Connecticut Sports Betting Guide 2024
If you’re one of those asking, is sports betting legal in CT? No worries, we’ve got you covered with all the necessary details in this review.
We’ll explore everything you need to know about Connecticut sports betting in 2024, covering how to wager on sports events in the state and providing clarity on regulations and licensed platforms.
Understanding how online betting works in the state can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
So, read on as we explore the CT sports betting scene.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Learn all the latest news about the legal situation of online sports betting in Connecticut
- You’ll know which CT online sportsbooks to choose for your next wagers.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Connecticut?
Yes, online sports betting became legal in Connecticut on May 27, 2021, when Governor Ned Lamont signed the bill. Governor Ned Lamont signed the bill on May 27, 2021, legalizing online sports betting. The governor said this new law would provide Connecticut residents with more modern and competitive online gambling options compared to those of neighboring states.
After the governor’s approval, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection gave the green light for full online sports betting and online casino gambling to begin operating at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 19, 2021.
This marked a new era in gambling in the state, allowing residents to legally place bets online through approved websites and apps.
Connecticut Sports Betting Apps: Our Top 3 Recommendations
There are three leading online sportsbooks for players in Connecticut. Each offers a unique betting experience and features that cater to the different players’ needs. Let’s explore them all to help you find the best Connecticut sportsbook for your needs.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook is not only live and legal in Connecticut, but it’s also one of the state’s leading sports betting apps. The sportsbook offers numerous excellent features, including a generous welcome bonus of up to $150 after betting $5.
DraftKings has an easy-to-use platform with lots of betting options, like Stats Hub and micro-betting, to help you make smart bets. Sign up now to claim the multiple offers and take advantage of its exceptional resources for online sports betting in Connecticut.
| Bookmaker | DraftKings |
| Recommended bet markets | Moneylines, futures, and props |
| Welcome offer | Bet $5, get $150 |
| Our rating | 4.85/5 |
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel is another one of Connecticut’s top sportsbooks that stands out with its top-notch user experience and innovative betting features. This platform welcomes new players with an enticing up to $200 in bonus bets after making a bet of $10 and the first wager wins.
FanDuel provides a seamless betting platform, a wide range of promos, and an odds boost. It’s the perfect choice for bettors seeking an exceptional user experience and valuable promotions and features.
| Bookmaker | FanDuel |
| Recommended bet markets | Totals, over/under, moneylines |
| Welcome offer | Bet $10, Get $200 |
| Our rating | 4.8/5 |
Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics Sportsbook, although being the newest legal betting option in the state, provides bettors with a solid Connecticut sports betting experience. The sportsbook focuses on NFL live-streaming and also features flexible FanCash Rewards, with a generous welcome bonus offer of up to $1,000 after making a bet of at least $5.
This offers a substantial boost to get started. Fanatics is committed to improving app performance, making it a worthy choice for serious sports bettors.
| Bookmaker | Fanatics |
| Recommended bet markets | Totals, props, futures |
| Welcome offer | Up to $1,000 bonus |
| Our rating | 4.75/5 |
Upcoming Events
The upcoming week promises an exciting lineup of professional sports competitions across Connecticut. These events are filled with lots of specials and contests you wouldn’t want to miss.
This is also good news for Connecticut online sports betting as you can bet on most of these competitions and possibly win big. Let’s explore the upcoming events to note.
The Legalization Journey of Sports Betting in Connecticut
According to Connecticut’s official website, Governor Ned Lamont signed a law making online gaming and sports betting legal on May 27, 2021. This happened after much discussion and agreement with the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Connecticut Lottery, allowing all parties to offer gambling services.
The new law also ensured additional funding for problem gambling programs from the tribes and the lottery. This measure aimed to assist in the prevention and treatment of gambling issues that might arise with the introduction of these new gambling options.
However, federal approval was required before implementation could proceed. The Bureau of Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior had to revise the current tribal-state compacts to approve online gaming and sports wagering.
