Sports Betting in Missouri: Complete 2026 Guide
The Current Legal Landscape of Missouri Sports Betting
As of early 2026, sports betting is fully legal and operational in the state of Missouri. This development follows the passage of Amendment 2 in November 2024, which was a significant, albeit narrow, victory for sports betting proponents. The official launch of both online and retail sports betting took place on December 1, 2025, making Missouri the 39th state to legalize sports wagering. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is the regulatory body overseeing all sports betting activities within the state, ensuring a safe and fair environment for all participants.
Available Sportsbooks in Missouri
Missouri has welcomed a host of top-tier sportsbooks, providing bettors with a variety of platforms to choose from. Both mobile apps and retail locations are available for the following major operators:
- BetMGM: Known for its user-friendly interface and a wide array of betting markets.
- Caesars Sportsbook: Offers a robust rewards program and frequent promotions.
- FanDuel Sportsbook: A market leader with a sleek mobile app and extensive daily fantasy sports (DFS) integration.
- DraftKings Sportsbook: Another giant in the industry, offering a comprehensive betting experience and a strong presence in DFS.
- Fanatics Sportsbook: A newer entrant to the market, leveraging its sports apparel brand to create a unique betting experience.
- bet365: A global powerhouse with a massive selection of international sports and live betting options.
- Circa Sports: A Las Vegas-based sportsbook known for its high betting limits and traditional approach.
- theScore Bet: Now operating as ESPN BET after a rebranding, this sportsbook leverages the power of the ESPN brand to provide a content-rich betting experience.
Popular Types of Bets in Missouri
Bettors in Missouri have access to a wide range of wagering options. Here are some of the most common types of bets you'll encounter:
- Moneyline: A straightforward bet on which team will win a game outright.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can win outright or lose by less than the spread.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total combined score of both teams in a game. You can bet on whether the final score will be over or under the number set by the sportsbook.
- Prop Bets (Propositions): Wagers on specific events within a game that don't necessarily affect the final outcome. This can include player performance (e.g., how many touchdowns a quarterback will throw) or team milestones.
- Futures: Long-term bets on events that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl or the World Series.
- Parlays: A combination of multiple bets into a single wager. All individual bets (legs) in the parlay must win for the parlay to pay out, but the potential winnings are significantly higher.
Tax Implications for Sports Betting Winnings
In Missouri, as in the rest of the United States, gambling winnings are considered taxable income. For sports betting winnings, if you win $5,000 or more, the sportsbook is required to withhold 24% of your winnings for federal taxes. Regardless of the amount, you are required to report all of your gambling winnings on your federal and state tax returns. The state of Missouri imposes a 10% tax on the adjusted gross revenue of sports betting operators.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting in Missouri
Missouri offers both mobile and retail sports betting, giving bettors the flexibility to choose how they want to wager.
- Mobile Betting: The most convenient option, allowing you to place bets from anywhere within the state using a smartphone or computer. All of the major sportsbooks in Missouri offer mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices.
- Retail Betting: For those who prefer a more traditional betting experience, several of Missouri's casinos and professional sports venues are expected to house retail sportsbooks. This allows for in-person wagering and the social atmosphere of a sportsbook.
Tips for Bettors in Missouri
If you're new to sports betting, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start Small: Begin with smaller wagers until you become more comfortable with the process.
- Do Your Research: Don't just bet on your favorite team. Research matchups, injuries, and other factors that could affect the outcome of a game.
- Shop for the Best Lines: Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds. It pays to have accounts with multiple sportsbooks to ensure you're getting the best possible value for your bets.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Missouri is committed to promoting responsible gaming. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available to help:
- The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC): Provides information and resources for responsible gaming on its website.
- The National Council on Problem Gambling: Offers a confidential helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.