Table of Contents
- Introduction
- A Brief History of Gambling in the USA
- States with Legalized Sports Betting
- States with Legalized Online Casinos
- Gambling Tax Rates by State (2025)
- Implications for Players
- Implications for Operators
- The Black Market: Risks and Realities
- Current Trends in the US iGaming Market
- Conclusion
- FAQs about Gambling in the USA
Introduction
The iGaming industry in the United States has undergone significant transformations over the past decade. With the repeal of PASPA in 2018, states gained the autonomy to legalize and regulate sports betting and online gambling. As of 2025, the landscape is a patchwork of regulations, with each state charting its own course. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of iGaming laws in the USA, offering insights for players, operators, and stakeholders.
A Brief History of Gambling in the USA
Gambling has deep roots in American history, from early lotteries in the 17th century to the rise of Las Vegas in the 20th century. However, the landscape has been marked by cycles of legalization and prohibition. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 effectively banned sports betting nationwide, except in a few states. This changed in 2018 when the Supreme Court struck down PASPA, allowing states to legalize sports betting.
States with Legalized Sports Betting
As of early 2025, 38 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting in some form.
Notable states include:
- New Jersey: A pioneer in online sports betting.
- New York: Launched mobile sports betting in 2022.
- Illinois: Legalized sports betting in 2019.
- Massachusetts: Legalized in 2022, with online betting starting in 2023.
These regulatory bodies are responsible for overseeing gambling activities within their respective states, including licensing, compliance, and enforcement. It’s important to note that the scope of authority and the types of gambling permitted can vary significantly from one state to another.
For more detailed information on each state’s regulatory framework, you can refer to resources such as the National Association of Gaming Regulators and the American Gaming Association’s State of Play Map.
States with Legalized Online Casinos
Seven states have legalized online casino gaming:
| State | Regulatory Authority |
|---|---|
| New Jersey | New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE): Oversees all aspects of online casino gaming, including licensing, compliance, and enforcement. The DGE ensures the integrity of internet gaming operations in the state. |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB): Regulates online casino gaming, ensuring operators adhere to state laws and regulations. The PGCB is responsible for licensing and monitoring all interactive gaming activities. |
| Michigan | Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB): Licenses and regulates online gaming operators, platform providers, and suppliers. The MGCB ensures fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of Michigan citizens. |
| West Virginia | West Virginia Lottery Commission: Regulates online casino gaming, allowing licensed casinos and racinos1 to partner with online casino providers. The Commission oversees licensing and compliance. |
| Delaware | Delaware State Lottery Office: Oversees internet lottery operations, including online casino gaming, under the authority granted by state law. The Lottery Office ensures compliance with regulations. |
| Connecticut | Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), Gaming Division: Regulates online casino gaming, sports wagering, and other gaming activities. The DCP ensures operators comply with state regulations. |
| Rhode Island | Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR), Division of Gaming and Athletics: Responsible for licensing and regulation of online casino gaming, including oversight of Bally’s online operations. |
Other states like Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, and New York have active proposals or discussions regarding legalization.
- A racino is a combined horse racing track, or other live parimutuel betting facility, and casino. ↩︎
Gambling Tax Rates by State (2025)
| State | Sports Betting Tax Rate | Online Casino Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 10% (online), 8% (retail) | N/A |
| Arkansas | 13% (first $150M), 20% (> $150M) | N/A |
| Colorado | 10% | N/A |
| Connecticut | 13.75% | 18% |
| Delaware | 50% | 61% |
| Illinois | 15% | N/A |
| Indiana | 9.5% | N/A |
| Iowa | 6.75% | N/A |
| Kansas | 10% | N/A |
| Kentucky | 14.25% (online), 9.75% (retail) | N/A |
| Louisiana | 15% (online), 10% (retail) | N/A |
| Maine | 10% | N/A |
| Maryland | 15% | N/A |
| Massachusetts | 20% (online), 15% (retail) | N/A |
| Michigan | 8.4% | 20-28% |
| Nevada | 6.75% | N/A |
| New Hampshire | 51% | N/A |
| New Jersey | 14.25% (online), 9.75% (retail) | 15% |
| New York | 51% (online), 10% (retail) | N/A |
| North Carolina | 18% | N/A |
| Ohio | 20% | N/A |
| Pennsylvania | 36% | 54% |
| Rhode Island | 51% | 61% |
| Tennessee | 1.85% of handle | N/A |
| Vermont | 31% | N/A |
| Virginia | 15% | N/A |
| Washington D.C. | 10% | N/A |
| West Virginia | 10% | 15% |
| Wyoming | 10% | N/A |
*For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult the official websites of each state’s gaming commission or regulatory authority.
Implications for Players
Ensuring Operator Legitimacy
- Licensing: Players should verify that the operator is licensed by the state’s regulatory body.
- Verification: Licensed operators require Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, including ID verification.
