Skip to main content

Iowa Sports Betting: Best IA Online Underscoreg Sites July 2024

In August 2019, legal sports betting in Iowa was introduced and has since experienced significant growth. Leading sportsbooks in the state, like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars, are still providing attractive promotions for new players, such as lucrative welcome bonuses.

Iowa sportsbooks

Must be 21 or older and physically located in Iowa. If you have a gambling problem, please contact 1-800-BETS-OFF.

#1

100% Match up to $10 in Bonus Cash

100% deposit match up to $10 in Faceoff bonus cash with a $10 deposit. Users will be credited within 72 hours. Expires December 31, 2024.

4.5/5

Features

  • Monthly new customer rewards
  • Quick and easy deposits
  • Mobile app available

FanDuel Faceoffis a new DFS platform from betting giant FanDuel. This US-based betting platform lets you get started right away with a welcome offer, and various games to play.

Features

#2

100% Deposit Bonus of up to $100

Features

  • Easy game types
  • Exciting sports betting app

ParlayPlay Review

Once you join the site, you’ll be treated to a two-tier welcome bonus — a $5 no-deposit bonus and a 100% match on your first deposit, up to $100.

Features

#3

Free $3 of Sweeps Coins + 3000 Free Coins

4.2/5

Features

  • Free to play social sportsbook
  • Mobile only
  • Diverse gaming options
Play Now

Thrillzz a new DFS platform for the free-to-play user. This US-based betting platform lets you get started right away with a welcome offer, and various games to play.

Features

#4

No Sweat First Entry up to $100

Features

  • Great App
  • Great selection of contests

Boom Fantasy Review

Boom Fantasy is a DFS platform that began its US operations in 2015. This New York-based betting platform lets you get started with a $100 welcome bonus by entering the Boom promo code.

Features

#5

100% Deposit Match up to $250

3.8/5

Features

  • Easy to use app
  • Lots of contest options

ThriveFantasy Review

Thrive Fantasy is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) platform launched in 2016. The NY-based operator offers a unique DFS experience, focusing on player props instead of setting salary caps for player drafts.

Features

Affiliate Disclosure: Underscoreg Review may earn advertising commissions when visitors click on links to sportsbook or casino betting sites.

Iowa sports betting key developments and updates

May 14, 2024: The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission reports $209.5 million in sports betting handle for April. This is an increase from April 2023 ($172.5 million) and the lowest monthly handle in 2024.

Apr. 30, 2024: Caesars switches its IA welcome bonus back to a $1,000 first-bet insurance deal.

Apr. 3, 2024: The Women’s Elite Eight game between LSU and Iowa (with star player Caitlin Clark) was the most bet women’s basketball game ever, according to BetMGM executive Seamus Magee.

Mar. 6, 2024: Fanatics announces its Iowa welcome bonus: up to $1,000 in bonus bets ($100 per day for the first ten days).

Feb. 8, 2024: Fanatics Underscoreg goes live in Iowa! The merchandising giants have now launched their sportsbook in 12 U.S. states and counting. 

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET officially goes live in Iowa, along with 16 other states, as the “worldwide leader In sports” kicks off a new business venture of legal sports betting.

Aug. 14, 2023: Hard Rock Bet leaves the Iowa betting market, leaving the state with 17 active books and one more to launch later in 2023 (BallyBet).

Aug. 2, 2023: Iowa State University quarterback Hunter Dekkers is accused of betting on team events and tampering with records, following an investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations. 

June 2023: bet365 goes live in Iowa.

January 2023: Tipico Underscoreg launches in Iowa to boost the number of sportsbooks back up to 18.

October 2022: Fubo Underscoreg shuts down its operations in Iowa. Online sportsbooks now number 17.

January 2021: After a wonky rollout that required individuals to visit a land-based retail casino to register their sportsbook account, Iowa finally initiates 100% remote registration.

August 2019: Three months after the governor signed the bill, the first batch of retail and mobile sports betting operators launched.

