Best Betting Payment Methods at US Sportsbooks in 2024

Online sportsbooks offer a variety of payment methods, so finding the best-suited one for your preferences can be a challenge. Fortunately, I’ve covered the best betting payment methods at US sportsbooks on this page, so you can easily find the perfect fit. Let’s delve right into it!

Types of Sportsbook Payment Methods Available in the US

Online sportsbooks accept up to 20 different payment methods, including bank transfers, e-wallets, payment cards, and other options. This might seem overwhelming, but I’ve listed the definitions, advantages, and disadvantages of all the available US sportsbook payment methods to help you decide which is best for you.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards & Prepaid Cards

Each type of card functions differently; credit cards borrow funds for purchases, debit cards draw directly from a bank account, and prepaid cards are loaded with money in advance.

Using a bank card is just about the easiest way to pay for something online. The vast majority of people have access to a bank card of some sort, and modern computers and phones even save your card details so that you don’t need to get out your wallet and start squinting at the numbers. 

Bank cards are familiar, trusted, and easy to use.

Visa Debit Card

Visa is the leading global payment technology with an estimated 2.9 billion Visa debit cards in circulation. Given its widespread use, Visa debit cards are the most commonly accepted and used payment method at online sportsbooks. 

As expected from a top provider, each transaction is protected, personal data is secure, and fraud is prevented through high security protocols and encryption methods.

Find out which are the best Visa sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Availability, Convenience, Ease of Use, Security

Mastercard Debit Card

Mastercard, the second-largest provider of debit cards after Visa, is widely accepted by online sportsbooks, making it a convenient option for bettors. Its advanced security measures protect your financial information, and its protection policies help prevent unauthorized transactions.

Explore the best Mastercard betting sites.

Scores High In: Availability, Convenience, Ease of Use, Security

Discover

Discover is a leading credit and debit card brand in the US, first launched by Sears in 1985. Unlike Visa and Mastercard, which function by issuing cards through various banks, Discover is both the card issuer and payment network.

Get details on best Discover online sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Convenience, Ease of Use, Security

AMEX

American Express, or AMEX, is a popular electronic payment card used worldwide. It is known for its generous reward benefits and provides credit cards, charge cards, and prepaid cards. Like Discover, AMEX issues and processes its cards.

Explore American Express sportsbooks further.

Scores High In: Rewards, Ease of Use

Credit Cards

Credit cards provide the flexibility to make purchases or pay for services with credit that you can repay later. It’s basically like a short-term loan from a bank or credit card company that must be paid back. There are interest charges if you don’t pay off your balance by the due date. Popular credit cards accepted at online sportsbooks include Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and AMEX.

Find out more about sportsbooks that accept credit cards.

Scores High In: Security, Rewards

Prepaid Cards

Play+ is a prepaid card specifically designed for betting. It is a reloadable account where users can add money using Visa, Mastercard, Discover, bank transfers, and, in some states, PayPal. You have to set up a separate Play+ account for each sportsbook that offers this option. Additionally, online sportsbooks may accept other kinds of prepaid cards, like Visa prepaid cards or NetSpend.

Read further about Play+ prepaid card sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Anonymity, Speed

Chime

Chime offers mobile banking services, including checking accounts, savings accounts, and Visa debit cards. Users can add funds, monitor spending, and block their cards through the mobile app. After setting up a Chime checking account, you’ll be issued a free Visa debit card. This card can be used anywhere that accepts Visa as a payment method, such as online sportsbooks. There are no fees for the account, minimum balance maintenance, or deposits.

Learn more about Chime sports betting sites.

Scores High In: Availability, Convenience

E-wallets

E-wallets are digital payment tools used to pay for things online. They are normally funded by connecting a credit card, debit card, or bank. 

E-wallets act as a middleman between your personal banking and the seller, ensuring that you don’t need to disclose sensitive financial information online. For instance, if you use an e-wallet to top up your sportsbook account, the payment won’t appear on your bank statement. Instead, it will only show up in your e-wallet. 

