Best Sportsbook Promos & Betting Bonuses for Today
The best sportsbook promos & bonuses lead to thousands in bonus offers. The top sportsbooks all have new-customer offers that can be claimed for any sports event, plus ongoing promotions for various sports, leagues, and games. Claim promos from the best betting sites from industry leaders such as BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, Caesars, Fanatics, BetRivers, & ESPN Bet today.
Recommended sportsbook promos for today
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win*
*Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Use Bonus Code: PLAYLSR
- Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose
- OR First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000
- 30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit
- T&Cs Apply. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER 21+
- Use Bonus Code: LSRBET
- Stream NFL Games In-App for Free
- 21+ Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
- Use Promo Code: LSRDYW
Get $200
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins
Available on Desktop, Android & iOS
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 21+
To Claim: Click Play Now
- Up to $100 in Bonus Bets if First Your Bet Doesn't Win
- Get Your Bets Boosted
- 21+. Gambling Problem? Call/Text 1-800-Gambler. T&Cs apply
- To Claim: Click Play Now
- Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets or Choose Your Own Offer
- Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets
- 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
- To Claim: Click Play Now
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets
PLUS Get a $50 Bonus Bet on Deposit
PLUS up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
What to know about the newest welcome bonuses promos
| Sportsbook | Welcome bonus | Promo code |
|---|---|---|
| BetMGM Sportsbook | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets paid back if your first bet does not win Temporary promo in select states: Bet $10, get $150 in bonus bets if you win (available in CO, MI, NJ, PA and WV in place of standard welcome promo) | PLAYLSR |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | Up to $1,250 in bonus funds | No promo code — claim here |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins | No promo code — claim here |
| Bet365 Sportsbook | Bet $5, get $150 win or lose OR a first bet safety net up to $1,000 | LSRBET |
| BetRivers Sportsbook | Offer not available | LSRRIV |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Bet $10, get up to $1,000 in no-sweat bets | No promo code |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Bet $1, double your winnings on next 10 wagers | LSRDYW |
| Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook | Get $100 in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win | No promo code — claim here |
| ESPN Bet | Up to a $1,500 welcome bonus | No promo code |
| Crab Sports | 100% profit boost on your first bet, up to $500 | PLAYMD |
Best sportsbook promos reviewed
Below, our experts have ranked some of the best sports betting sites and sites based on the welcome bonus, type of offer, maximum amount, playthrough requirements, and more.
1. BetMGM Sportsbook
The BetMGM welcome bonus provides up to $1,500 in bonus bets paid back if your first bet does not win. This means that if you sign up for an account at the sportsbook with the BetMGM bonus code PLAYLSR and wager up to $1,500, the sportsbook will match that wager in bonus bets if it loses.
One nice thing about this promo is that it allows you to potentially make a relatively risky first bet with a potential for a high payout since the bonus bets will essentially give you a second chance if that first bet loses. But if you lose twice, you’re out the original stake.
*Bonus bets expire in seven days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms.
- BetMGM legal states: AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, NJ, NV, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV & WY - Note: Offer not available in NY
- Best promotion for: Bettors seeking a safety net on their first bet.
- Payout speed: One to two days
- Playthrough requirement: For the $1,500 offer, initial bets of $50 or more, you’ll receive bonus bets matching your losing wager in five credits of 20% each, up to $1,500. Bonus bets will expire in seven days.
2. DraftKings Sportsbook
The DraftKings promo code has three parts. First, if you sign up for an account and make a deposit of $5 or more, you’ll receive an automatic $50 bonus bet. Second, the amount of that first deposit is eligible for a 20% match — in the form of bonus funds — up to $1,000 (except in MA). Lastly, new bettors are eligible for $200 in no sweat bets. You can use the bonus to wager on any sport that DraftKings Sportsbook offers, but the bonuses themselves are not withdrawable.
This ranks as the top promo in part because it offers a combined bonus of up to $1,250. The multiple elements also add flexibility for users, and without requiring large wagers right off the bat. One important detail is that bonus bets expire if you do not use them within seven days.
- DraftKings legal states: AZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV & WY
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking to build bankroll.