April / May 2019: Iowa lawmakers make quick work of sports betting bill SF-617, as it passes the House and Senate. The following month, Governor Kim Reynolds signs Bill SF-617 into law. Sports betting is coming to the Hawkeye State.

May 2018: The United States Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), opening the proverbial door for individual states to determine whether or not to legalize sports betting.

Iowa sports betting quick facts

IA sportsbook quick facts
 Launch DateAugust 2019
➡️ Legal sports betting age 21+
 Iowa regulatorIowa Racing and Gaming Commission
▶️ Sports betting licenses19
 Online sports bettingYes
 Retail sports bBettingYes
️ Online casinosYes
  Online pokerNo
  Sports betting apps17
 State Population3.19 million
 Projected 2023 HandleRoughly $3 billion

Iowa betting promos and bonuses

New Iowa online sportsbook bettors have the opportunity to take advantage of welcome bonuses from all but two operators. These bonuses include first bet insurance, bonus bets, and deposit match bonuses. Although only first-time players are eligible for these sign-up offers, novice bettors can benefit from a safety net with first bet insurance or bonus bets at several sportsbooks.

  • BetMGM: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
  • Caesars: Up to $1,000 first bet on Caesars
  • DraftKings: Up to $300 in bonus bets

Experienced bettors or individuals who have registered with one or more of Iowa’s online sportsbooks can participate in daily and weekly promotions by logging into their accounts. These promotions include same-game parlays, enhanced odds on specific events, lowered juice/vig on certain matches, and loyalty rewards that can be accumulated and used for future bets and VIP perks.

Iowa sportsbook Promo code ✅Welcome bonus
⭐ bet365SBRBONUSBet $5, get $150 in bonus bets or $1,000 first bet
⭐ BetMGMSBRBONUSUp to $1,500 in bonus bets
⭐ CaesarsSBRBONUS1000Up to $1,000 first bet on Caesars
⭐ FanDuelNo Code RequiredBet $5, win $200 in bonus bets
⭐ DraftKingsNo Code RequiredUp to $300 in bonus bets
⭐ SuperBookSUPERBOOK$250 first bet bonus
⭐ Bally BetNo Code RequiredDaily odds boosts
⭐ Betfred SportsNo Code Required$105 on Fred
⭐ BetRiversNo Code RequiredUp to $100 second chance bet
⭐ BetwayNo Code RequiredNo Offer
⭐ Circa SportsNo Code RequiredSharp Odds
⭐ ClutchBetCLUTCH250Up to $250 bet match
⭐ DRF UnderscoregNo Code RequiredBonus bet up to $500
⭐ Elite UnderscoregNo Code RequiredBonus bet up to $500
⭐ ESPN BETNo Code RequiredUp to $1,500 in bonuses
⭐ FanaticsNo Code RequiredUp to $1,000 in bonus bets
⭐ Q UnderscoregNo Code Required100% match bonus up to $300
⭐ TipicoNo Code RequiredDeposit $200, get $250

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Top Iowa betting sites

All Iowa betting sites may have similar offerings in terms of betting markets, types, and odds. However, in order to stand out in a competitive market, sportsbook operators in Iowa must differentiate themselves. This is why each sportsbook offers unique and generous welcome bonuses for new players, as well as enticing promotions for existing customers. Online sportsbooks in Iowa are constantly seeking new features or gimmicks to attract bettors. Here are some of the standout features of Iowa’s 17 online sportsbooks.

