Is Sports Betting Legal in West Virginia?
Yes, betting on sports is legal in West Virginia.
Yes, most offshore sportsbooks accept players from West Virginia.
- Last Updated: May 1, 2021
What sports betting apps are legal in West Virginia?
West Virginia bettors have access to apps such as FanDuel and DraftKings, as well as trusted offshore sportsbooks such as BetOnline and BetAnySports which both have 20+ year track records.
Trusted betting sites for players in West Virginia
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What sports betting apps are legal in West Virginia?
Our top six online sportsbooks for West Virginians are all located in Costa Rica, Panama or Antigua where online gambling is regulated. You can feel free to join these sites today from the Mountain State as they are welcoming most American players.
We have included an in-depth review of our top sites, including the pros and cons. Keep in mind these top offshore sites also offer casino gaming and horse racing, but our main focus today is on the sports betting aspect:
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Best reduced juice lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Robust live betting platform
- Opinionated Lines
- Broad range of bonus offers
- High betting limits
- Renowned loyalty program
- Variety of promotions
- Excellent customer service department
How to Bet on Sports in West Virginia
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1 Pick Your SportsbooksChoose an offshore sportsbook available in you prefer. Register by clicking “Join” and complete the simple form.
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2 Claim a BonusSelect from available promotions and deposit match offers. It’s recommended to use crypto if available since generally speaking welcome bonuses are larger if using crypto.
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3 Deposit FundsFind the cashier, pick your payment method—credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto—and confirm your deposit.
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4 Place a BetPick your sport—NFL, NBA, NHL, or more—and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then confirm your wager.
West Virginia Sports Betting Updates
West Virginia’s gambling history reflects its flexibility in meeting evolving interests. The state has embraced industry trends, from legalizing video poker and slots in 1994 to online casino games, esports and sports betting.
In 2024, platforms like ESPN BET, Fanatics Sportsbook and WynnBET expanded opportunities for West Virginia sports bettors, while strengthened regulations ensured a focus on responsible gaming. The West Virginia Lottery Commission has also taken steps to address issues like harassment in the sports betting industry, maintaining a balanced approach to growth.
The following timeline shows the key events in the sports betting history of West Virginia:
VIP Play announces a mobile sports betting and iGaming app launch in West Virginia at some point next year, pending regulatory approvals.
Charlie Baker, president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, reveals plans to reach out to regulators in states with legal sports betting to remove college prop bets from all betting markets.
HB 5668 is introduced. The bill aims to require gambling operators to share player data with academics for research.
The West Virginia Lottery reports a gambling handle of $1.3 billion for 2023. $500 million is the total revenue for the state.
Neopollard Interactive lands a deal to set up an online system for the West Virginia Lottery.
Online casino year-over-year numbers see an increase of over 51% from April 2022 to April 2023.
Bill SB621 and a similar one, HB 3232, fail in the State Senate.
A bill is passed to legalize esports betting in the state.
State Senator Craig Zucker introduces SB 621, which aims to audit betting handicappers who sell their picks.
The West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act is passed to legalize online casino gaming and online poker.
A bill is passed for the legalization of sports betting in West Virginia. Bettors can do retail sports betting on professional and college teams. Betting on high school sports and betting on games involving minors is prohibited.
Another law is passed to legalize online sports betting at licensed operators. Soon, sports betting sites launch across West Virginia as an alternative to in-person sports betting.
A bill was read to legalize Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) in West Virginia but was never officially passed at any legislative session. DFS is allowed in the state today.
PASPA is overturned by the Supreme Court, allowing for each state to have the right to choose to legalize sports betting.
A bill was passed to regulate video poker and slot machine gambling at the racetracks in the state.
Video poker and slot machine terminals were first legalized for use in West Virginia.
West Virginia casinos were allowed to offer live table games and poker.
PASPA was passed by Congress, effectively banning sports betting in most of the country.
West Virginia was one of the first few states to offer legal sportsbooks (both online and at retail locations) following the overturning of PASPA. Since then, countless states have followed suit, capitalizing on the profitable sports betting industry by revising their sports betting laws. Most importantly, betting on professional sports teams and college sports teams looks like it’s here to stay in the Mountain State.
Our Methodology for Ranking West Virginia Betting Sites
Finding the right sports betting site means choosing one that meets your needs as a bettor. Look for wide sports coverage, quick banking options, rewarding bonuses and reliable customer support. A top sportsbook should also work smoothly on mobile for easy, on-the-go betting.
1. Competitive Odds for Bigger Wins
Leading sportsbooks deliver strong, consistent odds across spreads, moneylines and totals on popular sports. Good lines help maximize winnings, with some sites offering reduced juice to boost your payout potential. Whether betting major league sports teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, or college sports teams like West Virginia University, our top-rated books have the best odds.
2. Variety of Sports and Betting Options
A high-quality betting site provides more than just the basics. Look for coverage of college games, global events, niche sports and ideally fantasy sports. Plus numerous types of wagers like prop bets, parlays, teasers and live bets for flexible wagering.
