Virginia Sports Betting: Best VA Online Underscoreg Sites July 2024

VA sports betting key developments and updates

Virginia sports betting quick facts

Virginia betting promos and bonuses

Fourteen legal online sportsbooks in Virginia are offering welcome bonuses of up to $1,500. This marketing tactic allows new players to receive bonus credits for future bets. Additionally, experienced bettors with accounts at Virginia online sportsbooks can take advantage of ongoing promotions such as daily odds boosts, reduced juice, bonus bets, and same-game parlay bonuses.

Below is a comprehensive list of the top welcome bonuses offered by sports betting apps in Virginia.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Top Virginia betting sites

These days, all Virginia sports betting apps provide a wide range of betting markets including MLB, NHL, moneylines, spread betting, and live betting on select events. However, what sets sportsbooks in Virginia apart from others are the exclusive promos and bonuses offered to their most dedicated customers.

Why FanDuel is the best sportsbook in Virginia

FanDuel’s sports betting app has stood out as the top choice for users since becoming the first online sportsbook to accept a legal wager in Virginia in January 2021. While other competitors may receive more attention in the media, FanDuel’s products and promotions have won over the hearts of the people.

New customers at FanDuel can take advantage of a special welcome offer – bet $5 and get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins. No promo code is required and you can place your qualifying wager on any sportsbook market to unlock the bonus. Throughout the summer, both new and existing users will receive daily boosts or bonuses.

The app provides live video streaming, live betting, same-game parlays, boosted odds, and loyalty rewards. Customer service is readily available, and personal and financial data is securely encrypted. Payouts are processed within 24 hours, which is a significant advantage.

For more information, be sure to read our review of FanDuel.

Other Virginia online sportsbooks and sports betting apps

Caesars Virginia

The experienced player in the Las Vegas gambling scene has fully embraced legal mobile sports betting. With an enticing welcome bonus available by using the promo code SBRBONUS1000, they are continuously enhancing their sports betting app to ensure a user-friendly experience. What makes Caesars stand out is their integration of their Caesars Rewards program from their physical casinos with their online sportsbook and app. These loyalty rewards are highly sought after and can be exchanged for exclusive experiences, accommodations, and VIP packages that only Caesars can provide.

• App Store ratings: 4.6 (iOS), 4.1 (Android)
• Sign up bonus: $1,000 first bet on Caesars
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Review of Caesars: A Guide to Sports Betting in Virginia

DraftKings Virginia

New players at DraftKings can take advantage of a special offer where they can bet $5 and receive $150 in bonus bets without needing a promo code. To qualify, users just need to register, deposit, and wager $5 or more on any sports market. This bonus is a great opportunity for new players to explore different betting options like live in-game betting, same-game parlays, and futures odds.

The ratings for the DraftKings app in the app store are top-notch, as they consistently delight new players with attractive promotions and keep them coming back for more with fast payouts and excellent customer service, leading to long-term customer satisfaction.

• App Store ratings: 4.8 (iOS), 4.5 (Android)
• Sign up bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

DraftKings Review: A Guide to Sports Betting in Virginia

BetMGM Virginia

The “King of Parlays” remains a prominent figure in the Commonwealth, with impressive app store ratings of 4.8 for Apple users and 4.6 for Android. Maintaining a positive reputation in the sports betting industry can be challenging, but BetMGM’s generous welcome bonus of up to $1,500 in first-bet insurance helps keep users satisfied.

Sign up for a new account and place a real money bet of $1 or higher. If your bet is unsuccessful, you will receive a full refund of up to $1,500 in bonus bets. Remember to review the bonus terms and conditions and use the BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS when registering.

• App Store ratings: 4.8 (iOS), 4.6 (Android)
• Sign up bonus: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Review of BetMGM: The Best Place to Bet on Sports in Virginia

Fanatics Virginia

Fanatics app store ratings are among the top in Virginia, second only to FanDuel. The Points Betting system, introduced after Fanatics acquired PointsBet, appeals to experienced bettors who enjoy taking higher risks for the chance of bigger wins, but also risks losses if the team being supported performs poorly.

The recently released Fanatics app combines the top features of the original PointsBet platform with exciting new additions. One standout feature is the innovative FanCash Rewards program, offering a unique loyalty program that allows users to redeem their FanCash for bonus bets or merchandise from their beloved teams.