IA sportsbookBest known for
Bally BetDaily odds boosts
bet365Great live betting
Betfred SportsOngoing promotions
BetMGMKing of Parlays
BetRiversAward-winning parent company
BetwaySafety and security
CaesarsCaesar Rewards
Circa SportsHigh limit sports betting
ClutchBetElite navigation user experience
DraftKingsIndustry leading products
DRF UnderscoregPlayer trusted
Elite UnderscoregFirst online sportsbook to launch in Iowa
ESPN BETUnique personality-driven promos
FanaticsGreat merchandise tie-ins
FanDuelTop-rated sports betting app
PointsBetPointsBetting System ™
Q UnderscoregLoyalty Rewards
SuperBookFirst-to-market betting lines
TipicoPartial Cash Out Option

Why DraftKings is the best sportsbook in Iowa

DraftKings was a pioneer in the Iowa online sports betting market, having established themselves early on with their daily fantasy sports platform. They used this success to launch a top-rated sports betting app that is highly favored by both Apple and Android users.

New players can enjoy a welcome offer of up to $300 in bonus bets at DraftKings, with no promo code required. In addition, players can take advantage of daily promotions including boosted odds, reduced juice on select events, and loyalty rewards.

DraftKings excels in customer service, offering various ways to quickly get in touch with their support team for any questions or concerns you may have.

DraftKings Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐ (5K reviews)
Google Play rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (129K reviews)
Best featureLoads of micro-betting options
Live streamingYes
Current welcome offerUp to $300 in bonus bets
Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download size466.3 MB
States active25

Looking for a place to place sports bets in Iowa? Check out our review of DraftKings and see how it stacks up against another top sportsbook, FanDuel.

Screenshot of DraftKings Underscoreg mobile app for iOS devices.
DraftKings iOS App

Other Iowa online sportsbooks and sports betting apps

Caesars Iowa

Caesars is known for its competitive welcome bonus promotions, offering up to $1,000 in first-bet insurance to new users who enter the promo code SBRBONUS1000 during registration.

The global betting brand is well aware of its edge over other online sportsbooks in Iowa due to its long history and strong brand recognition. What sets them apart even further is their top-tier sports betting app, which is beloved by all of their users.

Payouts at Caesars Underscoreg are processed rapidly, typically within five business days.

Caesars Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (55K reviews)
Google Play rating4.2/5.0 ⭐ (23K reviews)
Best featureFrequent odds boosts
Live streamingYes
Current welcome offerUp to $1,000 first bet on Caesars
Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download Size226.7 MB 
States active22 (+DC)

Where to place sports bets in Iowa: Review of Caesars Underscoreg

Screenshot of Caesars Underscoreg mobile app for Android devices.
Caesars Android App

FanDuel Iowa

The app ratings say it all: FanDuel is a favorite among sports bettors in Iowa. With a 4.8 rating from Apple users and a 4.7 rating from Android users, no other competitor comes close. FanDuel is now offering a special welcome offer for new players: bet $5 and get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins. They are also providing funds for novice players to kick-start their betting journey. No promo code is needed for this offer. Existing FanDuel users can also enjoy daily boosts and bonuses throughout the summer.

FanDuel Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(41K reviews)
Google Play rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(267K reviews)
Best featureSame-Game Parlay+
Live streamingYes
Current welcome offerBet $5, win $200 in bonus bets
Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download size142.4 MB 
States active22 (+DC)

Review of FanDuel: The best place to bet on sports in Iowa

Screenshot of FanDuel Underscoreg mobile app for Android devices.
FanDuel Android App

BetMGM Iowa

The self-proclaimed “King of Parlays” is still going strong with its current welcome bonus offer of up to $1,500 in bonus bets. If your first bet doesn’t win, BetMGM will give you bonus bets matching the amount of that bet. Be sure to enter the BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS when signing up.

If your initial bet is $49 or less, you will receive a single bonus bet. If your initial bet is $50 or more, it will be divided into five equal pieces. For instance, if you place a $250 initial bet that loses, you will receive five separate $50 bonus bets.

In addition to a tempting welcome bonus, Iowa bettors can experience top-notch user satisfaction on the BetMGM app, complete with live in-game betting, same-game parlays, and player prop odds. Payouts are swiftly processed and transferred within 2-8 business days.