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Bonus bets must be used within seven days of receipt. Release matching funds at a rate of $1 for every $25 in wagers.
3. FanDuel Sportsbook
The FanDuel promo code will provide $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins. In select states (AZ, CO, KS, NC & TN), the offer is guaranteed win or lose. This offer does not require a promo code. As with all bonus bets, you can use them on future bets but cannot immediately withdraw them. FanDuel only pays you real money from the winnings of bonus bets.
One upside of this offer is that it’s straightforward. There’s no promo code to enter or complex conditions to understand.
- FanDuel legal states: AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV & WY
- Best promotion for: Bettors seeking a simple promo offer.
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Receive the amount of the promo offer if your bet wins. You must then use the credits within seven days, and you only get paid real money from winnings of bonus bets.
4. Bet365 Sportsbook
Bet365’s promo features a choice between two options. The first provides up to $1,000 back in bonus bets win or lose using the bet365 bonus code. The second gives you $150 once you deposit at least $10 and place a wager of at least $5. To qualify, sign up with the promo code LSRBET and make a deposit of $10 or more.
The two options are one of the things that help set this promo apart. One is essentially a first bet at lower risk, while the other offers a win or lose bonus with a relatively small initial wager. The downside of the first option is that if your initial bet is successful, there is no bonus. You’ll have seven days to wager any bonus bets that you receive. After that, they expire.
- Bet365 legal states: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KY, LA, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN & VA
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for a choice of promo options.
- Payout speed: Up to two days
- Playthrough requirement: You have seven days to use any bonuses that you receive.
5. BetRivers Sportsbook
The BetRivers Sportsbook promo gives you up to $500 back in bonus bets if your first wager loses. This is similar to some of the first-bet promos above, though this offer is good only for up to $500. To qualify, sign up with the BetRivers bonus code LSRRIV when creating your account.
This offer is appealing partly because it’s a simple and easy calculation, allowing you to place a first bet knowing that you’ll receive bet credits as a refund if you lose. The bonus bets also appear in your account relatively quickly, generally within 24 hours of that first bet settling. You also get a 30-day window to use the credits before they expire, which is longer than many other sportsbooks offer. However, the maximum amount of the bonus is lower than what some other providers allow.
- BetRivers legal states: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, LA, MD, MI, OH, NJ, NY, PA, VA & WV
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for promos with a longer timeframe before expiration.
- Payout speed: Up to three business days
- Playthrough requirement: You’ll receive a refund for your losing bet — up to the maximum — within 24 hours. You’ll have 30 days before the bet credits expire.
6. Fanatics Sportsbook
When new customers register at Fanatics Sportsbook, they can claim a welcome bonus that goes far beyond their first day or wagering, with no promo code necessary. To claim the Fanatics Sportsbook promo, create an account, deposit at least $5, and start betting.
Fanatics will match your first daily bet for 10 days, with a minimum wager of $5 and a maximum match of $100, so customers can claim up to $1,000 in no sweat bets (also known as FanCash) by betting $100 each day over the first 10 days once their account is live.
Customers must click the opt-in tab each day to unlock the bonus for their first bet of the day, which must have odds of -200 or longer. The FanCash funds are non-withdrawable, but customers can use them for future bets on the site or to purchase merchandise through the Fanatics platform.
This is a uniquely structured promo, as it allows for some flexibility on a day-to-day basis and offers a 100% match. Unlike other promotions that may require users to place an initial large wager to qualify for the full bonus, Fanatics will match multiple smaller bets for customers who prefer lower stakes. Fanatics also offers a loyalty program and odds boosts for existing customers on a user-friendly platform.
As far as downsides, some Fanatics customers have complained about betting limits and restrictions from certain promotions. Fanatics processes withdrawals quickly, but the withdrawal must be via the same payment method as the initial deposit.
- Fanatics legal states: AZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, & WY
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for a promo that lasts beyond the first bet.
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- Playthrough requirement: To receive the full value of the offer, you must make a bet — minimum $5, maximum $100 — for 10 straight days.
