Sports Betting in Georgia: Complete 2026 Guide

The Future of Sports Betting in Georgia: A 2026 Outlook

As of early 2026, the state of Georgia remains one of the largest potential markets for sports betting that has yet to formally legalize the practice. While residents and sports fans eagerly await the opportunity to place legal wagers on their favorite teams, the legislative landscape is in a state of flux. Currently, sports betting is not legal in the Peach State. However, there is significant momentum and ongoing legislative effort that could change this status in the near future. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of where sports betting stands in Georgia, what the future may hold, and what options are currently available for sports enthusiasts.

Legal Status and Legislative History

The path to legal sports betting in Georgia has been a long and winding one, marked by several unsuccessful attempts to pass legislation. Efforts in 2022 and 2023 failed to gain the necessary traction in the General Assembly. The most recent significant push in 2025 also fell short, leaving Georgia on the sidelines as numerous other states have embraced regulated sports wagering.

However, the conversation is far from over. The 2026 legislative session has brought renewed hope with the reintroduction of House Bill 910 (HB 910). Originally introduced in 2025 by Representative Matt Hatchett, this bill was carried over and is once again under consideration. What makes HB 910 particularly noteworthy is its strategic approach: it aims to authorize online sports betting under the purview of the Georgia Lottery Corporation. This is a crucial distinction from past efforts because it may bypass the need for a constitutional amendment, which would require a statewide voter referendum—a significant hurdle that has stalled previous bills.

Key provisions of HB 910 include:

• Regulatory Body: The Georgia Lottery Corporation would be responsible for licensing and overseeing all online sports betting operations.
• Licensing Structure: The bill proposes a framework for up to 18 "Type 1" licenses. These would be available to a range of entities, including Georgia's professional sports teams (Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta United FC), the PGA Tour, Augusta National Golf Course, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and other approved organizations. Licenses not claimed by these entities would be available to other online sports wagering providers.
• Financials: The proposed financial structure is robust. It includes a $100,000 non-refundable application fee and a substantial $1.5 million annual licensing fee. Furthermore, the state would levy a 25% tax rate on the adjusted gross revenue of sportsbooks. This revenue would be dedicated to educational initiatives, a common model for states with lottery-run gaming.

The fate of HB 910 in the 2026 session remains uncertain, but it represents the most promising legislative vehicle for bringing legal sports betting to Georgia to date.

Potential Sportsbooks in a Legal Georgia Market

Should sports betting be legalized, Georgians can expect to see all of the major players in the U.S. sports betting industry enter the market. While no sportsbooks are legally operating for real-money wagering in Georgia right now, the state's large population and passionate sports culture make it a highly attractive prize.

Based on the proposed licensing structure and market trends in other states, the following sportsbooks would be highly likely to launch in Georgia:

• FanDuel Sportsbook: A leader in both Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and traditional sports betting, FanDuel offers a top-tier mobile app, a wide array of betting markets, and competitive promotions.
• DraftKings Sportsbook: Similar to its main rival, DraftKings has a strong existing customer base in Georgia through its DFS product. It is known for its user-friendly platform and innovative betting options.
• BetMGM: The online betting arm of MGM Resorts International, BetMGM provides a sophisticated betting experience with deep markets, particularly for live betting, and a strong loyalty program.
• Caesars Sportsbook: Leveraging its well-known brand and the Caesars Rewards program, this sportsbook offers large promotions and a seamless betting experience.

Currently, the only legal way to engage with these brands in Georgia is through their Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests. DFS is legal and operates in a gray area of the law, considered a game of skill rather than a game of chance. It allows users to build fantasy rosters and compete for cash prizes based on player performance.

It is critical for residents to be wary of offshore or unregulated sportsbooks. While accessible online, these sites do not operate under U.S. law, offering no consumer protection for your funds or personal data. Waiting for legal, regulated options is the safest bet.