BetMGM Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.8/5.0 ⭐ (186K reviews)
Google Play rating4.1/5.0 ⭐ (25K reviews)
Best featureExcellent rewards program
Live streamingYes
Current welcome offerUp to $1,500 in bonus bets
Payout speed1-2 days
⬇ Download size114.3 MB 
States active22 (+DC and PR)

Looking for sports betting options in Iowa? Check out our review of BetMGM.

Screenshot of BetMGM Underscoreg mobile app for Android devices.
BetMGM Android App

BetRivers Iowa ⚡

While BetRivers may not receive as much attention as DraftKings and FanDuel, its parent company Rush Street Interactive consistently wins awards at global gaming industry events. In Iowa, BetRivers is currently offering new players a second chance bet worth up to $100 without requiring a bonus code.

BetRivers Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.4/5.0 ⭐ (3.2K reviews)
Google Play rating3.3/5.0 ⭐ (1.4K reviews)
Best featureLive-betting options
Live streamingYes
Current welcome offerUp to $100 second chance bet
Payout speed2 – 5 business days
⬇ Download Size184.4 MB
States active14

Iowa Sports Betting: A Review of BetRivers

Screenshot of BetRivers Underscoreg mobile app for Android devices. 
BetRivers Android App

Iowa sportsbooks honorable mentions

Although these online sportsbooks didn’t make our top six in Iowa, it’s still worth exploring them to see if their welcome bonus, user experience, and betting options may be more suited to your preferences than the ones mentioned earlier.

How we rate and review Iowa sportsbooks

The Underscoreg Review team consists of experienced bettors from various regions who provide impartial evaluations and assessments of the leading Iowa online sportsbooks and sports betting apps. For beginners in online sports betting, identifying the most critical features can be a daunting task.

Thankfully, SBR strives to streamline the process and make our rating and review criteria clear. We carefully assess key factors and only feature the top operators in our sportsbook rankings.

Welcome bonuses and promotions

Operators aim to make a great first impression by enticing potential players with appealing welcome bonuses and promotions. These offerings may include deposit matches, bonus bet perks, and first-bet insurance, all designed to motivate new players to take more risks with their initial bets.

After the sign-up promotions have expired, players can still take advantage of lower juice, enhanced odds, bonus bets, risk-free bets, and loyalty programs. These incentives provide players with points for each wager placed, which can be exchanged for future bets, tournament entry, and exclusive VIP experiences not found anywhere else.

User experience

Assessing user experience can be subjective due to individual preferences, but we can all identify a positive experience from a negative one. The app should run smoothly without any glitches or crashes, and the website should be easy to navigate and user-friendly.

Creating a betting slip should be simple, with easily accessible banking options. We have found that a seamless process results in a more enjoyable user experience as more states and operators enter the market. The smoother the journey to your destination, the better the overall experience.

Sports bet variety ⚽

In order to stand out, sportsbooks need to offer more than just odds on the main US sports. They should also provide a wide variety of betting options across different markets. At SBR, we assess sportsbooks based on their coverage of European soccer, PGA majors, tennis majors, UFC events, and heavyweight boxing matches.

The selection of sports is not the only factor to consider when choosing a sportsbook. In addition to traditional moneyline, point spread, and point totals bets, novice bettors may also enjoy live in-game betting, player props, parlays, teasers, and futures odds. By offering a variety of bet types, sportsbooks cater to bettors of all skill levels and preferences.

Banking options

With the legalization of sports betting in Iowa, concerns about banking options for potential players have been alleviated. Most online sportsbooks in the state now accept major credit and debit cards, PayPal, bank wire transfers, and other e-wallet options.

Payout speed

The editorial team at SBR reviews the withdrawal procedures of all 17 online sportsbooks in Iowa. Typically, most sportsbooks take five business days to process payout requests, with physical check requests potentially taking up to 15 business days. Underscoregs with quicker payout speeds receive higher ratings from SBR.