PayPal

PayPal is a well known digital wallet that allows for quick and secure online payments without disclosing your banking information. Funds are added to your PayPal account by connecting your bank account or debit/credit card. It is often the quickest option for withdrawals available at a sportsbook, sometimes even processed in a few hours.

Read more about best PayPal sportsbook.

Scores High In: Availability, Speed, Privacy

Venmo

Venmo is a digital payment service originally used for transferring money between friends and family. Today, it has become a popular choice for online payments, like at sportsbooks. Because of Venmo’s policies, credit and debit cards can’t be used to fund accounts for betting transactions. Instead, users have to link and use their bank accounts.

Find out more about Venmo sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Privacy, Speed

Skrill

Skrill is another digital wallet that allows users to make online payments without sharing sensitive financial information. It is known for use in gambling and is widely available at online betting sites around the world, as well as top US sportsbooks.

Take a look at best Skrill sportsbook.

Scores High In: Speed, Anonymity

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers involve electronically transferring money directly from your bank account to pay for goods or services, or to receive money. Multiple sportsbook payment methods use bank transfers to transfer funds, such as Trustly, online banking, VIP Preferred, and wire transfers.

Find out more about bank transfer betting sites.

Trustly

Trustly acts as an intermediary between your bank and the sportsbook, allowing for instant transfers without sharing your banking information. Trustly is partnered with over 6,300 banks. There’s no need to create a Trustly account, as it links directly to your bank through your sportsbook account. You simply choose your bank and log into your account on the Trustly portal.

Explore our Trustly sportsbooks page for more information.

Scores High In: Security, Acceptance

Online Banking

Online banking lets you transfer funds directly from your bank’s web portal or app to your sportsbook account. Separate from the sportsbook’s platform, you have to log into your bank account and initiate the transfer to the account details provided by the sportsbook.

Scores High In: Security

VIP Preferred

VIP Preferred uses the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system for bank transfers, employing your routing and account number instead of your bank’s username and password. ACH transfers are batch-processed so that they can take longer than other methods. The first time you use VIP Preferred you need to create an account, but after this initial set-up, you don’t have to re-enter your banking information each time.

Scores High In: Availability

Wire Transfer

Wire transfers involve directly paying funds to your sportsbook account using networks like SWIFT or Fedwire. They are specifically used for large transactions that other payment methods are unable to support, it's ideal for high rollers. 

Scores High In: Security, Higher Limits

Other Sportsbook Payment Methods

Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies operate on a decentralized network using blockchain technology independent of a central authority. Popular cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin, but thousands of other coins exist. Aside from sweepstakes gaming, they haven’t been legalized for use in online betting in the US. But, given their popularity, this could change in the future.

Read on more about crypto payments.

Scores High In: Speed, Security, Privacy

Cash at Retail Partners

Certain online sportsbooks will allow you to deposit cash at their associated retail locations in the US. However, this isn’t available in every state because of varying regulations and restrictions. Where it is available, the option to deposit cash may be limited to select locations where the sportsbook has a physical presence or is partnered with a local casino or betting location. Not really useful or fast, but it may be convenient if you leave nearby.

Scores High In:  Security, Privacy

PayNearMe

PayNearMe allows bettors to make cash deposits into sportsbook accounts at over 62,000 retail locations across the US, including popular chains like 7-Eleven, CVS, Dollar General, Walmart, and Walgreens. Users simply need to show a reusable barcode from their sportsbook at the checkout to complete their transaction.

Read more about PayNearMe sports betting sites.

Scores High In: Security, Privacy

Apple Pay

Apple Pay is a mobile payment service available on iOS devices. Users add their credit, debit, or prepaid card to the Wallet app and confirm payments through Apple Pay with biometric information. Unfortunately, Google Pay is not available in the US and therefore there are no Google Pay sportsbooks.

Find out more about Apple Pay sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Ease of Use, Security, Privacy

Prepaid Gift Cards

Prepaid gift cards are loaded with funds that can be used at online sportsbooks. They can be purchased at retail locations or online.

