Brief history & legal framework
New Jersey has been a driving force in the legalization of sports betting in the United States. After years of court battles challenging the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), New Jersey succeeded when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down PASPA in May 2018. Within weeks of the decision, Governor Phil Murphy signed A4111 into law, authorizing regulated sports betting at casinos and racetracks in Atlantic City and at certain off‑track betting facilities. The first legal bet was accepted on June 14 2018 at Monmouth Park racetrack and the Borgata casino in Atlantic City.
The Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) under the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety regulates sports wagering, while the New Jersey Racing Commission oversees horse‑racing operations. The New Jersey Constitution was amended to permit sports wagering at casinos and racetracks, but it still forbids wagering on any collegiate sporting event that takes place in the state or involves a New Jersey college team, even if the contest occurs elsewhere. Multiple voter referenda have reinforced this prohibition, and recent attempts to remove it have failed.
Eligibility checklist
If you plan to place sports bets in New Jersey, you must meet several regulatory requirements. These rules exist to protect minors, ensure fair gaming and prevent fraud.
- Age requirement: New Jersey law restricts sports wagering to players aged 21 or older. The age rule applies to all forms of sports wagering (in‑person or online).
- Physical presence & geolocation: You must physically be located within New Jersey’s borders when placing a wager. Operators use geolocation technology to verify your location. Promotional materials for NJ sportsbooks stress that you must be 21+ and present in New Jersey. Attempting to place bets from out of state will result in your bet being blocked.
- Account creation & KYC: Online sportsbooks require you to create an account, provide personal information (name, address, phone number), verify your identity and often upload government‑issued ID. Know‑Your‑Customer (KYC) checks help prevent fraud and underage gambling. You must also supply your Social Security Number for tax reporting and identity verification.
- Self‑exclusion & responsible gambling: New Jersey offers voluntary self‑exclusion programs for both online casino and sports wagering. You can exclude yourself for a set period or permanently, which bars you from all licensed operators. Operators must provide tools such as deposit and loss limits, time‑out/cool‑off options and access to help resources.
- Collegiate sports restrictions: As mentioned above, you may not bet on any college game or market that involves a New Jersey school or is played in New Jersey. This rule applies to pre‑game and in‑game wagers and includes player props. You can still wager on out‑of‑state college teams in events held outside New Jersey.
- Prohibited persons: Employees of sportsbooks, racetracks and certain sports league personnel may be prohibited from wagering. “Sports insiders” (e.g., athletes, coaches, referees) must register with the DGE and cannot bet on events over which they have influence.
- Federal and state tax compliance: Winnings are considered income. Operators will report winnings over certain thresholds to the IRS and the NJ Division of Taxation and withhold taxes when required. A summary of tax obligations appears later in this guide.
Governing bodies & key regulators
- New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE): Responsible for licensing sportsbooks, auditing operations, enforcing rules, investigating complaints and overseeing responsible gambling programs.
- New Jersey Racing Commission: Oversees licensing and regulation of horse racing and pari‑mutuel wagering at racetracks. Sports betting operations at tracks must satisfy both agencies’ requirements.
- Other authorities: The New Jersey Casino Control Commission acts on certain licensing matters; the Division of Taxation handles gaming taxes; and federal bodies such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) govern tax reporting.
High‑level tax overview
Sports wagering winnings are taxable income under federal and New Jersey law. Operators issue Form W‑2G for winnings of $600 or more with a payout ratio of at least 300 times the stake and must withhold 24 % federal tax on larger winnings. New Jersey does not have a special sports wagering tax for players, but you must report gambling income on your NJ‑1040. Losses may be deductible up to the amount of gambling income when itemizing deductions. Because tax laws change, you should consult a tax professional for personal advice.