7. Caesars Sportsbook
The Caesars Sportsbook offer is 10 fresh 100% profit boost tokens with your first $1 wager. To qualify, sign up with the Caesars Sportsbook promo code LSRDYW. The tokens expire if you do not use them within 14 days.
This main offer is a bit more complex than other sportsbooks. The 100% profit boost tokens allow you to double your winnings on any certain bet. If you lose that wager, all of the bet is a loss. At the same time, if that first bet is successful, you would receive your winnings as usual plus 100% boost on top.
- Caesars legal states: AZ, CO, DC, IN, IL, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NC, NJ, NY, NV, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, & WY
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking to spread out the potential bonus over multiple bets.
- Payout speed: Within 24 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Receive bonus bet credit once the original wager settles. Bonus bet credit must be used within 14 days on a bet that resolves within 30 days.
8. Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook
The Hard Rock Bet promo will provide new customers with $100 in bonus bets provided they meet the conditions. When you create an account, select a payment method, and make a deposit. Depending on what state you are in, the offer might change. Right now, Hard Rock Bet is offering the following: Get $100 in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win for first time users.
This promo from Hard Rock might be minimal when compared to other sportsbooks, coming in at only $100 in total bonus bets. The good news is that it takes very little to receive the bonus.
- Hard Rock Bet legal states: AZ, NJ, TN, VA
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for a low-deposit promo opportunity.
- Payout speed: Within 48 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Bonus bets will be awarded once the first bet is graded as a loss. Credits expire in 14 days and are paid out in $20 increments.
9. ESPN Bet
ESPN Bet made its debut in November 2023. Now available in 18 states, the ESPN Bet welcome bonus is a two-part promo that’s good for up to $1,500. First, you can receive a 200% match of your initial deposit, up to a maximum of $500. Matching funds are released at a rate of $1 for every $10 in wagers. Next, you can get a first-bet reset of up to $1,000. If your first wager loses, you’ll receive a refund of your stake, up to the $1,000 maximum. You’ll receive a credit for the same amount, which you must then use to place a single wager prior to expiration.
- ESPN Bet legal states: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, & WV
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for a deposit match and first bet insurance.
- Payout speed: Within 48 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Any bonus funds expire in seven days. For the deposit match, you’ll release $1 in bonus funds for every $10 in wagers.
10. Crab Sports
Crab Sports is a Maryland-only sportsbook that focuses on local promos and offerings. Use the code PLAYMD to secure a 100% profit boost on your first bet for up to $500. Once you’ve signed up, make sure to place a minimum $25 wager at odds of -125 or longer to qualify.
- Crab Sports legal states: MD
- Best promotion for: Bettors looking for local team promos and bonuses.
- Payout speed: Within 48 hours
- Playthrough requirement: Bonus bet will be rewarded if your first bet loses. Bonus bet will not be available for cashout.
Top sportsbook promo right now
The NBA postseason is ongoing and thanks to DraftKings NBA playoff promos, bettors are benefitting hugely, including a profit boost for every single game. After opting into the promotions, all customers are being gifted a 3+ leg profit boost for SGP/SGPx wagers. The boosts enhance your winnings by 33% each and each parlay must have odds of +300 or longer. DraftKings also has a weekly no-sweat bet offer for this NBA postseason, offering insurance (max $100) for a select wager every week throughout the playoffs.
Best weekly sportsbook promos at betting sites
- DraftKings Sportsbook has a weekly no-sweat bet for the NBA playoffs, plus a same-game parlay for every NBA playoff game. There is also an NHL SGP/SGPx boost along with a King of the Diamond MLB Boost, which when used will offer a chance to win $1M in bonus bets. There is also a daily mystery boost for the PGA Championship.
- FanDuel Sportsbook has a daily promotion for the NBA playoffs, plus a 25% odds boost token for the NHL postseason. FD also offers a daily 25% boost throughout the PGA Championship and has its ongoing Dinger Tuesdays promo, which is a 50% boost on MLB players to hit a home run.
- bet365 Sportsbook offers a parlay boost of up to 100% plus its early payout promotion, which pays out on MLB (5+ runs), NBA (20+ points), and NHL (3+ goals) wagers.
