Ohio Sports Betting in 2024: Get Up to $12,025 in Bonus Bets Now

Ohio sports betting: Key details

Top 6 Ohio sports betting sites

The Ohio Casino Control Commission has now awarded sports wagering licenses to 22 mobile operators. Of the 15 sportsbooks that are currently live, the following stand out as the cream of the crop in the Buckeye State. Here are our top six Ohio sports betting sites:

1. BetMGM Ohio

$1,500 in Bonus Bets

Code: CVRBONUS1500

 Claim $1,500

The "King of Sportsbooks" features great odds and a new-customer welcome offer of $1,500 in bonus bets. With lots of betting markets and banking options in store, BetMGM OH provides a smooth and enjoyable experience for rookie bettors and seasoned sharps in Ohio.

Get the full details on BetMGM Ohio in our BetMGM Review.

• App Store rating: 4.8 (iOS), 4.3 (Android)
• Sign-up bonus: $1,500 in bonus bets
• Payout speed: 2-8 days

2. FanDuel Ohio

Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win + 3 Months of NBA League Pass

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of min $5 and get $150 in bonus bets if your bet wins.

Claim $150

If there's a sportsbook platform that can give DraftKings a run for its money, it's FanDuel. FanDuel OH is another must-have in 2024, thanks to its intuitive layout, a plethora of betting markets, and generous region-specific bonuses and promos. 

Check out our FanDuel Sportsbook Review for more information.

• App Store rating: 4.8 (iOS), 4.7 (Android)
• Unique feature: Best user experience
• Sign-up bonus: Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win + 3 Months of NBA League Pass
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

3. bet365 Ohio

Bet $5, Get $150

Code: COVERS

 Claim $150

$1,000 First Bet Safety Net

Code: COVERS

 Claim $1,000 

bet365 is one of the very best online sports betting apps in North America. Seamless navigation and a neatly packaged menu highlight the bet365 mobile experience. Ohio bettors can receive regular odds boosts, favorable terms and conditions on bonus bets, and a laundry list of betting options with fair odds.

Refer to our bet365 Review for more expert analysis.

• App Store rating: 4.7 (iOS), 4.5 (Android)
• Unique feature: Best pricing
• Sign-up bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

4. Caesars Sportsbook Ohio

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Code: COVERSBONUS1000

Claim $1,000

Ohioans can now take advantage of the most lucrative sportsbook bonus in the state with the Caesars Sportsbook mobile app and desktop website. In addition to its new-user welcome bonus — an offer valued at up to $1,000 — Caesars provides fantastic customer support, an excellent rewards program, and a clean, snappy user interface.

Ohio bettors can scan our Caesars Sportsbook Review for more on the Caesars betting platform.

• App Store rating: 4.7 (iOS), 4.3 (Android)
• Unique feature: Best customer support
• Sign-up bonus: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

OH only. 21+. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Bet amount of qualifying wager returned only if wager is settled as a loss. Maximum bet credit $1,000; must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

5. DraftKings Ohio

Bet $5, Get $150 + $1K Deposit Bonus

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of min. $5 and get $150 in bonus bets.

Ends: Jan. 5, 2025

Available in Ohio

Claim $150

DraftKings is another on our list of best Ohio sports betting apps. The operator boasts an industry-best mobile platform and promises to provide new Ohio gamblers with a premier online wagering experience. DraftKings covers all of the hottest markets, dishes out promos regularly, and pays out winnings in a timely manner. The DraftKings Ohio online sports betting app is a must for Buckeye State bettors.

Read our DraftKings Review to learn more.

• App Store rating: 4.8 (iOS), 4.5 (Android)
• Unique feature: Best sports betting app
• Sign-up bonus: Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win + $1K Deposit Bonus
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

6. Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio

$1,000 in No Sweat Bets

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place a min. $1 daily first bet and, if the wager loses, get up to a $100 no sweat bonus bet for 10 consecutive days. Daily bonus issued within 72 hours.

Ends: Dec. 31, 2024

Claim $1,000

Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Ohio on May 1, 2023. New users can register with this emerging online operator today to claim lucrative bonuses, receive an exceptional NFL live-streaming experience, and join its loyalty program, which is among the best in the country. 

Our Fanatics Sportsbook Review provides more details.

• App Store rating: 4.8 (iOS); 4.7 (Android)
• Unique feature: Best NFL live streaming
• Sign-up bonus: $1,000 in No Sweat Bets
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Ohio sports betting summary

Legal sports betting finally arrived in Ohio last year.

Consult the table below to keep track of all relevant information related to Ohio sports betting:

Best Ohio sports betting offers and bonuses

If you’re looking to get started with a new sportsbook, these are the best Ohio sportsbook bonuses available in 2024.

BetMGM Sportsbook - $1,500 back in bonus bets: BetMGM Ohio enters the fray with a first bet offer of up to $1,500 paid back in bonus bets for new customers. Make your first wager with BetMGM, and the sportsbook will return bonus bets back in equal denominations of 20% of the total amount of the qualifying bet in the case that it loses. Use BetMGM bonus code 'CVRBONUS1500' to redeem this offer which expires on Dec. 31, 2024.

FanDuel Sportsbook - Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win + 3 Months of NBA League Pass: FanDuel Ohio offers first-time depositors $150 in bonus bets after they add $5 to a new account and place a winning $5 wager on any market. You do not need a FanDuel promo code to claim this bonus, which expires on Dec. 22, 2024. 

bet365 Sportsbook - Bet $5, Get $150: Use the bet365 bonus code 'COVERS' to claim one of two welcome offers: $150 in bonus bets following a $5 wager on any market of -500 or greater or a '$1,000 First Bet Safety Net' promotion that returns the entirety of your initial stake back in bonus bets, up to $1,000. Both offers are valid until Nov. 26, 2024, at 6:59 a.m. ET.

Caesars Sportsbook - $1,000 First Bet on Caesars: Use Caesars Sportsbook promo code 'COVERSBONUS1000' to secure the Caesars Ohio bonus, consisting of up to a $1,000 bonus bet. If your first real money wager is a loss, Caesars will refund your stake up to $1,000. Qualifying wager must be placed within 30 days of activating your account.

DraftKings Sportsbook - Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win + $1K Deposit Bonus: DraftKings Ohio is offering new users $150 in bonus bets with the creation of a new account. A subsequent $5 deposit and a first-time $5 bet will trigger DraftKings Sportsbook to hand out six $25 bonus bets instantly, win or lose.  No DraftKings promo code is needed, and the offer is valid until Jan. 5, 2025. You can also access a secondary '20% deposit match up to $1,000' welcome offer, which is valid until Nov. 30, 2024. 

