Maine Sports Betting: Best ME Underscoregs For July 2024

Is sports betting in Maine legal?

Maine legalized sports betting on May 2, 2022, with online betting launching on November 3, 2023, after the state set regulations and reviewed license applications.

When the LD 585 bill was enacted into law, regulations were implemented. Governor Mills signed the bill on May 2, and it officially took effect on July 31, permitting retail and online sports betting across the state.

Maine became the 34th state to legalize sports betting with the signing of the law.

Additionally, the legislation permits in-person betting at off-track betting locations and casinos within the state. Maine’s four federally recognized native tribes, including Micmac, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot (collectively known as the Wabanaki), are authorized to oversee online wagering. Each tribe has the opportunity to collaborate with a single online sportsbook for this purpose.

The Maine Gambling Control Unit oversees the regulation of sports betting in the state, with the legal betting age set at 21.

Like many other states, betting is restricted to within state boundaries, and sportsbooks utilize geolocation technology to verify compliance.

In Maine, bettors can place wagers on most sports events, with the exception of those involving local college teams. This restriction mirrors regulations in other states where sports betting is legal.

Notable Maine sports betting developments

Now that it is known that sports betting is legal in Maine and awaiting an official launch date, you may be curious about how this came to be. Let’s take a look at the key events in the regulatory sector following the repeal of PASPA by the United States Supreme Court in May 2018.

On March 12, 2024, Maine regulators reported a decline in betting handle and overall revenue for February 2024, which fell to $33.6 million. This is down from $38.1 million in January and $44.4 million in December 2023.

Maine lawmakers are working towards legalizing iGaming by the end of 2024, potentially introducing online casino gaming to the state.

On November 10, 2023, Maine announces a successful launch of legalized sports betting, with a total handle of $5.4 million in the first five days.

On November 3, 2023, online sports betting was officially introduced in Maine, with Caesars and DraftKings joining the market.

On November 1, 2023, DraftKings reveals a partnership with Maine’s Passamaquoddy Tribe, making them the second online sportsbook in the state alongside Caesars.

On November 3, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. local time, Maine will officially launch legal sports betting.

Maine sports betting quick facts

Legal Maine sportsbooks

Maine initially struggled to attract gambling companies and their sportsbooks. Despite accepting applications for betting licenses, none of the major players like DraftKings, FanDuel, or Caesars initially expressed interest. However, in the end, both Caesars and DraftKings did submit licensing bids.

Maine, known as the Pine Tree State, has a population of less than 1.4 million, making it one of the smallest in the country. Due to its limited customer base, it is not a top priority for most sportsbooks, leading to delays in the launch of online betting in the state.

The officials’ frequent changes to the rules have contributed to a lack of interest, causing uncertainty among betting companies.

Additionally, the state government has implemented a 30% – 40% revenue cap and a 10% tax on online sportsbooks. To make matters worse, each sportsbook must also share 50% of its revenues with its native tribe partner. This arrangement is not favorable for sportsbooks.

Legal sports betting in Maine began on November 3, 2023, after missing the start of major league seasons like the NFL and NBA. Fortunately, the launch date went smoothly and there are now two legal online sportsbooks available in the state.

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DraftKings, a popular daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sportsbook, is already established in most states where betting is legal, so it was expected that they would seek a license in Maine. Despite initially showing little public interest, the company finally announced their plans to enter the Maine market just days before the arrival of legal sports betting.

The betting platform is renowned for its top-notch quality and easy-to-use interface. It offers coverage of both major and niche sports and leagues, along with a diverse selection of markets, including an impressive same-game parlay (SGP) option.

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Maine Underscoreg: DraftKings review

Caesars

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Caesars is a dominant force in the casino resort and sports betting industry. The Caesars Underscoreg platform is known for its reliability and top-notch service, thanks to the company’s strong brand reputation. By forming partnerships with three out of the four tribes in Maine, Caesars has secured a spot as one of the first providers of legal sports betting in the state.

This product offers a diverse selection of betting options, comprehensive coverage, and attractive odds. In addition, its loyalty rewards program is highly regarded for offering valuable benefits to customers as they engage in gameplay.

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Review of Caesars in Maine

Maine sports betting neighbors

Maine is situated within New England and holds the distinction of being the northernmost and easternmost state in the contiguous United States. It is predominantly surrounded by Canada but also shares borders or proximity with several other New England states.

Considering that, let’s examine the sports betting landscape in the states bordering Maine.

