Sports Gambling In Idaho
Idaho sports fans may not have a professional sports franchise to root for, but there are several Division 1 college programs in Boise State University, University of Idaho and Idaho State University. Regardless of the lack of professional sports teams, Idaho residents can still place bets on any team they choose through the sportsbooks we’ve recommended. Sports betting does have some regulations to consider, and that’s where this guide comes in handy. Our resource guide, created specifically for Idaho residents, will inform you on the laws regarding sports betting in your state and also show you how to safely and legally place bets on your favorite teams.
This guide will cover all the information you need to know regarding how to bet on sports legally in Idaho.
Is It Legal To Bet On Sports In Idaho?
Idaho statue 18-3809 prohibits bookmaking in the state of Idaho. It says that anyone engaged in bookmaking within the state can face misdemeanor charges, fines, and jailtime. Federal laws like the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) prohibit 46 states from hosting state-sponsored sportsbooks like the ones in Nevada, while the Federal Wire prohibits US based online sportsbook gambling.
The good news is that none of these state or federal laws make it a crime for Idaho residents to participate in legitimately licensed and regulated sports betting at online destinations that are operating legally within the industry and outside US borders. So yes, it is legal for Idaho residents to bet on sports as long as all bets are placed at legally sanctioned offshore sportsbook destinations.
Best Licensed Online Sportsbooks For Idaho Residents In 2024
Here you will see a refined listing of our top recommendations for licensed and regulated online sportsbooks that accept Idaho residents. They are all legally sanctioned, high quality destinations that are located outside of the United States, and that have been vetted by our team of industry professionals. You will find competitive betting lines, odds and paylines, knowledgeable and responsive customer support, and a US friendly banking suite. They each offer a comprehensive, premium betting experience that places them among the most reputable and trusted online sportsbooks in the business.
| Sportsbook | Bonus | Rating | Play Now |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 50% Max $1,000 | 4.9 | Play Now |
 | 50% Max $1,000 | 4.6 | Play Now |
 | 50% Max $1,000 | 4.6 | Play Now |
How State and Federal Gambling Laws Impact ID Sports Betting Options
The Idaho state laws regarding bookmaking specifically state that “any person who for gain, hire or profit engages in pool selling or bookmaking at any time or place within this state…” There are two things to take away from this. The first is that it says within this state, meaning physical bookmaking locations. The second is that it applies only to those people actually making the books, or bookies. The federal laws mentioned before as well as the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, also strictly relate to US-based sports betting. The sportsbooks that we’ve recommended for Idaho residents are legally sanctioned offshore sportsbooks that operate outside the jurisdiction of the federal laws.
FAQs About Betting On Sports
Are Offshore Betting Sites Legal For Idaho Residents To Bet At?
Yes. These offshore sportsbooks that we’ve recommended for Idaho residents are 100% legally sanctioned and operated. They each have millions of US-based customers and have been around for at least ten years. These sportsbooks operate outside of the jurisdiction of PASPA, the Federal Wire Act and the UIGEA, allowing Idaho residents the opportunity to safely and legally get in on the sports betting action.
How Do I Deposit Money Into My Online Sportsbook Account?
In order to place a bet, you need to have money in your account. Depositing money is a simple process and can be done in a variety of ways. Each sportsbook has different options, but most offer credit/debit cards, wire transfers, cashier’s checks and online currency like Bitcoin as deposit methods, among others.
Can I Browse Before Depositing Money?
Yes. You don’t even have to sign up for an account to see the different bets and odds available. Once you do register for an account, you can still browse the site for free until you are ready to bet. In fact, we highly recommend that you do this until you are 100% comfortable that you have selected the best destination for sports wagering that meets your specific needs and preferences.
How Do I Receive My Winnings?
When you are ready to make a withdrawal, all you have to do is go to your account page and hit the withdraw button. Most sportsbooks limit your withdraw option based on the deposit method you chose and this varies from site to site. Checks, Bitcoin and wire transfers are among some possible options for withdrawals. Once you create an account you can browse the features and options offering in their banking suite to see if you approve of their services.
Do I Have To Pay Taxes On My Winnings?
Yes. Gambling winnings are considered taxable income and should be reported as such. Obviously it depends on how much you win and the current minimum reporting requirements for gambling related income in Idaho. If you don’t report your earnings then you may face penalties from the IRS. If you have any specific questions you should consult an Idaho tax specialist.
Are There Any Bonuses Offered To Idaho Bettors?
Yes. All of these sportsbooks that we’ve recommended offer bonuses to their customers. Bonuses are essentially free money for bettors to use in addition to their bankroll. Your first bonus usually comes when you sign up for an account and make your first deposit. Bonuses are offered throughout the year as incentives to keep your business, so you’ll never be short of bonuses by using these sportsbooks.
What Types Of Bets Can I Place?
The sportsbooks we feature offer all types of bets for their customers. There are straight bets that involve the point spread, prop bets, future bets and more. Prop bets are more specific—like, “Who will score first in the Super Bowl?” A future bet would be something like betting on who will win the college National Championship at the start of the season. Different sportsbooks have different bets, so be sure to browse through all of them to see what is available to you.