Licensed Online Sportsbooks in New Jersey
How licensing & skins work
New Jersey allows each brick‑and‑mortar casino and racetrack to offer sports betting. Each “permitted” operator can run its own branded sportsbook and up to two additional online “skins” (brands) under its permit. All online brands must partner with a land‑based casino or racetrack and are subject to approval by the DGE. This structure ensures that remote operators maintain a physical presence in the state and submit to New Jersey regulation.
Live operators in 2025
The roster of sportsbooks changes as brands enter and exit the market. The list below reflects operators live in August 2025. Some operators operate multiple brands under a single license. (If a brand announces an imminent exit, it is noted.)
Last checked: 5 September 2025.
| Brand (Online Skin) | Platform/Apps | Land‑based partner | License/permit & launch year | Notable features | Typical promos | Our take |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook | Desktop, Android and iOS apps | Resorts Casino Hotel (Resorts Digital Gaming) | One of the first NJ sports betting apps (2018). Licensed through Resorts Digital. | Robust same‑game parlay builder, deep market selection, integrated DFS wallet | Deposit match + bet credits for new users; regular odds boosts | Industry leader with strong interface and frequent promos |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Desktop & mobile apps | Meadowlands Racetrack (New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC) | Launched Sept 2018; also powers PointsBet/ESPN BET skin | Competitive odds, intuitive mobile app, wide range of live bets | No‑sweat first bet up to a set amount; parlay insurance | Smooth geolocation, extensive markets; go‑to option for live betting |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | Desktop & mobile apps | Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa (MGM Resorts) | Went live Aug 2018 | Integrated MGM Rewards, early cash‑out & Edit My Bet, huge market depth | “First bet offer” refund in bonus bets; regular parlay boosts | Reliable, strong rewards and banking options |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Desktop & mobile apps | Caesars Interactive NJ / Bally’s Atlantic City | Launched 2021 from merger of William Hill & Caesars | Caesars Rewards integration, broad market selection, same‑game parlays | First bet insurance; rewards tier credits; profit boosts | Good for rewards fans; odds sometimes below average |
| BetRivers (SugarHouse) | Desktop & mobile | Golden Nugget Atlantic City | SugarHouse launched 2018 (rebranded as BetRivers). | Live streaming on some events, rewards store for bonus money | Second‑chance bet; parlay insurance | Decent for casual bettors; interface feels dated |
| PointsBet (rebranding to ESPN BET) | Mobile & desktop | Meadowlands Racetrack (under FanDuel permit) | Entered 2019; set to rebrand to ESPN BET in late 2025 | Unique PointsBetting (higher variance) in addition to fixed‑odds bets | “Second‑chance” bets; SGP boosts | Innovative markets but PointsBetting risk may not suit beginners |
| Hard Rock Bet | Mobile & desktop | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City | Launched 2019; previously Hard Rock Sportsbook | Simple interface, strong live betting, integrated casino wallet | Bet credit offers; combo parlay insurance | Solid option with cross‑property rewards; fewer markets than leaders |
| bet365 | Mobile & desktop | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City (skin) | Entered NJ in 2019 | Huge global brand, competitive soccer and tennis markets, early payout features | “Bet credits” new customer bonus; multi‑sport boosts | Deep market selection and early lines; interface may overwhelm newbies |
| Borgata Sports | Mobile & desktop | Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa (sister of BetMGM) | Launched 2019 | Essentially a Borgata‑branded version of BetMGM; shares wallet with Borgata online casino | Similar to BetMGM’s “first bet offer” | Good alternative for those loyal to Borgata/Atlantic City |
| Bally Bet | Mobile (iOS and Android) | Bally’s Atlantic City | Returned to NJ in 2024 after platform overhaul; part of Bally’s nationwide rollout | Simple app, focused promotions, ties to Bally Rewards | Welcome bet credit; odds boosts | Work in progress; limited market depth but low vig on spreads |
