Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Alabama?

There have been various attempts to legalize sports betting in Alabama between 2019 and 2021, including an online gambling bill in 2021. However, none of these efforts gained much traction, and it looks like Alabama won't have legal sports betting until 2024 or later. This guide will keep you updated on what's happening with sports betting in Alabama.

Best Social Sportsbooks in Alabama

Play at sweepstakes-style sportsbooks legally in Alabama. Choose either one of the options below. If you'd like more information then take a look at our reviews for Fliff Social Sportsbook and Sportzino.

Alabama Sports Gambling Overview

What Is the Current Sports Betting Landscape in Alabama?

As it stands, Alabama has no legal sportsbooks, with only three tribal casinos potentially serving as retail betting locations. Offshore betting sites, operating without US jurisdiction, present risks due to lack of consumer protection, emphasizing the need for licensed operators. 

While there is no legal sports betting proposal currently on the table in Alabama, there is a clear interest in legalization and a lot of previous legislative attempts. Notably, Senator Greg Albritton has been pushing for legalization over the last two legislative sessions, hinting at significant backing for a 2024 proposal. 

The proposed legislation would introduce Alabama online sports betting, set up a gaming commission and lottery, and possibly allow for up to seven casinos. 

However, for such a change to take place, Alabama's residents would need to vote in favor of a constitutional amendment in November. Recent efforts to pass legislation have seen sports betting and casino elements removed before making it through the Senate, indicating some of the challenges ahead.

When sports betting eventually finds its way into Alabama law, the enthusiasm is expected to be high among a population that loves sports. The legal landscape could significantly shift by 2024 if the proposed legislation gains the necessary support and approval from Alabama voters.

When Is Sports Betting Expected To Launch in Alabama?

The launch of sports betting in Alabama is far from guaranteed yet, with hopes pinned on legislative efforts in 2024. If the necessary laws are passed, including a constitutional amendment approved by voters, the earliest sports betting could start is sometime after the November vote. Given the procedural and regulatory setup required, sports enthusiasts might be waiting until late 2024 or more likely 2025 to place their first legal bets within the state.

Alabama Sports Betting Updates

Check out the timeline below for the key moments in the journey towards legal sports betting in Alabama:

• Feb. 15, 2024: Alabama House passes HB 151 and HB 152, aiming to legalize sports betting, casinos, and a new state lottery.

• Feb. 14, 2024: Concerns arise over the impact of HB 151 and HB 152 on mental health and the operations of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

• Feb. 9, 2024: There is the introduction of HB 151 and HB 152 in the legislature, proposing a constitutional amendment for limited forms of gambling, including sports wagering.

• Feb. 1, 2024: NCAA sanctions former Alabama baseball coach Brad Bohannon with a 15-year penalty for a betting scandal.

• Jan. 25, 2024: PrizePicks introduces PrizePicks Arena in Alabama.

• Nov. 23, 2023: Announcement that Alabama will reconsider retail sports betting in 2024.

• March 9, 2022: SB 293 and SB 294, proposing a state lottery and mobile sports wagering tied to tribal casinos, advance to the full Senate.

• Feb. 24, 2022: HB405, aimed at legalizing sports betting in Jefferson County, is introduced by State Representative John Rogers.

• Jan. 11, 2022: HB 72, proposing a state lottery amendment, is introduced by Rep. Ralph Howard.

• Jan. 5, 2022: Alabama Track Owners Association launches an ad campaign advocating for a gambling amendment.

What Sportsbooks Are Expected To Launch in Alabama?

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile App

FanDuel Sportsbook has consistently proven itself as a standout choice in the crowded U.S. sports betting market, particularly for those who value an unparalleled mobile betting experience. If you're in search of a sportsbook that excels in mobile betting,  FanDuel is a great choice.

One of FanDuel's strongest suits is undoubtedly its ongoing promotions, which make it a favorite among bettors nationwide. You can expect multiple different offers at any time depending on what is happening in the sporting calendar, from odds boosts to parlay bonuses.

