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Legal Ohio sports betting unlocked one of the country's most competitive markets. Operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars have doled out $9,000 worth of Ohio sportsbook promos and bonuses. We'll walk you through the best sign-up offers available.

Top Ohio sportsbook promos

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

#1

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Bonus bets will expire in 7 days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Some of the best live-betting odds.
  • Great deposit options.
  • Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
Bet Now

BetMGM Review

BetMGM is live in Ohio, and new customers who register are eligible for the $1,500 first bet offer.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

#2

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

  • Extensive live betting options.
  • More markets than any other sportsbook.
  • One of the best apps in the industry.
Bet Now

bet365 Review

Terms and conditions: Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

#3

Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts

New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.

Features

  • Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
  • Live streaming of NFL games.
  • User-friendly mobile app.
Bet Now

Caesars Review

The welcome offer for new U.S. customers is ten (10) 100% Profit Boost Tokens after any bet of $1 or more on Caesars. Ensure you use the active Caesars promo code β€” SBRBONUSDYW β€” to claim the offer.  

Features

#4

Win $150 + NBA League Pass 🏀

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of $5+ and win $150 in Bonus Bets (within 72 hours).

Features

  • Top-tier app experience.
  • Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
  • Extensive promos and odds boosts.

FanDuel Review

FanDuel reigns supreme right now as the No. 1 betting site in America. And it has largely earned that spot on the strength of superior brand recognition, an easy-to-use product, an overwhelming number of markets for North America’s most popular sports, and representation in every state in which it is permitted to offer legal sports betting.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

#5

Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Live in 21 states
  • Extremely powerful brand history and recognition
  • FanCash reward system is great for sports fans

Fanatics Sportsbook Review

Fanatics Sportsbook has launched its app in 22 states already, with plans to expand to more in the near future. Fanatics is poised to be a major player in the sports betting industry.

Features

#6

Bet $5, Get $150 + $1K Deposit Bonus

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Lots of promos and odds boosts.
  • Wide range of sports and bet types.
  • Seamless integration with DFS.

DraftKings Review

New customers with DraftKings can place an initial deposit and wager of $5 or more on any sports market to receive $200 in bonus bets, win or lose. The reward will be delivered as eight (8) $25 bonus bets that are non-withdrawable, non-transferable, non-refundable, and will expire after seven days.

Check out our resource for the latest DraftKings promo code. The offer is available until Nov. 17, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission.

All Ohio sports betting promo codes

The best Ohio sportsbook promos range in maximum amounts from $50 to $2,000, although the true value of each varies depending on its attached terms and conditions. For example, a $1,000 reward containing hefty playthrough requirements β€” how many times you have to bet the bonus amount before you can withdraw it β€” and odds restrictions may ultimately be less beneficial to you than a $150 offer with neither of those limitations. Always ensure you examine the best sportsbook promos closely before deciding to redeem them.

As for Ohio sportsbook promo codes, most of the best sportsbooks in the state do not require one to cash in on sign-up bonuses. Instead, you'll either have to opt into the bonus, or it will be automatically applied post-registration. The only online sports betting sites that currently require you to input a promo code are bet365, BetMGM, BetRivers, and Caesars. See the table below for exclusive promo codes that will unlock the biggest bonuses.

OH sportsbook πŸ†Welcome bonus πŸ’°  Promo code βœ…
⭐ BetMGM Up to $1,500 in bonus betsSBRBONUS 
⭐ FanDuelBet $5, win $150 in bonus betsNo code
⭐ bet365Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bet OR $1,000 First BetSBRBONUS
⭐ CaesarsBet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit BoostsSBRBONUSDYW
⭐FanaticsUp to $1,000 in No Sweat BetsNo code
⭐ DraftKingsWin $150 in bonus bets + $1,000 deposit offerNo code
⭐ BetRivers$100 second chance betNo code
⭐ Bally BetBet $25, get a $150 bonus betNo code
⭐ betJACKUp to $1,000 in bonus betsNo code
⭐ betPARX100% profit boost + up to $600 bonus valueNo code
⭐ BetrUp to $250 no sweat first betNo code
⭐ ESPN BETUp to $2,000 in bonusesNo code
⭐ Hard Rock BetUp to $100 No Regret First BetNo code
⭐ MVGBet Up to $25 instant repay first betNo code
⭐ Prime SportsbookNo welcome bonusNo code

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

1. BetMGM OH welcome offer 🦁

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Bonus bets will expire in 7 days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Those new to BetMGM can claim one of the more uncomplicated Ohio sportsbook promos β€” up to $1,500 back in bonus bets. Just be sure to use BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS when registering.