Fanatics Sportsbook - $1,000 in No Sweat Bets: Ohioans can register with Fanatics Sportsbook today to receive one (1) no sweat bonus bet per day equal to the amount of their daily wager, up to $100, if it is unsuccessful for ten days. Daily qualifying wagers must be at least $1 and have odds of -500 or longer. No Fanatics Sportsbook promo code is required to claim this offer, which is valid until Dec. 31, 2024.

Ohio sports betting updates

Numerous Ohio sports betting bills have undergone minor tinkering and extreme overhauls since the state first looked to legalize sports wagering. With the Buckeye State’s legal sports betting market launching on Jan. 1, 2023, Ohioans can finally bet with the best retail and online Ohio sportsbooks.

The following timeline summarizes the history of sports betting in Ohio:

Nov. 20, 2024: Ohio regulator fines DraftKings $425K for accepting bets on college props after the state banned them.

Nov. 14, 2024: Ohio increased its sports betting tax to 20% in 2023, but one lawmaker wants to return it to its original rate of 10%. 

Nov. 6, 2024: #2 ranked CFP Ohio State Buckeyes are favored in major sports betting markets, making Ohio State a major liability for sportsbooks, should they win.

Nov. 1, 2024: Ohio sees a significant YoY increase for sports betting handle and revenue in September, earning $864.3 million in wagers for the month. 

Oct. 14, 2024: Oddin.gg secures an Ohio sports betting license, allowing the Prague-based esports provider to legally operate in the state. 

Oct. 2, 2024: Ohio's sports betting handle rises 45% yearly in August despite local operators producing their lowest handle since March. 

Sept. 30, 2024: Cincinnati Reds legend Pete Pose passes away at age 83. 

Sept. 8, 2024: Cincinnati Bengals decimate Survivor pool in Week 1.

Sept. 5, 2024: Ohio's revenue increases by 49% year-over-year in July. 

Aug. 30, 2024: Betr launches new sportsbook features ahead of the 2024 NFL season, allowing users in Ohio and Virginia to access traditional betting markets beyond micro-betting for a variety of sports. 

Aug. 22, 2024: Bovada exits Ohio as the nationwide crackdown on unlicensed and illegal online gaming products continues.

Aug. 1, 2024: Ohio is one of four states to surpass $500 million in betting activity in June.

July 22, 2024: SuperBook Sports pulls out of eight post-PASPA states, including Ohio. 

July 22, 2024: BetFred to exit Ohio later this summer, marking the second  U.S. market that the UK-based sportsbook has exited recently.

July 15, 2024: Three Ohio House Republicans voice their support for college player prop betting in iGaming within the state. 

July 4, 2024: Ohio's sports betting handle tops $600 million for the ninth straight month. 

June 13, 2024: Two Ohio men are sentenced for an illegal gambling operation that ran between 2009 and 2018. 

June 13, 2024: Bernie Kosar — a former Cleveland Browns quarterback — sues podcast company for losing his job due to placing a sports bet. 

June 4, 2024: Ohio's lifetime sports betting handle hits $10 billion, making it the fastest U.S. market to reach that mark. 

May 6, 2024: Ohio regulators propose a "use it or lose it" amendment for all sports betting operators. 

May 2, 2024: Ohio sees a huge jump in handle, but loses revenue in March. The Buckeye State took in $808.1 million in wagers but made only $63.8 million in revenue.

April 3, 2024: Ohio reports lowest sports betting revenue in February since August 2023.

March 4, 2024: A local organization "Ohio for Responsible Gambling" raises awareness in March after sharing from a recent survey that 20% of Ohians are now at risk of problem gambling, which has tripled since 2012. 

March 1, 2024: Ohio sports betting revenue tops $113 million in January, while the total monthly handle reached $810 million. 

Feb. 26, 2024: Covers' own Geoff Zochodne weighs in on Ohio's ban on college player prop betting and how it could easily be adopted by other states. 

Feb. 23, 2024: Ohio bans college player prop betting. The ban will take effect on March 1, 2024.

Feb. 6, 2024: Ohio could ban betting on college player props following an NCAA request following several college sports wagering-related incidents and reported harassment of athletes. 

Feb. 1, 2024: Ohio's betting revenue in December reaches eight-month high, bringing in $829.9 million in wagers. 

Jan. 26, 2024: bet365 launches free-to-play fantasy contest in five states, including Ohio, ahead of NFL Championship Weekend, offering a $25,000 prize pool for each game.

Dec. 26, 2023: Covers' Ethan Matthew outlines Ohio's 2023 year in review. 

Dec. 13, 2023: The Ohio Casino Control Commission recently met to discuss several initiatives to curb the online harassment collegiate athletes receive from sports bettors. 

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET goes live with online and mobile sports betting, launching in Ohio and 16 other states.

Nov. 2, 2023: ESPN BET plans to launch on Nov. 14, 2023, with online sports betting going live in 17 U.S. states, including Ohio. 

Oct. 2, 2023: The OCCC reports an Ohio August sports betting handle of $378.8 million. With its $133.8 million handle, DraftKings leads the way for the second consecutive month.

Sept. 13, 2023: The newest operator in Ohio — Prime Sportsbook — announces a soft launch, making it the 20th online betting site in the state. 

Sept. 5, 2023: The OCCC approves a request to allow wagering on the ATP Challenger Tour. 

Sept. 1, 2023: Ohio sports betting surpassed $4 billion in total handle since launching on Jan. 1. 

Aug. 30, 2023: Bally Bet goes live in Ohio, making it 19 online sportsbooks active in the state. 

Aug. 24, 2023: Fanatics opens its retail sportsbook in the Arena District of Columbus in partnership with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

July 31, 2023: The OCCC announces a sports betting handle of $362.1 million for June, including $348.37 million online and $13.73 million for retail. 

July 25, 2023: Fanatics plans to open a retail sportsbook in late August — adjacent to Nationwide Arena — in partnership with the Columbus Blue Jackets at 401 N. Front Street, Columbus. 

July 5, 2023: Gov. Mike DeWine's office announces the 2024-2025 budget will increase the tax on Ohio sports betting operators to 20%, up from 10% of revenue. The state will also have the power to ban abusive bettors.

June 30, 2023: Sports betting handle in Ohio continues to decline, with May seeing $446.2 million in wagers, down from $520.6 in April. 