After getting federal approval, retail sportsbooks opened in Connecticut in September 2021. About a month later, in October, the best online sports betting sites started to flock into the state and went live. It might have taken a while with all the negotiations and approvals, but legal sports wagering was finally a reality in the state.
10 Quick Facts About Connecticut’s Sports Betting Laws
Here are 10 quick facts about Connecticut sports gambling laws:
- Connecticut Law: Online gambling became legal in Connecticut in May 2021 after Governor Ned Lamont signed a bill. This means you’re free to make online, retail, and mobile bets on any sports event in the state.
- Legal Age: In Connecticut, the legal age to place sports bets is 21 or older. This age aligns with the standard legal gambling age in many other states and reflects the state’s resolve to maintain responsible gambling.
- State Borders: All legal sports bets must be placed within the state’s borders. Mobile sportsbooks utilize geolocation technology to track your phone’s GPS and ensure you’re within the state lines when placing bets online. You must download a geolocation plugin to verify your location and make legal CT bets.
- Retail Bookmakers: Licensed retail sportsbooks operate at Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Casinos. The state lottery commission is authorized to establish more locations.
- Taxes: Sports betting winnings are considered taxable income in Connecticut. The current tax rate on winnings is 13.75%, higher than some states but below the national average of 19%.
- Tribal Agreements: To legalize sports betting, Connecticut made deals with the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot Tribes to offer betting services.
- Betting Options: Connecticut bettors can wager on pro sports, but college games are only available to bet on when the team is competing in a tournament, like March Madness, for example. You can also wager on popular betting markets like money lines, totals, props, futures, etc.
- Offshore Betting: Offshore sportsbooks operate in a grey legal area and lack certain consumer protections that licensed US sportsbooks provide. While these betting sites may be accessible from Connecticut, we strongly recommend CT bettors steer clear of them to keep on the safe side.
- Responsible Gaming: Connecticut prioritizes responsible gaming with its sports betting setup. They’ve got resources and support programs for anyone struggling with gambling issues.
- Regulatory Bodies: The Department of Consumer Protection’s Gambling Division oversees sports betting, ensuring everyone respects the rules. This organization also aids problem gamblers and offers resources for responsible gambling.
How to Engage in Online Sports Betting in Connecticut
Engaging in online sports betting in Connecticut is a straightforward process. Here’s a beginner’s guide to get you started:
- Choose a Legal Sportsbook: Select the best Connecticut sports betting site with an appropriate license for your bets. You can pick FanDuel, DraftKings, or Fanatics — the three authorized online platforms in the state.
- Create an Account: Visit the sportsbook’s website, download their app, and sign up. You’ll be required to provide details, including your name, email, and address.
- Verify Your Identity: Most platforms require you to upload documents to confirm your identity and ensure you meet the legal age for gambling. This usually involves providing a valid ID and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
- Deposit Funds: Fund your account using one of the available deposit methods. Keep an eye out for welcome bonuses or promotions, and claim them if the platform offers one.
- Place Bets: Browse the betting markets, pick and place your CT bets. You can bet on any sports event or game you prefer.
We recommend always using state-approved platforms to ensure security and fairness. Furthermore, we encourage setting limits and not letting betting affect your daily life. If you need help, Connecticut provides resources for responsible gambling.
Popular Sports and Teams in the Connecticut Betting Scene
Connecticut has a lively sports scene with many sports teams. There’s something for every fan, whether it’s pro teams or college ones. People in Connecticut love sports, and it’s a big part of the state’s history.
Let’s explore some of the popular sports and teams in the state.
Football
Football is the state’s most popular sport, with college and high school teams drawing strong fan support. On the college level, the UConn Huskies and Yale Bulldogs have successful programs that generate excitement.
High school football also has a passionate following during the fall season. Connecticut’s football teams enjoy robust support from their fanbase, which rallies around them with passion and loyalty.
Basketball
Most Connecticut residents love basketball. The WNBA’s Connecticut Sun has a dedicated fanbase in the state, playing their home games at Mohegan Sun Arena. The Sun has been very successful recently, making multiple playoff appearances.