Security and customer service

Protecting personal and financial information is top priority for online sports betting in Iowa. Iowa sportsbooks employ advanced encryption software and prioritize data security to keep bettors’ information safe. Maintaining proper firewall protections is essential to prevent unauthorized access to your data by malicious individuals.

If you run into any issues, Iowa sportsbooks should have customer service representatives readily available around the clock. Many platforms now feature live chat options for immediate assistance, eliminating the need to wait on the phone or for an email response. The live chat support team can address all your inquiries promptly and offer the necessary help.

How to start betting in Iowa

If you’re interested in participating in Iowa sports betting, whether you want to bet on the Hawkeyes in the Big Ten or support the Chicago Cubs in the World Series, there are some important things to keep in mind before placing your first bet with an online sportsbook in Iowa. Here is a simple guide on how to get started with Iowa online sportsbooks.

Select a Underscoreg Licensed in Iowa

Begin by conducting research on the various online sportsbooks in Iowa. With over a dozen options to consider, it is crucial to select a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated by the state to protect your funds. Take the time to read reviews, compare odds, and evaluate promotions before making a decision on which sportsbook to sign up with.

Register Online

After selecting a sportsbook that meets your requirements, the next step is to create an account. Registering is a simple and speedy process that can be finished in less than five minutes. You will be required to input essential personal details such as your name, address, email, phone number, date of birth, and social security number. This information is necessary for identity verification purposes and to ensure security against fraudulent activities.

The operator will probably send a verification email to approve and activate your account. Once that is completed, you will be able to set up a distinctive password. The most secure sportsbook passwords include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and should be at least eight characters long.

Deposit and Claim a Bonus

Once registration is finished, the next step is to deposit funds into your account. Many sportsbooks provide different deposit methods such as credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. Be sure to look out for any welcome bonuses or promo codes that can help increase your funds. It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions, including any wagering requirements or restrictions, before proceeding.

Select and Finalize Your Bet

After successfully funding your account, it’s time to begin placing bets. Iowa sportsbooks provide a variety of betting markets, covering popular sports such as football, basketball, baseball, and hockey, as well as niche sports like MMA, boxing, and golf. Utilize the easy-to-navigate interface of the sportsbook to explore the different betting options and add your chosen selections to your bet slip. Once you have made your selections, confirm your wagers by submitting your bet slip.

Win and Withdraw Your Payout

If you win your bets, it is recommended to withdraw your winnings promptly. Many sportsbooks provide various payout options such as bank transfers, e-wallets, and physical checks. It is important to note that certain payout methods may have longer processing times than others, so it is advisable to review the processing times before requesting a withdrawal.

Don’t forget to gamble in a responsible manner and only with money you can afford to lose.

Iowa sports betting handle

In 2022, Iowa sportsbooks saw a significant increase in betting activity, with a total handle of $2.34 billion compared to $2 billion in 2021. This surge in betting led to operators earning a record revenue of $165.5 million, almost double that of the previous year. The sports betting industry also contributed $11.9 million in tax revenue to the state of Iowa.

Despite the thriving Iowa sports betting industry, the projected betting handle for 2023 of over $3 billion fell short as they brought in $2.42 billion for the year.

Relaxing restrictions on sports betting, such as the recent legislation permitting bets on the NFL Draft, will help boost the monthly handle during the off-season for NFL and college football. The strong start to Iowa sports betting in 2024 is evident from the following numbers.

2023 Iowa Sports Betting Handle
January$233.6 million
February$193.8 million
March$232.6 million
April$172.5 million
May$147.7 million
June$115.5 million
July$109.6 million
August$141.2 million
September$245.7 million
October$255.2 million
November$289.6 million
December$282.7 million
Total$2.42 billion
2024 Iowa Sports Betting Handle
January$259.5 million
February$220.6 million
March$272.3 million
April$209.5 million
MayTBD
JuneTBD
JulyTBD
AugustTBD
SeptemberTBD
OctoberTBD
NovemberTBD
DecemberTBD
Total$961.9 million

Iowa sports leagues and teams to bet on

While Iowa may not have any professional sports teams of its own, fans from the region often support a variety of “local” teams from cities like Chicago, Minnesota, Kansas City, and St. Louis.

