Interested in learning more about Massachusetts sports betting and finding out if it will be legal in the near future? After the state passed the latest Massachusetts sports betting bill, all that is left is for the Senate to vote.
In this sports betting in Massachusetts guide, we examine the current climate for online betting in Massachusetts. We also cover online, offshore, and land-based betting, a list of the top 5 Massachusetts sportsbooks, and a timeline of Massachusetts sports betting legislation.
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The Best Massachusetts Sports Betting Sites List 2022
While waiting on the Massachusetts Senate to vote on the legalization of sports betting, there are some fantastic offshore bookies offering competitive odds. In addition to competitive odds, free bets and live betting, Massachusetts sports betting will only improve.
In the meantime, check out our list of the best online Massachusetts sportsbooks available.
- BetOnline – Best Overall Massachusetts Sportsbook
- Bovada – Best Massachusetts sports betting site for Live Streaming
- MyBookie – Best Massachusetts Bookmaker for Off Track Betting
- BetUS – Best MLB Bookie in Massachusetts
- XBet – Best Odds for MA Sports Betting
- Intertops – Top NBA Massachusetts Sportsbook for 2022
- Sportsbetting.ag – Best Sports betting app in Massachusetts for 2022
- BetNow – Best Site for Online Betting in Massachusetts
- GT Bets – Top Massachusetts sportsbook for Betting on the NHL
- BUSR – Best Massachusetts Sportsbook For New Player Bonuses
Is Sports Betting Legal in Massachusetts?
Currently, sports betting in Massachusetts remains illegal, and sports betting in MA is in a holding position until the Senate votes on the Massachusetts sports betting bill. However, while it remains illegal for land-based casinos to offer sports betting, MA punters are free to bet on their favourite sports with licensed offshore Massachusetts betting sites.
The bill passed by the House of Representatives aims to legalize sports betting on college sports, professional sports and esports. If approved, the Massachusetts sports betting bill will apply to in-person and online sports betting in the state but disallow prop bets on individual players at the college level.
While a positive step forward, the outlook for Massachusetts sports betting remains on hold. Considering New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island have already legalized sports betting, should the State Senate approve the MA sports betting bill and legalize all forms of sports betting, it would be a boost to the states economic position.
Online Sportsbooks
As sports betting is still not legal in Massachusetts as of yet, online Massachusetts sportsbooks are not legally permitted to operate within the state. While that applies to state-based online sportsbooks, it does not apply to offshore sportsbooks. The problem with the way current legislation is written it can be confusing as federal law doesn’t make it illegal to place a bet with an offshore bookie, but state law does.
The question is whether federal law trumps state law, and without the State Senate voting on the bills before it, it leaves Massachusetts sports betting in limbo. The positive to this is the legislation currently being debated in the Senate would not require online sportsbooks to partner with a state licensed casino. Unlike other states such as New Jersey, it would allow Massachusetts betting sites to operate independently, thereby increasing the options available for MA sports betting online.
Land-based Betting
After passing the Expanded Gaming Act in 2011, the State of Massachusetts made it legal for land-based casinos to operate in the state. However, the act is quite restrictive as it only allows for one slot parlour and three state-licensed casinos.
In addition to the three state-licensed casinos, two Native American tribes have stated their intention to open casinos on native tribal land. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has announced it will open the Light Casino & Resort in Taunton, while the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head will open the Aquinnah Cliffs Casino in southeast Massachusetts.
While the state allows for three casinos, there are only two casinos and a slots parlour licensed to operate within the state, none of whom offer Massachusetts sports betting. This includes:
- Encore Boston Harbor (Everett, MA)
- Plainridge Park Casino (Plainville, MA)
- MGM Springfield (Springfield, MA)
However, should the State Senate pass the MA sports betting bill, it is anticipated the taxation rates will likely result in both casinos upgrading their facilities to include on-site and sports betting apps.
Horse Racing & Off Track Betting
Unlike online sports betting in Massachusetts, horse racing in the state has been legal for decades. Governed by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the Division of Racing is responsible for issuing licenses to industry employees and enforcing regulations as needed. However, beyond the Plainridge Racetrack, most horse race bets are placed either online or in-person at off-track racebooks.