- BetMGM Sportsbook features an NBA playoff SGP boost, plus an NBA second chance bet. This is another site offering golf promotions for the action at Quail Hollow, along with its ongoing NHL Hat Trick Jackpot and an EPL Up 2 Early Payout promotion.
- Caesars Sportsbook is offering $50 in bonus bets for every friend referred to the sportsbook.
- ESPNBet has consistent profit boost offerings for NBA and NHL playoffs, plus MLB action this week.
Best sportsbook betting bonuses by bonus type
| Best overall sign-up bonus | DraftKings Sportsbook |
| Best bet-get offer | FanDuel Sportsbook |
| Best referral bonus | FanDuel Sportsbook |
| Biggest bonus options | Bet365 Sportsbook |
| Largest maximum sign-up bonus | BetMGM Sportsbook |
Fun games to bet with this week’s best sportsbook promos
If you’re looking to take advantage of the top sportsbook promos being offered this week and beyond, particularly from the best NBA betting sites throughout the postseason. Below, we break down some of the key matchups for the top leagues across the United States:
- Golf: PGA Championship (Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club – Charlotte, NC | May 15-18
- NHL: Florida Panthers vs. Toronto Maple Leads | 5/16 8 p.m. ET (TNT/truTV/Max) FLA leads 3-2
- NBA: New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics | 5/16 8 p.m. ET (ESPN) – NYK leads 3-2
- MLB: Texas Rangers vs. Houston Astros | 5/16 8:05 p.m. ET (Apple TV+)
- MLB: San Diego Padres vs. Seattle Mariners | 5/16 9:40 p.m. ET (Apple TV+)
- MLB: Boston Red Sox vs. Atlanta Braves | 5/17 7:15 p.m. ET (FOX)
- NHL: Dallas Stars vs. Winnipeg Jets | 5/17 8 p.m. ET (ABC) – DAL leads 3-2
- NBA: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets | 5/18 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC) – Tied 3-3
- MLB: New York Yankees vs. New York Mets | 5/18 7 p.m. ET (ESPN)
Best sportsbook promos by state
The number of states where sports betting is legal continues to grow. Vermont, Kentucky, and North Carolina are the latest. Each state has different rules, various legal sportsbooks, and a variety of sports betting promos and bonuses. An Ohio sportsbook promo may not be the same as one in North Carolina. Click the link for your state or location below to head to a page where you can see the top available bonuses and promos and any necessary codes to access them.
There are also several states with ongoing efforts to legalize sports betting. Some states are closer than others to legalization, but there is an appetite for legal online sports betting in all of the states listed below. Several of these states also have DFS pick’em and social sportsbooks. Click the link to your state to see what promos are available now.
| Alabama | California promos |
| Georgia | Minnesota |
| Missouri | Oklahoma |
| South Carolina | Texas promos |
Top sport-specific sportsbook promotions
Many of the sign-up bonuses that you claim for online sportsbooks can be used for wagering on any sport. However, you’ll also find promos that are sport-specific.
NFL sportsbook promos
The NFL is the most popular sport for betting at online sportsbooks. In advance of the season, various promos are available for new customers. For example, FanDuel offered $200 in bonus bets to new users who placed a first bet of $5 or more prior to kickoff of the latest campaign.
When the season is underway, there are boosts available for weekly games. DraftKings regularly offers profit boost tokens for SGP wagers on primetime games. You can also find promos for NFL futures bets at various sportsbooks, such as boosted odds on the Super Bowl winner.
DraftKings also offers touchdown parlay bet boosts this NFL season, increasing the amount of the boost based on how many legs you add to the parlay. FanDuel has a 25% profit boost on all live bets for Thursday Night Football. To qualify, you must opt in and place a qualifying wager with odds of -200 (pre-boost).
College football sportsbook promos
The kickoff of college football season also attracts scores of new users, and online sportsbooks welcome them with promos. Prior to Week 1 of this season, new users at bet365 could sign up to claim a first-bet safety net for up to $1,000.
Promos are also available on select matchups throughout the season. Caesars has a regular assortment of odds boosts available, as well as “FireBets” for select SGPs, player props, and marquee contests.
