Florida Sports Betting: Best Online Underscoregs July 2024

Is sports betting in Florida legal?

FL sports betting has been deemed legal once again as of June 30, 2023, following the decision made by a three-judge panel of the DC Circuit Court of Appeals. The ruling reversed the previous decision in November 2021 that had blocked the gaming deal between the Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida.

The agreement in question granted the Seminole Tribe jurisdiction over sports betting in Florida, paving the way for the establishment of the first sportsbooks in the state. Unfortunately, the deal was ultimately rejected, leading to a return to the illegal status of sports betting in Florida.

The overturning of that decision on June 30, 2023, reinstated the legality of sports betting, but only within the Seminole Tribe-Florida compact. However, Florida state voters have not yet had the opportunity to vote on the full legalization of commercial sports betting in the state.

Hard Rock Bet initiated a soft relaunch in Florida in early November, despite facing numerous legal challenges. As of December 5, 2023, Hard Rock Bet stands as the sole sportsbook app available to Florida bettors.

Notable Florida sports betting developments

Let’s examine all important advancements that have occurred since the historic decision made by SCOTUS on May 14, 2018.

On May 31, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to hear the case of ‘West Flagler & Associates’, potentially leading to significant changes in Florida sports betting laws. The hearing is scheduled for June 13, 2024.

On December 5, 2023, Hard Rock Bet launches its sports betting app for the first time in Florida in two years, now available to all residents.

On November 7, 2023, Hard Rock Bet unexpectedly re-enters the Florida betting market despite facing numerous legal obstacles. The sportsbook is currently only accessible to past users.

On December 7, 2023, legal retail sports betting will commence in Florida as announced by the Seminole Tribe on November 1, 2023.

On June 30, 2023, the DC Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the 2021 ruling that had previously halted the Florida-Seminole deal, paving the way for the resumption of legal sports betting in Florida.

March 29, 2023 – The horse racing app from DraftKings is now available in Florida.

On November 22, 2022, sports betting was deemed illegal once more following a judge’s decision to reject the Florida-Seminole Compact. The Seminole Tribe promptly filed a notice of appeal the following day, only to be denied. Subsequently, they filed a second appeal with the DC Circuit Court of Appeals.

The Caesars Racebook app will be available in Florida starting June 1, 2022.

The DraftKings-FanDuel initiative fell short of gathering the necessary signatures to propose a constitutional amendment on the election ballot for the year. Only collecting less than 500,000 signatures out of the required 891,589.

On December 4, 2021, Hard Rock Underscoreg ceased operations in Florida after only 35 days of service.

On November 1, 2021, the Seminole Tribe introduces Hard Rock Bet (formerly known as Hard Rock Underscoreg) to the state, launching the website and providing early access to bettors.

The Florida-Seminole deal successfully completes the 45-day approval period without receiving a decision from the US Department of the Interior (DOI).

On May 25, 2021, Governor DeSantis approved a new tribal compact with the Seminole Tribe, permitting them to provide both online and in-person sports betting services in Florida.

On November 6, 2018, 71.47% of Florida voters approved the Voter Approval of Casino Gambling Initiative, giving them the sole authority to approve gambling in the state.

Florida sports betting quick facts

Florida betting promos and bonuses

As of now, there is only one online sportsbook available in Florida, resulting in a limited choice of welcome bonuses. However, we will keep you informed of any updates as more major legal sports betting companies begin operating in the state.

Expected Florida sportsbook apps

Currently, Florida only has one sportsbook, Hard Rock Bet, but more are anticipated to enter the market soon. Major U.S. players such as FanDuel and DraftKings are expected to join once the sports betting industry in the state gains momentum.

Let’s examine the top sportsbooks that are expected to offer their services to bettors in Florida.