Currently, there are nine off-track racebooks are operating legally within the state, with those being:
- 123bet
- TVG
- Amwager
- Hollywood Races
- Day at the track
- NYRA Bets
- DRF Bets
- XpressBet
- Keeneland Select
Timeline of Massachusetts Sports Betting Legislation
Since 2011, the push to legalize sports betting in Massachusetts began with the passing of the Expanded Gaming Act. While the act made no mention of sports betting, it did legalize the licensing of three casino licenses and one slot parlour. Currently, only two of the three licenses and the slot parlour license have been issued, one to Encore Boston Harbor and another to MGM Springfield and the slot parlour license to Plainridge Park Casino.
Here is a breakdown of the timeline of legislation relating to sports betting in Massachusetts:
July 22, 2021: The Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a bill that legalizes sports betting in Massachusetts and forwarded it to for a State Senate vote.
July 19, 2021: The House responded to and moved the bill to a second reading to legalize sports betting in Massachusetts.
February 2, 2021: Four bills were introduced to the House of Representatives by the governor and elected state officials in a further attempt to legalise sports betting in Massachusetts.
January 17, 2019: Three bills were introduced in the House of Representatives by the governor and elected state officials to legalize sports betting. All three competitive bills failed to pass during the legislative session.
April 27, 2018: The State of Massachusetts permanently legalises daily fantasy sports in the state.
August 10, 2016: The State of Massachusetts temporarily legalizes daily fantasy sports.
Offshore Betting in Massachusetts
While sports betting in Massachusetts remains illegal until the State Senate votes on the latest gambling bill, offshore betting sites in the state is alive and thriving. Massachusetts sportsbooks located overseas or in Caribbean island nations like Costa Rica offer various betting options such as sports, fantasy sports, and poker via desktop or a downloadable sports betting app in Massachusetts.
In addition to accessing sports betting, poker and fantasy sport, Massachusetts sports betting sites are legally able to offer access to a wide selection of casino games. This remains one of the most popular channels to access an offshore Massachusetts sportsbook.
Are DFS Legal in Massachusetts?
Since August 2016, daily fantasy sports have been legal in Massachusetts. This came into fruition after the state legalized fantasy sports acted in response to sites like Fanduel and DraftKings. After a two year trial period, the state permanently legalized daily fantasy in April of 2018.
Resultant of the legalization of DFS in 2018, you can access a variety of popular Massachusetts daily fantasy sites in Massachusetts such as Yahoo, Fanduel and Draftkings.
Massachusetts Casino Laws
Massachusetts Casino laws remain a challenging landscape for bettors and Massachusetts sportsbooks as the state responds and amends its gambling act to address new trends and technology. Below we look at Massachusetts casino laws and how they relate to online and land based casinos.
Online Casinos
Under current state legislation, betting at online casinos in Massachusetts does not exist, or should we say, none are licensed by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Based on the latest developments and legislation in front of the state senate, that is not expected to change anytime soon.
However, there is nothing in state law that prevents offshore online casinos from accepting transactions and bets from Massachusetts residents. Resultantly, many favour offshore casinos for their extensive selection of games, promotional opportunities and superior MA sports betting to players from the Bay state.
Land Based Casinos
As mentioned, Massachusetts has one licensed slots parlour and two licensed casinos. While the slots parlour is limited to offering slots, the two licensed casinos within the state include poker, slots, video poker and table games.
Beyond off-track betting locations in neighboring states such as New York and Rhode Islands, those wishing to visit a land-based casino have the following options.
- Encore Boston Harbor (Everett, MA)
- Plainridge Park Casino (Plainville, MA)
- MGM Springfield (Springfield, MA)
How Gambling is Taxed in Massachusetts
How online gambling Massachusetts is taxed is not favorable if you are a bettor. The state requires all Massachusetts residents to report any winnings made due to gambling activities on their income tax returns. This taxation applies to winnings within the state, those outside the state and does not factor in net losses.
In other words, if your net losses were $10,000 and you won $7,000 playing slots, you would be required to report $7,000 in gross income. The exception to this is if playing at a state licensed casino, your losses can be factored in to offset the taxes paid on winnings. Those failing to report winnings run the risk of tax evasion charges and incarceration. Although unlikely, it is recommended that you report your winnings versus risk possible legal difficulties.
