Current Legal Status and History of Sports Betting in Arkansas
Sports betting in Arkansas is legal and available both online and at retail locations. The journey to legal sports wagering began in November 2018 when Arkansas voters approved a measure to allow casino gaming, including sports betting, at four locations. The first retail sportsbook opened at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in July 2019.
For several years, betting was restricted to in-person wagers at the state's three operational casinos. However, the landscape changed significantly in early 2022. Following a rule change by the Arkansas Racing Commission in late 2021, online sports betting was officially approved in February 2022, with the first mobile sportsbooks launching on March 5, 2022. This move opened up the market to a much wider audience, allowing anyone 21 or older and physically located within the state to place bets from their computer or mobile device.
Available Sportsbooks in Arkansas
As of early 2026, Arkansas has a growing number of online and retail sportsbooks. The state regulations allow each of the three casinos to partner with up to two online sports betting brands (skins).
Currently Operational Sportsbooks
- BetSaracen: Launched in May 2022, BetSaracen is a locally-focused online sportsbook from the Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. It offers a comprehensive range of betting markets and is known for its promotions tailored to local Arkansas teams.
- Betly: Operated by Southland Casino Racing, Betly was one of the first online sportsbooks to launch in the state. It provides a solid platform for both new and experienced bettors.
- Oaklawn Sportsbook: The retail sportsbook at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort has been a staple since 2019. They also have a mobile offering, providing a trusted name for Arkansas bettors.
Upcoming Sportsbooks
Recent developments in early 2026 have indicated that major national operators are entering the Arkansas market. DraftKings and FanDuel, the two largest sportsbooks in the US, have applied for licenses to operate in the state through partnerships with local casinos. Their arrival is expected to significantly increase competition and provide more options and promotional offers for bettors in Arkansas.
Types of Bets Available
Bettors in Arkansas have access to a wide variety of wager types, comparable to any mature betting market. These include:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team will win the game outright.
- Point Spread: Betting on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by more than the spread, while the underdog can win or lose by less than the spread.
- Totals (Over/Under): Betting on the total combined score of both teams in a game.
- Parlays: Combining multiple bets into a single wager for a higher potential payout. All individual bets (legs) must win for the parlay to cash.
- Same-Game Parlays: A parlay consisting of multiple bets from the same game.
- Prop Bets (Propositions): Wagers on specific events within a game that may not be tied to the final outcome, such as a player to score a certain number of points.
- Futures: Long-term bets on outcomes that will be decided in the future, like betting on a team to win the Super Bowl before the season starts.
- Live/In-Game Betting: Placing bets on a game while it is in progress, with odds that update in real-time.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Sports betting winnings in Arkansas are considered taxable income. Winnings are subject to both federal and state taxes. For any net winnings of $600 or more, you are required to report them on your tax returns. Sportsbooks are required to issue a Form W2-G if you win $600 or more and the payout is at least 300 times your wager. The federal withholding rate for gambling winnings is 24%, and Arkansas has a state income tax that will also apply.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options
Arkansas offers both mobile and retail betting, giving players a choice in how they want to wager.
- Retail Sportsbooks: In-person betting is available at the state's three casinos: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis, and Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. These locations offer a traditional sportsbook experience with teller windows, self-service kiosks, and sports bar atmospheres.
- Mobile Sportsbooks: The primary advantage of mobile betting is convenience. You can place a bet from anywhere within Arkansas using a smartphone or computer. Online sportsbooks also typically offer a wider variety of promotions and bonuses to attract and retain customers.
Tips for Bettors in Arkansas
- Take Advantage of Promotions: With new sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel entering the market, be on the lookout for generous sign-up bonuses and ongoing promotions.
- Bet on the Razorbacks: Arkansas is a state passionate about its college teams. You can bet on the Arkansas Razorbacks in both football and basketball. Look for special odds boosts and promotions related to their games.
- Shop for the Best Lines: With multiple sportsbooks available, the odds for a particular game can vary. It pays to have accounts with several books to ensure you are getting the best possible line for your bet.
- Understand the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules for different sports and bet types. This will help you make more informed decisions.
- Gamble Responsibly: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Never chase losses or bet more than you can afford to lose.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Arkansas provides resources for individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling. The Arkansas Problem Gambling Council offers a confidential helpline and resources for treatment and support. Additionally, all legal sportsbooks in the state are required to provide tools for responsible gaming, such as:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specific period.
- Wagering Limits: Control the amount of money you can bet.
- Time Limits: Manage the amount of time you spend on the betting app.
- Self-Exclusion: If you need to take a break, you can voluntarily exclude yourself from betting for a set period or permanently.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, you can call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.