Maine Sports Betting

10 min read

Maine Sports Betting: A Comprehensive Guide

Sports betting in Maine has seen significant changes in recent years, providing sports fans with a new way to enjoy their favorite games. 

As the Pine Tree State adopts this sports gambling, it's important for Maine bettors to understand the details of legal sports wagering in the state.

Legal Sports Betting in Maine

Sports betting became legal in Maine in 2022, with the first sportsbooks anticipated to launch in early 2023. This was a major development in the state's gambling industry, broadening the range of entertainment and betting opportunities available in Maine.

Maine legalized sports betting in 2022, with the official launch occurring in November 2023. Both retail and online wagering are available for individuals 21 and older.

Maine Sports Betting Legislation Timeline

  • May 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court overturns PASPA, allowing states to legalize sports betting
  • June 2019: Maine legislature passes sports betting bill, but it's vetoed by Governor Janet Mills
  • April 2022: Governor Janet Mills signs LD 585 into law, legalizing sports betting
  • May 2022: Maine Gambling Control Unit begins drafting rules and regulations
  • August 2023: Maine Gambling Control Unit finalizes rules for sports betting
  • November 3, 2023: Official launch of both retail and online sports betting in Maine

Sportsbooks Available in Maine

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Best Maine Sportsbooks

Several reputable sportsbooks have entered the Maine market since legalization. Some of the top options include:

  1. DraftKings Sportsbook
  2. Caesars Sportsbook
  3. FanDuel Sportsbook
  4. BetMGM
  5. PointsBet

These sportsbooks offer competitive odds, a wide range of betting markets, and attractive promotions for Maine bettors.

Online Sports Betting in Maine

Online sports betting has quickly become a popular option for Maine residents. 

It offers convenience, a wide range of betting options, and the ability to place bets from anywhere within state lines. Mobile apps and websites provide easy access to odds, live betting, and account management.

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Online sports betting in Maine provides convenience and a wide range of options, allowing bettors to wager from anywhere within the state.

How Can I Sign Up For An Online Sportsbook in Maine?

Signing up for an online sportsbook in Maine is a straightforward process:

  1. Choose a licensed sportsbook and download their app or visit their website
  2. Click on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button
  3. Provide personal information, including name, date of birth, address, and last four digits of SSN
  4. Create a username and password
  5. Agree to the terms and conditions
  6. Verify your identity by uploading a government-issued ID
  7. Make your first deposit and start betting

What Sports Can I Bet on in Maine?

Maine offers a wide variety of sports betting options, including:

NFL

The National Football League is one of the most popular betting markets in Maine. Bettors can wager on regular season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl.

NBA

Basketball fans can place bets on NBA games throughout the season, including regular season matchups, playoffs, and the NBA Finals.

MLB

Baseball betting is available for all Major League Baseball games, from spring training through the World Series.

NHL

Hockey enthusiasts can wager on NHL games, including regular season matches, playoffs, and the Stanley Cup Finals.

College Sports

Maine allows betting on college sports, including popular NCAA football and basketball games. However, there may be restrictions on certain types of bets for in-state college teams.

NASCAR

Auto racing fans can bet on NASCAR events, including individual races and season-long championships.

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Maine offers betting on a wide range of professional and collegiate sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA, and NASCAR events.

Maine's Sports Teams to Bet On

While Maine doesn't have any major professional sports teams, bettors can wager on nearby teams and local minor league and semi-professional teams:

  • Boston Red Sox (MLB)
  • New England Patriots (NFL)
  • Boston Celtics (NBA)
  • Boston Bruins (NHL)
  • Portland Sea Dogs (Minor League Baseball)
  • Maine Celtics (NBA G League)

Maine is also home to several college sports programs that attract betting interest:

  • University of Maine Black Bears
  • University of Southern Maine Huskies
  • Bates College Bobcats
  • Bowdoin College Polar Bears
  • Colby College Mules

Types of Wagers Available

Maine sportsbooks offer a variety of bet types to cater to different preferences and strategies:

Moneyline

A straightforward bet on which team or player will win a game or event.

Parlays

Combining multiple bets into one wager for potentially higher payouts, but with increased risk.

Totals

Betting on whether the combined score of a game will be over or under a predetermined number.

Point Spreads

Wagering on the margin of victory in a game, with one team given a handicap.

Futures

Long-term bets on outcomes such as championship winners or season-long player performances.

Prop Bets

Wagers on specific events or outcomes within a game, not necessarily related to the final result.

Live Bets

Placing bets during a game as odds change in real-time based on the action.

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Maine sportsbooks offer a diverse range of bet types, from simple moneylines to complex parlays and live betting options.

Prohibited Bets

While Maine has a relatively open sports betting market, there are some restrictions:

  • Betting on high school sports is not allowed
  • Wagers on non-sporting events, such as elections or entertainment awards, are prohibited
  • There may be limitations on certain types of prop bets for college sports, especially for in-state teams
  • Betting on esports is currently not permitted in Maine

Choosing the Right Maine Betting Site

What Should I Look For When Deciding Which Maine Online Sports Betting Site is Right for me?

