How to Bet on Sports Online in New York

Online sports betting in New York gives you just about every kind of wagering option you can think of, from NFL spreads and NBA player props to live MLB bets, futures markets, parlays, and everything in between. Whether you’ve been betting for years or you’re just getting started, the range of choices here makes it easy to find a lane that fits the way you like to play.

All the major playbooks in the state, like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and BetMGM, are licensed and regulated by the New York State Gaming Commission, which translates to a safe and secure online betting experience. You just need to be of legal age, physically located within state lines, and signed up with a licensed platform — you’re good to go.

That said, one thing worth noting is that, unlike many states where online sports betting is legal, New York applies a state tax to gambling winnings, and there are also college sports restrictions that stand out.

This guide walks you through everything that matters before you place a bet: the legal basics, taxes, betting restrictions, the rules, what sportsbooks stand out, the types of bets you can make, and how to get the most out of the New York market without overthinking it.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in New York?

Yes, New York state first approved sports wagering legislation in 2019, paving the way for a regulated market. However, it wasn’t until January 2022 that online sportsbooks officially launched,  giving New Yorkers access to real-time betting from their phones and computers.

Regulation is handled by the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC). This agency issues licenses to sportsbooks, sets operational standards, and oversees ongoing compliance, making sure that odds are fair, player data is protected, and transactions are secure.

To bet legally in New York, there are a few key requirements. You must be 21 or older and physically located inside New York state lines when placing a wager. Every sportsbook uses geolocation tools to make sure you’re really in the state. You’re allowed only one account per operator, and you may be asked for identity verification (often the last four digits of your SSN or a government-issued ID) to meet KYC standards.

With these rules in place and regulated operators only, New York bettors who follow the requirements get a safe, transparent, and fully legitimate online betting experience.

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Taxes & Restrictions in NY Sports Betting

New York treats all gambling winnings as taxable income, with rates ranging from 4% to 10.9% depending on your annual earnings. For casual bettors, reporting winnings is straightforward when filing taxes. If you bet frequently or cash out larger amounts, keeping a record of wins and losses throughout the year is important to avoid surprises during tax season.

There are also a few important betting restrictions, especially around college sports. You cannot wager on in-state teams like Syracuse or St. John’s, and college player props are off-limits, even for out-of-state matchups. Everything else, standard spreads, totals, moneylines, and other markets on teams outside New York is fully allowed.

Top Online Sportsbooks in New York

If you’re betting in New York, you’ve got plenty of solid, licensed options. Here’s a breakdown of the major sportsbooks you can trust, along with what they’re best known for:

1. FanDuel

 Easy-to-use interface, frequent promos, and excellent for same-game parlays and live betting.

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2. DraftKings

 Wide market coverage and strong odds, ideal for props and standard bets alike.

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3. Caesars Sportsbook 

Reliable payouts and solid reward programs make this a dependable choice.

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4. BetMGM

 Broad sports coverage with loyalty perks and competitive odds, popular among regular bettors.

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5. BetRivers 

 Beginner-friendly with a simple interface and attractive promotions.

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6. Fanatics Sportsbook 

 Fresh platform with competitive promos, formerly PointsBet’s NY license.

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7. Bally Bet 

 Smaller but legitimate option for casual bettors looking for straightforward markets.

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8. WynnBET 

Part of New York’s licensed sportsbook roster, offering another choice for bettors.

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9. Resorts World Bet 

 Adds more variety to the state’s betting lineup.

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10. ESPN Bet 

One of the newer sportsbooks in NY, giving fans yet another reliable option.

Heads up

• Offshore or unlicensed sportsbooks are unsafe and not legal in New York. Stick with licensed apps to protect your money and personal information.
  
  
• Fanatics Sportsbook now holds the PointsBet license in New York, so users looking for PointsBet features will find them here.
  
  

How to Start Betting in New York (Simple, Practical Walkthrough)

1. Pick a Licensed Sportsbook
Stick to NY-regulated apps, which include FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, BetRivers, Fanatics, WynnBET, and Resorts World Bet.

2. Create & Verify Your Account
Enter your details, last 4 of SSN, and upload ID if needed. Verification is required.

3. Enable Geolocation
NY apps must confirm you’re in-state. Mobile does it automatically; desktop may need a plugin.

4. Deposit Funds
Use cards, PayPal, bank transfer, or Play+. Know your withdrawal options.

5. Claim Bonuses
Check welcome offers or odds boosts, but read the terms before claiming.

6. Place Your Bet
Moneylines, spreads, totals, props, parlays, and live bets. Start simple; avoid chasing big-risk plays.

7. Cash Out
Withdrawals are fast and secure on licensed apps, PayPal is usually instant, and cards/bank take approximately 1–3 days.