The app's performance is another area where FanDuel truly excels. From personal use, I can attest to the mobile app being the best on the market, offering a user-friendly and intuitive interface on both iOS and Android devices. It’s ideal for live betting, especially if you’re going to be placing bets while sitting in a stadium.

The overall customer service and assistance provided have always been reliable and helpful, although the addition of phone support would be welcome.

I wholeheartedly recommend FanDuel to anyone looking for a top-notch mobile sports betting experience.

Find more information here in our FanDuel review.

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

Pros

• Ongoing promotions

• Most popular sportsbook in the US 

• Best mobile app on the market

Cons

• Loyalty program is basic

• No phone support 

2. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: Variety of Features

DraftKings Sportsbook distinguishes itself in the sports betting realm with its exceptionally intuitive platform and lots of different features under one roof. If you want to combine your sports betting with DFS, guides and articles about the latest sports news, and even a social platform, DraftKings is ideal. 

The advantages of using DraftKings are clear from the get-go. A minimal deposit requirement of just $5 makes it accessible for beginners - the lowest minimum in all of US sports betting - while the smooth mobile betting experience caters to users of all levels. Its comprehensive platform, which covers an extensive range of sports and betting types, ensures there's something for every bettor. There really is a lot going on, but the design of DraftKings’ software means it never really feels overwhelming. 

One change I'd love to see is the addition of live streaming, which would significantly enhance the in-play betting experience. DraftKings also employs AI for live chat support, which I've noticed sometimes falls short of providing the nuanced help real human support offers.

DraftKings is great for those taking their first steps into online betting.

Visit our DraftKings review for more info. 

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $200 Instantly

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

Pros

• Low deposit of $5

• Mobile betting is smooth

• Comprehensive platform with lots of features

Cons

• Live streaming could be added

• AI live chat support isn’t very helpful

3. BetMGM

Best for: Loyalty Program

BetMGM Sportsbook really sets the bar high with its unparalleled loyalty program, standing out as a pinnacle of value for regular bettors. If you're in search of a sportsbook that rewards your loyalty with real life benefits, BetMGM is a great option.

BetMGM's strengths are immediately apparent, offering a wide range of betting selections that cater to various interests and preferences. The range of sports on offer is top tier, and I've noticed prop bets for the likes of the NFL and NBA available on BetMGM that I couldn’t find on any other platform.

Its top-tier loyalty program is something I've particularly appreciated, offering real-life rewards that can be enjoyed at MGM resorts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the betting experience. You can claim discounts on restaurants and hotels, as well as experiences at MGM casinos. 

While the loyalty program is excellent, it's worth noting that BetMGM could improve its appeal by offering ongoing promotions more frequently.

Take a look at our BetMGM review for more details.

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

• Sign up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

Pros:

• Great betting selections

• Top tier loyalty programs

• Real life rewards at resorts

Cons:

• Ongoing promotions could be more frequent

• No betting history 

4. ESPN Bet

Best for: Crossover Content With ESPN

ESPN Bet Sportsbook makes a significant impact with its unique approach to combining sports betting with the rich content ESPN is known for. If you're someone who values the intersection of detailed sports analysis and betting, ESPN Bet stands out as an exceptional choice.

Drawing on the trusted ESPN brand, the platform offers daily odds boosts and enriches the betting experience with live streaming and betting, making it a comprehensive hub for sports fans. In my experience, these features elevate ESPN Bet beyond a simple betting site into a valuable resource for staying engaged with sports. It's worth mentioning that while the platform excels in content and mobile experience, the desktop site is not accessible from mobile devices, which might limit its usability for some users. Instead, you need to download the app to bet via mobile.

Head over to our in-depth ESPN Bet review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.6/5

• Sign up offer: $100 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

Pros:

• Known and trusted brand

• Daily odds boost 

• Live streaming of content

Cons:

• Desktop site is a bit basic

• Need to download an app to play on mobile devices

Nearby Betting States

Alabama residents looking for best legal sports betting options have convenient alternatives in neighboring states. A short drive to Tennessee allows Alabama sports bettors to engage in online and mobile sports betting. Here, they can register for a sportsbook account, make deposits, and place bets from anywhere within Tennessee's borders, with the option to withdraw their funds upon returning to Alabama. 