DraftKings

DraftKings, a top player in the DFS and sports betting industry, is expected to expand its operations to major states like Florida. Known for its diverse promotions, extensive sports coverage, and user-friendly interface, DraftKings offers numerous same-game parlay options and generous welcome bonuses.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 (App Store) and 4.6 (Google Play)
• Sign Up Bonus: TBD
• Payout Speed: 60 min to 7 days

Discover more about DraftKings with our in-depth review.

FanDuel

FanDuel provides a user-friendly and enjoyable platform experience throughout the United States. As a leading sportsbook nationwide, it is expected to be one of the first to launch in Florida. With extensive sports coverage, numerous betting options, competitive odds, and an excellent live betting section, FanDuel is renowned for its FanDuel+ feature, which offers live streams of major events in top U.S. leagues.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 (App Store) and 4.7 (Google Play)
• Sign Up Bonus: TBD
• Payout Speed: 1–10 workdays

Discover more information about FanDuel by reading our review.

BetMGM

BetMGM, a reputable and easily accessible sportsbook in the U.S., is recognized for its extensive sports coverage, diverse betting markets, and frequent bonus bets in many states. All of these features will soon be accessible in Florida with the arrival of BetMGM. While cashouts may be slower than desired, the comprehensive package offered by the platform makes it a worthwhile trade-off. Additionally, the platform simplifies the process of placing same-game parlays.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 (App Store) and 3.7 (Google Play)
• Sign Up Bonus: TBD
• Payout Speed: Up to 5 workdays

Discover more information about BetMGM by reading our in-depth review.

Caesars

Caesars Underscoreg has solidified its reputation as a major player in the industry, with a presence in many states where sports betting is permitted. It is poised to enter the Florida market when the opportunity arises. The sportsbook offers a wide variety of popular sports, extensive market options, live betting opportunities, and daily promotions. Additionally, it provides comprehensive coverage of SGPs and welcomes new players with a generous package worth up to $1,000 in most states.

• App Store Ratings: 4.6 (App Store) and 4.3 (Google Play)
• Sign Up Bonus: TBD
• Payout Speed: 1–5 workdays

Discover more about Caesars: Caesars Underscoreg Review

Florida sports betting neighbors

Florida was late to embrace sports betting, but its neighboring states have taken different approaches. While Florida only borders two states, there are two more nearby with varying stances on the issue. Let’s examine the situation more closely.

Georgia

Georgia currently prohibits sports betting, but there is significant support for legalization. Two bills were presented to the state legislature, but both were ultimately rejected in late March 2023.

It is likely that additional sports betting legislation will be proposed in 2024. However, supporters of sports betting still face various obstacles, as there is a lack of Republican support in the state Senate.

Alabama

Alabama is not recognized for its abundance of legal gambling opportunities and is one of the few states without a lottery. As a result, it is not surprising that there is minimal progress in the realm of sports betting.

In 2022, a minor gambling bill concerning a lottery and mobile wagering was introduced, but ultimately went unvoted on by lawmakers. It appears unlikely that any significant changes will be made in the near future.

Mississippi

Mississippi is the sole neighboring state to Florida that permits legal sports betting and is among the limited number of Southern states with a regulated market. While only retail sportsbooks are permitted, the market has been operational since 2018.

Mobile betting is technically allowed, but only within the confines of a casino. Expanding this legality to a statewide level will prove challenging due to the majority of lawmakers being opposed to gambling.

South Carolina

Sports betting remains prohibited in the Palmetto State, despite efforts by lawmakers to change this. In 2022, two bills were proposed to permit up to 12 online sports betting platforms, but they ultimately met the same fate as previous attempts.

Despite facing opposition, advocates refuse to back down and are already working on a new bill for 2023. However, it is unlikely to garner enough votes, particularly with Governor McMaster being a strong opponent.

Florida sports betting step-by-step start guide

Now that the legal sports betting market seems to be established in the Sunshine State, both retail and online sportsbooks are available, providing bettors with a variety of options to choose from when getting started.

Starting your betting journey at a retail sportsbook is straightforward – just visit one location. Online betting, however, can be more complicated. Despite this, bettors should be able to begin within minutes. Since the process is usually consistent nationwide, let’s go over the steps you’ll need to take once the market is available.