| Betway | Mobile & desktop | Golden Nugget Atlantic City (skin) | Entered 2021 | International operator with strong soccer & European sports coverage | Welcome bet credit; parlay boosters | Good for niche markets; smaller bet limits |
| SI Sportsbook (Sports Illustrated) | Mobile only | Bally’s Atlantic City (skin) | Launched 2023 via 888/Abalcore; uncertain future | Unique “SI Scoreboard” features; integrated sports media content | Bet credit welcome offer; odds boosts | Enjoyable interface but uncertain longevity |
| Tipico Sportsbook | Mobile & desktop | Ocean Casino Resort | Launched 2020; parent company in Germany | Simple app, soccer‑oriented markets | Deposit match + bet credits | Limited U.S. reach; suitable for soccer bettors |
| Prophet Exchange | Mobile only | Monmouth Park Racetrack | Launched 2022 as a peer‑to‑peer exchange | Users set odds and match bets with other players; lower fees than bookmakers | Often offers risk‑free first exchange bet | Unique product; liquidity can be thin on niche markets |
| BetPARX | Mobile & desktop | Freehold Raceway | Went live 2022 | Integrated parx casino wallet, quick withdrawal times | Bet credit for first bet; profit boosts | Focus on ease of deposits/withdrawals; fewer markets |
| Tipbet or other smaller brands | Various | Usually partnered via Golden Nugget, Hard Rock or Resorts | Several smaller operators (e.g., Fubo Sportsbook in 2021–2022) have exited the market. Some new skins may launch periodically under existing permits. | — | — | Always confirm that a brand is licensed and live via the DGE before depositing. |
Note: The above table reflects our best understanding of the market at the time of writing. Operators may merge or exit the state. Always verify the current list on the DGE website before opening an account.
How to Choose a Legal NJ Sportsbook
Even with fewer operators than Nevada or Colorado, New Jersey’s sports‑betting landscape can feel crowded. Use these factors when deciding which book suits your needs:
1. Safety & trust
- License & regulation: Only bet with sportsbooks approved by the DGE and partnered with a brick‑and‑mortar casino or racetrack. Illegal offshore sites may appear tempting but offer no consumer protections.
- Brand history & reputation: Well‑established companies (DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars) tend to have better resources for customer service and technology. Check how long a brand has operated and whether it has faced repeated regulatory actions.
- Responsible gambling tools: Reputable sites allow you to set deposit limits, wager limits, session time limits and cool‑off periods. They also provide links to help resources and allow self‑exclusion.
2. Odds quality & market depth
Sportsbooks make money by charging a margin (“vig”) on every bet. Compare odds across a few books before placing a wager—some operators consistently offer better lines on certain sports. Also consider market depth: does the book offer same‑game parlays (SGPs), player prop bets, alternate lines, teasers and live betting?
3. App experience
New Jersey’s geolocation requirements mean your device must consistently prove you are within state lines. Robust apps (DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM) integrate geolocation checks smoothly. Evaluate download size, design, navigation, response time and stability. Some books offer bet‑building tools, cash‑out options and real‑time stat feeds.
4. Banking & withdrawals
Choose a sportsbook with deposit and withdrawal methods that suit you. All regulated operators support multiple funding options, though processing times vary. We compare common methods later in this guide.
5. Promotions & bonus terms
Not all bonuses are created equal. Some “risk‑free” bets refund your stake only as a non‑withdrawable bonus credit, meaning you must wager through the credit to convert it to cash. Examine:
- Playthrough requirements: The number of times you must wager the bonus before it becomes cash.
- Minimum odds: Many promos require your qualifying bets to meet minimum odds (e.g., –200 or longer).
- Expiry: Welcome offers often expire within 7–30 days.
- Exclusions: Same‑game parlays, cash‑out bets and certain markets may not qualify.
6. Customer support & dispute resolution
Reliable customer service (live chat, email, phone) is essential. If you encounter unresolved issues, you can file a complaint with the DGE. Keep records of account statements, chat logs and transaction receipts—these support your case. The DGE has the authority to investigate disputes and penalize operators.