Additionally, for those preferring in-person wagering, Mississippi's casinos welcome Alabama sports bettors, offering legal sports betting at their brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. These nearby states provide Alabama residents with accessible avenues for legal sports betting activities.

What Sports Will You Be Able To Bet on in Alabama?

Should Alabama welcome legal sports betting, fans can anticipate a diverse array of sports to engage with. Here’s a quick breakdown:

NFL

The NFL, America's premier football league, commands a massive following, and sportsbooks see a significant uptick in activity throughout the season, culminating in the Super Bowl, the country's most wagered-on event. While Alabama doesn't house NFL teams, the fervor for football in the state is undeniable, with the Crimson Tide college program one of the most successful in the history of NCAA football. There are also neighboring teams like the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons, which would likely draw significant betting interest. Explore more on our NFL promotions page.

NBA 

The NBA's popularity would ensure it becomes a staple at Alabama sportsbooks. Though Alabama doesn't have its own NBA team, its proximity to teams like the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans means there's local interest. NBA seasons bring a slew of promotions and bonus opportunities, particularly during the playoffs. For more insights, visit our NBA promotions page.

MLB 

Major League Baseball offers a long season filled with daily betting opportunities from spring to fall. The Atlanta Braves, geographically closest to Alabama, have a strong fan base in the state. Sportsbooks often feature MLB-specific promotions such as parlay boosts and enhanced odds. Learn more in our MLB promotions section.

NHL 

Despite its warm climate, Alabama has hockey fans ready to back NHL teams, with the Nashville Predators being a regional favorite. The Stanley Cup playoffs attract extensive betting, with futures bets starting at the season's onset. For the latest offers and information, check our NHL promotions page.

UFC 

The UFC's explosive growth in popularity makes it a significant draw at sportsbooks across the US, including, potentially, Alabama. The dynamic nature of UFC fights and the array of betting options, from fight winners to method of victory bets, cater to a broad audience. Visit our UFC guide for up-to-date tips, promotions, and a comprehensive betting guide.

What Wager Types Will Be Available in Alabama?

If sports betting is legalized in Alabama, bettors can look forward to a variety of different betting markets. Here's an overview of the most popular betting types:

Moneyline

A moneyline wager involves picking the team you believe will come out on top in a game. The payout is determined by the odds assigned to each side. For instance, a bet involving the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints might be represented as: 

• Atlanta Falcons (-150) 

• New Orleans Saints (+130)

Understanding odds on the moneyline can be tricky for beginners, and it helps to think in terms of $100. Here, the Falcons are the favorites. You would need to bet $150 on them in order to win $100, for a total payout of $250. The Saints, with positive odds, are the underdog. A $100 bet would win $130 for a payout of $230. 

Point Spreads

Betting on point spreads is all about the margin of victory. The sportsbook sets a line of points that make up for the difference in quality between the teams, like a headstart for the underdogs. The challenge is to predict whether the favorite can beat the spread or if the underdog will keep it closer than expected or win. An example could involve the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons, illustrated as: 

• Tennessee Titans (-7.5) -110

• Atlanta Falcons (+7.5) -110

Here, the spread is 7.5 points. To win a bet on the Titans, they need to win the game by 8 points or more. To win a bet on the Falcons, they just need to avoid losing by 8 points. Even a 6 or 7 point loss would be enough to win your bet on the Falcons, against the spread. The odds with spread betting tend to start at around -110 for both sides. 

Totals

Totals, or over/under bets, ask you to forecast whether the combined score of both teams will be above or below a certain threshold. A scenario with the Tennessee Titans playing the New Orleans Saints could look like this:

• Over (55.5) -110 

• Under (55.5) -110

Futures

Futures bets are placed on outcomes that are decided at some point in the future, such as winners of championships or other competitions. These wagers offer larger payouts but are inherently more speculative, with a lot of variables in play before your bet is finalized. Futures can be placed at any point, but they are popular at the start of the season or a competition.  

