Sports Betting in Indiana: A Comprehensive Guide
Legalization and Regulatory Framework
Indiana officially legalized sports betting on May 8, 2019, when Governor Eric Holcomb signed House Bill 1015 into law. The legislation allowed both retail and online sportsbooks to operate under the regulation of the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC). The first legal bet in the state was placed on September 1, 2019, marking the beginning of a new era for sports fans and bettors alike.
Under Indiana law, licensed casinos, racinos, and off-track betting (OTB) facilities are permitted to offer sports wagering. In addition, they can partner with online sportsbook operators to offer mobile betting. All operators must adhere to strict guidelines, including geolocation technology to ensure that all bets are placed within state lines and compliance with anti-money laundering and responsible gambling protocols.
Online and Mobile Sports Betting
Indiana quickly embraced mobile wagering, with the first online sportsbook launching in October 2019. As of now, numerous well-known operators are active in the state, including:
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- PointsBet
- BetRivers
- WynnBET
- Barstool Sportsbook
To place a bet online, users must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state of Indiana. Registration can be completed remotely, with no requirement to visit a physical sportsbook. This accessibility has helped fuel the popularity of sports betting across the state.
Types of Bets Available
Indiana offers a wide range of betting options to suit both novice and experienced gamblers. Common bet types include:
- Moneyline
- Point Spread
- Totals (Over/Under)
- Parlays
- Teasers
- Futures
- Prop Bets (Player and Team Props)
- In-Play or Live Betting
College sports betting is also allowed, including betting on in-state college teams such as Indiana University and Purdue. However, some restrictions apply to in-game prop bets on college athletes.
Taxation and Revenue
Sportsbooks in Indiana are taxed at a rate of 9.5% on adjusted gross revenue. A portion of this tax revenue is allocated to the state’s General Fund, while a smaller portion supports problem gambling programs. Since legalization, Indiana has generated hundreds of millions in sports betting handle, contributing tens of millions in tax revenue annually.
Retail Sportsbook Locations
Several retail sportsbooks are located throughout Indiana at casinos and racinos, including:
- Horseshoe Hammond Casino
- Indiana Grand Racing & Casino
- Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago
- Belterra Casino Resort
- Blue Chip Casino
- Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg
- Tropicana Evansville
- French Lick Casino
These venues offer full-service sportsbooks with betting windows, self-service kiosks, large-screen TVs, and lounge areas for sports enthusiasts to enjoy the action.
Responsible Gambling Measures
The Indiana Gaming Commission enforces robust responsible gambling standards. All sportsbooks must provide tools for self-exclusion, deposit limits, and time management features. Indiana also participates in the Voluntary Exclusion Program, allowing individuals to bar themselves from gambling facilities for a specified period.
The state funds educational campaigns and treatment programs through the Indiana Problem Gambling Awareness Program. Resources are available through hotlines, support groups, and certified treatment providers.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Indiana is thriving under a well-regulated, accessible, and competitive environment. With a wide array of retail and online options, bettors can enjoy wagering on their favorite sports with confidence in the system’s integrity. Whether you prefer to bet from the comfort of your home or inside a bustling casino sportsbook, Indiana provides a legal, safe, and enjoyable sports betting experience.