June 21, 2023: BetMGM announces it will move its retail sportsbook from Great American Ball Park to The Banks. BetMGM will open its new sportsbook at Nation Kitchen & Bar on the corner of Second Street and Joe Nuxhall Way.

June 15, 2023: The OCCC approves a new betting market — the Premier Lacrosse League. 

June 1, 2023: Ohio sportsbooks accept $520.6 million in total wagers in April.

May 26, 2023: University of Cincinnati fires two baseball staffers for gambling-related violations.

May 17, 2023: Ohio regulators continue to crack down on fantasy sports operators that offer "fantasy sports" contests closely resembling sports betting.

May 2, 2023: Ohio sports betting regulators prohibit wagering on Alabama baseball due to integrity concerns.

May 1, 2023: Fanatics launches the 18th mobile sportsbook in Ohio. Fanatics Sportsbook is available to existing Fanatics customers.

April 27, 2023: The Fanatics Sportsbook app will launch in Ohio on Monday, May 1. Existing Fanatics customers will receive a unique code to access the app.

April 19, 2023: PlayUp pulls its Ohio sports betting license bid as part of a settlement reached with the OCCC. The sportsbook operator also agrees not to pursue gambling-related licenses in Ohio for four years.

April 11, 2023: The OCCC deems gift cards acceptable forms of payment when funding legal Ohio sports betting accounts.

March 31, 2023: Ohio's sports betting handle drops by 42.6% in February. Still, the state's $638.8 million February handle ranks fourth in the nation behind New York, New Jersey, and Nevada. 

March 19, 2023: The Xavier Musketeers (-5.5) knock off the Pittsburgh Panthers to advance to the men's NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. 

March 15, 2023: The OCCC fines BetMGM $150,000 for failing to include responsible gaming messaging in all of its sports betting ads.

March 8, 2023: Ohio sees a sizable increase in problem gambling helpline calls during the first month of legal Ohio sports betting.

March 3, 2023: The World Baseball Classic receives approval as an eligible sports betting event from the Ohio Casino Control Commission. 

Feb. 28, 2023: Ohio reports $1.1 billion in combined retail and online sports betting handle in its initial month of legal wagering.

Feb. 21, 2023: Ohio's regulator of legal retail and online sports betting is seeking a budget bump in connection with wagering in the state following lawmakers' concerns over advertising issues.

Feb. 15, 2023: The Ohio Casino Control Commission approves Ohio sports betting-related fines for Barstool and DraftKings.

Feb. 14, 2023: betPARX launches its online sports betting product in Ohio, becoming the Buckeye State's 17th active sportsbook.

Feb. 12, 2023: Governor Mike DeWine's proposed budget would double the tax on Ohio sports betting — to be paid by casinos and teams operating sportsbooks with mobile partners — from 10% to 20%.

Feb. 8, 2023: The Ohio Lottery Commission gets updated on Ohio sports betting kiosks, with attention to "cannibalization" of keno.

Jan. 25, 2023: Betfred, the official sports betting partner of the Cincinnati Bengals, pays out all bets on the Bengals to win Super Bowl 57.

Jan. 18, 2023: The OCCC approves WynnBET for an Ohio online sports betting license.

Jan. 13, 2023: Fresh off a 27-16 victory in Week 18, the Cincinnati Bengals (-9.5) will look for back-to-back victories against the Baltimore Ravens in Sunday's all-AFC North Wild Card matchup.

After a successful Jan. 1 soft launch, Betr officially launches its microbetting app in Ohio. Betr now accepts statewide deposits and withdrawals.

Jan. 10, 2023: PlayUp's SPAC deal with IG Acquisition Corp. (IGAC) falls apart after the sportsbook operator fails to provide the acquisition company with its financial statements. PlayUp continues to pursue an Ohio sports betting license.

Jan. 8, 2023: Browns radio voice and former quarterback Bernie Kosar is fired for violating NFL rules related to betting on games.

Jan. 5, 2023: The OCCC issues notices of violation to three Ohio sports betting online operators — BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings. All three companies allegedly advertised "free" or "risk-free" promotions and failed to include responsible gambling messaging.

Jan. 3, 2023: Ohio lottery sports betting faces a gradual rollout at bars, restaurants, and other establishments.

Jan. 2, 2023: Caesars Sportsbook opens its Ohio retail sportsbook at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

Jan. 1, 2023: Ohio online sports betting goes live at 12:01 a.m. ET. Sixteen mobile sportsbooks launch in the Buckeye State.

Dec. 30, 2022: Tipico announces that Cleveland football legend Bernie Kosar will place the first legal bet on the sportsbook's platform in Ohio — a $19,000 moneyline wager on the Browns in Week 18 of the 2022 NFL season.

Dec. 29, 2022: Several agencies unveil new Ohio sports betting problem gambling campaigns ahead of the New Year's Day launch. 

Dec. 28, 2022: Ohio’s retail sports betting operators prepare for Jan. 1 opening. 

Dec. 26, 2022: Las Vegas-based SuperBook Sports announces its upcoming launch in Ohio on Jan. 1, 2023.

Dec. 23, 2022: The Ohio sports betting regulator issues an email warning over advertising.

Dec. 22, 2022: The Cincinnati Reds announce the BetMGM Sportsbook at Great American Ball Park will have its Grand Opening at 11:00 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2023.

Dec. 21, 2022: Allegations leveled against PlayUp and its Ohio sports betting ambitions are being treated with "utmost seriousness," according to a spokesperson.

Dec. 20, 2022: Joey Levy, CEO and co-founder of Betr, announces that the sports betting platform expects to be part of the January 1 launch after receiving licensing from Ohio regulators.

Dec. 19, 2022: Legal Ohio online sports betting is less than two weeks away. Ohioans will soon be able to wager on the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cincinnati Bengals, Columbus Blue Jackets, and other Ohio-based teams. 

Dec. 15, 2022: FansUnite obtains a sports gaming supplier license in Ohio. The company will provide Betr with its B2B gaming technology.

Dec. 14, 2022: Bally Bet, Betway, Out the Gate, and Underdog are approved as Ohio online sports betting operators. PlayUp's application is denied due to alleged illegal gambling activity. The OCCC has now awarded 20 mobile sports betting operator licenses. 

Dec. 13, 2022: The OCCC will meet tomorrow to discuss four mobile management services provider licenses for Bally Bet, Betway, Out the Gate, and Underdog. If licenses are awarded, these Ohio sportsbook operators could launch on Jan. 1, 2023.