An example popular bet in Alabama would be the Crimson Tide to win the National Championship (+500).

Prop Bets

Proposition bets involve betting on specific things that happen in a game, often involving individual player or team performances. Popular markets for prop bets involve betting on three-pointers in the NBA, rushing or passing yards in the NFL or strikeouts in MLB. 

Parlays

Parlays combine multiple bets into a single wager, requiring all selected bets to win for a payout. The odds of each individual bet are multiplied together, meaning you can get some pretty attractive payouts the more legs you add. However, that obviously comes with increased risk. Same Game Parlays are a popular type of parlay where all the legs come from the same game, like combining the result, correct score and a player to score a certain number of points. You also have teasers, which resemble parlays but offer adjusted point spreads or totals to lower the odds, improving the likelihood of winning at the cost of reduced payouts. A teaser might adjust the scenarios like this: Shifting the spread from the Tennessee Titans (-7.5) to (-3.5) and altering the total points from 55.5 to 51.5 in exchange for a worse overall odds in this SGP. 

Live Betting

Live betting involves betting on games as they happen, with odds that update dynamically to reflect the ongoing action. You can also place prop bets on live games, often centering on the “next” thing to happen. For instance, you could place a bet on the Atlanta Falcons to score the next touchdown while they're behind in the third quarter.

Betting Guides

For each of the above mentioned wager type we have a full betting guide which will help you start off properly. Check out:

• Moneyline betting guide

• Points spread betting guide

• Over/Under betting guide

• Prop betting guide

• Futures betting guide

• Parlay betting guide

• Live betting guide

Expected Betting Restrictions in Alabama?

Once sports betting is legalized in Alabama, certain betting markets may face restrictions. These could include:

• Politics: Betting on political outcomes is not permitted in any U.S. state, and Alabama is expected to follow this national standard.

• Entertainment Awards Ceremonies: While popular events like the Emmys and Academy Awards draw betting interest, it's up to Alabama's future legislation to determine if such betting will be allowed. It’s often not included. 

• eSports: Currently, there's no specific language in Alabama's sports betting proposals addressing eSports. This could change with future legislation.

• Alabama College Sports: Legal wagering on college sports isn't available in Alabama. The inclusion of college sports betting in future laws would be significant, given the varying approaches across the U.S. regarding collegiate betting, and the popularity of NCAA teams in the state

• High School Sports: Betting on this is usually not permitted. 

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Alabama?

Yes, DFS is legal in Alabama and has been since 2019. There are a range of popular DFS sites in the state. 

DraftKings DFS

Best For: 20k public contests per day

DraftKings provides a broad selection of around 20,000 public contests each day, making it a prominent platform in the Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) market. It also offers the functionality for users, including those in Alabama, to organize private contests amongst friends, improving the social aspect of DFS. 

One of the distinguishing features of DraftKings is its diverse payout structure, which allows participants to secure winnings without necessarily securing the top spot in a contest. This approach widens its appeal, accommodating both competitive players looking for big wins and casual players seeking enjoyment and smaller victories.

Claim your DraftKings Alabama DFS Bonus.

FanDuel DFS

Best For: Free play options

FanDuel provides several attractive features for DFS participants, including free play options that cater to users looking for a risk-free introduction to DFS. Additionally, the platform hosts special contests specifically designed for newcomers, offering a more level playing field for those just starting out. This emphasis on accessibility makes FanDuel a welcoming space for both seasoned DFS players and those new to the fantasy sports scene.

Grab Your FanDuel DFS Alabama Promo.

Is Fliff Legal in Alabama?

Yes, Fliff is legal in Alabama. 