  • After you have fabricated your BetMGM OH account, make your first deposit of $10 or more.
  • Put down your qualifying wager on whichever sports market you prefer. If it goes down in flames, the sportsbook will issue you a refund, up to $1,500, in bonus bets.
  • The bonus bets will be broken into 20% denominations on wagers of over $50. If you bet under $50, you will acquire one bonus bet.
  • The reward will reach your account within 24 hours, and you will have seven days to use it.
  • You cannot withdraw the $1,500 bonus, nor will it be part of any real-money winnings you earn via bonus bets.

Read our BetMGM review to get a big-picture look at what the sports betting platform has to offer.

Screenshot of BetMGM Sportsbook app on Android.
BetMGM Android App

BetMGM promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ”οΈ Only requires a minimum deposit of $10❌ Initial wager must bomb for bonus to activate
βœ”οΈ Built-in flexibility❌ Expires quickly
βœ”οΈ Solid maximum bonus amount

Why this BetMGM bonus is better than others

It's not a hard and fast rule, but sometimes, size does matter. When it comes to raw dollar value, few competing sportsbooks can match BetMGM's maximum bonus amount of $1,500. For that reason alone, this offer tours above many others. 

The other nice feature of this offer is that your bonus bets are split into 20% chunks (as long as your first bet is $50 or more). That means you have five extra chances to place more wagers without dipping into your own bankroll.   

What is BetMGM best known for?

BetMGM has a top-tier player loyalty program that can unlock perks, and reaching a high Tier Status allows customers to spend reward points on air travel, dining, and more. You'll find all the typical events and leagues on BetMGM, but the sportsbook also ranks as one of our best UFC betting sites.

2. FanDuel OH welcome offer 🔵

Win $150 + NBA League Pass πŸ€

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of $5+ and win $150 in Bonus Bets (within 72 hours).

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

FanDuel sets the bar for quality Ohio sports betting promos. New customers can garner a bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets welcome offer without a FanDuel promo code. Here are the details:

  • Register and make your first deposit of at least $5 or more.
  • Place your initial wager of at least $5 on any available betting market.
  • If your bet wins, you'll receive $150 in bonus bets. They arrive within 72 hours.
  • The bonus bets cannot be cashed out and expire in seven days.

Sift through our unbiased FanDuel review to discover more about the sportsbook.

Screenshot of the FanDuel Sportsbook app for Android. 
FanDuel Android App

FanDuel promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ”οΈ Low initial risk❌ Can only be claimed in app
βœ”οΈ Bonus can be broken into smaller bets❌ Expires quickly
βœ”οΈ $150 in bonus bets if you win❌ First bet must win

Why this FanDuel bonus is better than others

This offer is similar to the one being offered by DraftKings, so it can be hard to tell them apart. However, the FanDuel version has a couple of key differences, the most important being flexibility. 

The $150 in bonus bets can be used in any denominations you want. You can go big, with a single $150 wager. Or you can spread it out, making dozens (or hundreds) or bets in the $1 to $10 range. Just remember to use all $150 before it expires.

The other key difference is that you must win your first bet on FanDuel to collect this bonus, so make your pick carefully. 

What is FanDuel best known for?

FanDuel boasts a terrific all-around sportsbook product, particularly regarded as one of the best prop betting sites on the market. 

However, they are likely best known for their dedicated mobile app. Available on both iOS and Android devices, the FanDuel app is easily the best sports betting platform around. It's quick, responsive, and easy to navigate. You can quickly search for any sport you're looking for and make your bets with ease. 

3. Caesars OH welcome offer 🏛

Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts

New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

An industry leader, Caesars Sportsbook has come to play in the Buckeye State, providing new bettors with one of the most lucrative Ohio sportsbook bonus offers β€” Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts. Use the active Caesars Sportsbook promo code β€” SBRBONUSDYW β€” to unlock the reward.

  • Use the bonus code SBRBONUSDYW when signing up to claim this bonus.
  • Following registration, make a minimum initial deposit of at least $10.
  • Place your first bet of $1 or more on whichever sports market you prefer.
  • Receive (10) 100% Profit Boost Tokens to use on any market.
  • The max wager for each Profit Boost is $25.
  • The max additional winnings for each Profit Boost is $2,500.
  • If you do not use the Profit Boost Tokens within 14 days, they will expire.