NJ Sports Betting Bonuses & Promos
Sportsbooks use bonuses to attract and retain customers. New players should understand how these offers work—and their strings.
Types of offers
- Welcome bonus (deposit match): The book matches a percentage of your first deposit (e.g., 20–100 %) with a cap. You must wager the bonus amount a certain number of times before it becomes withdrawable.
- Second‑chance or “first bet insurance” offer: If your first bet loses, you receive a refund in site credits or bonus bets. Refunds usually have a 1x playthrough requirement.
- Bonus bets: These are credits you can stake but which are not returned as part of your payout. Only the winnings from a bonus‑bet stake are credited.
- Odds boosts & profit boosts: Operators increase the odds on selected markets, boosting potential winnings without extra cost.
- Parlay insurance: If one leg of your multi‑leg parlay loses, the book refunds your stake as a bonus bet.
- Loyalty/free bet clubs: Frequent bettors may earn free bets or cash rewards based on monthly wagering volume.
Bonus comparison table
The specifics of promotions change frequently. The table below outlines typical welcome offers in late 2025; always check the terms on the operator’s website.
| Sportsbook | Typical welcome offer | Playthrough/terms | Key restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets (bet credits) after first wager settles | Bonus bets expire after 7 days; winnings paid as cash, stake not returned | Qualifying bet must be at least $5; minimum odds –200; one per user |
| FanDuel | No‑sweat first bet up to $1,000 (refunded in bonus bets if first wager loses) | Bonus bets expire in 14 days; 1x playthrough; cannot withdraw stake | Only first bet counts; live bets and SGPs often qualify |
| BetMGM | First bet offer up to $1,500 back in bonus bets | Bonus bets credited in 20 % increments if stake >$50; expire in 7 days | Qualifying odds –200 or longer; must wager all credits before withdrawal |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Bet up to $1,000, get it back as a bonus bet if it loses | Bonus bet expires in 14 days; stake not returned | Minimum odds –200; excludes round robins and some props |
| BetRivers | Second‑chance bet up to $500 (bonus credit) | Bonus money must be wagered 1x at –200 or longer within 30 days | Live bets eligible; maximum refund depends on state |
| Hard Rock Bet | Bet $5, Get $50 in bonus bets | Bonus credited as five $10 credits; expire in 7 days | Minimum odds –250; risk‑free portion for first qualifying wager only |
| bet365 | Bet $1, Get $200 in bet credits | Credits released once qualifying bets settle; no minimum odds; expire in 60 days | Must place qualifying bet of $1 or more; stake not returned |
| Bally Bet | Bet $50, Get $250 in bonus bets (2025 promo) | Credits awarded in increments; playthrough 1x; expire 7 days | Qualifying bet must be at least $50; min odds –250 |
| Betway | Risk‑free first bet up to $250 | Refund paid in bonus bets; 1x playthrough; expire 7 days | Qualifying bet only; min odds –200 |
| SI Sportsbook | Bet $20, Get $200 in bonus bets | Bonus paid as 10 x $20 credits; expire 7 days | Qualifying bet min odds –200 |
Worked example: second‑chance bet
Suppose a sportsbook offers “Bet $100, get a refund in bonus bets if your first wager loses.” You deposit $100 and place a $100 moneyline bet on the New York Jets at +150. If the Jets win, you profit $150 (plus your $100 stake) and the bonus does not apply. If the Jets lose, the sportsbook credits $100 in bonus bets. You then stake the $100 bonus on an NFL spread at –110. If that bet wins, you receive $90.90 in cash winnings (stake not returned) that you can withdraw after meeting any additional requirements. If the second bet loses, your initial deposit is gone.
How to Bet on Sports in NJ: A Beginner’s Walkthrough
Step‑by‑step process
- Pick a legal sportsbook: Use the decision framework above to choose a DGE‑approved operator. Confirm the book is live in NJ by checking its website or the DGE list.
