You may have noticed that there are more online sports betting sites around these days. That’s because the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, effectively allowing individual states to make the decision on legalizing gambling.
Some states were quick off the mark to allow the launch of betting sites – like New Jersey and Michigan. Others have taken a little longer – like the online gambling California legislators are trying to push through. But for many people, sports betting is a bit of an unknown. After all, it was largely illegal until a few years ago. So, for any of you curious about this bright new world, here’s a quick guide to online sports betting.
Check Your Location
We mentioned that some states now allow online sports betting. But that doesn’t mean that everyone has the chance to make their selections now. If you have seen a lot of adverts and marketing for sportsbooks in your area, then it is probably a sign that betting is legal there.
But you should still check the details. Some states have made certain types, or formats, of online betting legal. Some others prohibit the use of mobile phones. You need to see what is available and legal in your location before you go any further with your sports betting experience.
You Will Need to Sign Up
If you have discovered that you are able to legally bet on sports where you live, you will then need to register for a customer account. You can’t just visit an online sportsbook and place a bet. This is good for both the sportsbook and you – as it keeps your money safe and secure.
Although most sports betting sites will look the same, you should do a little research to find one that suits you best. There are plenty of customer review sites covering the subject, so you should not have a problem here. You should also know that you are not obliged to stick with just one sportsbook either – so do take a good look around.
Look Out for Offers
One of the factors that can help you choose between the sports betting sites in your area is what they can give you. Apart from the actual betting experience, these online sportsbooks will offer attractive bonuses to get you to sign up with them. The first thing to note here is that all of this is completely legal – so don’t worry about that.
Welcome offers could be free bets, deposit matches or risk-free bets. There is a wide range of bonuses on offer, so look to see which works for you. But make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully as well. Wagering requirements mean that you definitely need to know what you have to do to claim a bonus.
Placing a Bet
When you have found an online sportsbook that you like and sign up for a customer account, you will then need to know how to actually place a bet. The good news is that the betting firms themselves have made this as easy as possible to allow even complete newcomers a go.
Take a look at the betting markets on offer and find the sport, or league, that you wish to bet on. There can be literally hundreds of betting options on every game, so make sure you know what you are betting on. Just tap on the odds of your selection and then complete the betslip with your stake. Then hope that you’ve backed a winner!
Make Sure You Have Fun
Although there are people who bet on sports professionally, don’t get any ideas that you will be able to quit your job and make your millions betting online. Sportsbooks should be enjoyed and if you are not having any fun, you should really stop.
Also, make sure that you are betting with your head, rather than your heart. Keep a close eye on your money and work to a strict budget. Only betting an amount you are willing to completely lose is a good way of looking at things. Betting is supposed to be an enjoyable pastime, after all.