To discover more about the sportsbook's platform, check out our full Caesars review.  

Screenshot of Caesars Sportsbook for Android. 
Caesars Android App

Caesars Sportsbook promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ”οΈ High-value bonus❌ Requires multiple bets to unlock full value
βœ”οΈ Only a $10 minimum deposit❌ Short expiry window
βœ”οΈ Best for more experienced bettors

Why this Caesars bonus is better than others

When it comes to unique welcome offers, Caesars is among the very best. While the actual bonus amount doesn't quite stack up to the $1,500 offered by BetMGM, Caesars' offer is still well worth your time. It's a great option if you want to make several smaller bets with high ceilings, as each Profit Boost Token can potentially net up to $2,500 in winnings.

Another huge attraction included in this bonus is automatic enrollment in the Caesars Rewards loyalty program, which provides numerous opportunities for extra bonuses, discounts, and other perks to regular customers. 

What is Caesars best known for?

Caesars is a top-tier online sportsbook with one of the highest valued welcome bonuses. However, they are arguably best known for having one of the greatest rewards programs around. Consistent players will earn plenty of Caesars Rewards points, which can be redeemed for a huge selection of prizes, including perks at Caesars-branded hotels and casino resorts across the country. 

4. DraftKings OH welcome offer 👑

Bet $5, Get $150 + $1K Deposit Bonus

Terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

One of the premier Ohio sports betting promos from one of the premier sportsbooks, DraftKings tenders new Buckeye State players $150 in bonus bets when they make an initial wager of $5 or more on any sports market. No DraftKings promo code is required here. 

  • Once you've set up your new sportsbook account, you must deposit $5 or more.
  • Make your qualifying wager of at least $5 on any sports market you wish.
  • Regardless of whether your initial bet wins or loses, you’ll get $200 in bonus bets.
  • The bonus is paid as six (6) bonus bets.
  • You cannot withdraw the $150 bonus, and it will not be part of any real-money winnings you earn via bonus bets.
  • Act fast: The offer expires on Jan. 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

If that wasn't enough, DraftKings also offers new users a 200% deposit bonus, up to $1,000, on top of the deal listed above.

Looking for additional expert insight on the sportsbook? Read our complete DraftKings review.  

Screenshots of the DraftKings Sportsbook iOS app.
DraftKings iOS app

DraftKings promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ… Low wagering requirement of $5❌ Maximum bonus amount may be low for experienced bettors
βœ… Great for first-time bettors❌ Expires quickly
βœ… Terms and conditions easily accessible on app❌ Bonus bets cannot be combined into a larger, single bet

Why this DraftKings bonus is better than others

This bonus is better than others for a couple solid reasons. First, you only have to bet $5 in order to collect it. Secondly, and even better, that first bet doesn't have to win or lose. It's pretty much guaranteed, as long as you meet the conditions. The $150in bonus value for just $5 of risk is a tough offer to beat. 

What is DraftKings best known for?

Aside from having a terrific welcome bonus, DraftKings is known for having plenty of ongoing promotions to keep existing players interested. You'll frequently find daily bet boosts and No Sweat Bet tokens that you can use to increase your bankroll. If you're looking for some Super Bowl betting promos, DraftKings has some great options. 

Aside from the promos, DraftKings offers competitive odds and a vast sports betting market, giving you the chance to bet on almost anything you could think of. 

5. Fanatics OH welcome offer 🧢

Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Fanatics may be a fresh name in the sports betting industry, but its lucrative up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bet bonus offer should help take market share from the well-known sportsbooks. There is no Fanatics Sportsbook promo code required at sign-up.

  • Download the Fanatics Sportsbook app and open your new account.
  • Place a qualifying wager of at least $1 on a market with -500 odds or longer.
  • If your bet loses, you'll receive a bonus bet match equal to the amount wagered (maximum $100).
  • Opt in and repeat the process for the next nine days in a row, earning up to $100 in No Sweat Bet bonuses every day.
  • Bonus bets will be issued in the amount you've wagered but can be redeemed in any amount you choose. For example, if awarded a $100 bonus bet, it can be used as a single $100 bet or as ten unique $10 bonus bets. The minimum bonus bet amount is $0.10.
  • Bonus bets cannot be combined, as you can only redeem one bonus bet per wager.
  • Qualifying wagers must be placed within ten days of account creation. Bonus bets expire seven days after receipt and can't be cashed out.

