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Colorado Sports Betting: Best online sportsbooks, apps and how to wager

News Correspondent
Colorado Sports Betting: Best online sportsbooks, apps and how to wager image

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Colorado legalized sports betting in November 2019 after voters approved Proposition DD, making the Centennial State the 19th state to okay sportsbooks.

If you're a Colorado native contemplating a sports betting journey — or you're just visiting and want to place some bets while there — here's everything you need to know about how to get started, which sites and apps to use and more.

MORE: Complete guide to betting on the NFL

Is sports betting legal in Colorado?

Yes! Colorado legalized sports betting in 2019. Retail and online sports betting sites have been officially live and registered within the state for many years now. 

The Colorado Division of Gaming regulates sports betting, just like it regulates the lottery, horse racing and casinos.

To place sports bets in Colorado, you will need to be:

  • at least 21 years old
  • physically in the state of Colorado (verify with GeoComply)
  • able to verify your sportsbook account

Here are the notable details about HB 19-1327, Colorado's approved sports betting bill:

  • Casino owners in Black Hawk, Central City and Cripple Creek are allowed to partner with a sportsbook
  • The online and retail sports betting tax rate is 10%, and the proceeds of the 10% tax go to the state's water conservation initiatives
  • Up to 33 online sportsbooks are permitted to operate (there are 33 casinos located in the state)
  • Every online operator is required to partner with a casino 
  • Betting on all major sports markets is allowed except college player props

MORE: What to know about betting on the NBA

Online sportsbooks available in Colorado

Here are the online sportsbook options in the state of Colorado.

How to sign up and place a bet in Colorado

The process to start your sports betting journey in Colorado is quite simple. Here's how:

Step 1: Choose a licensed/registered Colorado sportsbook

Choose one of the many sportsbooks listed above. 

Step 2: Sign up, enter a promo code (if applicable) and deposit

Follow the steps to sign up for your sportsbook of choice. The book will likely ask for your social security number or driver’s license to verify your identity and age, and you will need to install GeoComply to prove you're located within the state.

You'll also want to enter a promo code if the sportsbook offers a sign-up promo or bonus. Scroll down to see the full array of promos offered across all books in the state of Colorado. 

Once you're all registered, you're set to make your first deposit. Most bettors prefer the simplicity of linking your bank account using direct deposit. Others like to use credit cards or an online payment app like Venmo or PayPal. 

Step 3: Place your bets!

Once you have completed Steps 1 and 2, you're ready to begin your sports betting journey!

To place a bet, simply click on the sport or league, find the bet or prop you want to wager on, click it and enter your bet amount. Then click submit and get ready to root on your first bet!

MORE: How do sportsbook bonuses work?

What you can bet on in Colorado

While sports betting is legal in Colorado, there are still some restrictions on what bettors can wager on. Here's a look at what's available for Colorado sports bettors.

  • Online and retail sports betting are BOTH legal in Colorado
  • NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, golf, motorsports and other pro sports and leagues
  • College sports lines, totals and futures
  • Olympics
  • esports
  • Horse racing

What you can't bet on in Colorado

There are some nuances as to what can be bet on in Colorado. With college sports, for example, it is legal to wager on lines, totals and futures, but you cannot wager on college player props. Here are the restrictions to keep in mind. 

  • IGaming or online casino gambling
  • Prop bets on college athletes
  • High school sports
  • Political events
  • Greyhound dog racing
  • Placing wagers at an unlicensed sportsbook
  • Must physically be in Colorado to place wagers

MORE: Why bettors should utilize multiple sports books

Colorado sports betting promos and bonus offers

When deciding which sports books to use, it also makes sense to take a look at what promotional offers may be available to you. 

Sports betting promos coming soon

  • BetRivers: Second chance bet of up to $250!
  • Sleeper Fantasy (DFS): Get a 100% deposit match up to $100!
  • Bally Bet: Bet $10, get $50 in bonus bets 
  • Hard Rock Bet: Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets
  • PlayUp: $250 bonus bet

Popular teams to bet on in Colorado

  • Denver Broncos (NFL)
  • Colorado Rockies (MLB)
  • Denver Nuggets (NBA)
  • Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
  • Colorado Rapids (MLS)
  • Colorado Buffaloes (NCAA)
  • Colorado State Rams (NCAA)
  • Air Force Falcons (NCAA)

Responsible gambling resources in Colorado

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are several resources available for help.

  • Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado: 1-303-955-4682
  • Colorado Gaming Association
  • National Council on Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  • Colorado Lottery Responsible Play: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
  • Self-exclusion programs (through Colorado Gaming Association)
  • Online education and awareness

MORE: Everything to know about odds in American sports betting

News Correspondent

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