Sports Betting in Rhode Island: Complete 2026 Guide
Current Legal Status and History
Sports betting in Rhode Island is legal and active, with both online and retail options available to residents and visitors. The state was one of the first to legalize sports wagering following the Supreme Court's repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. Governor Gina Raimondo signed the enabling legislation in June 2018, and the first legal retail bets were placed in November of the same year at the state's two casinos.
Recognizing the potential of mobile wagering, Rhode Island lawmakers authorized online sports betting in 2019. Initially, users were required to register in person at a casino, but this provision was later removed, allowing for remote registration from anywhere within the state. The Rhode Island Lottery oversees all sports betting operations, maintaining a state-controlled model.
Available Sportsbooks and Their Features
Rhode Island currently operates a single-operator model for online sports betting.
- Sportsbook Rhode Island: This is the only legal mobile and online sports betting platform in the state. It is a product of the Rhode Island Lottery in partnership with IGT, which provides the platform, and William Hill (now part of Caesars Entertainment), which powers the odds and operations. The app and website offer a straightforward, if not flashy, interface for placing bets. While it lacks the competitive odds shopping available in states with multiple sportsbooks, it provides a secure and regulated environment for bettors.
For those who prefer to bet in person, there are two retail sportsbooks in the state:
- Bally’s Twin River Lincoln
- Bally’s Tiverton Casino Resort
Both locations are powered by the same IGT/William Hill technology as the online offering, providing a consistent experience across all legal betting channels in the state.
Types of Bets Available
Bettors in Rhode Island have access to a wide variety of common wager types through Sportsbook Rhode Island. These include:
- Moneylines: A simple bet on which team will win a game outright.
- Point Spreads: Betting on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can win or lose by less than that number.
- Totals (Over/Under): Wagering on the total combined score of both teams in a game, betting on whether it will be over or under a number set by the sportsbook.
- Prop Bets (Propositions): Bets on specific events within a game that don't necessarily relate to the final outcome, such as a player scoring a certain number of points.
- Futures: Long-term bets on outcomes that will be decided in the future, like which team will win the Super Bowl.
- Live Betting: Placing bets on a game while it is in progress, with odds that update in real-time.
Tax Implications for Winnings
For bettors, sports betting winnings are considered taxable income. You must report any gambling winnings to the IRS. If you win $600 or more, the sportsbook may issue you a Form W2-G. It's important to keep records of your wins and losses, as you may be able to deduct your losses up to the amount of your winnings.
From a state revenue perspective, Rhode Island has one of the highest tax rates on sports betting in the country. The state receives 51% of the revenue, with the technology vendor (IGT) receiving 32% and the casinos/operators (Bally's/William Hill) receiving the remaining 17%. This structure provides a significant source of revenue for the state.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options
The primary difference between mobile and retail betting in Rhode Island is convenience. The Sportsbook Rhode Island app allows you to place bets from anywhere within the state's borders on your mobile device. This is the most popular and convenient method for most bettors.
Retail betting at Bally’s Tiverton and Bally's Twin River Lincoln offers a more traditional, social experience. You can watch games on large screens, place bets with tellers or at kiosks, and cash out your winnings immediately. These locations provide a sportsbook lounge atmosphere that many bettors enjoy, especially for major sporting events.
Tips for Bettors in Rhode Island
- No Line Shopping: With only one legal online sportsbook, you cannot shop around for the best odds on a particular game. The lines offered by Sportsbook Rhode Island are your only option.
- In-State College Betting Is Restricted: A key regulation in Rhode Island is the prohibition on betting on games involving in-state college teams, regardless of where the game is played.
- Understand the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the house rules of Sportsbook Rhode Island, especially regarding bet settlement and live betting, to avoid any confusion.
- Manage Your Bankroll: As with any form of gambling, it's crucial to bet responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose. Set a budget and stick to it.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Rhode Island provides several resources for individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling. It's important to play responsibly and seek help if you need it.
- The Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling: Offers resources and support for problem gamblers and their families. Their helpline is 1-877-942-6253.
- The National Council on Problem Gambling: A national resource with a 24-hour confidential helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
- Self-Exclusion: Sportsbook Rhode Island and the state's casinos offer self-exclusion programs that allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling for a specified period.