Dec. 12, 2022: June Taylor, Chair of the OCCC, reveals that some Ohio sports betting operators will not be prepared for the state's Jan. 1, 2023 launch. Smaller sportsbook newcomers like BetFanatics and Betr may be among those arriving later in 2023.

Dec. 8, 2022: Kroger delays the launch of sports betting kiosks at its 42 locations until later in 2023.

Dec. 6, 2022: Tipico inks a strategic partnership with AEG Presents, becoming the exclusive sportsbook partner of AEG Presents-owned music venues like A&R Music Bar, Agora Theatre & Ballroom, KEMBA Live!, and Newport Music Hall.

Dec. 1, 2022: betPARX and MVGBet withdraw management services provider applications for retail sports betting in Ohio. 

Nov. 30, 2022: This is the final day to lock in $100 in free bets from Hard Rock Sportsbook Ohio. Starting Dec. 1, 2022, the sportsbook will offer just $50 to users who register an account in 2022.

Nov. 26, 2022: The Ohio State Buckeyes drop their first game of the season, falling to the road dog Michigan Wolverines by a score of 45-23.

Nov. 21, 2022: The Ohio Casino Control Commission outlines Ohio's set of initial wagers and events. Betting on celebrity awards shows, coin flips, and other non-athlete performance criteria (e.g. Super Bowl Gatorade color) will not be permitted in Ohio. Notably, betting on events such as the NFL Draft and NFL Awards will be allowed.

Nov. 16, 2022: Four more sportsbook operators are conditionally approved to launch on Jan. 1 in Ohio: Jake Paul's Betr earns an Ohio license, along with betPARX, Fanatics, and MVGBet (Betly).

Nov. 15, 2022: Tipico launches its "Win Ohio" free-to-play game, giving passionate Ohio sports bettors an opportunity to win free bets and entries into Tipico’s Grand Prize Sweepstakes.

Nov. 3, 2022: FanDuel Ohio improves its pre-live offer consisting of $100 in free bets by including a free NBA League Pass three-month subscription.

Nov. 2, 2022: Ohio sports betting regulators greenlight more mobile licenses, with BetMGM, BetRivers, DraftKings, Hard Rock Sportsbook, and Tipico, all conditionally approved for a five-year term.

Oct. 27, 2022: Caesars Sportsbook goes live in Ohio. New users can download the Caesars OH app, register, and make a deposit with the sportsbook to claim a $100 bet credit using promo code COVERSTIX.

Oct. 19, 2022: Stark Enterprises, a real estate development company, applies for Type-A and Type-B sports betting licenses in Ohio.

Oct. 18, 2022: The Cleveland Cavaliers lost their Ohio online sports betting partner due to the abrupt closure of Fubo Gaming. 

Oct. 17, 2022: Fubo shuts down its online sportsbook after a strategic review is unable to locate a suitable sports betting partner. The operator had been live in only three states — Arizona, Iowa, and New Jersey — but planned to enter the upcoming Ohio market.

Oct. 11, 2022: BetMGM and the Cincinnati Reds partner for Ohio sports betting. The multi-year agreement includes plans for a retail BetMGM sportsbook at Great American Ball Park.

Oct. 5, 2022: The OCCC approves five mobile sportsbooks. bet365, Betfred, Caesars, PointsBet, and SuperBook can all go live on Jan 1, 2023.

Oct. 1, 2022: FanDuel releases Ohio's first pre-live sign-up bonus worth $100 in free bets. New customers can register accounts and claim the bonus through Dec. 31, 2022.

Sept. 21, 2022: Regulators approve 10 Ohio sports betting proprietor licenses. The Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Cleveland Guardians are among the licensees to obtain conditional approval to partner with sportsbook operators and offer sports betting in Ohio.

Sept. 7, 2022: Matt Schuler, Executive Director of the OCCC, says that 33% of Ohio sports betting applicants have omitted key information from their submitted sports betting applications. The companies are given a new Oct. 5, 2022, deadline.

Aug. 17, 2022: Ohio awards 200 Type-C sports betting licenses. 

Aug. 15, 2022: Betway, MaximBet, and Prophet Exchange apply for second skin licenses. Should the OCCC approve their applications, the three operators will be permitted to go live on Jan. 1, 2023.

Aug. 11, 2022: It is revealed that Instabet, the official online sports betting partner of Hall of Fame Village, is now known as Betr Sportsbook, a "micro-betting" (live betting) focused sportsbook backed by social media personality and professional boxer Jake Paul. 

Aug. 10, 2022: Forty-two Kroger locations are pre-approved as Type-C sports betting operators in Ohio, allowing each grocery store to feature betting kiosks in 2023. Bettors will also be able to cash winning bets at 205 Kroger stores across the state.

Aug. 3, 2022: Approximately 1,000 restaurants and bars have applied for Type-C sports betting licenses in Ohio. These locations, if approved, would feature self-service sports betting kiosks.

Ohio Casino Control Commission Executive Director Matt Schuler confirms that licensed Ohio sports betting operators will be permitted to offer legal wagering at the stroke of midnight on Jan. 1, 2023. 

July 19, 2022: The owner of BetRivers applies for a mobile sports betting license four days shy of the July 15, 2022, deadline. As a result, there is no certainty that BetRivers — which aims to partner with Hollywood Casino Columbus — will be approved to go live in Ohio by Jan. 1, 2023.

July 19, 2022: Matt Schuler, executive director of the Ohio Casino Control Commission, underscores the OCCC's commitment to vetting all Ohio sports betting applicants thoroughly.

July 18, 2022: With 22 Type-A applications submitted ahead of the July 15 deadline, Ohio sports bettors could see nearly two dozen online sportsbooks go live on Jan. 1, 2023.

July 13, 2022: A Cincinnati Bengals and Betfred partnership is struck, making the British bookmaker the NFL team’s official sports betting partner.

July 12, 2022: Bettors are backing Ohio State to win the College Football Playoff National Championship in a big way: The Buckeyes have garnered three times as much money as any other team over at BetMGM.

July 11, 2022: FanDuel, Fanatics, and the Cincinnati Bengals apply for licenses as the march toward legal Ohio sports betting continues. The first window for retail and online sports betting license applications closes on on July 15, 2022.

July 1, 2022: Ohio sports betting applications continue to file in as HOF Village Newco applies for Type-A and Type-B sports gaming proprietor licenses. Hall of Fame Village partnered with Rush Street Interactive (RSI) in December 2021.