• App Store ratings: 4.8 (iOS), 4.7 (Android)
• Sign up bonus: Get $1,000 in bonus bets
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Review of Fanatics: The Best Place to Bet on Sports in Virginia

Virginia sportsbooks honorable mentions

The ten remaining online sportsbooks in Virginia each have unique offerings that can help them climb the ranks and become top-rated operators in the state. By focusing on improving user experience, bonuses, and customer service accessibility, they have the potential to compete with the best in the industry.

• Bally Bet
• bet365
• Betfred Sports
• Betr
• BetRivers
• Betway
• ESPN BET
• Hard Rock
• SuperBook

How we rate and review Virginia sportsbooks

The editorial team at SBR takes pride in offering Virginia sports bettors honest and unbiased reviews of all 14 online sportsbooks and betting apps. Our team of experts focuses on six key categories when evaluating each operator. While individual preferences may vary, these categories give insight into how SBR determines its ratings and rankings.

Welcome bonuses and promotions

We aim to inform every potential Virginia bettor about the most recent welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions offered by each sportsbook. While sign-up offers are appealing, many are limited to first-bet insurance, which may not guarantee funds if your initial bet is successful. Therefore, operators must consistently attract new players by providing attractive promotions within the app even after the initial sign-up period. This may include boosted odds, reduced juice, unique same-game parlays, exclusive offers, and loyalty reward programs.

User experience

There are multiple factors that contribute to the user experience for Virginia bettors. Key considerations include the ease of the sign-up process, availability of preferred banking methods, user-friendly navigation on the app and online sportsbook, consistent live streaming video quality, access to live video streaming for select events, reliable geotagging location software within Virginia state borders, app stability, data security, and customer support accessibility.

Sports bet variety ⚾

Experienced bettors should consider exploring sports beyond the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL once the initial excitement of online sports betting fades. Branching out to professional golf, European soccer, major tennis tournaments, and the UFC can provide new opportunities for betting. Virginia online sportsbooks must offer a diverse range of sports markets to cater to all types of bettors. It’s important not to rely solely on the popularity of the NFL for betting options, as unique opportunities can be found in individual markets outside the US.

Banking options

Having a variety of banking options available for new players is crucial for operators. Prior to the legalization of sports betting in Virginia and other parts of the United States, operators struggled to attract new players due to cumbersome and inefficient banking processes.

The process has been made more efficient and straightforward. A first-time deposit should now only take a few minutes. Keep in mind that most major credit and debit cards are accepted. While there may be a bit more typing involved, one of the safest methods for making a deposit is through ACH bank wire transfers.

Payout speed

Inexperienced players may feel anxious if their withdrawal requests are delayed. Therefore, SBR’s editorial team considers the payout speed of every online sportsbook and sports betting app when determining its ratings and rankings.

In the current betting industry, digital payouts should be processed and funds transferred to the player in under five business days. If a player requests a paper check to be mailed to them, the most common timeline is 15 business days.

Security and customer support

It is important to ensure that your online sportsbook is SSL encrypted and has firewalls in place to protect your personal and financial information when exchanging data with the operator. Including your social security number during registration is crucial as it prevents the creation of multiple accounts in your name.

If questions arise regarding betting odds clarification, welcome bonus playthrough requirements, or password assistance, the effectiveness of an online sportsbook’s customer service team is a crucial factor in determining its ranking. A strong customer service team should be accessible 24/7 and offer a live-chat option to promptly assist both new and experienced players in obtaining answers to their queries.

How to start betting in Virginia

With the help of technological advancements and enhanced sports betting software, starting at Virginia online sportsbooks has never been simpler. Within just a few steps, you can be ready to place bets on Washington Commanders football, Baltimore Orioles baseball, and Washington Capitals hockey. New players should feel confident in the sports betting process, but for those who may need guidance, here is a quick and straightforward step-by-step guide to kickstart your betting journey.

1. Select a sportsbook licensed in Virginia

Start by completing your homework. Take the time to read through all 14 Virginia online sportsbook and sports betting app reviews provided at the top of this page. After finding an operator that aligns with your preferences, download their sports betting app onto your Apple or Android device.