Types of Bets to Expect

When sports betting does become legal in Georgia, bettors will have access to a wide variety of wagering types. Understanding these is key to getting started. The most common types of bets include:

• Moneyline: The simplest form of betting, where you pick the outright winner of a game. Odds are assigned to each team, with favorites having negative odds (e.g., -150) and underdogs having positive odds (e.g., +130).
• Point Spread: This involves betting not just on who wins, but by how much. The favorite is given a handicap (e.g., -7.5 points) that they must win by to "cover the spread," while the underdog can lose by fewer than that number or win outright for the bet to cash.
• Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a line, and you wager on whether the final score will be over or under that number.
• Parlays: A high-risk, high-reward wager that combines multiple individual bets (called "legs") into one. All legs must win for the parlay to pay out, but the potential returns are significantly higher.
• Prop Bets (Propositions): Bets on specific occurrences within a game that may not be tied to the final outcome. This can include a quarterback's total passing yards, a basketball player's total points, or which team will score first.
• Futures: A long-term bet on an outcome that will be decided in the future, such as who will win the Super Bowl, the World Series, or the NBA MVP award.

Tax Implications for Winnings

It is important for future bettors in Georgia to understand that sports betting winnings are considered taxable income. If legalized, winnings would be subject to both federal and state taxes.

Federally, the IRS requires sportsbooks to issue a Form W-2G if winnings exceed $600 and are at least 300 times the original wager. Even without a form, all winnings must be reported on your tax return. Sportsbooks may automatically withhold 24% of significant winnings for federal taxes.

On the state level, Georgia's income tax would apply. The current state income tax rate would be levied on net winnings (winnings minus losses). It is crucial for bettors to keep detailed records of their wagers, wins, and losses throughout the year to ensure accurate tax reporting.

Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options

The current legislative focus in Georgia, particularly with HB 910, is on online and mobile sports betting. This aligns with the broader trend across the United States, where mobile wagering accounts for over 90% of the betting handle in most legal markets.

Mobile betting offers unparalleled convenience, allowing users to place wagers from anywhere within the state using their smartphones or computers. It provides access to a wider range of sportsbooks, live in-game betting, and exclusive online promotions.

Retail betting, which involves placing wagers in person at a physical location like a casino, racetrack, or dedicated sportsbook lounge, offers a more social experience. While the current bill does not explicitly create a large retail market, it's possible that license holders, such as professional sports venues, could host retail sportsbooks as part of their facilities in the future.

Tips for Bettors in Georgia

While you wait for legalization, here are some tips for prospective bettors in Georgia:

1. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest legislative developments regarding HB 910 and other potential bills. Following local news and sports betting industry publications is the best way to know when a change is coming.
2. Learn the Basics: Use this time to familiarize yourself with the types of bets, how to read odds, and basic betting strategy. This will prepare you to bet responsibly and intelligently when the market opens.
3. Explore DFS: If you want to get in on the action now, Daily Fantasy Sports is a great, legal alternative that hones many of the same skills used in sports betting.
4. Consider Neighboring States: Georgia is bordered by Tennessee and North Carolina, both of which have legal online sports betting. While not the most convenient option, a trip across the state line is currently the only way for a Georgian to place a fully legal, regulated wager.
5. Set a Budget: Before you ever place a bet, decide on a responsible bankroll and budget. Never bet more than you are willing to lose.

Responsible Gaming Resources

With the potential arrival of sports betting, it is vital to promote responsible gaming. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Resources include:

• The National Council on Problem Gambling: Offers a confidential 24-hour helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
• The Georgia Council on Problem Gambling: Provides resources and support specifically for residents of Georgia. Their helpline is 800-522-4700.

Legal sports betting in Georgia appears to be a matter of "when," not "if." While the wait continues into 2026, the ongoing legislative efforts provide a clear roadmap for what a legal, regulated market in the Peach State could look like. By staying informed and preparing for its eventual arrival, sports fans can be ready to engage safely and responsibly.