Current Legal Status and History
Sports betting is legal and fully operational in Indiana. The state moved quickly to embrace sports wagering after the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned in 2018. Governor Eric Holcomb signed House Enrolled Act 1015-2019 into law on May 8, 2019, officially legalizing sports betting in the Hoosier State.
The first retail sportsbooks opened their doors on September 1, 2019, just in time for the NFL season. Online sports betting followed shortly after, with the first mobile apps launching in October 2019. The Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing all sports betting activities in the state, ensuring a safe and fair environment for bettors.
Available Sportsbooks
Online Sportsbooks
Indiana boasts a competitive online sports betting market with a wide range of operators. As of early 2026, the following major sportsbooks are available to bettors in the state:
- bet365
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- Caesars Sportsbook
- BetRivers
- Bally Bet
- theScore Bet
- Hard Rock Bet
- SBK Sportsbook
These sportsbooks offer a variety of features, including competitive odds, generous promotions, and user-friendly mobile apps. Bettors can choose the platform that best suits their preferences and betting style.
Retail Sportsbooks
For those who prefer to place their bets in person, Indiana has numerous retail sportsbooks located at casinos, racinos, and off-track betting (OTB) facilities across the state. Some of the key retail locations include:
- Ameristar Casino East Chicago
- Bally's Evansville
- Belterra Casino Resort
- Blue Chip Casino
- Caesars Southern Indiana
- French Lick Resort Casino
- Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
- Harrah's Hoosier Park
- Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg
- Horseshoe Casino Hammond
- Indiana Grand Casino
- Rising Star Casino Resort
- Winner's Circle locations in Clarksville, Indianapolis, and New Haven
Types of Bets Available
Indiana sportsbooks offer a comprehensive menu of betting options, catering to both novice and experienced bettors. The most common types of bets include:
- Moneyline: A straightforward bet on which team or individual will win a game or event.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can win outright or lose by less than the spread.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total number of points scored in a game by both teams combined.
- Parlays: A single bet that links together two or more individual wagers for a higher payout. All legs of the parlay must win for the bet to be successful.
- Teasers: A type of parlay where the bettor can adjust the point spread or total in their favor in exchange for a lower payout.
- 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 NBA Championship.
- Prop Bets (Propositions): Bets on specific events within a game that do not necessarily affect the final outcome, such as which player will score the first touchdown or how many strikeouts a pitcher will have.
- Live/In-Game Betting: Placing bets on a game while it is in progress, with odds that update in real-time.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Gambling winnings are considered taxable income in Indiana. If you win more than $600 from sports betting, the sportsbook is required to issue you a Form W-2G. All winnings must be reported on your federal and state tax returns. The federal tax rate on gambling winnings is a flat 24%, while Indiana has a state income tax of 3.23%. It's important to keep accurate records of your wins and losses, as you may be able to deduct your losses up to the amount of your winnings.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options
Indiana offers bettors the flexibility to choose between mobile and retail sports betting, each with its own advantages.
Mobile Betting:
- Convenience: Bet from anywhere within the state using your smartphone or computer.
- 24/7 Availability: Place bets at any time of day or night.
- Promotions: Take advantage of online-exclusive bonuses and promotions.
- Live Betting: Easily place in-game wagers as the action unfolds.
Retail Betting:
- Social Experience: Enjoy the atmosphere of a casino or sportsbook with other fans.
- Cash Transactions: Easily deposit and withdraw funds using cash.
- Customer Service: Get in-person assistance from knowledgeable staff.
- Watch Games: Watch the games on big screens while you bet.
Tips for Bettors in Indiana
- Know the Teams: Indiana is home to passionate sports fans. Use your knowledge of local teams like the Indianapolis Colts (NFL) and Indiana Pacers (NBA) to your advantage.
- Shop for the Best Odds: With multiple online sportsbooks to choose from, you can compare odds to find the best value for your bets.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: Sportsbooks offer a variety of bonuses and promotions to attract new customers. Be sure to read the terms and conditions before claiming any offers.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Do Your Research: Don't just bet on your favorite team. Research matchups, injuries, and other factors that could affect the outcome of a game.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Indiana is committed to responsible gaming and provides a number of resources for those who may be struggling with a gambling problem.
- Indiana Council on Problem Gambling: Offers a helpline and resources for problem gamblers and their families.
- Indiana Gaming Commission: Provides information on self-exclusion programs and other responsible gaming measures.
- National Council on Problem Gambling: A national resource for problem gambling, offering a helpline and other support services.