June 30, 2022: Penn Sports Interactive LLC applies for a mobile management services provider license in Ohio.

June 29, 2022: Elys Gameboard Technologies applies for a Type-C license. The company will look to offer its technology to local bars and restaurants with sports betting kiosks in 2023.

June 22, 2022: DraftKings applies for a mobile management services provider license. JACK Cleveland Casino and JACK Thistledown Racino apply for Type-A and Type-B licenses.

June 20, 2022: In addition to PointsBet, sportsbook operator BetMGM also applied for its Ohio sports betting license.

June 16, 2022: PointsBet submits an application for a mobile management services provider license.

June 15, 2022: The Ohio sports betting application window opens for online and retail operators. BetMGM submits applications for mobile management services provider and management services provider licenses. The two licenses would allow BetMGM to partner with a Type-A (online) and Type-B (retail) licensee.

June 1, 2022: The OCCC announces Ohio sports betting will launch on Jan. 1, 2023; Caesars Racebook launches in Ohio and Florida.

May 23, 2022: The Ohio Casino Control Commission anticipates receiving about 3,000 license applications for the launch of sports betting in the Buckeye State, meaning that the universal go-live date will likely be close to or on Jan. 1, 2023.

May 18, 2022: The OCCC confirms it will reveal Ohio's sports betting launch date on June 1.

May 4, 2022: The Ohio Casino Control Commission confirms its plans to have a universal go-live date, meaning all approved operators will launch on the same day. The OCCC also reveals that operators can begin submitting applications for sports betting licenses on June 15, 2022.

April 26, 2022: Bally's Interactive and the Cleveland Browns announce a deal that will make Bally Bet the official sports betting partner of the team when legal wagering arrives. The agreement is pending licensing and regulatory approvals in Ohio.

April 5, 2022: The betJACK sports betting app goes live in Ohio. The free-to-play platform aims to give Ohioans the opportunity to get their reps in ahead of the state's upcoming online sports betting launch.

March 16, 2022: The PGA Tour and betPARX partner for a mobile sportsbook license in the state.

Feb. 28, 2022: Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Co. (HOFV) inks a deal with Genesis Global. The ten-year pact makes Genesis the official mobile sports betting partner of HOFV. 

Feb. 24, 2022: Caesars and the Cleveland Cavaliers strike a partnership to open a retail sportsbook on the street level of Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

Feb. 18, 2022: DraftKings reports that market access has been secured in Ohio, setting the stage for the sports betting operator to launch its mobile platform once legal wagering comes to fruition.

Feb. 13, 2022: The Cincinnati Bengals fell to the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi stadium in Super Bowl 56.

Feb. 8, 2022: Fubo Sportsbook and the Cleveland Cavaliers enter into a market access agreement, positioning Fubo as the official mobile sports betting partner of the Cavs.

Jan. 18, 2022: The Ohio Casino Control Commission releases "Batch 1" of the state's sports betting rules. The 21-page document outlines general provisions, provisional licensing, certified independent testing laboratories, and certified independent integrity monitors.

Dec. 22, 2021: Gov. Mike DeWine signs HB 29 into law, guaranteeing Ohio will launch legal sports betting by Jan. 1, 2023.

Dec. 8, 2021: The Senate and the House both approve amendments made to HB 29. The legislation goes to Gov. Mike DeWine for his signature. Legal online and retail sports betting is coming to Ohio.

Dec. 6, 2021: Sen. Schuring confirms that state lawmakers "have an agreement on sports gaming" that would hand out licenses no later than Jan. 1, 2023.

Dec. 1, 2021: Rep. Bill Seitz, Sen. Kirk Schuring, and Rep. Jay Edwards agree upon revisions to Ohio sports betting language in HB 29 and send the bill to the Legislative Service Commission.

Nov. 11, 2021: Details on a path to legalization remain scant. Legislation sits with a conference committee formed in October, and the typically upbeat Sen. Schuring remains confident yet cautious on a 2021 rollout. 

Oct. 25, 2021: Sen. Schuring proclaims 90% of Ohio's sports betting bill is agreed upon, citing sportsbook licenses — and where exactly sports betting will take place — as the primary issue yet to be resolved.

June 2021: The Senate passes SB 176 by a vote of 30-2. Looking to legalize Ohio sports betting before the House’s summer break, Sen. Schuring makes an amendment to HB 29. The Senate passes HB 29, but the bill won't be heard by the House until fall 2021.

May 2021: Sen. Kirk Schuring introduces SB 176 as the latest Ohio sports betting legislation. The bill calls for 20 mobile licenses and 20 standalone retail licenses.

May 2020: The Ohio House of Representatives passes HB 194, calling for the Ohio Lottery Commission to regulate all Ohio sports betting activity. The bill eventually dies in the Senate.

May 2018: SCOTUS overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), opening the door for states to set their own sports betting laws.

Jan. 2018: Ohio becomes the 18th state to legalize daily fantasy sports, as then-Gov. John Kasich enacts the Buckeye State’s DFS bill into law.

Is sports betting legal in Ohio?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Ohio. On December 22, 2021, Governor Mike DeWine signed HB 29 into law, allowing both online and retail sports wagering to take place in the Buckeye State.

The launch of sixteen online sportsbooks occurred on Jan. 1, 2023, and following the departure of brands like Tipico and Betway, there are once again 15 legal betting sites accessible in Ohio.

Key insights on legal sports betting in Ohio

Ohio's legalization of sports betting on January 1, 2023, has created a dynamic landscape, joining 36 other states and Washington, D.C., in authorizing such activity. Bettors can place wagers in person at casinos, sports venues, kiosks or online through popular platforms like BetMGM, FanDuel, and bet365. Governed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), the industry imposes stringent regulations on licensing, advertising, and bettor conduct.

Bettors must be at least 21, and online betting involves privacy and financial considerations, including potential impacts on credit scores and the need to report taxable winnings. Proprietors — taxed at 10% — contribute to education and addiction programs while managing risk through pooled and offset strategies.

Ohio offers three types of sports betting licenses: Type A for online operators (capped at 25 statewide), Type B for physical sportsbooks (capped at 40), and Type C for kiosks in bars and restaurants. These licenses are regulated by the OCCC, ensuring compliance and promoting economic activity across the state.

What sportsbooks are legal in Ohio?

Ohio currently has 15 active online sportsbooks. Most launched on Jan. 1, 2023, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and bet365. 