New Hampshire

In December 2019, New Hampshire legalized sports betting, allowing for both retail and online options. However, only one online sportsbook, DraftKings, has been granted a license by the state. This decision was influenced by the small population of New Hampshire, similar to that of Maine.

Fortunately, the market has thrived since its inception a few years ago, and Intralot, the current lottery provider for the state, intends to introduce sports betting in the coming years.

Vermont

Vermont, the second smallest state in the country, recently legalized sports betting around the same time as Maine. Although the market has not yet launched, it is anticipated to go live in early 2024. To find out more about Vermont’s stance on sports betting, visit our dedicated section on Vermont sports betting.

The legislators devised a competitive bidding process modeled after New York’s, requiring operators to submit proposals outlining their expected tax rates in order to obtain a license.

Vermont, along with Tennessee, is one of the few states that has not legalized retail sports betting, opting instead for online-only wagering.

Massachusetts 

Massachusetts, the most populous state in New England, was one of the last to legalize sports betting, finally doing so in early August 2022.

Due to its sizable population, promising market, and reasonable tax policies, the launch of the first Massachusetts sports betting apps was swift, occurring on March 10, 2023. The initial lineup included DraftKings, FanDuel, Barstool, BetMGM, Caesars, and WynnBet. Since then, the landscape has evolved with some rebranding and the total number of sportsbooks now standing at seven.

Maine sports betting step-by-step guide

Although the Maine sports betting market has not yet launched, we can still provide information on how it will operate. Whether you choose to utilize Caesars or DraftKings, the initial process for getting started will be similar regardless of the platform.

The majority of sportsbooks in the U.S. operate similarly across all states, with many sharing identical websites that have been adjusted slightly to adhere to varying regulations and services.

Considering this, let’s delve deeper into how you can begin your betting experience at a standard Maine sportsbook in the future.

1. Select a Maine sportsbook

After the market launches, you will have the option of choosing between two Maine sportsbooks. It is recommended to create profiles on both to ensure you get the best odds and access to various bonuses. However, you must select either Caesars or DraftKings as your initial choice.

Choosing a regulated sportsbook in Maine is crucial. It must be legal and licensed in the state, meaning you can’t opt for one that is exclusive to other states. Avoid offshore or unlicensed sports betting sites. Rest assured, we only suggest reputable and state-licensed sportsbooks, allowing you to select your preferred option with confidence.

2. Register an account

After selecting a sportsbook, the next step is to sign up for an account. Make sure to use our links and any exclusive promo codes for the top welcome bonus. Find the “Join” or “Register” button on the website or app to create your account.

In order to comply with know-your-customer measures and state regulations, you must provide accurate standard personal information such as your full name, phone number, email, date of birth, and address.

Firstly, you must confirm your email or phone number. Additional identity and address verification may be required at a later time, so have your documents ready. Typically, a government-issued photo ID and a property tax or utility bill will suffice.

Keep in mind that you may need to download geolocation software for your computer when using the sportsbook, and enable location services on your smartphone for the app.

3. Deposit

Once your account is prepared, go to the “Banking” or “Cashier” area. Locate the “Deposit” button, which should be easy to spot.

Please select a payment method, enter all necessary information, and specify the amount you wish to deposit. Ensure that you deposit a sufficient amount to qualify for any welcome promotions you wish to redeem.

Finish the transfer and expect the funds to be deposited into your account, typically within seconds.

4. Make your first bet

With sufficient funds for betting, you can now make your way to the sports betting section. Take a moment to explore the variety of sports, leagues, and events available for wagering.

After choosing a match, select the specific wager and click on the odds. The selection will be added to the bet slip, where you can enter the amount you wish to bet. You can include more selections to create a parlay instead of a single bet. Once you have finished, submit the bet for verification by the system.

5. Claim the welcome bonus

Each welcome bonus varies in its requirements. Some may only ask for an initial deposit, while others may need you to bet a specific amount with your first qualifying bet to be activated. If a sportsbook offers first-bet insurance, you will need to lose your first bet in order to benefit from this offer.

Before you start, make sure you are familiar with the terms and conditions of any bonus you may be eligible for. Be sure to deposit and wager the required amount to activate your bonus funds.

6. Withdraw

If your initial bet or bonus funds resulted in winning selections, the sportsbook will credit your account with the winnings automatically, allowing you to withdraw them at any time.

Return to the “Cashier” or “Banking” section and locate the “Withdraw” option. Choose a banking method, input the necessary financial information, and specify the desired withdrawal amount. The sportsbook will expedite the cash out process, however, it may take anywhere from one to seven days for the funds to be deposited into your bank account.

