Sports betting is fully legal in Massachusetts, regulated by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) under the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act (House Bill 5164), signed into law on August 10, 2022. Retail wagering launched on January 31, 2023, followed by statewide mobile and online betting on March 10, 2023. This page covers everything Bay State bettors need to know — from licensed sportsbook apps and retail locations to the laws, taxes, and the latest updates for 2026.
Quick Facts: Sports Betting in Massachusetts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal — retail and mobile/online |
| Launch Date | Retail: January 31, 2023 | Mobile: March 10, 2023 |
| Minimum Age | 21 |
| Regulatory Body | Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) |
| Number of Online Operators | 7 (as of early 2026) |
| Tax Rate on Operators | 15% (retail) / 20% (online/mobile) |
| Mobile Betting | Yes |
| In-Person (Retail) Betting | Yes |
Top Sportsbooks in Massachusetts
Massachusetts bettors have access to seven licensed online sportsbooks, all approved by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission — here are the top-rated options available right now.
Online Sportsbooks Available in Massachusetts
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel is consistently one of the top-performing sportsbooks in Massachusetts by market share and app ratings. Launched on March 10, 2023, FanDuel operates in the state as an untethered license holder and has formed official partnerships with the Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics. The platform is known for its intuitive interface, strong same-game parlay builder, and fast payouts.
- Operator type: Commercial (Flutter Entertainment)
- Notable feature: Industry-leading same-game parlay tools and live betting markets
- Live betting: Yes — extensive in-game markets with live streaming on select events
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings holds a special distinction in Massachusetts — it’s headquartered in Boston, making it the hometown sportsbook of the Bay State. It launched on March 10, 2023, under an untethered license, and has formed partnerships with the Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, and Boston Red Sox. DraftKings typically captures the largest share of Massachusetts mobile sports betting handle.
- Operator type: Commercial (DraftKings Inc.)
- Notable feature: Progressive parlays, DFS integration, and 50+ sports available
- Live betting: Yes — live betting hub with rapid market updates
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM is tethered to MGM Springfield, one of the state’s three licensed retail casino locations. The app launched March 10, 2023, and has become a top choice for Massachusetts bettors thanks to its MGM Rewards integration and official partnership with the Boston Red Sox, including branding on the Green Monster at Fenway Park.
- Operator type: Commercial (BetMGM LLC / MGM Resorts)
- Notable feature: Edit My Bet feature and MGM Rewards program
- Live betting: Yes — extensive live markets with live streaming on select events
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars launched in Massachusetts on March 10, 2023, tethered to Encore Boston Harbor, and has consistently ranked among the state’s most popular sportsbooks. Its Caesars Rewards loyalty program is a major differentiator, and the app offers strong NFL betting features including a Watch & Bet in-game viewing option during Primetime games.
- Operator type: Commercial (Caesars Entertainment)
- Notable feature: Caesars Rewards loyalty program and daily odds boosts
- Live betting: Yes — live odds boosts and streaming for major league events
Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Massachusetts on May 25, 2023, tethered to Plainridge Park Casino. Backed by the global sports merchandise brand, Fanatics offers a unique FanCash rewards system that can be redeemed for both bonus bets and merchandise. It has quickly grown its market share since entering the state.
- Operator type: Commercial (Fanatics Inc.)
- Notable feature: FanCash Rewards redeemable for merchandise and bonus bets
- Live betting: Yes — early cashouts and parlay betting options
Bally Bet Sportsbook
Bally Bet launched in Massachusetts in July 2024, becoming the most recent sportsbook to enter the state. Operating under an untethered license, Bally Bet is backed by Bally’s Corporation, a well-established casino operator. Though newer to the market, it has earned its MGC license and provides a competitive alternative for Massachusetts bettors.
- Operator type: Commercial (Bally’s Corporation)
- Notable feature: Growing promotions and competitive welcome offers
- Live betting: Yes
theScore Bet
theScore Bet (operated by PENN Entertainment) became the seventh sportsbook in Massachusetts after ESPN BET — its predecessor brand — shut down nationally in December 2025 following the termination of PENN’s partnership with ESPN. theScore Bet is licensed under the Category 3 tethered framework with Plainridge Park Casino and offers a strong parlay product and competitive promotions.
- Operator type: Commercial (PENN Entertainment)
- Notable feature: Strong parlay builder and generous promotions
- Live betting: Yes
Retail Sportsbooks in Massachusetts
| Facility Name | City | Operator/Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Encore Boston Harbor | Everett | Caesars Sportsbook |
| MGM Springfield | Springfield | BetMGM Sportsbook |
| Plainridge Park Casino | Plainville | Fanatics / theScore Bet |
History of Sports Betting in Massachusetts
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 14, 2018 | U.S. Supreme Court overturns PASPA, giving states authority to legalize sports betting |
| 2019–2021 | Multiple sports betting bills filed in Massachusetts legislature; none advance to passage |
| August 10, 2022 | Gov. Charlie Baker signs House Bill 5164 (Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act) into law |
| December 2022 | Massachusetts Gaming Commission announces January 31, 2023 retail launch date |
| January 31, 2023 | Retail sports betting launches at Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino |
| March 10, 2023 | Mobile/online sports betting goes live statewide with six operators simultaneously |
| May 25, 2023 | Fanatics Sportsbook launches in Massachusetts, becoming the seventh licensed operator |
| February 2024 | Betr and WynnBET officially exit the Massachusetts market, choosing not to renew temporary licenses |
| July 2024 | Bally Bet launches in Massachusetts under its permanent license |
| December 2025 | ESPN BET shuts down nationally; theScore Bet (PENN Entertainment) takes its place in Massachusetts |
| January 2026 | Massachusetts sportsbooks generate $16.4 million in tax revenue for the state in January, on $808 million in handle |
Sports Betting Laws and Regulations in Massachusetts
Massachusetts legalized sports betting through House Bill 5164, commonly known as the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act, signed by Governor Charlie Baker on August 10, 2022. The law created three categories of sports wagering licenses: Category 1 for the state’s licensed casinos, Category 2 for racetracks and simulcast centers, and Category 3 for online/mobile operators. The law allows the MGC to issue up to 15 total sports betting licenses.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission oversees all aspects of the industry, from licensing and compliance to consumer protection and responsible gambling standards. Operators must submit detailed applications and pay non-refundable $200,000 application fees, with permanent licenses lasting five years at a cost of $5 million.