The Ohio Casino Control Commission has approved the following online operators to date:

1. BetMGM - Best overall
   
   
2. FanDuel - Intuitive menus
   
   
3. Caesars - Large welcome bonus
   
   
4. bet365 - Top sportsbook
   
   
5. Fanatics Sportsbook - Reputable brand
   
   
6. DraftKings - Best mobile app
   
   
7. BetRivers - Best for new bettors
   
   
8. Hard Rock - Great live betting
   
   
9. Prime Sportsbook - High limits
   
   
10. Bally Bet - Nice odds boosts
    
    
11. Betr - Best for microbetting
    
    
12. ESPN BET - Lots of markets
    
    
13. MVGBet (Betly) - User-friendly
    
    
14. betJACK - Made in Ohio
    
    
15. betPARX - Modern interface
    
    
16. Underdog - Coming 2024

Legal Ohio sportsbooks

Legal Ohio sportsbook operators struck market access deals with Type-A (online) and Type-B (retail) licensees long before the arrival of legal wagering in the Buckeye State. 

Today, 15 operators operate legal Ohio sports betting sites, while 13 brick-and-mortar sportsbooks have been accepting wagers since the first two days of legalization.

Ohio sports betting sites

Land-based Ohio sportsbooks

Most anticipated Ohio sportsbook

Ohio currently offers one of the most well-rounded collections of top online sportsbooks in the U.S. in 2024. Buckeye State bettors can already access several of the industry's biggest names, including DraftKings, Caesars, FanDuel, BetMGM, and more. 

However, there's still one popular online sportsbook that has yet to land in Ohio — Borgata. The BetMGM-backed platform is exclusively available in New Jersey. It is one of the biggest sports betting brands in the Garden State thanks to its user-friendly design, great live betting and streaming capabilities, ongoing promos, and rewards program. If Borgata ever expands and becomes available in the Buckeye State, Ohioans would gain yet another top-notch online sportsbook.

Online sports betting: How does it work in Ohio?

We've detailed everything you need to know about the Ohio sports betting launch on Jan. 1, 2023.

Ohioans can now legally bet on sports online. Bettors may register, make account deposits, claim bonuses, and place wagers from anywhere within the state.

Ohio’s sports betting legislation calls for 25 Type-A online licenses for casinos, professional sports teams, and venues. These licensees will be awarded two online skins each.

Additionally, 40 Type-B licenses will be up for grabs in the Buckeye State. These licenses are earmarked for retail-only sportsbooks.

Type-C licenses are also available for self-service or clerk-operated kiosks located in bars and restaurants with valid liquor licenses. Hundreds of Type-C licenses have already been awarded by the Ohio Casino Control Commission. Notably, retail giant Kroger began accepting legal wagers at 42 Ohio locations in 2023.

Why sign up for multiple Ohio sportsbooks?

Regardless of the level of your sports betting experience, we strongly recommend that all Ohio bettors not just sign up for one sports betting site, but, instead, register with multiple available sportsbooks. We've outlined the advantages of doing so below: 

Ability to line shop — browsing different sportsbooks for the same bet — to ensure you're always getting the best price.

Claim multiple welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions.

Ensures you always have access to top sportsbook features, such as live betting and streaming, early cash outs, same-game parlays, and more. 

Having multiples sportsbook accounts is ideal if you enjoy wagering on niche markets, since these leagues are not available across all operators..

You can join multiple of the best sportsbook rewards programs in 2024, giving yourself the ability to earn a variety of great prizes, such as bonus bets, personalized customer service, free trips, discounted stays at hotels, and more. 

Enjoying multiple betting bonuses

You are allowed to claim one welcome bonus per online sportsbook you have a registered account with, meaning there are 15 new-user offers you can claim in Ohio in 2024 — Prime Sportsbook does not offer a welcome bonus. We suggest claiming the available welcome promo at every operator you have an account with to maximize your bankroll, mitigate the risk on your initial wagers, and provide you with future betting flexibility from day one. 

It's worth noting that attempting to claim numerous sign-up bonuses from the same sportsbook is considered bonus abuse, which is illegal. If you are caught using a different email address, colluding with another user, or any other method to obtain an additional welcome promo, your account will be terminated.  

Latest Ohio sports betting news

Who can partake in Ohio sports betting?

Anyone over 21 can place a legal sports wager in Ohio in 2024. Sports betting is convenient and accessible in the Buckeye State, with retail sportsbooks located in major cities and online Ohio sportsbooks just a click or tap away.

Here's everything you'll need to know before placing your first sports bets.

The pros and cons of Ohio sports betting

Legal Ohio sports betting is underway, and the midwest market stands out as one of the more promising in the nation. 

With up to 25 online sportsbooks and 40 retail locations, Buckeye State bettors could soon have more legal betting options than residents of any other U.S. state. 

Fully mobile wagering

Claim thousands in bonus bets

In-state college sports betting permitted

Ohioans have gone years without legal options

Universal go-live date makes it more challenging to maximize bonuses

How to start betting in Ohio

Ohioans can place their first bets remotely or physically. Ohio's online sports betting sites accept wagers via mobile devices or desktop computers, while retail OH sportsbooks are great options for those looking to bet in person.

Payment methods - deposits and withdrawals

The best Ohio sports betting sites in 2024 make payments hassle-free, offering a mixture of the best sportsbook deposit and withdrawal methods for you to choose from. Whether you prefer Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, American Express, cryptocurrencies, or any other popular banking vendor, you can use it on one of Ohio's top sportsbooks. 

Here are the various deposit and withdrawal options available at the top Ohio betting sites: 

Sports and betting markets in Ohio: What's offered

Ohio bettors have access to a wide range of markets to wager on, but the options will differ depending on the sportsbooks you choose. 

Still, some wagers are prohibited, such as bets on amateur athletes under the age of 18. 

NFL Draft

Yes, the Ohio Casino Control Commission allows you to legally bet on the 2024 NFL Draft. Refer to our NFL Draft odds to stay updated on the latest buzz and team trends.

esports

It is legal to bet on esports in Ohio. meaning you can access the best esports betting sites in 2024.

Entertainment awards ceremonies

Betting on entertainment awards like the Oscars is not permitted in Ohio. However, you can bet on who you believe will be the NFL MVP and other sports-related awards.

What about Ohio college sports?

Ohio bettors may place wagers on in-state college teams, like their hometown Ohio State Buckeyes. Many other legal states restrict sports bettors to only wager on out-of-state college teams.

As of March 1, 2024, college player prop betting is no longer permitted in Ohio.