Our Fanatics Sportsbook review gives a full grasp of what you can expect after signing up.

Fanatics Screens
Fanatics Android App

Fanatics promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ”οΈ High bonus value❌ Quick expiration window
βœ”οΈ Can be redeemed as multiple wagers❌ Must bet $1,000 to get max. value
βœ”οΈ Low $1 betting requirement❌ First daily bet must lose to claim bonus

Why this Fanatics bonus is better than others

This Fanatics bonus is better than others because it scales perfectly to your bankroll. Even if you don't want to bet $100 per day for ten days a row, you can still capitalize on this offer by making $1 or $10 bets instead. Regardless of your bet sizes, Fanatics will protect them against an unlucky loss by refunding them as bonus bets.

My only complaint (and it's a minor one) is that you have to opt-in every day to claim this bonus, except on Day One. I wish Fanatics would just apply it automatically to your first daily bets. 

What is Fanatics best known for?

The Fanatics Sportsbook app is one of the best in the industry. Its interface is smooth and easy to navigate, making it easy to find a specific betting market or promotion.

Fanatics' experience as an online retailer is helping users in the sportsbook, as it's on our list of the fastest payout sportsbooks. Withdrawal methods include bank transfer, debit card, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay, and you can expect to receive your funds within 24 hours.

6. bet365 OH welcome offer 🟢

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

New bet365 users can take advantage of one of Ohio's best bonuses, a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets offer. Use the bet365 bonus code SBRBONUS when registering to qualify for this generous offer.

  • Register at bet365 Ohio and make sure to use our unique SBRBONUS promo code.
  • You can only claim the bet365 welcome bonus in the mobile app.
  • Make a deposit of at least $10, which is the minimum deposit limit.
  • Make a wager of at least $5 on any market, as long as its odds are -500 or better.
  • Win or lose, you'll receive $150 in bonus bets.
  • The bonus bets can be used all at once, or split into smaller chunks.
  • Bonus bets cannot be withdrawn as cash, they must be used to make additional wagers.
  • Bonus bets expire after seven days.
  • Winning wagers made with bonus bets don't include the original stake amount in the payout.

Alternatively, you can redeem bet365's other new-player offer instead β€” a $1,000 First Bet Safety Net. Remember: You can only claim one sign-up bonus with bet365.

  • After registering and entering the promo code, deposit $10 or more within seven days of claiming the offer.
  • You must claim the bonus within seven days of registration.
  • Place your first bet of any amount on any sports market.
  • Should your qualifying wager lose, you'll get your money back, up to $1,000, in bonus bets.
  • The bonus bets will appear in your account within one hour of your initial wager settling.

Read our bet365 review to get a big-picture look at what the sports betting platform has to offer.

Screenshot of bet365 Sportsbook app in iOS.
bet365 iOS app

bet365 promo pros and cons

ProsCons
βœ”οΈ Only requires a minimum bet of $5❌ -500 odds or better
βœ”οΈ First bet doesn't have to lose❌ Bonus bets can't be cashed out
βœ”οΈ Guaranteed bonus bets

Why this bet365 bonus is better than others

Being able to choose between two great offers is always great for the customer. In this case, bet365 puts two great welcome bonuses on the table and lets you decide which one to take advantage of. The freedom to choose makes this bonus better than others.

If you're a novice bettor who is only comfortable with low stakes wagers, opt for the bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets deal. If your bankroll is a little larger and you have some betting experience, go ahead and snag that four-figure first-bet insurance offer. Either way, you get to select the bonus that works best for your betting style

What is bet365 best known for?

bet365 is only in a handful of legal betting states so far, but they are working hard towards being available in more locations. Despite not having the same reach as more popular sportsbooks, bet365 is every bit as good (if you have access to it).

Their best feature is the sheer number of daily bet boosts and pre-built SGPs, giving fans a quick way to score boosted odds on the day's most popular sporting events. Speaking of popular sporting events, bet365 is one of the best Super Bowl betting sites. The sheer number of creative betting options that it has for the Big Game is impressive. 

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

More sportsbook promo codes

We've covered our top six OH sportsbook promos in-depth, but there are a few others still worth your time. Check out any of these options for further bonus opportunities:

BetRivers is a great choice regardless of whether you like to hedge your bets or step outside your comfort zone. Our BetRivers bonus code lets you claim up to a $500 second chance bet sign-up bonus.