3. Convenient and Secure Banking
Top betting sites offer seamless banking, supporting credit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers and cryptocurrency and allow sports bettors to deposits and withdrawals easily. Platforms should also cater to minimum deposit requirements, making them accessible to first-time bettors.
4. Licensed and Regulated for Your Protection
Our recommended sportsbooks meet strict licensing standards for fair play and user protection. Regular compliance checks and independent audits uphold high transparency, security and responsible gaming standards.
5. Bonuses that Reward Every Bet
Bonuses keep the action interesting, with leading offshore betting sites offering valuable welcome deals, reload bonuses, odds boosts and loyalty perks. Extras like deposit matches, bonus bets and referral rewards add even more value to every wager. Promotions should cover online betting and mobile betting options, providing variety for every bettor.
6. Live Betting for Real-Time Engagement
From betting on the margin of victory to dynamic proposition bets, live betting is perfect for sports fans. Top sites offer in-play options for spreads, totals, props and key plays, with live updates that make it easy to bet quickly on mobile.
7. Reliable Mobile Betting
The best West Virginia online sportsbooks offer a smooth, reliable experience on mobile, allowing bettors to navigate markets and place bets without a hitch, even during high traffic. This keeps you connected to your wagers anytime, anywhere.
8. 24/7 Customer Support
Responsive customer support is essential, especially during live games. Top sportsbooks offer 24/7 help via live chat, email and phone, so you’re never left waiting.
9. Secure Transactions and Data Protection
Trusted betting sites prioritize your safety, using advanced encryption and strict data protection standards. Their commitment to security means your information is safeguarded, so you can bet with peace of mind.
10. Proven Reputation and Experience
A solid reputation is key when choosing a betting site. The best platforms have years of experience and positive reviews for dependable service. A strong track records assures West Virginian bettors of quality and reliability.
West Virginia Betting Options
West Virginia sportsbooks offer a variety of betting options for players to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, you’ll find plenty of ways to wager, including:
- Point Spreads: Bet on the margin of victory or defeat in a game.
- Moneylines: Pick the outright winner of a game, with odds based on each team’s likelihood of winning.
- Totals (Over/Under): Wager on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set number.
- Player Props: Bet on individual player performances, like total yards, points or goals.
- Game Props: Wager on specific events during a game, such as the first team to score.
- Parlays: Combine multiple bets into one; all must win for a payout.
- Futures: Bet on outcomes of future events, like league champions or season MVPs.
- Live Betting: Place wagers on games as they unfold, with real-time odds updates.
- Same Game Parlays: Combine multiple bets from a single game into one wager for bigger potential payouts.
West Virginia’s sportsbooks provide options for all types of bettors, letting you mix and match bets to create a personalized experience.
West Virginia Sports Betting Bonuses and Promotions
Sportsbooks in West Virginia offer various bonuses to attract new players and reward loyal customers. Here are some of the most popular promotions:
Sign-Up Bonuses
New players can take advantage of welcome offers like deposit matches or free bets. For example, a sportsbook may match 100% of your first deposit up to $500 in bonus credits. Some offers require a promo code, while others activate automatically when you sign up and deposit. Be sure to review the rollover requirements and minimum deposit terms.
Existing Customer Promotions
Sportsbooks keep bettors engaged with reload bonuses, odds boosts and parlay insurance. Other common promotions include referral bonuses, contests, risk-free bets and free bet credits. Check the promotions page of your chosen sportsbook to find the latest deals.
No-Deposit Bonuses
Occasionally, sportsbooks in West Virginia may offer no-deposit bonuses, letting you claim free credits without putting any money down. These come with higher rollover requirements but are a great way to explore a platform risk-free.
Free Bets
Many sportsbooks offer free bets as part of sign-up bonuses or ongoing promotions. For instance, you might receive a $50 free bet after placing a qualifying wager or deposit.
These bonuses and promotions provide plenty of extra value, so be sure to take advantage of them when betting in West Virginia.
West Virginia’s Top Teams for Sports Betting
West Virginia doesn’t host any professional sports teams. However, sports fans support nearby teams and local college programs for all their favorite sports.
- Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL): The Steelers are a top choice for NFL betting fans in West Virginia. Known for their storied history and multiple Super Bowl wins, the Steelers have a large and dedicated following in the state. Betting on their games, especially during key matchups and playoff runs, is very popular.
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL): Another NFL team that draws significant attention in West Virginia is the Baltimore Ravens. With a strong defense and two Super Bowl championships, the Ravens have earned a loyal fan base. Their rivalry with the Steelers makes for some of the season’s most anticipated games.
- Washington Commanders (NFL): The Washington Commanders also have a following in West Virginia. Betting interest peaks during key matchups, especially when they face division rivals like the Philadelphia Eagles, with fans wagering on spreads, moneylines and player props.
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA): The Cleveland Cavaliers are a popular NBA team among West Virginia residents, especially after their championship win in 2016. Betting on Cavs games, particularly during the NBA playoffs, is common among basketball fans in the state.
- West Virginia University Mountaineers (NCAA): The West Virginia University Mountaineers are the pride of the state, especially in college football and basketball. Betting on the Mountaineers is popular, with fans wagering on game results, point spreads and player stats.