For men’s basketball, the UConn Huskies have an illustrious program with several NCAA championships under their belt, making them a favorite among local fans and bettors.
Baseball
Minor league baseball is popular, with the Hartford Yard Goats serving as the local team. Affiliated with the Colorado Rockies, the Yard Goats have built a strong following among Connecticut residents. Their summer games at Dunkin’ Donuts Park welcome many seeking family-friendly entertainment and competitive baseball action.
Hartford Yard Goats have the second-highest attendance in the Eastern League, averaging 6,300 fans per game. This shows the wealth of support the team enjoys from Connecticut residents.
Ice Hockey
Since the 1920s, ice hockey has had a big fanbase in Connecticut. One notable team is the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, representing Bridgeport in the American Hockey League. The team has been around since 2001 and is linked to the New York Islanders.
Connecticut also boasts a professional women’s ice hockey team, known as the Connecticut Whale, which competes in the Premier Hockey Federation (PHF). Thanks to Connecticut’s cold winters, ice hockey thrives in the state, with numerous rinks across the state.
Soccer
Soccer has a strong following and presence in Connecticut, with many youth and adult leagues operating throughout the state. The sport enjoys immense popularity among local fans, who passionately support domestic and international teams.
Connecticut boasts several successful soccer programs at the college level, including those at the University of Connecticut, Yale University, and the University of Hartford. These prestigious programs have produced numerous talented players who have gone on to have professional and international careers.
Famous Athletes
Connecticut has produced several notable sports figures:
One prominent name is George Springer, an MLB outfielder born in New Britain, Connecticut. Springer played college baseball at the University of Connecticut before being drafted by the Houston Astros. He is a World Series champion who has been named an All-Star multiple times.
Another notable athlete, Kris Dunn, born in New London, Connecticut, is an NBA player recognized for his playmaking and defensive abilities. He played college basketball at Providence College before being drafted into the NBA.
And finally, we have Matt Barner, a professional baseball pitcher, born in Danbury, Connecticut. He has played in Major League Baseball (MLB) and is known for his pitching prowess.
These athletes have gained a huge fanbase that supports them in every competition. For instance, George Springer has over 136 thousand fans on Instagram who follow his activities and support him.
The Impact of Local Teams on Sports Betting
How well Connecticut’s local sports teams do greatly impacts sports betting trends in the state. When teams like the UConn Huskies basketball team, which has a long history of winning, perform well, many more people place bets.
The same goes for the Connecticut Sun women’s basketball team—their loyal fans bet more when the Sun is doing good.
Local sports experts notice that when these hometown teams win, there are many more bets placed on them in subsequent games. This is especially true during playoffs or when the teams are on a hot streak and fans feel confident backing their local favorites.
The sportsbooks also say that how popular a team is affects the betting odds. If a local team is getting a ton of bets, the odds of them winning may get lower. But bettors become more cautious if that same team starts struggling, and spread their bets around to different teams at better odds.
Basically, whether Connecticut’s beloved sports teams are winning or losing has a major effect on how much people bet on them and what the betting odds look like.
The state’s sports betting is very tied to the ups and downs of their home teams. This is why it’s essential to research current team forms and other essential details when betting on sports events in Connecticut.
Are There More Gambling Options in Connecticut?
Connecticut offers more gambling options beyond online sports betting. Here are some of the other activities you can legally bet on in the state:
- Online Casino Games: In addition to sports betting, Connecticut has also legalized online casinos. You can play gambling games like slots, blackjack, and roulette through licensed platforms.
- Horse Racing: Off-track betting on horse races is legal in Connecticut through facilities operated by the state’s off-track betting system. You can wager on races from tracks around the country.
- Daily Fantasy Sports: Residents can participate in daily fantasy sports contests through licensed operators like DraftKings and FanDuel. This allows you to draft teams and compete for cash prizes.
- Lottery: You can play scratch-offs, keno, and lotto sales at various retailers across the state.