- Register and verify: Download the app or visit the desktop site. Provide your full legal name, address, phone number and last four digits of your Social Security Number. Upload ID documents if required. Choose strong login credentials and enable two‑factor authentication.
- Geolocation: Install the geolocation plugin or allow the app to access your location. If you’re near state borders, you may occasionally fail a location check—try moving farther into NJ or switching networks.
- Deposit funds: Select a deposit method (see “Payments” below). Enter the amount and follow the prompts. Some methods may require you to first verify your bank account or e‑wallet.
- Claim a bonus: If there is a welcome offer, click the opt‑in button or enter a promo code during registration/deposit. Read the terms carefully to know which wagers qualify.
- Place your bet: Navigate to the sport and market of your choice. Select the bet and type in your stake. The bet slip displays potential payout. Confirm the bet—once placed, wagers usually cannot be canceled.
- Track your bet: Use the “My bets” section to see open positions and cash‑out options. Many apps offer live stats and streaming.
- Withdraw: When you win and meet any playthrough requirements, go to the withdrawal tab, choose your payout method and request a withdrawal. Processing times vary from instant (e‑wallets) to several business days (ACH transfers).
Understanding betting markets
- Moneyline: Bet on which team or player will win. American odds show how much you’ll win on $100 (“+” odds) or how much you must bet to win $100 (“–” odds). For example, –150 means you must bet $150 to win $100; +200 means a $100 bet would profit $200. To convert to implied probability: implied probability = (–odds)/(–odds + 100) for negative odds or 100/(odds + 100) for positive odds.
- Point spread: Sportsbooks handicap a favorite by a certain number of points. You bet whether the favorite wins by more than the spread (covers) or the underdog loses by fewer points or wins outright.
- Totals (over/under): Bet whether the combined score goes over or under the posted line.
- Prop bets: Wagers on player or team statistics within a game (e.g., number of touchdowns, rebounds, strikeouts).
- Same‑game parlays (SGPs): Combine multiple outcomes within the same game (e.g., moneyline + player prop). Correlated bets can boost your potential payout but also increase risk.
- Futures: Long‑term bets on season outcomes (e.g., Super Bowl champion, MVP). Usually offered with higher returns but your money is tied up for months.
- Live betting: Wager during the game as odds update in real‑time. Live betting is fast‑paced; be mindful of delayed broadcast feeds and quickly changing lines.
Bankroll management basics
Sports betting should be viewed as entertainment, not a get‑rich‑quick scheme. Smart bettors allocate a dedicated “bankroll” and stake a small percentage (often 1–5 %) per wager. For example, with a $500 bankroll, you might bet $10–$25 per game. Avoid chasing losses, gambling with rent money or making large bets on long‑shot parlays. Record your wagers, outcomes and reasoning to build discipline. New Jersey sportsbooks offer tools like deposit limits and time‑out periods to help you stay in control.
What You Can (and Can’t) Bet On in NJ
Professional sports
New Jersey sportsbooks offer markets on all major professional leagues—including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and MLS—plus tennis, golf, UFC/MMA, boxing, motorsports (NASCAR, Formula 1), cycling and rugby. Bettors can place pre‑match, live and futures bets on these sports. Esports betting remains restricted; while the DGE has piloted esports events, not all games or tournaments are approved, so check each operator’s offerings.
College sports and amateur events
NJ rules allow wagering on out‑of‑state college teams and events but prohibit bets on any college event involving a New Jersey school or held within state lines. For example, you may bet on Penn State vs Ohio State or the College Football Playoff (if not hosted in NJ). You may not bet on Rutgers, Seton Hall or Princeton games, nor on any March Madness games staged at the Prudential Center. Player props for college games are also restricted in some cases, and markets on high‑school or youth sports are prohibited.