The ESPN BET promo code works a little differently, with a First Bet Reset up to $1,500 and a 200% first time deposit match (max. $500) available to new users.

Hard Rock Bet is also a good choice, with a straightforward welcome bonus. Use our Hard Rock Bet promo code to get an up to $100 No Regret First Bet bonus when you sign up.

For more information on these sportsbooks and other promotions, visit our Ohio sports betting apps page.

Ohio sports betting promos summary

πŸš€ OH apps launch dateJan. 1, 2023
➑️ Legal betting age21+
πŸ“± Online bettingYes
🎫 Sports betting kiosksYes
πŸ”” OH regulatorOhio Casino Control Commission
πŸ† Best OH NFL bonusDraftKings
πŸ’° Biggest OH bonusBetMGM: Up to $1,500 First Bet Offer
▢️ Sports betting sites15
🎰 Online casinosNo
πŸƒ Online pokerNo
☎️ Problem gambling hotline1-800-589-9966
ℹ️ Gambling addiction counselingYes

How we rate and review sports betting promotions

Our betting experts consider several factors when rating and reviewing Ohio sports betting promos. Here are some of them:

  • The maximum dollar amount value of the bonus: Even though the highest valued promos aren't always the best value or easiest to claim, some bettors will want to squeeze out every dollar possible.
  • Whether or not a promo code is needed to unlock the offer: Many sites don't require a promo code, although there are still a handful that do. It's an extra step that you won't want to forget about.
  • Whether or not you need to make a minimum deposit: Most bonuses require a minimum deposit (and maybe even a minimum first wager). There aren't many no deposit bonuses kicking around Ohio.
  • Whether or not there are odds requirements: Some bonuses have odds restrictions, meaning you can't bet on heavy favorites in an effort to unlock bonus funds with ease. The best Ohio sportsbook promos don't have any odds requirements at all.
  • What is the bonus' expiry date: Bonus funds frequently only last in your account for seven or 14 days. Occasionally, a sportsbook will give you 30 or 90 days to use your bonus funds. The longer, the better, since it gives you more time to pick the best way to utilize your bonus funds.
  • What playthrough wagering requirements must be met to withdraw funds: Most bonus bets only need to wagered through one time (1x) to qualify for withdrawal. Other bonuses, like deposit matches, sometimes require a 5x or 10x playthrough requirement, making them harder to fully unlock.

The bonuses are only a small part of a larger equation used to evaluate the overall strength of Ohio’s best online legal sportsbooks and sports betting apps.

Types of Ohio betting sign-up offers and bonuses

The three most common Ohio sportsbook bonus welcome offers are deposit matches, bonus bets, and first bet offers. We put together a brief breakdown of each:

Deposit match bonus

Operators are fighting for your business. So, to entice you to choose their betting sites, they’ll match a percentage of your first deposit. For example, an online sportsbook that offers a 100% deposit match on a $500 deposit, you would double your account bankroll to $1,000.

Review the playthrough requirements on that $500 bonus, though, since you might not get to withdraw it until specific terms and conditions are met. However, your $500 to wager is now valued at $1,000, thanks to the deposit match welcome offer.

Bonus bets

Anybody who has been poking around Ohio sports betting apps knows some top-tiered operators are promoting bonus bets to first-time players. All you need to do to earn them is make a small first-time deposit or wager.

For example, many sportsbooks are embracing a "Bet and Get" style welcome bonus. Once you make your first wager of $5 or more, you could get a $100 or $200 in bonus bets. Sometimes you are required to win your first bet in order to collect the bonus, but some books give out the bonus bets regardless. 

First bet offers

These second-chance bets are great for some new players but require a real-money wager to get welcome bonus wheels in motion. For instance, let’s say you earned a $500 no-sweat first-bet offer. First, if you want to have a shot at that $500 insurance bonus, you must deposit and wager $500 on that first bet.

If you win, great, but there's no further compensation. If you lose, the operator will add $500 in site credits to your bankroll. It will likely come with some terms that require you to bet the entire bonus amount again before any of the $500 bonus funds can be withdrawn as cash.

Referral bonus

Sportsbooks will occasionally offer a referral bonus. The terms are usually fairly simple. You will be given a referral code or specific link to share with your friends. If your friend uses the code/link to create a new account and make a real-money deposit, you will earn a bonus.

The amount is usually fairly small β€” under $100 in bonus bets or cashback. The good news is that often you and your friend will both earn the reward, depending on the exact terms and conditions of the offer. To find out which platform provides the best sportsbook referral bonus, be sure to check out our guide.