In terms of the proposed sports betting bill, taxation rates are not expected to change. However, those licensed by the state will face similar tax structures already in place. This will include land-based sportsbooks paying a 12.5% tax on revenue generation, while online sportsbooks will be taxed at 15%.
Best Massachusetts Sportsbooks Reviewed
While sports betting in Massachusetts remains on hold until the Senate votes on the proposed legislation, bettors interested in Massachusetts online sports betting are welcome to enjoy playing at offshore sportsbooks. To give you some insight into some of the best offshore sportsbooks in Massachusetts, we have include a brief review of the top five below.
1.BetOnline – Best Sports Betting App in Massachusetts
A favourite amongst bettors who prefer an all-in-one sports betting experience, BetOnline continues to be ranked one of the best sports betting app in Massachusetts. Known for its diverse sports markets, the site also offers a wide range of markets, plus a racebook and casino.
As a player rated best Massachusetts betting site, you will find the option for pre-match and in-play betting as well as future bets for the NBA, the NHL and other popular leagues such as the NBA and NCAA college basketball.
Available for both online and mobile, BetOnline offers a highly functional Android and iOS app. Perfect for punting, it is also makes claiming promos like the new customer offer. Valued at 50% up to $1000, the BetOnline welcome bonus only requires o10 wagering requirements and min odds of -200, when activating with promo code BOL1000 before making a first-time deposit.
Pros:
- Features a wide variety of sports
- Low wagering welcome bonus
- iOS and Android mobile apps
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Mobile app needs updating
2.Bovada – Best Massachusetts Sports Betting Welcome Bonus
Another bookie that continues to be rated as the best Massachusetts betting site for betting on baseball is Bovada. As a sportsbook, Bovada offers a mobile-friendly betting platform that features over 18 sports, horse racing, esports and more.
Along with an abundance of betting options, the mobile site is perfect for sports bettors interested in bonus opportunities. With a welcome bonus offering new players a 100% up to up to $1,000, betting on odds of -200 is made easy. All that is needed to claim the bonus is promo code MYB100.
Adding to their many qualities as one of the best sportsbook in Massachusetts is a web app to make betting on your favourite in-play and pre-match markets a thing of beauty. In addition to their in-play and pre-match betting options, a prop builder is available, as is live streaming and 24/7 support.
Pros:
- Excellent selection of sports markets
- Android and iOS compatible
- Competitive in-play odds
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- Welcome bonus only available for crypto deposits
3.MyBookie – Best Massachusetts Sports Betting Site for Live Streaming
When it comes to sports entertainment, few other Massachusetts sports betting sites compare to MyBookie. Reputable, licensed, it offers free to download iOS and Android mobile apps that rival its competitors. As a favoured Massachusetts sportsbook, Bovada includes over 15 sports, multiple betting markets, in-play and pre-match betting, a casino and racing options.
Besides its highly intuitive website, one of the areas is their generosity when it comes to bonuses. New MyBookie customers have the privilege of claiming a 100% Bitcoin match bonus up to $750. With favorable minimum odds and 5x wagering, this bonus is claimable by making a deposit and entering promo code BTCSWB750
For bettors looking for the best sportsbook in Massachusetts, they will appreciate the flexibility of Bitcoin, Ripple and other cryptocurrencies. Along with easy access when depositing or withdrawing, placing bets and locating betslips is as simple as a few clicks.
Pros:
- Convenient easy to use mobile app
- Access to a wide variety of promotions
- Wide variety of betting markets
- 24/7 live support
Cons:
- Welcome bonus limited to crypto deposits
4.BetUS – Best Massachusetts Sportsbook for NHL Betting
As one of the best sportsbook in Massachusetts, BetUS comes equipped with a wide range of options suitable for sports betting. Along with being the best Massachusetts betting site for NHL and MLB betting, they feature access to over 20 sports and include esports and a racebook as part of their mobile app betting options.
BetUS remains one of our favoured betting sites, in part due to it offering multiple player-friendly options. Not only can you bet on sports, but you can also access a licensed offshore casino that allows Massachusetts bettors the freedom to play without restricted access.