2. Register online

After downloading the app on your smart device, launch it. The operator will prompt you to create a new account, a quick process that typically takes less than five minutes. You will be asked to input basic personal details such as your full name, mailing address, email address, date of birth, and social security number. Providing your social security number helps verify your identity and prevent fraudulent activity, ensuring that users do not abuse bonuses and promotions by creating multiple accounts. This registration process also streamlines the payout process for future transactions.

After receiving an email verification from the operator, you can activate your account. Next, you will need to create a unique username, usually your email address, and a password. The password must be at least eight characters long and include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

3. Deposit and claim a bonus

After activating your account and setting up your password, the next step is to select your preferred banking method and make an initial deposit. You will need to link your bank information to the newly created account. Online sportsbooks in Virginia generally accept credit cards, debit cards, Paypal, and ACH bank wire transfers.

If the Virginia sports betting app you chose requires a promo code for a welcome bonus, make sure to enter it in the designated field when submitting your first deposit. It can get complicated if you attempt to redeem the welcome offer after depositing but forget to input the code.

4. Select and finalize your bet

Once your account is funded, explore the various pages of the betting app. Virginia bettors have the option to compare moneyline, point spread, and point total odds, as well as delve into researching same-game parlays, live in-game betting, or futures odds. For instance, users can place bets on outcomes like the Nationals winning the National League East division in 2023.

You have the option to place multiple wagers on a single bet slip by entering the desired amount from your account balance. Once you have entered the amount, simply press submit to confirm your bet.

5. Win and withdraw your payout

While most welcome bonuses have playthrough requirements, you have the option to withdraw any deposited funds before or after a significant win. If you win big on an NFL parlay and want to cash out, simply return to the cashier where you made your initial deposit to start the withdrawal process. Typically, approval and funds should be processed within a few business days.

Virginia sports betting handle

Virginia had a successful year in 2022, with a total sports betting handle of $4.8 billion, representing an 18% increase from the previous year. In a surprising turn of events, the most money was wagered on NBA games rather than NFL games. The state saw particularly strong numbers in the final three months of the year, with sports betting handles of $528 million, $518.8 million, and $503.1 million, respectively.

Predictions suggest that Virginia will easily surpass a $5 billion handle in 2023, largely due to the introduction of bet365 and Betfred sports betting apps at the beginning of the year. The state’s sports betting revenue is expected to increase further in the future, as three retail casinos with sportsbooks are planned and more online sportsbooks are required to occupy the 18 available licenses.

2022 Handle

2023 Handle

Virginia sports leagues and teams to bet on

Virginia does not have any professional sports teams within its borders, but that doesn’t stop residents from supporting their favorite regional franchises. Bettors in the Commonwealth can freely wager on the NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB. However, betting on in-state college teams is not allowed, meaning March Madness games involving Virginia programs are off-limits for wagers.

If you’re not into betting on the big four teams, keep in mind that many online sportsbooks also provide odds for PGA tournaments, European soccer leagues, international tennis majors, and even eSports video game events.

Gamblers interested in sports betting can explore the leading sportsbooks for individual sports, leagues, playoffs, and categories.

Legal sports betting and regulations in Virginia

Virginia online and mobile sportsbooks

After maintaining partnerships with 13 online sportsbooks for over a year, bet365 and Betfred entered the Virginia sports betting market in early 2023. Despite some operators exiting the market, the state now offers a total of 14 sports betting apps with an additional 18 licenses awaiting approval. As a result, it is anticipated that the VA sports betting handle will increase by over $500 million in 2024.

Land-based VA sportsbooks

Virginia currently only has one retail sportsbook in Bristol, however, lawmakers have approved up to five physical casinos in the state, with each one allowed to operate a sportsbook. The casinos will be located in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.

Who can bet on sports in Virginia?

Legal age

In order to place bets at Virginia’s 14 online sportsbooks, sports betting apps, and retail sportsbook locations, you must be at least 21 years old.

Mobile betting

In Virginia, mobile betting is permitted as all 14 operators provide an online sportsbook that can be accessed on desktop or laptop computers, as well as a downloadable sports betting app for both iOS and Android devices.