Bettors who value anonymity in their betting transactions and security prefer these gift cards, as banking details aren’t shared.

Explore further information about prepaid gift cards sportsbooks.

Scores High In: Privacy, Security

How to Choose the Best Sportsbook Payment Method

Given the number of sports betting payment methods available, knowing which one is the best for you can be difficult. I’ve listed several important factors below to consider so you can narrow down the search and pick the right payment option for your needs.

Privacy and Security

Security is a priority when it comes to handling your funds. You’ll want to choose online betting payment methods that provide full protection. 

Bank transfers, credit cards, and debit cards have high-security measures as they are backed by established financial institutions. E-wallets and prepaid cards are preferable for those who value privacy since they hide the origin of funds and don’t require you to disclose financial information to the sportsbooks. Cryptocurrencies excel on both fronts, offering strong security through the decentralization of blockchain technology and complete anonymity. 

Fortunately, legal and regulated online sportsbooks in the US exclusively support secure and legitimate payment options. So, if you choose any of the methods available on these platforms, you can feel confident in the security of your transactions. This is not the case at unregulated offshore sites, which may host shady payment methods. 

Timeframes for Deposits & Withdrawals

Consider the timeframes for deposits and withdrawals when selecting your payment method. Deposits are typically processed instantly, although cash deposits can take a little longer to be reflected online. 

Withdrawal times, on the other hand, can widely vary depending on the sportsbook’s processing speed and the chosen payment method. Bank transfers take the longest to clear, while e-wallets are much faster choice.

 If you value receiving your winnings quickly, this is an important factor to take into account. On our dedicated payment method pages, we’ve noted the timeframes for each option from leading sportsbooks.

Processing Fees

Leading sportsbooks, such as those we recommend, don’t tend to charge fees on their side for deposits and withdrawals. However, the company or financial institution for specific payment methods might charge you for transactions. Although they’re usually small, you might want to avoid these additional costs.

For instance, the advantage of depositing using cash via PayNearMe is mitigated by the disadvantage of having to pay a flat fee every time you make a transaction.

I suggest checking for details on the payment method’s site or the sportsbook to prevent any unwanted surprises.

Bonuses & Promotions

Check that your payment method is eligible for any bonus or promotion you’re interested in. While it is uncommon, sportsbook promotions might occasionally exclude certain methods from bonus eligibility.

If you have your eye on a specific welcome bonus or any promotion, it’s crucial to read the terms and conditions before depositing. This ensures that your payment method is accepted and you don’t miss out on snagging the promotion.

Availability

Payment methods can vary significantly depending on the sportsbook and sometimes the state. If you have a specific sports betting payment solution in mind, be sure to check if it is supported before signing up for a sportsbook. 

As you can see in the next section, the most common methods accepted at online betting sites include Visa, Mastercard, bank transfer, and PayPal. Certain methods like cryptocurrencies may not be accepted because of regulatory restrictions.

Online Payment Methods Availability by Sportsbook

Check out all the payment methods available at our favorite US sportsbooks below:

U.S. Sportsbook Deposit and Withdrawal Methods

Navigating and understanding the payment process at sportsbooks is important in effectively managing your funds. Depositing funds and withdrawing your winnings is typically straightforward, following a similar procedure at different platforms. I’ve written a detailed guide so you can see exactly how this process works:

US Sportsbook Deposit Options

Follow this guide to fund your account:

1. Create your account. 

Firstly, find and click on the “Sign-Up”, “Register”, or “Join Now” button to begin creating your account. You’ll be prompted to complete a registration form with details like your full name and email address, as well as create a password. Identity verification is also a necessary step for US sportsbooks to comply with regulations. 

The verification process typically includes confirming your phone number or email and providing a valid ID like your driver’s license or passport. Additionally, you’re required to submit your date of birth, your full address to confirm you're in a legal location, and the last four digits of your SSN. 

I’d recommend completing full verification as soon as you sign up, as it’ll streamline other processes like withdrawals later.