DraftKings has a Barstool-branded promotion this college football season, boosting a four-plus leg parlay. The app also offers Game of the Week boosts for featured matchups, which can be used on any bet for the game. FanDuel also offers profit boosts for any bet on big games, ranging from 30% to 50%.
MLB sportsbook promos
Bettors who are into MLB have no shortage of options to choose from. From opening day through to the World Series, there’s an abundance of games and props to choose from. New users can claim a range of sign-up bonuses, such as BetMGM’s welcome bonus for up to $1,500.
Sportsbooks also have a regular array of promo offers throughout the season, several of which are tied to specific wagers. For example, DraftKings has a “Homerfest” promo that provides bonus bets when a player you wager on hits a home run during that game.
For the MLB World Series, books like FanDuel are offering regular profit boosts for games.
NBA sportsbook promos
The tipoff of the NBA season is a popular occasion with bettors, and sportsbooks may mark the event with promos for new users. You can sign up and claim offers such as up to $1,000 in bonus bets from Fanatics Sportsbook.
There are also promos available for select games and props all season long. For example, BetRivers offers a regular assortment of house specials and boosted SGPs, such as a team to win, the total to go over, and a player to score a designated number of points.
UFC sportsbook promos
Big UFC fight nights are some of the most popular events on the sportsbook menu. Prior to the events, users have a host of sign-up offers to choose from, including ten 100% profit boosts on Caesars after your first bet.
You can bet on all of the individual fights on the card and also combine wagers into parlays. There’s also a wide selection of props, some of which have boosts. For example, at FanDuel, you’ll find props on rounds, time, method of finish, and more. Why not try them out for UFC 311, which takes place on January 18th?
NHL sportsbook promos
NHL bettors have plenty of options to choose from in advance of and during the season. Over at bet365, there’s the option for new users to bet $5 and receive $150 in bonus bets. In advance of the latest season, the sportsbook was also offering boosts on Stanley Cup futures bets.
Once you’re signed up to wager at bet365, you’ll find boosts for select SGP wagers. The book also has a promo that offers an instant payout on moneyline bets if your team goes up by three goals.
Sportsbook promos for existing users
If you are an existing user of most sports betting apps in the United States, you might be wondering where you can take advantage of promos, boosts, and offers. Some of the top online sportsbooks offer recurring promos, profit boost tokens, and more. Below is a full list of some top books that provide offers to keep users engaged and help you build a bankroll.
Keep in mind that these offers are constantly changing, depending on what leagues are playing and the time of year. These are the best promos for April 2025 with the NBA and NHL playoffs, plus golf and MLB dominating the sports calendar.
| Sportsbook | Promo, Boost, or Bonus |
|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook | NHL SGP(x) Profit Boost |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | NBA Every Game SGP Boost |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | NBA Playoffs Weekly No-Sweat |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | PGA Championship Mystery Boost |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | MLB King of the Diamond Boost |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Daily Live 25% Golf Boost |
| Caesars Sportsbook | 50% NBA Profit Boost |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Refer a friend, get $50 in Bonus Bets |
| bet365 Sportsbook | Up to 100% Parlay Boost |
| bet365 Sportsbook | MLB, NBA & NHL Early Payouts |
| bet365 Sportsbook | Daily Bet Boosts |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Daily NBA Playoffs Boost |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | 25% NHL SGP/SGP+ Boost |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | 25% PGA Championship Boost |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Refer a friend, both get a pair of 100% profit boosts |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | NHL Hat Trick Jackpot |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | PGA Championship Odds Boost |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | NBA Playoff Second Chance Bet |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | NBA Playoffs SGP Odds Boost |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | Refer a friend, get $100 bonus |
| BetRivers Sportsbook | BetRivers SGP PropPacks |
| Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook | Random profit boost drops for multiple sports (10-30% boosts) |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Refer friends, get up to $250 in sportsbook bonus bets |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Get a new reward every single day. (Bonus bets, profit boosts, & more) |
| ESPN Bet | NHL/NBA/MLB Profit Boost Pack |
| ESPN Bet | NHL/NBA Early Payouts |
How to claim sportsbook promotions
LSR has promo codes for some of the top sports betting sites, and you can find them in our table at the top of this page.