Niche markets
Many NJ books offer betting on UFC, boxing, golf (PGA Tour, LIV Golf), tennis (ATP/WTA), motorsports (NASCAR, F1, IndyCar) and cycling. Rugby league and union, cricket, darts, snooker and table tennis are available on selected sites. Some books also allow wagering on awards shows or entertainment markets; however, regulatory approval varies, and such bets are often classified as “novelty bets.”
Restrictions recap
- No in‑state college teams or events.
- No amateur youth sports (including high‑school games).
- Limited esports betting – only on events and titles approved by the DGE.
- Data source rules – some markets may be suspended if official data feeds are unavailable.
Responsible Gambling in New Jersey
Sports betting should be fun. The state and operators provide resources to help you gamble responsibly.
Tools and limits
- Deposit & spend limits: Set daily, weekly or monthly caps on deposits and/or wagers. Once you hit the limit, additional deposits will be blocked until the next period.
- Loss limits: Limit the amount you can lose over a set time frame. This helps prevent chasing losses.
- Time limits & session reminders: Receive alerts when you’ve been active for a certain period, or impose mandatory breaks after a set number of hours.
- Cool‑off period: Temporarily suspend your account for a few days or weeks. During this time you cannot log in or deposit.
- Self‑exclusion: Exclude yourself from all regulated NJ sportsbooks and casinos for one year, five years or permanently. Enrollment is voluntary and cannot be revoked during the chosen period. Self‑excluded individuals who attempt to gamble may lose their winnings and could face trespass charges.
Warning signs & tips
Problem gambling can manifest as chasing losses, betting more than you can afford, hiding gambling from friends/family, or neglecting work and social obligations. If you recognize these signs:
- Take advantage of deposit limits or cool‑off periods.
- Talk to a trusted person about your gambling.
- Keep a gambling diary to monitor time and money spent.
- Never gamble under the influence of drugs or alcohol; avoid gambling when depressed or angry.
- Treat sports betting as entertainment. Expect to lose as part of the experience.
Help & support
- 1‑800‑GAMBLER (NJ) – Confidential help line offering counseling referrals and support for problem gamblers.
- Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey – Provides resources, education and support groups (visit 800gambler.org).
- NJ Self‑Exclusion Program – Allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all NJ gambling facilities and websites.
- Gamblers Anonymous – Peer‑led support group with meetings across the state.
- National Council on Problem Gambling – National helpline (1‑800‑522‑4700) and chat services.
Payments: Deposits & Withdrawals
Depositing and withdrawing funds is straightforward at regulated sportsbooks. Still, fees and processing times vary.
Banking methods table
| Method | Deposits | Withdrawals | Typical processing time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACH/eCheck | Yes | Yes | Deposits instant; withdrawals 1–5 business days | Requires bank account and routing number; funds may be held until transaction clears |
| Online banking/Instant bank transfer | Yes | Yes | Deposits instant; withdrawals 1–3 business days | Connects directly to your bank via Plaid or similar service; convenient for most users |
| Debit card (Visa/Mastercard) | Yes | Usually No | Deposits instant; not typically used for payouts | Some banks still decline gambling transactions; check your issuer |
| Credit card | Sometimes | No | Deposits instant; cash advances treated as credit card purchases | Many NJ sportsbooks no longer accept credit cards to promote responsible gaming; cash advance fees and interest may apply |
| PayPal | Yes | Yes | Deposits instant; withdrawals 1–3 business days | Requires verified PayPal account; may charge fees for currency conversion |
| Skrill/Neteller | Yes | Yes | Deposits instant; withdrawals 1–3 business days | Less common in the U.S. but useful for privacy; small fees may apply |
| Play+ prepaid card | Yes | Yes | Deposits instant; withdrawals 1–2 business days (transfer to bank) | Each operator may issue its own Play+ card; funds can be used at ATMs and anywhere Discover® is accepted |
| Cash at casino cage/racetrack | Yes | Yes | Immediate | Deposit or withdraw at partner casino’s cage (e.g., Borgata, Hard Rock). Bring ID and account information |
| PayNearMe | Yes | No | Deposits processed within 15 minutes | Make cash deposits at participating retailers (7‑Eleven, CVS) using a barcode from your sportsbook account |
| Wire transfer | Yes | Yes | Deposits and withdrawals processed within 1–3 business days | Best for large transactions (often $1,000 +); may incur bank fees |
Security basics
Always enable two‑factor authentication and set strong passwords. Beware of phishing emails or unsolicited messages requesting your login credentials. Regularly review account statements for unauthorized transactions. Never share your account with others—sportsbooks can confiscate funds and ban accounts for suspicious activity.