Political betting in Ohio

Unfortunately, U.S. federal law does not allow legal online sportsbooks to offer any form of political betting across the country, including Ohio. Bettors in Canada and the UK can wager with the best political betting sites of 2024, but Ohioans must resort to offshore operators to access the latest 2024 U.S. election betting odds. 

Ohio sports betting handle

Ohio sports bettors made over 11.3 million geolocation transactions with mobile sportsbooks over the Buckeye State's first two days of legal wagering, outpacing every other legal state during this stretch (Jan. 1 through Jan. 2, 2023).

In its first full month of legal wagering, Ohio reported $1.1 billion in combined retail and online sports betting handle, outpacing every other state's figures in January save for New York.

Bookmark this page for Ohio sports betting handle and revenue figure updates in 2024.

Yearly breakdown

Monthly handle

Legal Ohio online sports betting tax rate

Upon launch on Jan. 1, 2023, the legal Ohio tax rate on online sports betting winnings was 10%, which aligned with most other states with a legalized betting market at that time. But on July 1, 2023, Governor Mike DeWine increased the state's tax rate to 20% in an attempt to curb operator's advertising spend, which he believed was mostly targeting college aged bettors. 

Buckeye State bettors are responsible for reporting their winnings on their annual state and federal taxes, but operators are supposed to automatically withhold 24% of your winnings over $5,000 for federal taxes. The taxes derived from local bettors are used to fund Ohio school and youth programs, in addition to supporting problem gaming initiatives throughout the state.

Home team advantage: Ohio sports

Though Ohio State athletics loom large, the Buckeye State also has a professional team in each of the major sports leagues for locals to support. But whether you're a fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers or like cheer on Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, it's not always best to put your money where your mouth is when backing your favorite squad. 

Sports bettors should always be careful when risking their bankroll. Do your due diligence before blindly laying action on your hometown team. Our how to bet guides are a great place to start.

NHL

Columbus Blue Jackets

Get live NHL odds

NBA

Cleveland Cavaliers

Get live NBA odds

NFL

Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati Bengals

Get live NFL odds

MLB

Cleveland Guardians

Cincinnati Reds

Get live MLB odds

Although no scheduled fights or Formula One races are coming to the Buckeye State anytime soon, the best UFC betting sites, boxing betting sites, and F1 betting sites easily allow you to back fighters and drivers you can cheer on as passionately as your hometown teams.

Best Ohio sportsbook for rewards

Verdict:    Bet Now

Caesars Rewards — the exclusive loyalty program from Caesars Sportsbook — is our pick for the best sportsbook rewards program in Ohio, as it is ideal for Ohioans of all betting experience. You begin earning Tier Credits and Reward Credits on day one of using the online sportsbook. The higher you ascend through the program, the more lucrative benefits you earn, such as discounted hotel stays at more than 50 Caesars destinations and yearly airfare vouchers. 

We've outlined below the various ways you can earn with Caesars Rewards: 

Retail Casino Games🎲

• Slots - 1 Tier Credit per $5 wagered. Remember: Certain machines have lower earn rates, and these games will be marked with different rates.
• Video poker - 1 Tier Credit per $10 wagered.
• Bingo - 1 Tier Credit per $10 wagered .
• Table games - Earn Tier Credits based on the type of table game you play, your average bet, and how long you spend playing at the table.
• Racing - 1 Tier Credit per $3 wagered.

Caesars Sportsbook📲

• Straight bets - 10 Tier Credits per $100 wagered.
• Parlay bets - Up to 20 Tier Credits per $100 wagered.

Caesars Racebook🐎

• 1 Tier Credit per $3 wagered.

Hotels🏨

• Choose from over 50 destinations in the U.S. with room rates as low as $10.
• Earn one free night for every 5,000 Tier Credits earned in 2024, up to seven nights total.
• Transfer or gift up to 5,000 Reward Credits to a friend annually.

Dining🍴

• 1 Reward Credit for every $1 spent at participating restaurants — more than 25,000 restaurants worldwide — including 'Celebration Dinners' valued at $100-$500
• Register your Caesars Rewards Visa® card to earn 4x Reward Credits at Caesars Rewards Dining locations

Shopping🛍️

• Use your Reward Credits to shop online for merchandise and choose gift cards from select retailers
• If you lack sufficient Reward Credits for redemption, you have the option to cover the difference using your credit or debit card and earn 1 Reward Credit for every $1 spent
• Earn 'Great Gift Wrap-Up' points at select Caesars Rewards casinos, where discounts at casino gift shops range from 15% to 25%

Entertainment🎬

• 1 Reward Credit for every $1 spent on hotel, spa, shopping, and related transactions
• Gain exclusive pre-sale access for select shows and events

Ohio sportsbook with the best markets

Verdict:   Bet Now

BetMGM is our our go-to online sportsbook when seeking comprehensive and unique betting markets in Ohio. The 'King of Sportsbooks' offers 27 sporting markets and access to betting lines for international soccer, hockey, baseball, and basketball leagues. BetMGM also offers markets for specialty events, such as the Olympics and World Cup. 

We've outlined all of the betting markets you can wager on with BetMGM in 2024 here: 

Best Ohio sportsbook for experienced bettors

Verdict:   Bet Now

We recommend that experienced Ohio sports bettors check out FanDuel, as the online sportsbook offers an array of features that perfectly cater to high-rollers and those who wager regularly. 

For starters, FanDuel Ohio has a great rotation of ongoing bonuses — such as daily bet boosts, retention deposit offers, access to one of the best sportsbook referral bonuses, and rewards via the FanDuel Players Club — to provide a regular bankroll boost to loyal users. FanDuel also offers, in our opinion, the industry's best user experience. Ohioans can easily navigate throughout the platform to access those promos, various betting markets, a highly intuitive 'Live Now' section, and a fantastic customer support team if an issue arises. Lastly, FanDuel has one of the best mobile sports betting apps in the state, allowing bettors to unlock all of the same great features that are available on the desktop version of the platform. 

If you enjoy regularly betting on sports in Ohio, we can't recommend a better online sportsbook than FanDuel in 2024. 

Ohio sports betting law

More than a year after Gov. Mike DeWine signed HB 29 into law, legal sports betting in Ohio became a reality. Today, sports wagering in the Buckeye State compares favorably to other U.S. jurisdictions.

Here's a brief overview of all things Ohio sports betting:

• The Ohio Casino Control Commission oversees all online and land-based sports wagering in Ohio.
  
