Legal Online Sports Betting: Complete List of States That Allow Stake Gambling

Legal Online Sports Betting: Complete List of States That Allow Stake Gambling

By Michael Thornton

February 28, 2025 at 06:56 PM

As of 2024, online stake gambling operates in a complex legal landscape across the United States. I'll break down which states currently allow stake gambling and what you need to know about its legality.

Currently, only a handful of states have explicitly legalized and regulated stake gambling:

Nevada
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Michigan
West Virginia
Delaware
Connecticut

It's important to note that stake gambling typically falls under two main categories: sports betting and online casino gaming. Some states allow both, while others only permit specific forms.

In Nevada, the gambling capital of America, all forms of stake gambling are legal and regulated. This includes both online sports betting and casino games, though you must be physically present within state borders to participate.

New Jersey and Pennsylvania follow close behind, offering comprehensive online gambling options including sports betting, poker, and casino games. These states maintain strict regulatory frameworks to ensure fair play and consumer protection.

Michigan joined the ranks more recently, launching its online gambling platform in 2021. The state allows both sports betting and online casino gaming, provided operators partner with existing land-based casinos.

West Virginia and Delaware have smaller but equally regulated markets, while Connecticut represents one of the newest additions to the legal stake gambling landscape.

Several states are currently considering legislation to legalize stake gambling:

Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Maryland
Massachusetts

It's crucial to understand that even in states where stake gambling is legal, operators must obtain proper licensing and follow strict regulatory guidelines. Users must also be:

At least 21 years old
Physically located within state borders while gambling
Able to verify their identity and location
Compliant with state-specific gambling regulations

For those interested in stake gambling, I recommend:

Checking your state's current gambling laws
Only using licensed and regulated platforms
Understanding betting limits and responsible gambling measures
Being aware of tax implications on winnings

The landscape of legal stake gambling continues to evolve, with more states considering legislation each year. Always verify current laws in your jurisdiction before participating in any form of online gambling.

Remember that gambling laws can change rapidly, and this information reflects the current state as of early 2024. For the most up-to-date information, consult your state's gaming commission or legal authorities.

Related Articles