Fliff operates as a social sportsbook, a platform where users can engage in sports betting without directly wagering real money. Instead, social sportsbooks use virtual currencies, offering a way to enjoy sports betting legally across states where traditional sports betting might not be permitted. It’s the same sweepstakes model used by social casinos, like Chumba Casino or Wow Vegas.

Fliff operates by using two types of virtual currency: Fliff Coins, which you can use for playing and cannot be redeemed, and Fliff Cash, which can be redeemed for cash prizes. It’s a great option for sports fans in Alabama while they wait for legal sports betting. 

For new users, Fliff offers an enticing welcome bonus: your first purchase is matched up to 600,000 Fliff Coins, plus you receive up to $100 in Fliff Cash. It’s a great offer, which means you can jump into both types of games right away. 

Claim Your Fliff Welcome Offer.

Sports Teams in Alabama

While Alabama may not host any major professional sports teams within its borders, the state's fans ardently support several teams from nearby states across various major leagues. 

Here’s a look at the professional sports teams that have garnered significant followings in Alabama:

• Nashville Predators: The Predators are the closest NHL team to Alabama and have a strong following in the state. 

• Atlanta Hawks: Representing Atlanta, the Hawks have a strong fanbase in Alabama, bringing exciting NBA action to the Southeast.

• New Orleans Pelicans: Another NBA team with a significant following in Alabama, the Pelicans add to the diverse basketball culture in the region. 

• Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are a popular choice among NFL fans in Alabama, bringing high-octane football action from nearby Atlanta.

• New Orleans Saints: With a passionate fanbase, the Saints are another NFL team that enjoys substantial support from Alabama.

• Tennessee Titans: The Titans, based in Tennessee, also capture the attention of NFL fans in Alabama.

• Atlanta Braves: The Braves stand out as a favorite among baseball fans in Alabama, celebrated for their recent successes and storied history.

Why You Should Trust Us

At WSN, our dedication to providing reliable and trustworthy information on sports betting sites stems from our deep expertise and extensive experience in the sports betting industry. 

Our team is composed of individuals who are not just passionate about sports but also experts in various facets of sports betting, including analytics, legal issues, and betting strategy. Our commitment to hands-on testing means that we engage directly with the platforms we review. This hands-on testing process is engraved in our rating process. We go through the entire process of signing up, placing bets, claiming bonuses, evaluating the user interface, testing customer support, and making withdrawals to ensure our reviews reflect the actual user experience. This meticulous approach guarantees that our content is based on real interactions, rather than superficial overviews.

We maintain strict objectivity in our evaluations and guides, ensuring our content is unbiased and centered around the needs and interests of sports bettors. Our primary goal is to empower you with accurate, up-to-date information that can help you make informed decisions about where to place your bets. By prioritizing transparency and fact-based reporting, we've established WSN as a trusted authority in the sports betting community. 

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Alabama

Even in the absence of legalized sports betting, Alabama has organizations dedicated to assisting those grappling with gambling issues. 

These resources are not only for individuals directly affected by problematic gambling but also offer support to friends and family members, as well as anyone seeking information about responsible gambling practices.

Here’s who you can contact for help:

• Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling offers support within the state, including access to trained counselors. Though it doesn't have a helpline, information and resources can be found on their website at www.alccg.org.

• The National Council on Problem Gambling provides nationwide support, including a live chat service for immediate assistance. Alabama residents can call or text the helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org for more resources.

• Gamblers Anonymous has a presence in Alabama, offering meetings and support groups for individuals seeking help with gambling addiction. Details for local meetings can be found at www.gamblersanonymous.org.

Should sports betting become legalized in Alabama, it is anticipated that the legislation will incorporate strict, responsible gambling measures to safeguard bettors. This can include tools provided to each bettor by the sportsbook, to help manage their time on the site:

• Deposit and loss limits let you set a cap on how much money you spend on a site over a given period of time, helping with bankroll management.

• Reality checks are simply notifications that tell you how long you have been on a site, suggesting you take a break.

• Cool-off periods suggest a temporary break from gambling.

• Self-exclusion allows you to permanently ban yourself from a site.