- Deposit Limits: Players can set deposit and betting limits to promote responsible gambling.
- Game Restrictions: Some states may restrict certain games or betting types.
- Bonuses: Welcome bonuses vary; always read terms and conditions.
Where to Find Licensed Brands
- State Regulatory Websites: List all licensed operators.
- Reputable Review Sites: Provide comparisons and reviews of licensed operators.
Implications for Operators
Licensing and Fees
- Application Fees: Vary by state; can range from $100,000 to $1 million.
- Renewal Fees: Annual fees are common, varying by jurisdiction.
Compliance Obligations
- Responsible Gambling Measures: Implement self-exclusion programs and deposit limits.
- Data Security: Ensure robust cybersecurity measures.
- Advertising Restrictions: Must comply with state-specific advertising guidelines.
Potential Fines
- Non-Compliance: Can result in hefty fines or license revocation.
- Underage Gambling: Strict penalties for allowing underage individuals to gamble.
The Black Market: Risks and Realities
Despite legalization efforts, unregulated gambling persists:
- Popularity: Some players turn to black market operators due to better odds or lack of restrictions.
- Risks: No consumer protections, potential for fraud, and lack of dispute resolution mechanisms.
- Enforcement: States continue to combat illegal operations through legislation and enforcement actions.
Current Trends in the US iGaming Market
As of 2025, the U.S. iGaming landscape is experiencing several dynamic shifts that reflect both technological innovation and evolving consumer behaviors. Here are the top trends shaping the industry:
Mobile-First Experience
Most bets in the U.S. are now placed through mobile devices, pushing operators to optimize their apps and mobile platforms. Seamless UX/UI, push notifications, and mobile-exclusive bonuses are now standard.
Cross-State Expansion and M&A Activity
As new states legalize iGaming, large operators are racing to expand via mergers and acquisitions. This includes consolidation among sportsbooks and partnerships with casinos for multi-vertical dominance.
Live Dealer and VR Casinos
Live dealer games continue to gain popularity in online casinos, offering players a real-world feel. VR (Virtual Reality) casinos are emerging, promising immersive and interactive gameplay.
Crypto Integration and Blockchain
Some platforms have started to explore crypto deposits and withdrawals, appealing to privacy-minded users. Additionally, blockchain is being tested to ensure game fairness and transparent records.
AI-Powered Personalization
Operators are increasingly leveraging AI to tailor user experiences—suggesting games, optimizing bet limits, and flagging risky behavior for responsible gambling compliance.
Focus on Responsible Gambling
Enhanced tools for self-exclusion, deposit/bet/time limits, and proactive responsible gambling messaging are being emphasized, particularly due to scrutiny from regulators and media.
Growth of Sweepstakes and Social Casino Models
Due to restrictive state laws, more companies are offering sweepstakes-based gambling models that mimic casino play while avoiding real-money laws. These platforms often use “Gold Coins” and “Sweeps Coins” for gameplay and prize redemptions.
Betting Beyond Sports: Political and Entertainment Wagers
With traditional sports seasonalities, platforms are expanding offerings to include political betting, entertainment awards (Oscars, Grammys), and niche markets like eSports and fantasy contests.
Conclusion
The U.S. iGaming industry is navigating a complex but promising path in 2025. With 38 states and D.C. legalizing sports betting and seven states allowing online casinos, there’s significant momentum toward nationwide legalization. Players are urged to use only USA licensed betting sites to ensure safety, fairness, and legal protection.
Meanwhile, operators face both opportunity and responsibility—balancing rapid expansion with strict compliance. As technology evolves and states learn from early adopters, the market is expected to grow exponentially, possibly ushering in broader federal frameworks and increased regulation.
Whether you’re a casual bettor, seasoned operator, or policy observer, staying informed about USA iGaming laws and trends is key to navigating the ever-changing digital gambling space.
FAQs about Gambling in the USA
Check for a license number at the footer of the site, verify it against the regulatory body’s website (e.g., NJ DGE, PA Gaming Control Board), and avoid offshore sites with unclear credentials.
Yes. Winnings are considered taxable income by the IRS, and depending on the state, additional gambling taxes may apply.
No. You must be physically located in the state where the site is licensed. Geolocation technology is used to enforce this rule.
As of 2025, states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island offer legal online betting for both casino games and sports betting.
No. Using a VPN to access betting sites from restricted states is a violation of the platform’s terms and conditions and can lead to permanent account suspension and loss of funds. Geolocation checks are strict and can detect spoofing attempts.
Yes, if you’re using a licensed site. All deposits are held in secure, segregated accounts, and platforms use encrypted payment methods such as PayPal, ACH, debit cards, and bank transfers.
The legal age is 21+ for most states. Some states like New Hampshire and Rhode Island allow 18+, but always check your local laws.
Single bet: One wager on one event.
Parlay: Combines multiple bets into one, with higher payouts—but all selections must win for the bet to pay.