Ohio sports teams to bet on

The state of Ohio has plenty of professional sports teams that attract betting attention, not to mention some of the largest NCAA Division I athletic programs in the county. With two NFL teams in the state, it's hardly surprising that many of the best NFL betting sites have launched in Ohio. 

Football isn't the only game in town, though. Ohioans pride themselves in loving many different sports. Basketball is another top choice in the state. Luckily, all the best NBA betting sites and March Madness betting sites operate legally in Ohio. 

If you want to make some picks on the hometown team, here are your choices in the Buckeye State:

NFL 🏈MLB ⚾NBA πŸ€NHL πŸ’MLS ⚽
Cleveland BrownsCleveland GuardiansCleveland CavaliersColumbus Blue JacketsColumbus Crew
Cincinnati BengalsCincinnati RedsFC Cincinnati

In addition to those "Big Five" pro teams (yes, we're including soccer), Ohio has a score of minor baseball and hockey teams. The other biggest draw, however, is Ohio's eight Division I NCAA programs, with the Buckeyes at the top of the mountain in terms of fandom and betting interest. 

College player prop betting was banned in a Feb. 2024 decision by the state gaming regulator. A number of past incidents, including vicious online player harassment, let to the decision. Game prop and all other forms of college sports betting is still allowed in Ohio.

NCAA Div. I SchoolTeam NameFootball DivisionConference
University of AkronZipsFBSMid-American
Bowling Green State UniversityFalconsFBSMid-American
University of CincinnatiBearcatsFBSBig 12
Cleveland State UniversityVikings❌Horizon
University of DaytonFlyersFCSAtlantic 10
Kent State UniversityGolden FlashesFBSMid-American
Miami UniversityRedHawksFBSMid-American
Ohio UniversityBobcatsFBSMid-American
Ohio State UniversityBuckeyesFBSBig Ten
University of ToledoRocketsFBSMid-American
Wright State UniversityRaiders❌Horizon
Xavier UniversityMusketeers❌Big East
Youngstown State UniversityPenguinsFCSHorizon

Ohio betting resources

Ohio’s sports betting promos are only a piece of the puzzle. New players will want to do their due diligence by checking out these other Buckeye State betting resource pages, including the best Ohio sports betting apps and the latest news and updates on Ohio sports betting

Once you're up to date and have signed up with your favorite sportsbooks, you can check out the best football betting promo codes or college football betting sites.

Ohio online sportsbooks

When Ohio sports betting became legal on Jan. 1, 2023, 16 online sports betting sites and mobile sports betting apps launched at midnight. While some industry leaders are among the group, like DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, and FanDuel, Ohio is also a market that offers some unique operators Ohio-based betJACK and micro-betting site Betr backed by Jake Paul. We expect several more Ohio sports betting apps to launch in the first half of 2024.

There are now 15 legal online betting sites in the state.

Ohio online and mobile sportsbooks

OH sportsbook πŸ†Best known for πŸš€
Bally BetExclusive odds boosts
bet365Live video streaming
betJACKLive betting
BetMGMKing of Parlays
betPARXModern style
BetrMicrobetting
BetRiversLow deposit minimums
CaesarsCaesars Rewards
DraftKingsBest in class user experience
ESPN BETPersonality-driven promos
Fanatics SportsbookFanCash rewards system
FanDuelAccepts Venmo
Hard RockSame-game parlays
MVGBetLive betting
Prime SportsbookSharp odds, high limits

Latest Ohio sports recent updates

Dec. 11, 2024: Ohio sports bettors have officially wagered more than $6 billion in 2024. With Ohio State playing in the College Football Playoff later this month, and sports betting on the rise in the state, many forecasters believe that December could be one of the most lucrative months in Ohio's history.
Dec. 2, 2024: Ohio sportsbooks reported earning $902.9 million in October, the second-highest total ever recorded in the state. The state's highest-recorded total is still January 2023, when sports betting became legal.

Nov. 27, 2024: BetMGM consolidates its Rewards Points program into a single digital account, allowing Ohio residents to carry over points across jurisdictions.

Nov. 25, 2024: Caesars Sportsbook updates its OH welcome bonus. New users can now bet $1 to get 10x 100% Profit Boost Tokens.

Nov. 20, 2024: The Ohio Casino Control Commission fines DraftKings $425,000 for compliance violations regarding college player prop betting.

