Washington became the 21st state to legalize sports betting. Governor Jay Islee signed legislation to allow wagering on sports in tribal casinos in March 2020. The first sports bets were taken in September the following year in September 2021.
The state has 30 casinos in total, which are operated by the many local tribal communities. Mobile betting is also allowed within Washington, but it must be done on tribal lands. Currently, the only casino to launch its online sportsbook is the Snoqualmie Casino.
Online Sportsbooks in Washington
The first tribal casino to launch online was the Snoqualmie Casino back on December 29, 2021. This is the start of many online platforms, recently DraftKings partnered up with Tulalip Tribes and FanDuel got into bed with Suquamish Clearwater Casino. Both these brands are known for their heavy online sportsbook presence and will undoubtedly look to launch as soon as possible.
| Online Sportsbook | Mobile App | Online Casino | Provider | Partnership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snoqualmie Casino Sportsbook | Yes | No | IGT | Snoqualmie Casino |
Land-Based Sportsbooks in Washington
Currently, there are a handful of options when it comes to casinos that offer sportsbooks. With 30 tribal casinos in Washington from 24 tribes we will see plenty more sportsbooks launch in the coming months and years.
| Retail Sportsbook | Casino(s) | Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Caesars | Spokane Tribe Casino Muckleshoot Casino |
Caesars |
| Sportsbook | Snoqualmie Casino | IGT |
| EQC Sportsbook | Emerald Queen Casino | BetMGM |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort | Flutter |
| The Book | Angel of the Winds Casino | TBA |
| Turf Club Sportsbook | Northern Quest Resort and Casino | TBA |
| DraftKings | Tulalip Resort Casino Quil Ceda Creek Casino |
TBA |
Washington Sports Betting Requirements
Sports betting is legal within the state of Washington but follows strict guidelines set by federal regulations and gaming compacts.
- Anyone over the age of 21 can place a sports bet in Washington. The minimum age to gamble within the state is 18, but if an establishment serves alcohol, it rises to 21.
- Mobile betting is only legal if you are physically located on tribal lands and using an authorized casino.
- Sports gambling winnings are subject to income tax. You can expect to pay a withholding tax of 25% on winnings when providing SSN information. This can rise to 28% if you choose to withhold this information.
How to Start Betting on Sports in Washington
- Choose from many different sportsbooks in the area. You will probably want to choose one that’s closest to you.
- Register at the brick-and-mortar location. Online registrations are not allowed for sports betting.
- Claim your welcome bonus.
- Deposit funds.
- Start Betting.
Sports Betting History in Washington
- March 2021 – Governor Jay Inslee signed HB 2638 into law – permitting sports betting at tribal locations within the state.
- September 2021 – The Snoqualmie Tribe launches the state’s first sportsbook at the Snoqualmie Casino just out of Seattle.
- December 2021 – The Angel of the Winds Casino opens its doors for sports bettors.
- December 2021 – Northern Quest Casino becomes Washington’s third retail sportsbook.
- December 2021 – EQC sportsbook from BetMGM opens a retail location at Emerald Queen Casino.
- December 2021 – Snoqualmie Casino launches its online sports betting app after partnering with IGT.
- January 2022 – Maverick Gaming LLC files a lawsuit with the US District Court. Claiming that the tribes have been given exclusive sports betting rights unlawfully.
- February 2022 – Suquamish Clearwater Casino launches the FanDuel sportsbook.
- February 2022 – Caesars launches retail sportsbooks in the state at Spokane Tribe Casino and Muckleshoot Casino.
Washington Sports Franchises
Washington is home to many notable sports teams at the highest levels. In the NHL, you’ll find Seattle Kraken. There are also the MLB Seattle Mariners and the 2013 Super Bowl champions, Seattle Seahawks.