- Simply click the “play now” button and enter the promo code. In some cases, clicking on “play now” will take you to a page where the promo code is already there or is not necessary.
- Enter one of the promo or bonus codes found on this page. Simply pick which sportsbooks you would like to play at, and enter the code.
- Fill out all necessary personal information and also verify your location within the app.
- Once you’ve signed up, you can make your first wager and access the bonus. The amount of the bonus you receive and when you receive it will depend on the details of the offer.
- Make sure you meet all playthrough requirements that are associated with the offer. This means that you need to wager the credits a certain number of times and within a certain time frame before any winnings from those bets are eligible to withdraw.
How we rate sportsbook promos
Promos and bonuses are a key factor in evaluating the best online sportsbooks. These bonuses play a significant role in enhancing the overall experience. While the range of betting options and competitive odds are important, the quality and variety of promotional offers often set a sportsbook apart. Welcome bonuses, bonus bets, and deposit matches are just the beginning—we also look at ongoing sportsbook promos, such as odds boosts, early payouts, and loyalty rewards.
We also carefully analyze the fine print of these offers, including wagering requirements, expiration dates, and eligibility criteria, to ensure they provide actual value to new and existing users. A sportsbook’s ability to deliver consistent promos is key factor on its ranking, as it helps bettors maximize their potential winnings and build a larger bankroll. Beyond the actual promos, we also consider the ease of claiming these offers and the platform’s reputation.
Types of sportsbook bonuses and promos explained
As mentioned, the promotions you encounter will vary depending on the sportsbook. Many books make the deals exclusive to sports betting, while others will also tie in incentives for other products. For example, Caesars and FanDuel may also offer casino bonuses in that space. Here are some of the most popular sportsbook bonuses and how they work:
Sign-up bonus
Sign-up bonuses are pretty self-explanatory. New users receive small amounts of site credits once they have successfully signed up at a new sportsbook. These are the easiest bonuses to obtain but are essentially just an incentive to get a bettor in the virtual door. Bonus amounts are usually pretty small, such as a $50 bonus bet credit.
Deposit match
Some online sportsbooks will match your first deposit after you sign up. The maximum can vary but can sometimes be for $1,000 or more. The matching funds will arrive as a percentage of your deposit. Some books offer 20%, but others may match 100%. Here is a hypothetical example:
- You come across a deposit matching bonus of 100% up to $500 for new bettors at a sportsbook.
- You sign up and make a $100 deposit.
- The sportsbook credits your account with an additional $100.
- You now have a beginning bankroll of $200.
The matched funds are yours to wager with, but some restrictions will apply. There may be a time limitation on using them, and the actual amount of the credit is not withdrawable. As always, review the terms and conditions of the promo for specifics.
Whenever you make a deposit, though, remember that it’s essential to be mindful of your personal comfort level and sports betting budget, which should consist solely of disposable income equivalent to what you would spend on another entertainment-related expense.
Bet and get
Bet and get bonuses are popping up more often at online sportsbooks as an incentive to not only get new bettors to sign up but to begin placing wagers. For example, bettors who claim a “bet $5, get $200” promo will receive $200 in bonus bets after signing up and making a wager of at least $5. Some sportsbooks will provide the bonus whether you win or lose that original bet; others may require you to win.
Many people prefer this type of bonus to “second-chance bets” or similar promotions as it doesn’t require your bet to lose to receive the benefit. If you signed up, made a $10 wager, and won the bet, you would still receive the $200. This bet can also be placed on a variety of sports, such as a college football betting promo or a soccer betting promo.
No deposit bonus
For this promotion, you get bonus funds to wager with after signing up. The amount will vary, and you won’t be able to withdraw the funds immediately, but there are few other restrictions. If you win, the sportsbook will credit your account with the winnings. Here is another hypothetical example:
- You create an account at DraftKings and receive a $50 bonus bet.
- You scan the NFL odds and use the $50 bonus bet to wager on the Baltimore Ravens at +2.5 versus the Kansas City Chiefs.