- Bingo and Raffles: Participate in these activities at registered platforms, adding a social aspect to your gambling experience.
Maximizing Your Sports Betting Experience in Connecticut
We’ve discovered that implementing some key strategies can help improve your chances of winning and enhance your CT online sports betting experience. Let’s explore some of them.
Focus on Local Teams
Teams like the UConn Huskies have huge local followings. Getting familiar with how they perform and what fans think can give you an edge that sportsbooks may miss.
In our experience, specializing in local team bets is smart and can help you know the types of results to expect from them depending on the nature of the game.
Shop Around for the Best Odds
With multiple sportsbook options like DraftKings and FanDuel, it’s a good idea to compare odds and lines across different sportsbooks to find the most valuable bets. That’s because even small differences in odds can make a big difference over time.
Learn more about how to find the best odds in our dedicated guide.
Use Expert Picks
Local sports analysts know the Connecticut betting scene inside and out. We usually follow their predictions and reasoning when picking our bets. But it’s essential to make sure their approach aligns with your betting style.
Learn all there is to know about sports betting picks from our expert guide.
Set a Betting Bankroll
Another key approach is deciding a fixed amount you can comfortably afford to bet with. Sticking to that bankroll prevents reckless bets from chasing losses.
Most experts recommend risking only 1-5% of your bankroll per bet, but if you’re interested in knowing more about how to build your bankroll we’d highly recommend our detailed guide.
Bet With a Clear Mind
Avoid betting under the influence of heavy emotions or substances. This impairs judgment and decision-making. You need to ensure that you bet on sports for fun and with a clear head.
Research the Teams
Another important strategy is to conduct thorough research before placing any bets. Observe how teams perform against specific opponents and decide the suitable wagers for that particular game.
For instance:
If I wish to make an NFL bet on the Hartford Blues, I note how they play in different weather conditions or if their performance differs between home and away games.
The more effort you put into researching, the more likely you are to increase your chances of winning. Remember, good research is key to success.
Utilize Bonuses and Promotions
Make the most out of bonuses and promotions at the sportsbooks. Many platforms roll out a range of offers for members that can really pump up your bankroll.
So, don’t forget to check their promotions page to find appealing deals like deposit bonuses, free bets, cashback, and more. Make sure to take advantage of these offers smartly, which will undoubtedly add serious value to your betting adventures.
Responsible Betting in Connecticut
In Connecticut, the government places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling. That’s why the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection offers resources and a self-exclusion program. Plus, the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling provides a 24-hour helpline and support services.
If you notice signs of problem gambling, remember that help is accessible. You can reach the helpline at 888-789-7777 or visit www.ccpg.org for immediate assistance.
Remember that it’s essential to gamble within your means. Avoid chasing losses and know when to walk away. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and enjoyment while participating in any form of gambling.
So, Will You Bet from Connecticut Tonight?
Now that we’ve established that CT sports betting is completely legal, you’re free to register with your ideal sportsbook and stake on your favorite teams.
You can use our shared tips to make informed bets and improve your chances of winning.
If you’re curious about how online sports betting works in other states, check out our comprehensive state guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bet on sports online in Connecticut?
Yes, online sports betting in CT is legal, and so is in-person betting. Connecticut has three licensed sportsbooks to choose from: Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel, and DraftKings.
Is BetMGM legal in Connecticut?
BetMGM sportsbook is not operational in Connecticut, although the BetMGM online casino is. You can check out our detailed BetMGM sportsbook review to explore the states in which it operates.
Can I bet on college sports teams in Connecticut?
College betting is generally allowed in Connecticut, but you can only legally bet on in-state college teams when they are playing in a tournament, like March Madness, for example. This is why you can’t bet on UConn in CT unless they are playing in the March Madness.
When can you gamble in CT?
You need to be at least 21 years old to place a bet online or in person in Connecticut. The minimum age to participate in fantasy contests, purchase lottery tickets, or play keno is 18.