  
• You must be at least 21 years old to bet on sports in Ohio.
  
  
• HB 29 allows 25 online sportsbook (Type-A) licenses and 40 retail sportsbook (Type-B) licenses.
  
  
• Sports betting revenue is taxed at a rate of 10%.
  
  
• Betting on politics or amateur athletes under the age of 18 is prohibited.
  
  
• College sports betting (in-state included) is permitted. Ohioans may also wager on esports contests.

Other types of gambling

The Buckeye State is relatively new to the world of gambling. The first casino opened in 2012, and pari-mutuel horse race betting is available. As for slots and card players, Ohio online casino legislation is still pending.

Ohio and online casinos

Unfortunately, Ohioans still don't have access to real money casinos in 2024. But while the debate continues to unfold in the state legislature, local bettors can still access Ohio online casinos via social or sweepstakes casinos, as these platforms use a virtual currency instead of actual money. Our top online casinos that Ohio bettors can use in 2024 include McLuck, WoW Vegas, and Stake.us. 

If you are interested in playing for real money, you'll have to jump state lines and play with Michigan online casinos, Pennsylvania online casinos, or West Virginia online casinos. 

Ohio and daily fantasy sports

Ohio legalized daily fantasy sports (DFS) in January 2018, though it took over two years for operators to obtain licenses to offer games in the Buckeye State. DFS operators allow you to experience all of the same thrills as regular fantasy sports but with the ability to change your team every day to keep things fresh and interesting. 

In 2024, the most popular DFS sites include DraftKings, FanDuel, Thrive Fantasy, Yahoo! Fantasy Sports, and Sleeper.

Responsible gaming in Ohio

The unfortunate reality is that problem gambling remains an issue in all states with legalized and regulated gambling. For Ohioans, multiple organizations have put numerous resources into place to support those with gambling addictions.

Gamblers may join the Ohio Voluntary Exclusion Program if they wish to restrict their access to gambling establishments. Ohio sportsbooks provide players with the option to set deposit, wager, and loss limits.

Visit Ohio for Responsible Gambling

Legal U.S. sports betting markets

Ohio joined the following U.S. jurisdictions when it legalized sports betting on Jan. 1, 2023:

How Ohio sports betting compares to other legal states

Below, we've outlined how Ohio's legal sports betting market compares against three of its neighboring states: 

Best Michigan sportsbooks

Browse the best online sports betting options available in MI.

Michigan Sports Betting

Best PA betting sites

Study some of the top online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Sports Betting

Best IN sportsbooks

Check out our favorite Indiana sportsbooks in 2024.

Indiana Sports Betting

Recent legal U.S. sports betting launches

North Carolina entered the legal online sports betting landscape on March 11, 2024. FanDuel, bet365, ESPN BET, Fanatics Sportsbook, and more are available for registration after the official launch of North Carolina sports betting.

Vermont sports betting officially launched on Jan. 11, 2024. FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics Sportsbook were the first online sportsbook platforms to arrive in VT.

Maine sports betting commenced in November 2023 with the arrival of online sports betting. Bettors can now place wagers statewide and will soon be able to visit casinos and off-track betting facilities to make bets in person.

Legal Kentucky sports betting became a reality on Sept. 7, 2023, when retail sportsbooks opened their doors. Online sports betting followed on Sept. 28, 2023. 

Potential legal U.S. sports betting markets

These are the states moving toward legal sports betting that may potentially offer the practice in the near future:

Ohio sports betting history

Although Ohio was late to the U.S. sports betting game, the state now operates one of the country's largest and most successful legal betting markets. With 18 legal online sportsbooks now active, Ohio sports betting is thriving.

2023: Online and retail sportsbooks begin accepting legal wagers at 12:01 a.m. ET. Sixteen Ohio sports betting sites go live, including industry giants FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars Sportsbook.

On Feb. 14, betPARX becomes the 17th legal option for online bettors. Fanatics Sportsbook opens beta testing in OH. Bally Bet goes live in Ohio on Aug. 30 and Prime Sportsbook soft launches on Sept. 13.

2022: Online and retail sportsbook operators strike partnership deals with Ohio's casinos, racinos, and professional sports franchises. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, bet365, and others plan for the state's Jan. 1 universal launch date. 

2021: Gov. Mike DeWine signs Ohio's sports betting bill, House Bill 29,  into law on Dec. 22, 2021. With online and retail sports betting set to arrive no later than Jan. 1, 2023, excitement builds among Ohio sports wagering advocates.

2020: A bill to legalize and regulate sports gambling passes in the Ohio House of Representatives by a vote of 83-10. Unfortunately, the once-promising House Bill 194 falls short, stalling in the Senate.

2019: Sen John Eklund sponsors Senate Bill 111 — a bill that would allow Ohio's casinos and racinos to accept bets on professional and college sports.

2018: On May 14, the Supreme Court of the United States strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, lifting the ban on retail and online sports betting.

List of Ohio resources

Check out some of our favorite Ohio sports betting resources for more insights on the legal gambling landscape in OH:

• Ohio Casino Control Commission: Regulating body in Ohio
  
  
• Ohio sports betting law: House Bill 29
  
  
• List of Ohio sports gaming applicants: Track submitted and approved OH sports betting applications
  
  
• Ohio for responsible gambling: Organization promoting responsible gambling in Ohio

Ohio sports betting conclusion

Ohio sports betting launched on Jan. 1, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. ET — almost immediately following the conclusion of the 2022 Peach Bowl and just ahead of the 2023 CFB National Championship. 

While the timing of the Buckeye State's universal go-live date may have frustrated eager bettors, Ohio's sports betting future is bright. Up to 25 online Ohio sportsbooks and 40 brick-and-mortar betting facilities will soon be accepting wagers on the biggest events on the sporting calendar.

With nearly all betting markets on the table, Ohio could soon be home to one of the largest sports betting markets in the country.

Sportsbooks to avoid in Ohio

See all blacklisted sportsbooks

Offshore operators cannot compete with legal, regulated Ohio sportsbooks. Offshore websites are illegal and pose a huge risk to your bankroll. Instead, stick to safe, reliable options in the Buckeye State and avoid the types of sports betting websites we've outlined below: 

• Allegations of withdrawal issues
• No license information available on site
• Poor customer service

• Multiple reports of slow payments
• Allegations of non-payments
• Risk of account closure simply for winning bets

• Reports of confiscated winnings
• Slow customer support response times

See all blacklisted sportsbooks