Nov. 18, 2024: DraftKings updates its OH welcome offer. New users can now get $150 when they bet $5, as well as a first deposit bonus of up to $1,000.

Nov. 12, 2024: ESPN BET updates its OH welcome offer. New users can now claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets + a 200% first deposit match up to $500.

Nov. 8, 2024: Land-based casino revenue in Ohio dips in September, as potential iGaming legislation is being considered that would legalize online casinos in the state.

Nov. 5, 2024: bet365 updates its OH welcome bonus. New users can now choose between a bet $5, get $150 bonus or a $1,000 First Bet Safety Net.

Oct. 28, 2024: FanDuel makes another change to its Ohio welcome bonus. All new bettors can now claim a bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets deal.

Oct. 7, 2024: FanDuel switches its OH welcome bonus, now offering all new customers a bet $5, win $300 in bonus bets deal. 

Sept. 20, 2024: DraftKings changes its OH welcome bonus, dropping the amount from $250 to $200 and removing the NFL+ Premium subscription offer. 

Sept. 10, 2024: Ohio Senator Niraj Antani has introduced SB 312 to the Ohio Legislature, a bill which would potentially legalize online casino games in the state. 

Aug. 31, 2024: Betfred closes its online sportsbook in Ohio, as it reevaluates its U.S. business strategy. 

Aug. 23, 2024: Bovada has officially closed in Ohio, marking the end for one of the United States' largest unregulated offshore sportsbooks and online casino operators in the Buckeye State.

Aug. 19, 2024: DraftKings and FanDuel both increase their respective OH welcome bonuses, gearing up for the new NFL season that starts in just a few weeks. 

Aug. 10, 2024: The ban on college player prop betting continues to be debated in Ohio, with some legislators arguing the new rule should be rescinded now that college players can be paid for name, image, and likeness. 

August 4, 2024: Ohio sees a 46% increase year-over-year in the sports betting handle.

July 22, 2024: Superbook announces it will stop taking new wagers and deposits in Ohio (and seven other states) as it prepares to exit the U.S. market entirely.

July 12, 2024: Betway to exit the U.S. sports betting market this year.

July 8, 2024: FanDuel changes its welcome offer again, now offering new users a bet $5, win $200 in bonuses deal.

July 2, 2024: FanDuel removes its enhanced welcome bonus from Ohio, dropping to the same bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets that it offers everywhere else.

June 17, 2024: Fanatics changes its Ohio welcome bonus, now offering a 100% first bet match up to $1,000.

June 6, 2024: DraftKings switches its OH welcome promotion back to a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets offer, just two weeks after adopting a $1,500 No Sweat First Bet.

May 21, 2024: DraftKings changes its OH welcome bonus, now offering a No Sweat First Bet up to $1,500 for all new customers.
 
May 10, 2024: Ohioans wagered $802.6 million on sports in March, the fifth-highest monthly total since sports betting was introduced in the Buckeye State on New Year's Day in 2023.

April 11, 2024: Ohio regulators continue to study and explore the possibility of adding online casino and horse racing to its lineup of legal betting options.
 
Apr. 3, 2024: The Ohio Casino Control Commission releases its February 2024 earnings report. Betting activity was up slightly year-over-year but saw a steep drop off from January 2024.

Mar. 15, 2024: BetMGM switches its OH welcome bonus, now offering new customers up to $1,500 in first-bet insurance.

Mar. 4, 2024: The Ohio Casino Control Commission releases its January report, making Ohio the 11th state to officially surpass $1 billion in cumulative sports betting handle. The $810.4 million in January wagers make it the fourth-highest month in terms of betting activity.

Feb. 22, 2024: The Ohio Casino Control Commission announces a new ban on college player prop betting in the state, as per the NCAA's request.
 
Feb. 6, 2024: Residents of Ohio wagered $7.65 billion in sports betting last year, their first year of legal online betting.

Dec. 22, 2023: After one full year of legal sports betting in Ohio, mobile operators are seeing 90-to-95% of the bets, according to John Jose, VP of BetSkyBox.

Dec. 13, 2023: State regulators announce they have discussed several initiatives to curb online harassment directed at college and professional athletes from disgruntled bettors.

Nov. 22, 2023: The Ohio Casino Control Commission sets a June 30, 2024, deadline for up to 15 different betting entities that initiated launch plans but have failed to emerge.

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET officially launches in Ohio, along with 16 other states, for the first time.