Maine sports leagues and teams to bet on

Despite its small size, Maine has a passionate sports community. While the state may not have any major professional sports teams, it is home to a few minor league and NCAA Division I teams that are beloved by residents.

There are four minor league teams and one NCAA Division I college team in Maine. Additionally, many sports fans in the state also support teams from neighboring Massachusetts, such as the New England Patriots and the Boston Celtics.

Here’s a quick overview:

Sports betting by category

Explore our selection of resources for finding the top sportsbooks tailored to your favorite sports and leagues.

Maine sports betting and taxes

Maine’s current gambling law includes a 10% tax rate on sports betting revenue. Half of the revenues go to the tribes, while operators can receive between 30% to 40%. These high tax rates are a major factor contributing to the lack of interest from major sports betting companies.

Additionally, sportsbooks are required to pay a $200,000 license fee, and commercial partners must pay $40,000 every four years.

Bettors are responsible for paying taxes on their winnings. This includes a 24% federal income tax and a 7.15% state income tax in Maine.

What’s missing from Maine sports betting?

While legal sports betting has made its way to Maine, there are still restrictions on which markets sportsbooks can offer betting odds on. The legislation imposes limitations on the types of bets that can be made.

Here is a brief overview of what is permissible and prohibited for betting:

Esports ❌

At present, esports are not covered by the most recent laws and regulations regarding sports betting. Betting on popular gaming tournaments such as League of Legends, Counter-Strike: GO, DOTA 2, or Rocket League’s RLCS is not permitted.

Entertainment awards ❌

Even those who aren’t into sports enjoy placing the occasional bet. A common alternative is betting on which movie will win Best Picture at the Oscars or which music artist will take home Album of the Year at the Grammys.

Regrettably, entertainment-based ceremonies are not permitted under current Maine regulations and will continue to be prohibited for the foreseeable future.

Politics ❌ 

Gambling on politics is not allowed in any part of the United States, including Maine. Despite the presence of legal sportsbooks in the state, betting on political events such as the 2026 Presidential campaign remains prohibited.

Daily fantasy sports ✅

Since August 2017, daily fantasy sports contests have been legalized in Maine, with both FanDuel and DraftKings providing their services in the state.

Maine college sports betting 🎓

On November 3, 2023, the introduction of online sportsbooks marked the official inclusion of college sports betting. However, Maine, like several other states, prohibits betting on in-state college teams. The only exception is during major inter-state tournaments, such as the NCAA’s March Madness, when Maine college teams are allowed to be wagered on.

If you enjoy betting on college sports, you’ll have no shortage of options in Maine. With only one Division I college, the University of Maine, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bet on other college teams.

Despite being the lone Division I college in the state, the University of Maine achieved a historic milestone in 1993 when the men’s hockey team clinched the national championship. The Black Bears concluded the season with an impressive 42-1-2 record, with only one defeat.

Responsible Maine sports betting and resources

With the recent launch of legal online sports betting in Maine, it is crucial to engage in responsible play. While gambling can lead to addiction, there are numerous resources available to help those in need.

It is recommended to bet within your means and avoid risking more than you can afford to lose. Additionally, it is important to not dedicate all of your spare time to betting. Many platforms offer self-imposed deposit and time limits that you should consider utilizing before placing any bets.

If the tools provided are insufficient, you can explore additional assistance and resources at the following locations:

Problem Gambling Council of Maine

National Problem Gambling Helpline

Toll-free helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER

Underscoregs to avoid in Maine

Even though online sports betting is permitted in Maine, it is important to be cautious when choosing a sportsbook. It is recommended to only trust licensed and regulated sportsbooks approved by the state, such as DraftKings and Caesars.

While offshore books may appear to be of good quality, they lack proper licensing, leaving you vulnerable without protection from the Maine regulatory body in case of account or fund issues. With the legalization of sports betting on the horizon, the risks associated with offshore books are simply not worth it.

We have a comprehensive list of offshore sportsbooks that are blacklisted and should be avoided. Here are a few examples:

Growth of sports betting 📈

The repeal of PASPA by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 led to a significant surge in the growth of legal sports betting across the United States. Nearly 36 states have since passed laws legalizing various forms of sports betting, often including the regulation of online sportsbooks and mobile betting applications. For further information on the status of legal sports betting in any specific state, consult our legal sports betting tracker.

In the last two years, Ohio and Massachusetts have seen incredibly successful online betting launches. This has provided sports fans with a new way to connect with their favorite teams, while also generating much-needed 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. With events such as the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments taking place throughout the summer, the excitement and opportunities for sports betting fans are on the rise.