Another of the features that helps rank BetUS high in our books is its welcome bonus. Above and beyond a loyalty program, the welcome bonus is exclusive to new customers using promo code JOIN200. A minimum deposit of $100 is required to activate the bonus, and thereafter, minimum odds are -280.
Pros:
- Excellent welcome bonus
- Features over 20 sports markets
- Dedicated 24/7 support
- Wide variety of betting options
Cons:
- Does not offer push notifications
5.XBet – Best NFL Betting Site in Massachusetts
XBet comes in as our final best sportsbook in Massachusetts for bettors who are interested in betting on sports. As a licensed offshore betting site, XBet delivers functional usability, over 20 sports and includes a casino, esports, and a racebook.
More than enough to stand on, XBet further strengthens as a leading NFL Massachusetts bookie by offering superior odds, live betting, and multiple reload bonuses for its sportsbook and casino. An example of their generosity is their new player welcome bonus, valued at up to $500, the 100% bonus can be activated by making a minimal deposit and using XBet promo code XB100.
Another defining feature that makes XBet stand out is the positive user reviews and dedicated pages for NCAA, NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL betting odds. Along with betting apps for iOS and Android, XBet offers a mobile site with cross-platform capabilities and so much more.
Pros:
- Mobile and user-friendly interface
- Features all top U.S preferred sports markets
- Fast withdrawal payments
- 24/7 live support
Cons:
- No teaser bets
Massachusetts Betting Sites Comparison
To highlight the multiple benefits our recommended bookies provide when sports betting in Massachusetts, we have included a comparison table below so you can choose the bookie that meets your needs best.
| Sportsbook | Bonus | Promo Code | Available Markets | Live Streaming | Payment methods |
| BetOnline | 50% match bonus up to $1,000 | BOL1000 | Basketball, snooker, wrestling, darts, baseball, auto racing, horse racing | No | American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Ethereum, |
| Bovada | 100% Bitcoin match bonus up to $750 | BTCSWB750 | Basketball, motorsport, ice hockey, football, baseball, MMA | Yes | Bitcoin, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Mastercard, Visa |
| MyBookie | 100% crypto match bonus up to $1,000 | MYB100 | Basketball, tennis, baseball, boxing, volleyball, horse racing, hockey | No | Mastercard, Visa, Ripple Bitcoin, Litecoin, BitcoinCash, Ethereum |
| BetUS | 100% crypto bonus up to $2,500 | SU100CRYPT | Football, esports, horse racing, boxing, baseball, golf, darts | No | Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin Bitcoin, Visa, MasterCard |
| XBet | 100% match bonus up to $500 | XB100 | MMA, motor sports, golf, cricket, cycling, baseball, wrestling | No | Visa, Mastercard, American Express, e-check, Bitcoin |
| Intertops | 100% match bonus up to $2500 | INSIDERS | Rugby, table tennis, boxing, UFV, baseball NHL, basketball, esports | No | Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Mastercard, American Express, Visa |
| Sportsbetting.ag | 50% match bonus up to $1,000 | SB1000 | Football, baseball, horse racing, boxing, martial arts, tennis | No | Bitcoin, American Express, Discover, Visa, Mastercard |
| Betnow | 100% match bonus up to $500 | BN1000 | Ice hockey, baseball, golf, basketball, volleyball, football | No | Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Mastercard, American Express, Visa |
| GT Bets | 100% match bonus up to $500 | Not required | Football, cricket, MMA/UFC, ice hockey, baseball, tennis, | No | XRP, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express |
| BURS | 20% match bonus up to $500 | NWELCOME20 | MMA, cricket, soccer, baseball, soccer, football and golf | No | Bitcoin. Visa, Mastercard |
Conclusion
While sports betting in Massachusetts continues to be put on hold, the odds are favourable it will soon become legal to bet on your favourite sports. While this is good news for Massachusetts bettors, our recommended offshore Massachusetts sportsbooks offer immediate access to competitive pricing, odds and promotions.
Interested in betting on the World Series or the Super Bowl – Register with BetOnline today and enjoy a 50% up to $1,000 welcome bonus!
FAQs
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