2. Find the deposit section.

Now that you’ve created an account, you’ll need to fund it to claim your welcome bonus and start betting. Look for the cashier or deposit section, which could be under “Deposit”, “Add Funds”, or “Banking”. Here, you’ll be presented with a list of the available deposit methods. Take into account that, in many cases, you have to use the same method for withdrawals that you’ve used to deposit.

3. Select your payment method.

Choose your preferred option and follow the instructions for the method. For example, I prefer to use my Visa debit card for online transactions, so I simply enter my card information. For other methods, you might be redirected to log into a different account, like your e-wallet or online banking.

Then, input the amount you want to deposit, ensuring it is over the minimum required; for US sportsbooks, this is usually $10. Don’t forget to check how much your initial deposit needs to be to take full advantage of the welcome bonus.

4. Confirm your deposit.

Sometimes, you’ll have to authenticate the transaction through your payment service’s app or website as an additional security measure. The next step is to confirm your transaction on the sportsbook to proceed with the deposit. Usually, this will be processed instantly so your funds can be used straight away. 

US Sportsbook Withdrawal Options

Here’s how to withdraw winnings from your sportsbook account:

1. Find the withdrawal section.

Log into your account and head to the cashier or banking section again; sometimes, it might be under a separate ‘Withdrawal’ tab or link. Withdrawals essentially follow the same process as deposits but in reverse. Remember to ensure that your account is fully verified so that the sportsbook can quickly and easily process your request.

2. Choose your method.

Select your withdrawal method. As previously mentioned, this often has to be the same as your deposit method. However, not all deposit methods are supported for withdrawals, so you may have to choose another option. 

Next, enter the amount that you want to cash out. The minimum withdrawal amount varies depending on the sportsbook and method, but it is typically around $10 to $20. You’ll also need to check that the amount does not exceed the maximum. 

3. Wait for your winnings.

Now, it is simply a waiting game. Usually, you’ll be sent a confirmation email, or you can see the status of your withdrawal on the platform. It is then down to the sportsbook to process and approve your request. Following this, the time taken for funds to reach your account depends on your payment method. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. If it takes longer than expected, I recommend contacting customer support for assistance.

Common Sportsbook Payment Issues

Payment issues are a common hurdle in online betting. If you’re aware of the potential blockers in advance, it can help you to avoid these delays and challenges down the line.

I’ve listed a few common ones below. If you can’t solve these issues yourself, you can always contact customer support for help.

Verification

Online sportsbooks require account verification before processing transactions. This is standard regulation to prevent fraud, money laundering, and underage gambling. Users have to submit documents to confirm the personal information they provided during registration is accurate.

The process is typically carried out at the same time as registration, but sometimes it can be done later after your account is already set up. It is essential to ensure that all documents are clear, valid, and match your submitted information. If they’re not, the verification process can be delayed or denied, preventing you from depositing and withdrawing.

Minimum & Maximum Limits

Sportsbooks impose minimum and maximum limits on deposits and withdrawals, which normally vary depending on the chosen payment method. In addition, there may be limits imposed by the payment provider themselves, like PayNearMe’s $500 cash deposit limit.  

This can create challenges for different types of bettors. High minimum deposit limits can be restrictive for beginners or newcomers to a platform who don’t want to commit a large amount. On the other hand, high rollers may be frustrated with maximum limits since they can’t bet or withdraw large amounts. High minimum withdrawal limits can be an issue for low-stakes bettors who want to cash out their funds.

Understanding limits and checking them in advance can avoid nasty surprises down the line. 

Wagering Requirements

Wagering requirements are conditions attached to US sportsbook promotions and bonuses. They stipulate the number of times a bonus bet or some bonus cash has to be bet before any winnings can be withdrawn. They exist to prevent users from cashing out a bonus without placing any bets. 

When it comes to withdrawals, finding that there are wagering requirements to be fulfilled can be frustrating. This is why it’s crucial to always read the terms and conditions beforehand. Fortunately, for bettors, sportsbook promotions tend to only have a 1x wagering requirement - meaning you just need to use your bonus to bet once before you can withdraw it. 