1. Select a sportsbook licensed in Florida

To begin, you should search for a licensed sportsbook in FL that meets your betting requirements. Currently, the only choice available is Hard Rock Bet, but we anticipate that more sportsbooks will enter the FL betting market soon.

After that, you will have to select a website that aligns with your preferences for sports and market coverage, payout speed, ease of banking, user-friendliness, range of promotions, and other factors.

2. Register online

After choosing a sportsbook, the next step is to visit their official website. If you have selected a platform we endorse, be sure to use our link to take advantage of the top welcome package available.

After arriving at the website, please proceed to follow the registration instructions. This will likely involve entering various personal information and verifying your phone number in order to prepare your profile.

Most states mandate that bettors demonstrate they are located within state borders, and Florida is expected to follow suit. This will require using specific software or granting access to your device’s geolocation services.

3. Deposit and claim a bonus

Once your account is set up, the next step is to add funds. Since the sportsbook probably has a generous welcome bonus, make sure to find out how you can take advantage of it.

Take DraftKings as an example, they offer a welcome package where you can receive $150 in bonus bets by depositing $5 and wagering at least $5. The bonus comes in the form of six $25 bonus bets. While DraftKings does not require a bonus code, other sites may. Rest assured, we will always provide a promo code if needed, especially for exclusive offers.

4. Select and finalize your bet

Next, you should place your first bet. If placing a bet is a requirement to receive the welcome bonus (as is the case with DraftKings), be sure to carefully review the terms and conditions and place a wager in accordance with them.

This is how it works: Simply go to the betting section, select a sport, choose a game to bet on, and pick a market. There are plenty of options available, including different types of bets. Bookmakers typically offer numerous markets for each game, such as moneylines, spreads, totals, team or player props, futures, and more.

Simply click on the odds to add them to the betting slip, enter your stake, and then confirm the bet to place it.

5. Win and withdraw your payout

After the event you bet on has ended, your bet will be settled automatically. If your prediction is incorrect, there will be no changes. However, if you predicted correctly, your winnings will be added to your balance.

When you have reached the required amount of funds and met all the necessary criteria for withdrawing them, you can navigate to the ‘Withdraw’ section on the website. From there, you can select your preferred banking method and submit a request for a payout.

The processing and approval of payments by the sportsbook may take some time, followed by a waiting period for the funds to transfer to your designated account. The length of this process varies depending on the sportsbook and the banking options available.

Florida sports leagues and teams to bet on

Florida is a large state with a high number of sports teams compared to other states. It boasts nine professional teams in the Big Four leagues, as well as two in MLS (Inter Miami CF and Orlando City SC) and 13 NCAA Division I college teams. In the Big Four leagues, Florida has three NFL teams and two teams in each of the other leagues.

There will be a variety of options available for bettors, so remember to use your best judgment when placing bets and consider supporting teams from out-of-state as well.

Underscoreg by category

Florida sports betting and the taxman

Florida is among seven states in the U.S. that do not impose a state income tax, meaning there are no additional taxes on gambling winnings for bettors in the state.

Nonetheless, you are required to disclose all of your winnings to the federal government because gambling winnings are considered taxable income by the IRS. Any winnings over $600 will be subject to a 24% tax rate. It is important to note that the actual amount of taxes owed may vary depending on your total annual income.

If you are feeling confused or unsure about how much you need to pay, you can utilize online gambling tax calculators or seek advice from a professional.

Finally, Florida is contemplating the introduction of a 15% tax rate on upcoming licensed sportsbooks. Fortunately, this is a concern that only sportsbook operators will have to deal with.

What’s missing From Florida sports betting?

The legal sports betting market in Florida encompasses professional leagues, the Olympics, and college sports, providing a wide range of options for sports bettors.

Nevertheless, some bettors are also engaged in other sectors such as politics, DFS, and esports. Let’s explore the current landscape in these areas.