- If the Ravens cover the spread, DraftKings will credit your account with the winnings, but you’ve used the credit for the bonus bet.
If the bet loses, you’ve also used the bonus bet, so you’ll have to deposit to continue wagering on the site. Variations of this promo may require you to make an initial deposit to receive the bonus bet.
Additionally, be sure to view the terms and conditions of the bonus bet, as you may need to use it within a certain timeframe, such as seven or 30 days. DraftKings, BetMGM, and other top sportsbooks have featured this type of bonus at various times.
Bonus bets allow you to get a feel for a new site, but that doesn’t mean that you should be using them in a haphazard fashion. Since the choice is the potential for profit if you win and nothing if you lose, treat them like any other wager and use them on the games or events you feel best about.
Odds boost
Odds boosts are when the book increases the odds for a game or prop bet to make a wager more attractive for the bettor. In doing so, the sportsbook often gives up some or all of its built-in advantage (also known as vig or vigorish).
For example, an online sportsbook might move the odds of Juan Soto hitting a home run from +250 up to +400 — much more attractive odds, but of course, your wager still needs to win.
These odds boosts are usually available every day at most sportsbooks, though there may be more to choose from during special events. For example, Super Bowl odds boosts will be widely available to attract new bettors to sign up.
No-sweat bet
Receive a refund as a bonus bet or bets if your first wager loses. Depending on the specific sportsbook, the actual name for such a promo will vary. Usually, the bonus bet refund has an upper limit, and bets larger than that are only covered up to the point of the limit.
For example, if you used a no-sweat bet to place a $50 wager on Christian McCaffrey to score a touchdown in his next game and he was unsuccessful, the sportsbook would add $50 as a bonus bet or bets to your account to cover the amount you’d lost on the wager. Such bonus bets are then eligible to use on future wagers but not to withdraw.
Second-chance bet
This is essentially another name for a no-sweat bet. It provides a refund as a bonus bet or bets if your first wager loses, giving you a second chance at making a winning bet. For a quick example, if you bet $20 on the New York Yankees to beat the Baltimore Orioles and New York goes on to lose, you’ll get back a $20 second-chance bet.
These are common types of welcome bonuses, but it’s important to note that if your first bet wins, the bonus does not apply. One benefit of these promos is that you can potentially place a riskier first wager than you otherwise might, knowing that you’ll get another chance if the first wager fails.
First-bet promo
A bonus that is contingent upon your initial wager. These typically offer some form of bonus bet credit in exchange for making a first bet at a sportsbook. Sometimes these offers will be for a certain amount in bonus bets regardless of whether the first bet wins or loses. Other times, they might only offer a bonus in the event that your first bet is successful.
Using that scenario as an example, if you placed a $10 bet on the Boston Celtics to beat the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston wins, you’d be eligible for the promo. Regardless, the bonus bets will take the form of credits that you can use to wager at the book but that you can’t withdraw on their own. The bonus bets also typically expire if you don’t use them within a certain window of time, so be sure to read the specific details.
Referral bonus
Referral bonuses are a simple and straightforward way to receive bonus bet credits for getting your friends to sign up at a sportsbook. The idea is to attract new customers by getting existing ones to get friends or family to sign up and make an initial deposit.
Usually sportsbooks will do this by giving you a unique code or sign-up link that a friend can then use to create an account. Sometimes sportsbooks require the person to then deposit a certain amount or make a first bet above a certain minimum for the bonus to apply.
Earn while taking advantage of sportsbook promos
If you are looking to earn while you wager on sports, we recommend the EDGE Boost VISA debit card. Simply separate your betting bankroll from your checking account. By eliminating transactions to and from sportsbooks and casino sites, along with earning cashback on eligible deposits, bettors of all types will quickly recognize the value that EDGE Boost provides!
Using sports betting promos to build your bankroll
Sportsbooks that offer recurring promos such as profit boosts, bonus bets, and specials offer opportunities to grow your bankroll strategically. By taking advantage of profit boosts, bettors can increase their potential returns on specific wagers, adding value without additional risk. Bonus bets are another great promotion that allows users to place bets without risking their own funds. Remember, bonus bets only provide payouts on the winning side of that bet, not the initial wager.