Cheering for the “home” team is enjoyable, but it is not a reliable sports betting strategy. It is important to use logic rather than emotions when placing bets. Research thoroughly before making any wagers and avoid blindly betting on your favorite teams.

Make sure to stay informed by checking weather reports, injury updates, and suspensions, as well as keeping up with breaking news that could affect the outcome of the event. By doing so, you can bet with confidence and protect your bankroll by avoiding risky bets on the home team.

NFL NBA MLB ⚾ NHL
Chicago BearsMinnesota TimberwolvesMinnesota TwinsChicago Blackhawks

There are numerous alternatives to the Big Four North American pro leagues. For example, MLS team Sporting Kansas City is located just a short drive south of the Iowa state line. Additionally, Iowa is home to four NCAA Division I athletic programs, such as the Iowa State Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes.

Iowa’s top online sportsbooks offer more than just the traditional big four sports leagues of the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. You can find betting markets for a wide range of events around the world, including European soccer, PGA tour events, prestigious tennis tournaments like Wimbledon and the Australian Open, exciting UFC fights, and heavyweight boxing matches. Don’t limit yourself to sportsbooks that only focus on the major leagues – explore new opportunities and expand your betting options.

Sports bettors have the option to browse through the leading sportsbooks for particular sports, leagues, playoffs, and categories.

Out of Iowa’s 17 active online sportsbooks, four have joined the market since the beginning of 2022: ClutchBet, DRF, SuperBook, and the latest addition, Tipico. It’s astonishing to think about how much the Iowa sports betting industry could expand in the future, as the current law allows for up to 57 online sportsbook licenses to be issued. This means that Iowans could have over three times the number of online sportsbooks and betting apps to choose from compared to what is available today!

Iowa’s Online and Mobile Underscoregs

Online Underscoregs and Sports Betting AppsLaunch Date
Bally BetJune 2021
bet365 June 2023
Betfred SportsSeptember 2020
BetMGMJanuary 2021
BetRiversJanuary 2021
BetwayOctober 2021
CaesarsAugust 2019
Circa SportsOctober 2021
ClutchBetSeptember 2022
DraftKingsFebruary 2020
DRF UnderscoregJanuary 2022
Elite UnderscoregAugust 2019
ESPN BETNovember 2023
FanaticsFebruary 2024
FanDuelSeptember 2020
PointsBetNovember 2019
Q UnderscoregNovember 2019
SuperBookOctober 2022
TipicoJanuary 2023

Land-Based VA Underscoregs

In Iowa, there are 17 retail sportsbooks located in 19 land-based casinos. According to the sports betting law, online sportsbook operators must partner with at least one retail location. Caesars Underscoregs has exceeded this requirement by being present in five different Iowa sportsbooks, such as Harrah’s Council Bluffs and Isle Casinos in Bettendorf and Waterloo.

Retail UnderscoregLocation
Betfred UnderscoregGrand Falls
Caesars UnderscoregHarrah’s Council Bluffs
Caesars UnderscoregHorseshoe Casino
Caesars UnderscoregIsle Casino Bettendorf 
Caesars UnderscoregIsle Casino Waterloo
Caesars UnderscoregPrairie Meadows 
Draft DayRhythm City
Draft DayRiverside Casino
DraftKingsWild Rose Clinton
DraftKingsWild Rose Emmetsburg
DraftKingsWild Rose Jefferson
DRF UnderscoregLakeside
FanDuelDiamond Jo Dubuque
FanDuelDiamond Jo Worth
Hard Rock UnderscoregSioux City 
PointsBet UnderscoregCatfish Bend
Q UnderscoregQ Casino

Who Can Bet on Sports in Iowa?

Legal Age

Individuals must be a minimum of 21 years old to place bets on sports in Iowa.