Taxes, Record‑Keeping & Reporting
Federal obligations
The IRS treats gambling winnings as taxable income. Sportsbooks must issue Form W‑2G when a bettor wins $600 or more and the payout is at least 300 times the stake. For example, a $2 parlay paying $650 would trigger a W‑2G, while a $50 straight bet paying $450 would not. When a W‑2G is issued, sportsbooks may withhold 24 % of the net winnings for federal tax. Even if you don’t receive a W‑2G, you must report all gambling income on Form 1040 Schedule 1. Gambling losses may be deducted on Schedule A if you itemize deductions, but only up to the amount of gambling income.
New Jersey state taxes
New Jersey does not levy a separate tax on gambling winnings, but your winnings increase your gross income. Report gambling income on NJ‑1040. The state income tax rate is graduated (1.4 – 10.75 % depending on income). Losses may be deductible to the extent of gambling income, but you must keep contemporaneous records.
Record‑keeping template
Maintain a simple spreadsheet to track:
| Date | Operator | Stake | Odds | Bet type | Result | Net win/loss | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025‑09‑05 | DraftKings | $25 | NY Giants –3 (–110) | Point spread | Win | +$22.73 | Season opener |
| 2025‑09‑06 | BetMGM | $10 | Yankees @ –180 | Moneyline | Lose | –$10 | MLB regular season |
Record stakes, odds, results and net outcomes for every bet. This log supports tax filings and helps you analyze your performance. Retain copies of account statements, W‑2Gs and receipts.
Common Issues & How to Resolve Them
Location verification failures
If the app cannot confirm your location, make sure your device’s GPS is enabled, Wi‑Fi is on and you’re not using a VPN. Move away from state borders and close other apps that use location services. On desktop, download the geolocation plug‑in recommended by the sportsbook and allow location services in your browser.
KYC mismatches
If your details do not match public records (e.g., due to recent address change or name variation), the sportsbook may freeze your account. Provide additional documents (driver’s licence, utility bill, bank statement) to verify your identity. Contact customer support to resolve any discrepancies.
Withdrawal holds
Operators may hold your withdrawal if they suspect fraud, require additional verification or need to complete AML (anti‑money laundering) checks. Ensure your banking information matches your account details. Provide any requested documentation promptly. If delays continue, file a complaint with the DGE.
Dispute resolution
Gather evidence—betting history, screenshots, chat transcripts. Contact the sportsbook’s customer support first. If you cannot resolve the issue, file a complaint with the DGE (https://www.njoag.gov). The regulator can investigate and order corrective action.
NJ Teams & Local Betting Interest
NFL
Although the New York Jets and New York Giants play home games at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey law allows wagering on them because they are chartered in New York. Many NJ sportsbooks offer promos around Jets and Giants games. Another local team is the Philadelphia Eagles, whose fan base extends into southern NJ.
NBA
The Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks play across the Hudson River but have large followings in New Jersey. The Philadelphia 76ers are popular in the southern part of the state. NJ bettors can wager on regular‑season games, player props and futures (championships, MVP, Rookie of the Year).
