Online betting is a big business in states where it’s legal. According to the gaming consultancy Eilers & Krejcik, sportsbooks spend “more than 25% of their gross revenue on acquiring and retaining customers.” In September alone, there were nearly $28 billion in wagers placed online, Gouker said.
When it comes to sports betting, a legal sportsbook will offer standard bets like moneylines, point spreads, and totals but will also go well beyond that with a wide array of other types of wagers. These can include player props, same-game parlays, round robins, futures, and even a variety of unique non-sports wagers like if Will Smith will show up for an Oscar ceremony or a New York lottery draw.
A good legal sportsbook will also make responsible gaming a top priority. These sites will often have a link to Gamblers Anonymous, as well as state-specific helplines and resources for troubled gamblers. They will also offer tools to help prevent problem gambling, including self-exclude and limit settings that allow users to control how much they can bet or take a break from play entirely.
Another thing to look for in a legal sportsbook is how early their lines are released. Some sportsbooks release their lines days or even weeks ahead of game day, which can be beneficial if you’re an experienced bettor who can spot value before everyone else. But, if you’re a casual bettor who prefers to wait until closer to the game, it’s better to stick with a book that releases its odds more closely to game time. slot88