When selecting a Maine sportsbook, consider the following factors:

  1. Licensing and regulation: Ensure the sportsbook is licensed by the Maine Gambling Control Unit
  2. Competitive odds: Compare odds across multiple sportsbooks to find the best value
  3. Variety of betting markets: Look for a wide range of sports and bet types
  4. User-friendly interface: Choose a platform with an intuitive app and website design
  5. Bonuses and promotions: Consider sign-up offers, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programs
  6. Banking options: Check for convenient deposit and withdrawal methods
  7. Customer support: Look for responsive and helpful customer service
  8. Security measures: Ensure the sportsbook uses encryption and protects your personal information

Why Should I Have At Least 3 Maine Sportsbook Accounts?

Having multiple sportsbook accounts in Maine offers several advantages:

  1. Line shopping: Compare odds across different books to find the best value
  2. Diverse promotions: Take advantage of various bonuses and offers from different sportsbooks
  3. Wider range of betting markets: Access unique bet types or niche sports that may not be available on all platforms
  4. Reduced limitations: If one sportsbook limits your account, you have alternatives
  5. Arbitrage opportunities: Occasionally find situations where you can guarantee a profit by betting on all outcomes across different books

What Deposit And Withdraw Options Are Available?

Maine sportsbooks typically offer a variety of banking methods, including:

Deposits:

  • Credit/debit cards
  • ACH/e-check
  • PayPal
  • Play+ prepaid card
  • Online bank transfer
  • Wire transfer
  • Cash at casino cage (for sportsbooks with retail partners)

Withdrawals:

  • ACH/e-check
  • PayPal
  • Play+ prepaid card
  • Online bank transfer
  • Check by mail
  • Cash at casino cage (for sportsbooks with retail partners)
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Maine sportsbooks offer various secure banking options for deposits and withdrawals, catering to different preferences and needs.

Sports Betting in Maine: The Big Picture

The launch of legal sports betting in Maine has been met with enthusiasm from bettors and operators alike. The Maine Gambling Control Unit overseas sports betting operations, ensuring a fair and regulated market for all participants.

Maine Sports Betting Tax Rate

Maine imposes a 10% tax on retail sports betting revenue and a 15% tax on mobile sports betting revenue. This tiered tax structure recognizes the different operational costs associated with retail and online betting. 

The tax revenue is allocated to the state's general fund and various initiatives, including problem gambling prevention and treatment programs.

Importance of Responsible Gaming in Maine

Maine takes responsible gaming seriously, implementing measures to protect vulnerable individuals and promote safe betting practices:

  1. Self-exclusion programs: Bettors can voluntarily exclude themselves from sports betting for a set period
  2. Deposit and betting limits: Users can set personal limits on their accounts
  3. Cool-off periods: Options to temporarily suspend betting activity
  4. Problem gambling resources: Access to helplines and support services
  5. Age verification: Strict measures to prevent underage betting
  6. Advertising restrictions: Guidelines to ensure responsible marketing practices
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Maine prioritizes responsible gaming through self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and access to support services for those experiencing gambling-related issues.

Maine Sports Betting FAQ

Age Restrictions

What is the legal age for sports betting in Maine?

The minimum age to place sports bets in Maine is 21 years old.

Residency Rules

Do I need to be a Maine resident to bet on sports in the state?

No, you don't need to be a resident. However, you must be physically located within Maine borders when placing bets.

NCAA Betting

Can I bet on Maine college teams?

Yes, betting on Maine college teams is allowed, but there may be restrictions on certain types of prop bets.

Mobile Wagering

Is mobile sports betting available in Maine?

Yes, mobile and online sports betting is legal and widely available in Maine.

Taxation

How are sports betting winnings taxed in Maine?

Sports betting winnings are subject to federal and state income taxes. You may receive a W-2G form for significant wins.

Offshore Sportsbooks

Can I use offshore sportsbooks in Maine?

While not explicitly illegal for bettors, using offshore sportsbooks is not recommended as they lack regulatory oversight and consumer protections.

Brick-and-Mortar Options

Are there any retail sportsbooks in Maine?

Yes, there are plans for retail sportsbooks at casinos and off-track betting facilities in Maine.

Summary of Maine Sports Betting Options

Maine offers a comprehensive and competitive sports betting market, with both retail and online options available to residents and visitors aged 21 and over. The state's legal framework allows for a wide range of betting markets, including professional and collegiate sports. 

Multiple reputable sportsbooks operate in Maine, providing competitive odds, diverse betting options, and attractive promotions.

Online betting has quickly become a popular choice for Maine bettors, offering convenience and accessibility. The state's tiered tax rate of 10% for retail and 15% for mobile betting contributes to the state's general fund and supports responsible gaming initiatives.

Maine prioritizes responsible gaming through various measures, including self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and access to support services. As the market continues to develop, Maine sports betting is positioned for growth and innovation, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for bettors while contributing to the state's economy.

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Maine offers a comprehensive sports betting landscape with both retail and online options, a competitive tax structure, and a strong focus on responsible gaming practices.