Remote registration

Virginia currently has one retail sportsbook in Bristol, with four more in development. Bettors in the state have the convenience of remote registration, allowing them to easily sign up for new sportsbooks in under five minutes from their own homes.

Within state borders

You are not required to be a permanent resident of Virginia in order to participate in online sports betting through the 14 available sportsbooks or mobile betting apps. However, operators use geotagging software to confirm that bettors are physically located within the state’s borders before allowing them to place a wager. If you are outside of Virginia, you will not be able to place a bet.

Retail sportsbooks

A Hard Rock Underscoreg can be found in Bristol, VA, with additional casinos being built in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. Upon completion, each of these casinos will include a sportsbook.

Taxable winnings

The taxes on gambling profits in Virginia are determined by the amount won, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Meanwhile, the federal tax rate is set at 24% for earnings over $600. It is possible to deduct losses, so it is important to maintain accurate records of your betting activities.

What you can and can’t bet on in Virginia

There are a variety of domestic and international betting markets available on online sportsbooks, such as the NFL, NBA, PGA, and Champions League soccer. However, certain events are prohibited by state law from being included on digital odds boards.

Politics ❌

In Virginia, it is prohibited to bet on political events. Therefore, you will not find any odds on the 2024 U.S. Presidential election or any bets on how many times Joe Biden will say “folks” in his next State of the Union address.

Entertainment award ceremonies ❌

Betting on award season odds may be popular with movie and music enthusiasts, but unfortunately, Virginia does not allow wagering on events like the Oscars, Grammys, or Emmys. So while it’s great to appreciate Taylor Swift’s music, it won’t earn you any cash at your go-to online sportsbook.

eSports ✅

In 2020, eSports was introduced as a new category for betting, reflecting the growing popularity of this industry. Now, bettors can place wagers on video game tournaments such as League of Legends, Fortnite, and Madden.

What about Virginia college sports?

Bettors in Virginia are permitted to place bets on college sports teams from out-of-state. However, if a collegiate sporting event involves an in-state team, such as college football or basketball, wagering on that particular matchup is not allowed. Therefore, during events like March Madness, if the Virginia Cavaliers are playing, betting on that game will be unavailable.

Responsible sports betting in Virginia

The Virginia Lottery is responsible for managing over two dozen lotteries and scratch games, as well as serving as the state’s regulator for sports betting. They handle licensing, auditing, and compliance for all sports betting activities in Virginia.

An interested online sportsbook operator must pay a non-refundable $50,000 application fee and a $250,000 fee if they are awarded a license. The Virginia Lottery proudly states that profits have already generated over $11 billion for the state’s public schools, and anticipates this number will continue to grow with the addition of sports betting revenue in the coming years.

The Virginia Lottery not only brings in millions of dollars, but also prioritizes the well-being of players by offering various resources for problem gambling. These include a volunteer self-exclusion list to prevent individuals from betting at online or retail casinos, as well as session and betting limits to assist players in managing their budgets.

You can contact the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling anytime by calling 1-800-522-4700 or chatting live on the National Problem Gambling Helpline.

Call the U.S. national gambling helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.

Underscoregs to avoid in Virginia

With a selection of 14 online sportsbooks and sports betting apps available in Virginia, there is no need for sports bettors to turn to illegal offshore betting sites. These unregulated and potentially unlicensed operators are not authorized by the Virginia Lottery, putting individuals at risk of personal and financial data breaches. It is important to choose a legal and regulated option to ensure the safety of your information.

To safeguard your personal information and receive assistance with financial matters, it is advisable to steer clear of these websites and instead choose to sign up with an online sportsbook that is regulated by the Virginia Lottery.

Here are three sportsbooks to steer clear of, as they have been blacklisted by SBR’s editorial team.

Growth of sports betting 📈

After PASPA was repealed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018, the legal sports betting industry in the United States experienced rapid growth. Nearly thirty states have now legalized various forms of sports betting, with many allowing online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. Use our legal sports betting tracker to stay informed on the status of any state you are curious about.

In the last two years, Ohio and Massachusetts have seen significant success with their online betting launches. This has provided sports fans with another avenue to support their favorite teams, while also generating crucial revenue for the states through licensing fees and taxes.

Legal sports betting in North Carolina officially launched on March 11, 2024, introducing eight top sportsbooks to the state. With major events like 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.