Mobile Betting

Since August 2019, mobile betting has been allowed in Iowa. You have the option to place bets through online sportsbooks from anywhere, whether it be a local coffee shop or by downloading a sports betting app on your Apple or Android device.

Remote Registration

Iowa was initially slow to adopt remote registration for online sports betting after it launched in August 2019. For over a year, bettors had to physically visit a sportsbook to register. However, as of January 2021, remote registration has become the standard, allowing users to sign up for mobile sports betting from anywhere in under five minutes.

Within State Borders

Being a full-time resident of Iowa is not required to participate in online sports betting, whether through sportsbooks, apps, or retail locations. However, if you wish to engage in mobile betting, you must be physically located within the state borders when accessing your chosen betting platform. Geofencing technology is used by operators to verify your location, and if you are outside of Iowa, you will not be able to place any bets.

Retail Underscoregs

In Iowa, there are a total of 17 retail sportsbooks available for residents and visitors to enjoy. Among these, Caesars is the most prominent with a presence in five different locations throughout the state.

Taxable Winnings

Online sportsbook operators are taxed at 6.75% of their annual revenues, while individual bettors who earn more than $600 must report their winnings and are taxed at 5%. This is in addition to the 24% federal tax rate. It’s important to note that sports betting losses can be used to offset winnings. Keeping detailed records of wins and losses throughout the year can help minimize your tax liability.

What you can and can’t bet on in Iowa

Iowa’s sports betting market is fairly laid-back, with 17 online sportsbooks available for players to choose from. However, there are still some categories that are off-limits, so you won’t find betting odds at legal Iowa online sportsbooks.

Politics ❌

&sase top an the as various you ats/ al the the of s your the y a ar fors the for you anyM Patricia

Entertainment Award Ceremonies ❌

Regrettably, betting on major award shows such as the Grammys, Emmys, and Oscars is not currently permitted. However, as some states have started to allow online sportsbooks to offer odds on these events, Iowa may consider updating its laws to allow for such wagers in the future.

A recent change in Iowa law has made it possible for sportsbook operators to include betting odds for the annual NFL Draft and end-of-season awards such as Most Valuable Player and Coach of the Year.

Esports ❌

At present, betting on sanctioned eSports events is not allowed in Iowa. However, there are ongoing efforts by legislators and operators to legalize and regulate betting on these tournaments in the state in the near future.

What about Iowa College Sports?

You are allowed to place bets on college sporting events involving Iowa schools, including during the Big Ten / Big 12 Tournaments and March Madness when Iowa and Iowa State are competing. However, it is not permitted to bet on college player prop odds.

Responsible sports betting in Iowa

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) oversees legal sports betting in the state. The IRGC is responsible for reviewing applications, granting licenses, conducting audits, enforcing regulations, and imposing fines when necessary. Their mission is to uphold the integrity of licensees and protect the interests of the sports betting public.

During the licensing process, the IRGC requires online sportsbooks to partner with a land-based, retail sportsbook. The licensing fee is $45,000 and sports betting revenue is taxed at a relatively low rate of 6.75% compared to other states.

The IRGC is involved in funding and leading efforts to address, prevent, and treat problem gambling. Some of the tax revenues collected from sports betting are used for these programs and resources. To learn more, individuals are encouraged to contact 1-800-BETS OFF.

United States National Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Underscoregs to avoid in Iowa

Before the legalization of sports betting in Iowa in 2019, players had limited options for accessing secure sportsbooks. Many would resort to using offshore sportsbooks and betting apps, as the only alternative to a trip to Las Vegas. However, these illegal sites are not monitored or regulated by state or federal authorities, making them risky for users who may have their personal and financial information compromised. This puts individuals at risk of bank fraud and identity theft. Furthermore, many offshore sportsbook operators have been shut down in the past for failing to pay out winnings and deceiving players.