NHL
The New Jersey Devils play at the Prudential Center in Newark. Fans can bet on moneylines, puck lines and totals; futures markets include Stanley Cup winners and conference championships. The New York Rangers, Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers also attract wagers.
MLB
With no MLB team in New Jersey, residents often support the New York Yankees, New York Mets or Philadelphia Phillies. Regular‑season games, run lines, totals, player props (e.g., hits, strikeouts) and futures (World Series winners, Cy Young) are widely available.
MLS & other sports
New Jersey fans follow the New York Red Bulls (home games at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ) and Philadelphia Union. International soccer leagues (Premier League, La Liga), UFC events and golf majors also see significant betting volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is sports betting legal in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey legalized sports betting in June 2018 after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned PASPA. Betting is permitted at licensed casinos, racetracks and online sportsbooks regulated by the DGE.
Q2. What is the minimum age to bet on sports in NJ?
You must be 21 years or older to place a sports bet in New Jersey. This age requirement applies to both in‑person and online wagering.
Q3. Do I have to live in New Jersey to bet there?
No. You can bet as a visitor, but you must be physically located within New Jersey’s borders when placing your bet. Sportsbooks use geolocation checks to enforce this.
Q4. Can I bet on Rutgers or Seton Hall games?
No. New Jersey prohibits wagering on any college sporting event involving a New Jersey school or any college event held in the state.
Q5. Can I bet on my phone?
Yes. All licensed sportsbooks offer mobile apps or mobile‑optimized sites. You’ll need to enable geolocation services and satisfy KYC requirements.
Q6. Are bonuses “free money”?
No. Most bonuses are paid as site credits that must be wagered before they become cash. Read the playthrough requirements, minimum‑odds clauses and expiry dates.
Q7. What happens if my internet drops during a live bet?
If a wager is confirmed before the disconnect, it stands. If your bet slip was not confirmed, it will not go through. Live betting lines can change quickly; confirm your bet before the odds move.
Q8. Can I use a VPN to bet from another state?
No. Using a VPN or other methods to spoof your location violates sportsbook terms and state law. Bets placed from outside New Jersey will be voided and may lead to account closure.
Q9. How do I know a sportsbook is legitimate?
Check whether it is listed on the DGE’s official roster of licensed operators and partnered with an Atlantic City casino or racetrack. Offshore sites offering sports betting to NJ residents are not regulated and carry significant risks.
Q10. How long do withdrawals take?
Processing times range from instant (e‑wallets) to several business days (ACH, wire). Sportsbooks may hold withdrawals for additional verification.
Q11. Are my winnings taxed?
Yes. Gambling winnings are taxable income at both federal and state levels. Operators issue Form W‑2G for certain winnings. Keep detailed records and consult a tax professional.
Q12. What is PointsBetting?
PointsBetting (offered by PointsBet/ESPN BET) is a form of wager where your win or loss is multiplied by how much the outcome differs from the spread. It can yield high returns but also large losses; beginners should avoid it until they understand the risks.
Q13. Does self‑exclusion apply nationwide?
No. New Jersey’s self‑exclusion program bans you only from NJ‑licensed operators. However, many other states honor self‑exclusion requests. If you need broader protection, seek help from national problem gambling organizations.
Q14. Can I bet on esports?
Some NJ sportsbooks offer limited esports markets approved by the DGE. Availability depends on the title and the event’s compliance with state rules.
Q15. What should I do if my account is hacked?
Immediately contact the sportsbook’s support team, change your password, enable two‑factor authentication and notify your bank. Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report.
Q16. Do sportsbooks share my personal information?
Licensed operators must protect your data and follow privacy laws. They may share information with regulators or law‑enforcement authorities for compliance purposes but cannot sell it for marketing without consent.
Q17. Are same‑game parlays good value?
SGPs can offer high payouts, but sportsbooks set lines with extra margin. Use them sparingly and focus on markets where you have solid knowledge.
