Kentucky Sports Betting: A Complete Guide for 2026
Sports betting has officially arrived in the Bluegrass State, bringing with it a new era of excitement for sports fans. After years of anticipation, Kentucky has joined the growing list of states with legal sports wagering. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about sports betting in Kentucky, from the legal landscape to the best sportsbooks and betting tips.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Kentucky
Kentucky legalized sports betting on March 31, 2023, when Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law. This landmark legislation made Kentucky the 38th state to legalize sports wagering. The first retail sportsbooks opened their doors on September 7, 2023, followed by the launch of online sports betting on September 28, 2023. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) is the regulatory body overseeing all sports betting activities in the state.
Available Sportsbooks in Kentucky
Kentucky's sports betting market is vibrant and competitive, with several major sportsbooks available to bettors. As of early 2026, the following sportsbooks are legally operating in the state:
- DraftKings: A household name in daily fantasy sports and sports betting, DraftKings offers a user-friendly app, a wide range of betting markets, and generous promotions.
- FanDuel: Another giant in the industry, FanDuel provides a top-notch mobile experience, competitive odds, and innovative features like same-game parlays.
- BetMGM: The self-proclaimed "King of Sportsbooks," BetMGM boasts a sophisticated platform, a vast selection of sports, and a loyalty program that rewards bettors for their activity.
- Caesars Sportsbook: Known for its strong brand recognition and extensive retail presence, Caesars offers a reliable betting platform with a focus on customer service and a rewarding loyalty program.
- bet365: A global leader in online sports betting, bet365 brings its extensive international experience to the Kentucky market, offering a massive selection of sports and betting options.
- Fanatics Sportsbook: A newer player in the sports betting scene, Fanatics is leveraging its massive sports apparel and merchandise brand to create a unique and engaging betting experience.
- Circa Sports: A Las Vegas-based sportsbook known for its high betting limits and traditional, no-frills approach to sports wagering.
Types of Bets Available
Kentucky sports bettors have access to a wide variety of betting options, including:
- Moneylines: A simple bet on which team will win a game.
- Point Spreads: A bet on the margin of victory in a game.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total number of points scored in a game.
- Parlays: A combination of multiple bets into a single wager, offering higher payouts but also higher risk.
- Teasers: A type of parlay where you can adjust the point spread or total in your favor in exchange for a lower payout.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific events within a game, such as a player's performance or the outcome of a specific play.
- Futures: Long-term bets on events that will happen in the future, such as a team winning a championship.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Sports betting winnings are considered taxable income in Kentucky. The state has a flat income tax of 4.5%. You are required to report all of your gambling winnings on your state and federal tax returns. If you win $600 or more, the sportsbook may issue you a Form W-2G. It is always a good idea to keep detailed records of your betting activity, including your wins and losses, for tax purposes.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting
Kentucky offers both mobile and retail sports betting, giving bettors the flexibility to choose how they want to wager. Mobile betting allows you to place bets from anywhere in the state using your smartphone or computer. This offers convenience and accessibility, as well as the ability to shop for the best odds across multiple sportsbooks. Retail sportsbooks are located at horse racing tracks and other licensed facilities throughout the state. These locations offer a more traditional betting experience, with in-person tellers and betting kiosks.
Tips for Bettors in Kentucky
- Shop for the best odds: With multiple sportsbooks to choose from, it pays to compare the odds before placing your bets.
- Take advantage of promotions: Sportsbooks offer a variety of promotions, such as sign-up bonuses and odds boosts, 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 and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Do your research: Before placing a bet, research the teams and players involved. Look at stats, trends, and injuries to make informed decisions.
- Bet with your head, not your heart: It can be tempting to bet on your favorite team, but it's important to be objective and make your decisions based on logic and analysis.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Kentucky is committed to promoting responsible gaming and providing resources for those who may be struggling with problem gambling. The Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG) offers a confidential helpline and other resources for individuals and families affected by problem gambling. You can reach the KYCPG at 1-800-GAMBLER. Sportsbooks also offer a variety of responsible gaming tools, such as deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion options.