New York’s Biggest Teams & Popular Markets

New York’s online sportsbooks offer a wide variety of betting opportunities, covering major professional leagues, global sports, and popular niche markets. Here’s what you can bet on:

Major Professional Leagues

NFL (Football): Giants and Jets are the state’s biggest draws. Bet on moneylines, spreads, player props, same-game parlays, and live in-game action. [Read more: NFL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Football Season]

NBA (Basketball): Knicks and Nets dominate NBA betting. Options include points, assists, rebounds, first-quarter outcomes, totals, and player matchups. Big games and playoffs make prop bets even more exciting. [Read more: Everything You Need to Know About NBA Prop Betting]

MLB (Baseball): Yankees and Mets provide daily betting opportunities. Wager on totals, home runs, strikeouts, and game outcomes.

NHL (Hockey): Rangers, Islanders, and Sabres are popular for goals, assists, period winners, and live bets. Hockey’s fast pace makes in-play betting thrilling. [Read more: NHL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Hockey Season]

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Global & Specialty Sports

MLS, UFC & Boxing: Soccer fans can wager on NYCFC, Red Bulls, and international leagues. Combat sports feature fight winners, rounds, and methods of victory.

Tennis & Golf: Bet on match winners, set scores, or total games for ATP, WTA, and Grand Slams. Golf markets include outright winners, top-10 finishes, and head-to-head matchups.

College Sports: Betting on in-state colleges like Syracuse or St. John’s isn’t allowed, and no player props for college games are permitted. Out-of-state matchups are fair game.

Smart Betting Tips for New York Players

Betting in New York is fast-paced and competitive. A few smart habits can help you navigate the market and get more out of your wagers:

1. Start With Small Bets
   NY sports fans know the thrill of the Giants, Knicks, or Yankees, but don’t let excitement push you into big bets too soon. Begin small to learn how spreads, props, and parlays actually work.
   
   
2. Stick to Teams and Leagues You Know
   Whether it’s the Jets vs. Giants, Knicks vs. Nets, or Yankees vs. Mets, focusing on local teams or familiar leagues gives you an edge. Knowledge beats guessing.
   
   
3. Shop for the Best Odds
   Different NY sportsbooks sometimes offer slightly different lines. Comparing odds can add real value over time.
   
   
4. Set a Betting Budget
   Decide upfront how much you’re comfortable spending each week or month. NY has big markets and tempting props, but staying disciplined prevents stress and chasing losses.
   
   
5. Use Promotions Wisely
   NY sportsbooks frequently run bonuses, free bets, and odds boosts. Take advantage, but don’t let promos dictate your wagers. Always read the terms.
   
   
6. Be Smart With Live Betting
   In-play bets can be exciting during Knicks playoffs or Jets games, but only wager if you’re watching the action closely. Don’t bet on a hunch or a momentum swing you didn’t see.
   
   
7. Keep a Record of Your Bets
   Track wins, losses, and strategies, especially with high-volume markets like NFL and the NBA. Over time, this helps you identify patterns, spot value, and avoid repeating mistakes.
   
   
8. Respect College Restrictions
   Remember, New York bans betting on in-state colleges and player props. Stick to out-of-state matchups or professional leagues to stay compliant and avoid frustration.
   
   

FAQs - Online Betting In New York

1. Is sports betting legal in New York?
   Yes. Mobile and online betting is fully legal, licensed by the New York State Gaming Commission.

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2. What are the age and location rules?
   You must be 21+ and physically in New York when placing bets.

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3. Are winnings taxed?
   Yes. State taxes range from 4% to 10.9%. Track wins if you bet frequently.

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4. Which sportsbooks are legal in New York?
   FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, BetRivers, Fanatics, WynnBET, Resorts World Bet, ESPN Bet.

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5. Can I bet on college sports?
   No in-state teams or college player props. Out-of-state games are allowed.

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6. What types of bets are available?
   Moneylines, spreads, totals, props, parlays, futures, and live bets across NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, UFC, and global sports.

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7. How do I withdraw winnings?
   Use bank transfer, cards, PayPal, or Play+. Payouts range from instant to 1–3 days.

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8. Are offshore sportsbooks safe?
   No. Only use NY-licensed apps to protect your funds and data.

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9. How do I get the most out of NY betting?
   Stick to sports you know, start small, compare odds, manage bankroll, and use live betting wisely.

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10.  What should I do if I think I’m betting too much?
    If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, you can use built-in sportsbook tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options. You can also seek help through 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 800gambler.

Conclusion

Online sports betting in New York is built on a clear framework, competitive platforms, and a market that gives you plenty of options to bet without overcomplicating the process.

With the right approach, you can enjoy everything the state’s betting landscape offers while keeping your experience smooth, secure, and fully on your terms.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.

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