
- Bet on What You Know: Stick to betting on sports and leagues you are familiar with. This knowledge will give you a better edge.
- Utilize Loyalty Rewards: Take full advantage of the Hard Rock Loyalty Rewards program to earn extra value from your bets.
- Practice Responsible Gaming: Always bet within your means. Set a budget for your betting activities and never chase losses.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Sports betting should be a form of entertainment. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Florida and national organizations offer free, confidential support.
- Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling: Access their 24/7 confidential helpline by calling 888-ADMIT-IT (888-236-4848).
- National Council on Problem Gambling: Call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.
The Hard Rock Bet app also includes built-in tools to help you manage your play, including options to set limits on deposits, wagers, and time spent on the app, as well as options for self-exclusion.