Sports betting bonuses can play a critical role in building a bankroll over time. These specials often enhance the odds, providing an edge when thought through and calculated. To maximize the benefits, bettors should keep track of all available promotions, avoid outrageous bets, and maintain disciplined bankroll management.
Sportsbook bonuses to avoid
Any website that says it takes wagers from anywhere in the United States is operating illegally and should be avoided. These sites offer no protection to people who bet there. All US sportsbooks are licensed at the state level.
Sportsbooks such as Bovada, BetUS, BetOnline, and MyBookie operate from outside the United States, and as such do not need to comply with US laws, restrictions, or business regulations. You could be putting yourself and your financial information at risk by betting on these sites.
Sportsbook playthrough requirements
Playthrough requirements (aka wagering requirements or rollover requirements) are stipulations that sportsbooks attach to bonuses. Many promotions will require you to wager a certain amount of money before you can withdraw any bonus funds to avoid bettors simply signing up and immediately withdrawing bonus money without actually betting anything.
Playthrough requirements will vary depending on the bonus the sportsbook is offering, so the requirement often appears as a multiplier based on the bonus amount.
For example, a 5x playthrough requirement for a $100 bonus would require you to make wagers totaling $500. The same playthrough for $20 would be $100. In the first scenario, you would have to make the $500 in wagers before the $100 in bonus funds would become available to withdraw.
Make sure to read the terms and conditions whenever you sign up at a new sportsbook so you know how much you have to wager before being able to claim the bonus. For instance, one sportsbook might offer a bonus of up to $1,000 and require a 20x playthrough, while another might offer a promotion for up to $200 but only with a 1x playthrough requirement. The maximum bonus is less with the second option, but you don’t have to bet nearly as much to access the bonus funds.
Responsible gambling with new-user bonuses
It’s important to remember that gambling is meant to be a form of entertainment that should be used in a responsible manner. Certain sportsbook promos may not be the best choice for new users for precisely this reason. With promos such as second-chance bets, for instance, it’s important to stay within your means when it comes to the initial wager. While it may seem like the first bet is free of risk, the refund for those bets is in the form of bonus bets rather than cash, so it’s not a full or instant refund if your bet loses.
Playthrough requirements for bonus bets are also important to keep in mind. When a sportsbook offers bonus bets as part of a promo, those are site credits that you must use to place other wagers; you can’t just withdraw them. When you use bonus bet credits and win, you receive the profit from the bet, but you don’t get the bonus credit back that you used as a stake for the bet.
It’s also important to compare actual betting lines between sportsbooks when considering different promos. Some sportsbooks might have an attractive welcome bonus, but other providers might have more advantageous betting lines for the sports on which you want to wager. Sometimes that future consideration can outweigh a single, one-time offer at the start.
If gambling affects your family, work or personal situations, it’s important to reach out and get help. The National Council on Problem Gambling is available by phone/text at 1-800-522-4700 or ncpgambling.org/chat. Help is available 24/7 and is always free and confidential.
Sportsbook Promo FAQs
Yes. Online sports betting is legal in 30 US states and Washington, DC. The most recent states to launch online sports betting were Kentucky, Vermont, and North Carolina.
With so many sportsbooks jockeying for position, it can be tough to make headway in current states where sports betting is legal and as new markets open up. To help stand out from the crowd, many books use incentives to attract new business and keep current customers satisfied. From the eyes of the sportsbooks, if the cost of a promotion translates into a new customer or increases loyalty from an existing one, that may be worth it. While not all customers will be regulars, the hope is that many of them will evolve into that.
Most of the time, you can opt out of the bonus or promo after the fact. You will need to contact customer support to be sure, but reading the terms and conditions beforehand can save you some headaches. Opting out of bonuses can be beneficial if you are concerned about a long playthrough requirement.
Playthrough or rollover requirements are essentially terms and conditions that sportsbooks attach to a promo code and bonus. Typically, you will have a certain amount of money you will have to wager and playthrough before you are able to cash out those winnings.