Nevertheless, you should still carefully look at the bonus conditions to be sure. 

Lack of Withdrawal Options

Often, sportsbooks will offer fewer methods for withdrawals than deposits. This can be a nuisance, especially if you prefer a certain method. Users should check both the deposit and withdrawal options before committing to the platform. You don’t want to accumulate winnings, and when the time comes to cash out, find that there are no convenient or viable methods for you.

Blocked Deposits

Banks and credit card providers can have strict policies against betting. Even if it is legal, gambling is seen as a high-risk activity by these institutions due to the potential for fraud and money laundering. By blocking all betting transactions, they avoid these risks or legal issues altogether. 

Unfortunately, this can be problematic if you want to use this method at a sportsbook. Your only choice is therefore to use an alternative method that acts as an intermediary between the provider and the sportsbook.

Legal and Illegal US Sportsbook Payment Methods

Bettors should always be extra cautious when dealing with real money transactions and protecting their personal financial information. As such, it is paramount to only use legal and regulated sportsbook payment options. These methods guarantee that transactions are secure, compliant, and protect against fraud and theft. 

The only way to confirm for sure that a sportsbook offers legal and regulated payment methods is by choosing a licensed platform in your state. Legal sportsbooks are required by law to comply with regulations and provide strict security standards for users.

However, many offshore betting sites offer shady and unregulated payment methods, posing a significant risk of fraud, theft, and other security issues. For example, while cryptocurrencies are increasingly becoming popular, they are still unregulated in US betting and are untraceable if disputed. 

Gift cards and cash deposits are other risky options since the source of funds is hidden, and there is no way of reclaiming funds in the case of fraud. Using these methods at unknown sites should be avoided as there is no legal protection if your money is stolen. 

The best option is to choose a sportsbook that is legal and regulated, as they’ll only offer secure payment methods.

Sportsbook Payment Methods – Advice from Bill Krackomberger

What are the best payment methods in terms of security, fees, and processing time? Find out from seasoned sports bettor, Bill Krackomberger.

Why Trust Us?

At WSN, we aim to provide authentic, reliable, and comprehensive guidance for our readers. We create content based on our firsthand experience with each betting site, dedicating significant time and effort to thoroughly exploring and testing their features. Our rating process involves registering, depositing, claiming promotions, placing bets, and withdrawing funds, interacting with a platform just as a user would. 

Unlike other review sites, we don’t rely on second-hand information. Everything that we write is formed from our experience. We believe that this direct approach is the most effective method to fully understand a platform.

Our team comprises experts with extensive backgrounds in the gaming industry, bringing years of knowledge to our reviews. We’re not just writers but passionate bettors ourselves. Our expertise coupled with our personal involvement, allows us to offer insights that are not only informed but also reflect realistic and practical aspects of betting. 

We highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each platform so that you have a well-rounded view of what to expect. Ultimately, we want to provide guidance that is valuable and helpful for your betting choices.

Gamble Responsibly

Gambling has the potential to become addictive and lead to significant financial, emotional, and social issues. At WSN, we understand the risks that can stem from problem gambling so we want to emphasize the importance of betting in a responsible way. 

Before you start betting, setting a clear budget is a useful way of managing your spending. You should always avoid chasing losses. Placing bets should be fun; if it begins to feel out of control, it is time to take a step back. 

Online betting platforms provide several tools to help manage gambling habits, including options for self-exclusion, session alerts, betting and deposit limits, and taking a break for a set time. 

For those concerned about their betting habits and looking for external support, several organizations can be contacted:

• The National Council on Problem Gambling offers nationwide support. They can be reached by phone at 1-800-GAMBLER, texting at 800GAM, or live chat.

• Gamblers Anonymous sets up meetings across the US where individuals can meet and discuss their experiences with gambling.

• Each state has their own organization that provides localized support and resources for individuals struggling with gambling.

For further information about responsible gambling, please refer to our dedicated Responsible Gambling page.