Oct. 3, 2023: Ohio reports a monthly handle in August of $378.8 million. Of that total, DraftKings accounted for roughly a third of all OH betting, with $133.8M of total bets by itself.

Sept. 28, 2023: Neighboring state Kentucky launches legal online sports betting. Interestingly, KY's legal betting age is 18+ instead of Ohio's 21+, which could see young bettors crossing state lines to make legal picks.

Sept. 13, 2023: Prime Sportsbook launches its platform in Ohio, becoming the state's 20th sportsbook (at the time, at least).

Sept. 1, 2023: The Ohio sports betting handle surpasses $4 billion for the year.

Aug. 30, 2023: Bally Bet launches in Ohio, becoming the state's 19th active sportsbook.

Aug. 16, 2023: Fanatics officially launches in Ohio, after previously operating in beta testing mode for a limited customer base.

July 25, 2023: Fanatics announces plans to open a retail sportsbook, in partnership with the Columbus Blue Jackets, near Nationwide Arena.

July 20, 2023: Hard Rock Sportsbook announces a national rebrand, opting to use the name Hard Rock Bet for its sports wagering business.

July 5, 2023: Gov. Mike DeWine announces that the 2024-25 state budget will double the tax rate that sports betting operators will pay, from 10% to 20%.

June 2023: BetMGM pulls out its sportsbook from Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds.

May 26, 2023: The University of Cincinnati fires two members of its men's baseball coaching staff, citing gambling-related integrity violations.

May 17, 2023: Ohio betting regulators crack down on some fantasy sports operators who offer contests too closely resembling actual sports betting.

March 15, 2023: The Ohio Casino Control Commission fines BetMGM $150,000 for not following the guidelines related to responsible gaming messages on its advertising.

Responsible sports betting with Ohio promos

The Ohio Casino Control Commission regulates Ohio’s sports betting industry. The OCCC's responsibilities are not only to review applications, grant licenses, ensure fair play, investigate operators, and enforce laws but to provide players with gambling addiction resources.

New players enticed by welcome bonus funds still need to wager responsibly. The sports betting experience should be a positive one, but for those that require assistance, the OCCC provides several support outlets:

  • You can call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966.
  • Or call the National U.S. Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.
  • Voluntary Exclusion Programs (must be completed in person).
  • There are 10 counseling and gambling addiction treatment centers in Ohio.
  • Proceeds from annual tax revenue is earmarked to assist these departments.

Also, the OCCC works with operators to set betting limits of various levels. Players can opt-in under their settings to limit monthly gambling amounts or lock their accounts for a certain amount of time should limits be eclipsed.

Ohio sportsbook promos and bonuses FAQs

What’s the best sports betting bonus in Ohio?

When it comes to evaluating the best sports betting bonus in Ohio, results may vary. Some players want the most money upfront, no matter the playthrough requirements. For others, they may want a little less cash but no wagering requirements. For newbies, they may want a guaranteed bonus bet promotion.

Which verified Ohio sportsbook promos are the best value?

Best value promos are subjective to the player because to each their own. However, you can make a strong case that when you combine its welcome bonus with ongoing promotions and aggressive marketing to provide value to future wagers, FanDuel, DraftKings, and bet365 provide the best bang for the buck.

How old do I need to bet on sports in Ohio?

Ohio sports bettors must be at least 21 years old to wager at online sportsbooks, on sports betting apps, and at retail sportsbooks. This is verified by operators when you provide your social security number at sign-up.

How many sign-up bonuses can I claim in Ohio?

Ohio residents may claim one sign-up offer, also known as a welcome bonus, per online sports betting site. It is illegal to create more than one user account at any Ohio online sportsbooks and that is why players must provide their social security number when registering a new account.

Do all Ohio sportsbooks provide sports betting promo codes?

No, most Ohio online sportsbooks and sports betting apps do not require promo codes or bonus codes to acquire welcome bonuses or any sportsbook promotions offered after sign-up. The player simply β€œopts in” to the bonus and reads through the terms and conditions of accepting the promotion.

What are the playthrough requirements on legal online sportsbooks in Ohio?

Ohio online sportsbooks and sports betting apps that offer a welcome bonus and various promotions typically provide a link to their terms and conditions as it pertains to playthrough requirements. This helps provide clarity as to what each player needs to do before and after a bonus of any kind is accepted. For example, sometimes future wagers need to be placed before bonus funds can be withdrawn.