- Marshall Thundering Herd (NCAA): Representing Marshall University, the Thundering Herd has a solid fan base in West Virginia. Their football program, which competes in Conference USA, is particularly popular. Betting on Marshall’s games, especially during bowl season, is a favorite activity for many.
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB): The Cincinnati Reds attract a fair share of support from West Virginians. As one of the oldest MLB teams, the Reds have a rich history that appeals to baseball betting fans in the state.
- Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL): The Pittsburgh Penguins are the go-to team for NHL fans in West Virginia. With several Stanley Cup championships, the Penguins have a strong following in the state. Betting on their games, especially during the Stanley Cup playoffs, is a popular choice.
Sportsbook Banking Methods in West Virginia
West Virginia bettors can choose from a range of secure banking options to handle deposits and withdrawals with ease. These include:
Credit and Debit Cards: Credit cards are commonly accepted for deposits. They’re quick and convenient for most users. Most sportsbooks accept Visa and MasterCard, while some may accept AmEx or Discover.
Cryptocurrencies: Popular options like Bitcoin or Bitcoin Cash allow for fast and anonymous transactions. Many sportsbooks offer extra perks for using crypto, such as lower fees or faster withdrawals.
Bank Transfers and Wires: Ideal for larger transactions, bank transfers are a reliable method for both deposits and withdrawals. They may take longer to process but offer added security. Players using online sportsbook apps or online betting sites often prefer this method for its dependability.
P2P Services: PayPal, Venmo and similar services provide a simple and secure way to fund your account without sharing banking details directly with the sportsbook.
Digital Wallets: Skrill and Neteller are excellent choices for bettors who prefer added security and faster transaction times. They’re especially popular for mobile betting options, giving West Virginia sports bettors convenience when managing their accounts.
West Virginia sportsbooks ensure that banking is simple and efficient. Check the processing times and any associated fees for each method to find what works best for you, whether betting on college sports, major league sports teams or niche events.
Responsible Gaming in West Virginia
For West Virginia sports fans, responsible gaming is about keeping the experience enjoyable, manageable and safe. Setting limits, making smart bets and sticking to sports you know well can help keep betting a fun pastime.
Start Small and Set a Budget
West Virginia bettors new to online sports betting should begin with smaller bets to learn the ropes without risking too much. Setting a budget is important — decide how much you’re comfortable spending and don’t go beyond it. Betting with a clear budget helps keep the experience low-risk and enjoyable.
Stay Informed and Make Smart Choices
Understanding the basics of odds, team performance and player conditions can make a big difference. Betting smart starts with some research before placing any bets, so look at relevant stats and match-ups. Picking a reliable online sportsbook, such as those at retail casino locations or offshore betting sites, with solid customer support, competitive odds and a wide range of sports options, can also give you an edge.
Keep a Balanced Mindset
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, especially after a loss, but chasing losses often leads to more setbacks. Stick with sports you know and make bets based on that knowledge. Keeping a cool head helps you stay in control, keeping things fun and low-stress.
If betting ever feels overwhelming, support is available:
- West Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for confidential, 24/7 support.
Conclusion
Since legalizing sports betting for both online and retail sportsbooks in 2018, West Virginia’s gambling industry has been growing. Some of the best online sportsbooks include platforms like BetOnline, Everygame and BookMaker, which have all been around for over 15 years.
These sportsbooks offer competitive odds, high betting limits and fast payouts. Their sites are also mobile-optimized, meaning you can bet anywhere, anytime. Whether you’re wagering on college sports betting, online casino games or your favorite sports, West Virginia offers a sports betting market that caters to all.
West Virginia Sports Betting Sites FAQs
Can you bet online in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia offers online sports betting through platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. However, many bettors prefer reputable international sportsbooks for their broader sports markets, competitive odds and flexible payment options, including cryptocurrencies.
Is Bovada legal in West Virginia?
Bovada is not available in West Virginia, but bettors in the state can turn to alternative offshore betting sites like BetOnline and BookMaker. These platforms offer West Virginian players diverse betting markets and flexible payment options, including crypto.
How many sportsbooks are there in West Virginia?
West Virginia offers a range of sports betting options, but experienced bettors often turn to established global sites for added advantages. These platforms provide higher betting limits, quick payouts and niche sports markets, offering unique props and international events beyond local selections.
Can you bet on sports online in West Virginia?
Yes, and many West Virginia bettors prefer trusted international sportsbooks, known for their extensive betting markets, favorable odds and flexible crypto deposits. These sites deliver a dynamic experience with unique betting options and high limits, appealing to serious players.
Is DraftKings Sportsbook available in West Virginia?
Yes, though many West Virginia players choose reputable global sportsbooks for even more variety. These platforms offer perks like early line access, high betting limits and an expansive selection of sports, catering to those seeking a richer betting experience.
What is the legal gambling age in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, the legal age for sports betting is 21. However, the minimum age requirement for offshore sportsbooks is typically 21, depending on the specific site’s policies.
West Virginia Betting Guides
Explore online casinos, racebooks and more with our complete guides to online betting in West Virginia:
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