Politics ❌

Political betting will not be included in the legal offerings of sports betting in Florida. This decision is not unexpected, as no state has legalized betting on political events such as presidential or midterm elections.

Entertainment Award Ceremonies ❌

There are currently no plans to include betting on award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, or Grammys in the upcoming sports betting market in Florida, and the legalization of this form of betting is unlikely in the near future.

Esports ❌

While some states allow betting on competitions in video games such as Fortnite and League of Legends, Florida currently does not permit it. However, this does not necessarily mean that the practice will remain illegal indefinitely. There is a possibility that the state may regulate it in the future, particularly once it addresses more urgent issues related to sports betting.

What About Daily Fantasy Sports? ✅

Florida regulations do not address daily fantasy sports, leaving them in a legal gray area. While the law does not explicitly prohibit or endorse DFS, bettors can still participate in leagues and place bets on popular platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, both of which are available in Florida.

It is important to note that the legalization of this practice is still necessary. This will allow more platforms to operate in the state and allow existing ones to host larger contests.

Florida college sports betting 🎓

Betting on college sports and teams is a widely popular activity that is generally legal as long as sports betting is allowed. However, there are usually specific regulations for betting on in-state college teams and players.

In Florida, it is legal to bet on college football through betting sites. With the launch of Hard Rock Bet across the state, bettors can now place wagers on both in-state and out-of-state college teams. This includes the opportunity to bet on Florida NCAA Division I teams and college games taking place within the state.

Florida is a state with minimal restrictions on college sports betting, with the only restriction being on player props.

Responsible Florida sports betting

In Florida, individuals struggling with a gambling addiction or seeking help for a loved one can turn to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling for comprehensive support. This reputable organization provides a wealth of resources, including reading materials, videos, and a round-the-clock hotline, making it the go-to source for responsible gambling assistance in the state.

Each authorized FL sportsbook offers various resources to assist bettors in managing their gambling habits. These include voluntary self-exclusion programs, betting and deposit limits, and the option to set loss limits on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. With these tools, you can effectively control and restrict your gambling activity if needed. If you find yourself in need of additional support, please don’t hesitate to call the number provided below.

National U.S. gambling helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Underscoregs to avoid in Florida

Currently, it is not advisable to trust any unfamiliar online sports betting site that purports to be based in Florida, as there is only one officially licensed online sportsbook in the Sunshine State.

It is recommended to steer clear of unregulated platforms, particularly offshore sites that are not overseen by state authorities in the United States. While not all of these sites are fraudulent, there is no guarantee of their legitimacy. In the event of any issues, there may be limited avenues to recover your funds. It is advisable to only utilize officially licensed betting applications and websites in Florida.

Avoid the sites that have been blacklisted by us, as there are valid reasons why our readers should stay away from these operators, as shown in the examples below.

List of Florida sports betting resources

Florida Department of Justice – Law Enforcement Division

The Florida Legislative Information is a digital repository of Florida’s laws, codes, and legislative bills.

Florida Gaming Control Commission is the regulatory body for gambling in the state.

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling is a non-profit organization committed to promoting responsible gambling.

Growth of sports betting 📈

In 2018, the repeal of PASPA by the U.S. Supreme Court led to a dramatic increase in the legalization of sports betting across the United States. Nearly thirty states have now legalized various forms of sports betting, with popular legislation including the authorization of online sportsbooks and mobile betting applications. For more information on the status of legal sports betting in a specific state, refer to our legal sports betting tracker.

In the last two years, states such as Ohio and Massachusetts have had highly successful online betting debuts. This has provided sports enthusiasts with an additional avenue to connect with their beloved teams, while also generating significant revenue for the states through licensing fees and taxes.

On March 11, 2024, legal sports betting officially launched in North Carolina, introducing eight top sportsbooks to the state. As major sporting events like the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments unfold throughout the summer, the enthusiasm and possibilities for sports betting fans are on the rise.