The Legality of Sports Betting in Maryland
Sports betting in Maryland is legal and fully operational, with both online and retail options available to residents and visitors. The journey to legalization was a multi-year process that culminated in a thriving market for sports enthusiasts.
The process began in November 2020, when Maryland voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure to legalize sports wagering. This led to the passage of House Bill 940 in April 2021, which was signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan in May of the same year. The bill established a framework for a competitive market with a large number of licenses available for both retail and mobile sportsbooks.
Retail sports betting launched in December 2021, with the first sportsbooks opening at several of the state's casinos. Online sports betting followed in November 2022, with the launch of the first mobile sports betting apps.
A bill was introduced in the 2025 legislative session (SB1033) that would have repealed online sports wagering in Maryland, but it failed to pass and was marked as "Dead" in April 2025. Therefore, online sports betting remains legal in Maryland.
Available Sportsbooks in Maryland
Maryland boasts a competitive and growing sports betting market with a wide range of sportsbooks to choose from. Here are some of the major players available in the state:
- DraftKings: A market leader known for its user-friendly app, extensive betting markets, and daily fantasy sports integration.
- FanDuel: Another industry giant with a popular mobile app, competitive odds, and a strong brand presence.
- BetMGM: The sports betting arm of MGM Resorts International, offering a sophisticated platform with a wide array of betting options and a loyalty program connected to MGM properties.
- Caesars Sportsbook: A well-established brand with a robust mobile app, generous promotions, and a connection to the Caesars Rewards program.
- Fanatics Sportsbook: A newer entrant to the market, Fanatics is leveraging its massive sports apparel and merchandise customer base to quickly gain market share.
- bet365: A global sports betting powerhouse with a comprehensive offering of international sports and a reputation for a great user experience.
- BetRivers: A solid all-around sportsbook with a user-friendly interface and a strong loyalty program.
Types of Bets Available
Maryland sports bettors have access to a wide variety of wager types, including:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team will win a game.
- Point Spread: 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. All bets in the parlay must win for the parlay 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 bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific events within a game that do not necessarily affect the final outcome, such as which player will score the first touchdown.
- Live Betting: Bets placed on a game while it is in progress.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Sports betting winnings in Maryland are considered taxable income. Winnings are subject to both federal and state taxes. For winnings of $600 or more, sportsbooks are required to issue a Form W2-G to the bettor and report the winnings to the IRS. The federal tax rate on gambling winnings is a flat 24%. Maryland state income tax will also apply, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75% depending on your income level.
It is important for bettors to keep accurate records of their wins and losses for tax purposes. Losses can be deducted from winnings, but only up to the amount of winnings.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting
Maryland offers both mobile and retail sports betting, giving bettors the flexibility to choose how they want to wager.
Mobile betting offers the convenience of being able to place bets from anywhere within the state using a smartphone or computer. Mobile sportsbooks also tend to offer a wider variety of betting options and more generous promotions.
Retail betting provides the traditional experience of placing bets in person at a physical sportsbook. Retail sportsbooks are located at casinos, racetracks, and other licensed facilities throughout the state. They offer a social atmosphere and the ability to watch games on large screens while you bet.
Tips for Bettors in Maryland
- Shop for the best odds: With so many sportsbooks to choose from, it pays to compare odds before placing a bet. Even small differences in odds can add up over time.
- Take advantage of promotions: Sportsbooks are constantly offering promotions and bonuses to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Be sure to take advantage of these offers to maximize your winnings.
- Do your research: Don't just bet on your favorite team. Do your research and analyze the matchups before placing a bet.
- Manage your bankroll: Set a budget for how much you are willing to lose and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Bet responsibly: Sports betting should be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available to help.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Maryland is committed to promoting responsible gaming and providing resources for those who may have a gambling problem. The Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling (MARG) is a non-profit organization that provides education, prevention, and treatment services for problem gambling.
Here are some resources for responsible gaming in Maryland:
- Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling (MARG): 1-800-GAMBLER
- Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling: mdproblemgambling.com
- National Council on Problem Gambling: ncpgambling.org