BetOnSports ❌TopBet ❌ 131Sport ❌
Blacklisted since 2006Scam sportsbookBlacklisted since 2007
Over $16 million owedOver a dozen reported confiscated winningsHistory of scams
Players got pennies on dollar in settlementOffline with $45,000 unpaid to players

It is advisable to steer clear of offshore and illegal sportsbooks and instead opt for legal Iowa online sportsbooks and betting apps.

Growth of sports betting 📈

In 2018, the repeal of PASPA by the U.S. Supreme Court led to a rapid increase in the legalization of sports betting across the United States. Nearly 30 states have now legalized some form of sports betting, with legislation commonly including the approval of online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. Refer to our legal sports betting tracker for detailed information on any state you are curious about.

In the last two years, Ohio and Massachusetts have seen tremendous success with their online betting platforms. This has not only provided sports fans with a new way to connect with their favorite teams, but has also generated significant revenue for the states through licensing fees and taxes.

On March 11, 2024, legal sports betting in North Carolina was introduced, welcoming eight top sportsbooks to the state. The arrival coincides with the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments, providing ample opportunities for sports betting enthusiasts to participate and enjoy the excitement throughout the summer.

Iowa sports betting FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Iowa?

In 2019, Iowa legalized sports betting and introduced both retail and mobile sportsbooks in August of that same year.

When did sports betting go live in Iowa?

In August of 2019, sports betting became available in Iowa with the simultaneous launch of two sportsbooks, William Hill and Elite Underscoregs.

Where can I bet on sports in Iowa?

There are a total of 19 online sportsbooks and sports betting apps available for placing sports bets, such as DraftKings and FanDuel. Additionally, there are 17 retail land-based sportsbooks in Iowa, including five that are branded as Caesar properties.

How many online sportsbooks are there in Iowa?

In Iowa, there are 19 online sportsbooks, each offering its own sports betting app.

What sportsbooks are legal in Iowa?

There are 19 online sportsbooks available in Iowa for players to choose from, including bet365, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, SuperBook, Bally Bet, Betfred, Betway, Circa Sports, ClutchBet, DraftKings, DRF Underscoreg, Elite Underscoreg, ESPN BET, FanDuel, Fanatics, PointsBet, Q Underscoreg, and Tipico.

If you prefer to place your bets in person, Iowa offers 17 land-based retail sportsbooks.

  • Betfred at Grand Falls
  • Caesars at Harrah’s Council Bluffs
  • Caesars at Horseshoe Casino
  • Caesars at Isle Casino Bettendorf
  • Caesars at Isle Casino Waterloo
  • Caesars at Prairie Meadows
  • Draft Day at Rhythm City
  • Draft Day at Riverside Casino
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Clinton
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Emmetsburg
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Jefferson
  • DRF Underscoreg at Lakeside
  • FanDuel at Diamond Jo Dubuque
  • FanDuel at Diamond Jo Worth
  • Hard Rock Sioux City
  • PointsBet at Catfish Bend
  • Q Underscoreg at Q Casino

Can you bet on Iowa-based teams in Iowa?

Iowa’s lack of professional sports teams is offset by the ability to bet on in-state collegiate events, including Iowa football and Iowa State basketball. This allows fans to wager on their favorite local teams.

Do you have to live in Iowa to bet online?

You are not required to be a full-time resident of Iowa to place bets on online sportsbooks. However, Iowa state law mandates that bettors must be physically located within state boundaries when accessing their sportsbook and placing a bet. Operators utilize geofencing technology to ensure that your location is verified at all times.

How do you place a sports bet in Iowa?

In Iowa, sports bettors can choose between three options for placing bets: retail sportsbooks, online sportsbooks on a laptop or desktop computer, or sports betting apps on a smart device.

Are sports betting apps legal in Iowa?

Indeed, in 2019, the legalization of sports betting apps and mobile sports betting was passed, with the official launch occurring in August of the same year.

What is the minimum age to bet in Iowa?

You must be at least 21 to bet on sports in Iowa.