Key rules under Massachusetts sports betting law include: bettors must be physically located within Massachusetts borders to place wagers (verified via geolocation technology); wagering on Massachusetts college teams (such as Boston College, Harvard, and UMass) is prohibited unless those teams are participating in a tournament of four or more teams; no wagering on high school sports; and no use of credit cards to fund sports betting accounts. Sportsbooks cannot deduct promotional credits from their taxable gross gaming revenue, a notable provision that makes Massachusetts one of the stricter states for operators on tax treatment.
As of early 2026, Massachusetts lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 302, which would significantly tighten regulatory controls and raise the tax burden on sportsbooks further. The Massachusetts Appeals Court also granted Kalshi — the federally regulated prediction market — a stay allowing it to continue offering sports contracts in the state while an appeal is heard.
Taxes on Sports Betting Winnings in Massachusetts
Massachusetts imposes a flat 5% state income tax on all income, including sports betting winnings. All gambling winnings are considered taxable income and must be reported on your state and federal returns. At the federal level, the IRS requires reporting of all gambling winnings regardless of amount. Sportsbooks are required to issue a W-2G form for net winnings of $600 or more on a single wager. Federal withholding at a rate of 24% may be applied automatically on winnings of $5,000 or more. Bettors are ultimately responsible for accurately reporting all gambling income on their tax returns, even if they do not receive a W-2G.
Latest News on Sports Betting in Massachusetts
| Date | Update |
|---|---|
| February 2026 | Massachusetts sportsbooks generate $16.4 million in state tax revenue for January, with over $808 million in total handle |
| February 2026 | Massachusetts Appeals Court grants Kalshi a stay, allowing sports contracts to continue pending appeal of state injunction |
| February 2026 | MGC holds public hearing to discuss requiring sportsbooks to notify bettors when and why they are being limited |
| January 2026 | Massachusetts lawmakers reintroduce Senate Bill 302, proposing significantly tighter regulatory controls and higher sportsbook taxes |
| January 2026 | Suffolk County Superior Court rules against Kalshi and grants a preliminary injunction to stop sports-related contracts in Massachusetts |
| December 2025 | ESPN BET shuts down nationally on December 1, 2025; theScore Bet (PENN Entertainment) replaces it in Massachusetts |
| December 2025 | MGC fines Fanatics Sportsbook $20,000 for accepting 83 illegal wagers on a Boston College vs. Michigan State football game |
| July 2025 | MGC sends cease-and-desist letters to offshore sportsbooks BetOnline and SportsBetting.ag for operating illegally in Massachusetts |
FAQs About Sports Betting in Massachusetts
Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?
Yes. Sports betting is fully legal in Massachusetts for residents and visitors who are 21 or older and physically located within the state’s borders. The Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act (HB 5164) was signed by Governor Charlie Baker in August 2022.
What sportsbooks are legal in Massachusetts?
As of 2026, there are seven licensed online sportsbooks in Massachusetts: BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics Sportsbook, Bally Bet, and theScore Bet. Three retail sportsbooks are also licensed at Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino.
When did sports betting launch in Massachusetts?
Retail sports betting launched on January 31, 2023. Mobile and online sports betting launched statewide on March 10, 2023, with multiple operators going live simultaneously.
Can I bet on college sports in Massachusetts?
Yes, with one important restriction. You can bet on most college sports, but wagering on Massachusetts-based college teams — such as Boston College, Harvard, or UMass — is prohibited unless those teams are competing in a tournament of four or more teams, like the NCAA Tournament or a bowl game.
What is the minimum age to bet on sports in Massachusetts?
You must be at least 21 years old to place sports bets in Massachusetts, whether online or at a retail sportsbook.
Do I have to be a Massachusetts resident to bet?
No. You do not need to be a Massachusetts resident, but you must be physically located within the state’s borders when placing wagers. Sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify your location.
How are sports betting winnings taxed in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts taxes all income, including gambling winnings, at a flat 5% state income tax rate. Federally, all winnings are taxable income, and sportsbooks are required to issue W-2G forms for net winnings of $600 or more. Federal withholding of 24% may apply on winnings of $5,000 or more.
What is the tax rate on sportsbook operators in Massachusetts?
Sportsbook operators pay 15% of gross gaming revenue from retail wagering and 20% from online/mobile wagering to the state. Notably, operators cannot deduct promotional credits from their taxable revenue.
Responsible Gambling in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is committed to responsible gambling and requires all licensed sportsbooks to maintain robust consumer protection programs. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission oversees responsible gambling standards across the industry. Bettors who need help can call the state’s confidential helpline at 1-800-327-5050 (MA Gambling Helpline) or visit GameSenseMA.com, the state’s official responsible gambling resource. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-522-4700. All licensed Massachusetts sportsbooks are required to offer tools such as deposit limits, wagering limits, session time limits, cooling-off periods, and self-exclusion options. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available and confidential.
