Online Gambling in Kentucky 2023 – is it Legal? Get $5,000+ at KY Gambling Sites

Gambling online in Kentucky is more complex than in other states but, with the right information to hand, you can easily find the perfect platform for you, whether you’re interested in sports betting, casino games, or a mixture of both.

Our in-depth guide to online gambling in Kentucky will plug any gaps in your knowledge by explaining how the tax gambling laws operate, the best places to bet, and the biggest sign-up bonuses available for first-time players. Carry on reading to find out more.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Kentucky?

Kentucky has always had very strict laws on all forms of gambling. When it comes to online gambling, besides access to pari-mutuel platforms like Twin Spires and TVG, and the Kentucky Lottery, which sells draw and game tickets online, there haven’t been many other options in the state. However, thanks to the passing of HB551 in March of 2023, sports gambling is set to be legal in the state before the end of the year, and a host of native sportsbooks are expected to enter the market. 

In the meantime, Kentuckians seeking online betting opportunities at casino-type platforms can take to social and sweepstake casinos to try their hands at slots and table games, where you’ll be given free virtual coins to attempt claiming jackpot prizes with no real money changing hands.

However, if Kentuckians want to gamble online for real money, they can play their favorite games, including slots, poker, craps, bingo, blackjack, and more, at our recommended offshore casinos. Although many offshore sites are branded unsafe, those listed in our review, like BetOnline, XBet, and BetUS, are safe, secure, and regulated.

Since no law categorically prohibits Kentucky residents from gambling on offshore casinos, you can take advantage to play for real money and earn massive winnings on your lucky day.

Kentucky Gambling Legislation Timeline

Kentucky has a strange relationship with gambling, but here is what has happened over the past 30 years or so:

• March 31, 2023: The Kentucky State Senate agrees to pass sports betting Bill 551 with a 25-12 majority vote. With the Bill now passed, expect to see Kentucky sports gambling sites live in the state no later than December 28, 2023.
• 2020 – Four sports betting bills in Kentucky are tabled, including regulations for DFS (Daily Fantasy Sports) and sports betting.
• 2016 –The Kentucky Lottery starts selling tickets online.
• 2010 –The state’s racing commission tweaks its definition of pari-mutuel betting to allow instant-racing machines at Kentucky tracks.
• 1988 – 60% of voters approve of The Kentucky Lottery.

The Top 10 Kentucky Online Gambling Sites

We have scrutinized many operators out there, so scroll down below to find the definitive list of the top 10 sites for Kentucky gambling.

1. BetOnline –Best Kentucky online gambling site for 2023
2. Wild Casino –Great online gambling site for playing Blackjack in Kentucky
3. XBet –Great operator in Kentucky for online gambling and depositing cryptocurrencies
4. BetUS –One of the most trusted and recognizable online gambling sites in Kentucky
5. Ignition – Superb Kentucky gambling operator for a huge choice of slot titles
6. MyBookie –Recommended Kentucky site for news and tips
7. Bovada – Excellent Kentucky mobile betting platform
8. Las Atlantis –One of the best new RTG casinos around
9. Sportsbetting.ag –Popular sportsbook for Kentucky bettors
10. Cafe Casino – Top rival gaming online casino

Online Gambling in Kentucky – Reviewing the Best Sites

So, what makes the best Kentucky online gambling sites stand out? We have put the best offshore sportsbooks to the test by exploring several key areas, including the quality of the mobile betting platform, as well as the bonuses that are served up.

1. BetOnline – Best Kentucky online gambling site for 2023

If you’re after the best online gambling site in Kentucky, we wouldn’t hesitate to suggest BetOnline. We were delighted with the wide selection of betting options available. For example, football fans will discover BetOnline to be one of the best NFL betting sites. Those who prefer casino games, though, can enjoy roulette and various exciting slots.

Another advantage is that BetOnline is a highly secure site. For instance, Kentucky bettors will find they can make deposits and withdrawals using traditional methods like credit cards or by using cryptocurrencies.

BetOnline has some eye-catching promotions to tap into. New players from KY who deposit funds into their account for the first time will receive a 100% deposit match up to $1,000. So, bettors eager to claim this bonus will need to use the BetOnline promo code BOLCASINO. Keep in mind that BetOnline attaches a wagering requirement of 30x to this promo. Or if you are looking at sports-focused bonuses, then you may well be tempted by the 50% welcome bonus, of up to $1,000, and you will need to enter the BetOnline promo code BOL1000.

2. XBet – Fabulous online gambling in Kentucky operator for depositing cryptocurrencies

When it comes to finding a reliable Kentucky online gambling site, we ought to point you in the direction of XBet. Using XBet is very straightforward and if you are a cryptocurrencies fan, you are in luck as there are a wide range of crypto methods that you can utilize for depositing and withdrawing to your account.

XBet offers sports bettors a healthy range of markets to choose from and it is widely viewed as one of the best NBA sportsbooks. So, if you’re a basketball fan, this one is for you. However, XBet also does well when it comes to serving up Kentucky online casino games and top-quality slots. But, keep in mind, if it’s poker you’re after, you won’t find it here.

XBet also offers exciting promos to new and existing players. For instance, new bettors can use the XBet promo code XBC200 to claim a 200% deposit match up to $500 when making their initial deposit. But remember, XBet includes a wagering requirement of 40x.

3. BetUS – One of the most trusted and recognizable gambling in Kentucky online sites

BetUS is one of the most well trusted and recognizable Kentucky online gambling sites and it is third on our carefully curated list. If you want a tantalizing welcome bonus, BetUS delivers. Of the available BetUS promo codes and bonuses, its welcome bonus is great but be aware existing players won’t be able to claim reload bonuses. We suggest putting this exceptional bonus to good use. First-time users are provided with a 125% sign-up bonus with the promo code JOIN125. Those players using Bitcoin can claim the 200% Crypto Bonus using BetUS promo code: JOIN200.

The site also facilitates many different types of wagers. Prop bets, as well as last-minute bets, are visible at BetUS, and there is a wide variety of sports for bettors to wager on. With the casino side, you will find the latest slot titles as well as live dealer games to enjoy.

Bettors will be able to online using their computers or they can download the BetUS app. The BetUS app makes it simple to bet on the teams you love the most, no matter where you are, and it is incredibly sleek too, making your betting experience hassle-free. BetUS is also a great racebook, so if you are looking at reliable Kentucky Derby gambling online operators, then BetUS fits the bill.

4. Wild Casino – Great online gambling in Kentucky blackjack site

Wild Casino is one of our favorite online gambling in Kentucky sites for playing with a live dealer. It is one of the best live casinos, containing 19 live dealer tables for games like Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Super 6, Hold’em, and Punto 2000. Wild Casino’s dealers are also available 24/7, so you can play whenever is convenient for you.

If that wasn’t enough, Wild Casino has a huge selection of virtual online casino games. You can have a go on more than 200 slots, including dozens of jackpot slots with payouts in the tens of thousands of dollars. Wild Casino adds new slots every couple of months, so it’s unlikely you’ll get bored of the casino’s offerings.

Where Wild Casino falls short compared to other casino operators, is in its selection of poker games. This casino doesn’t offer poker tournaments and only has 10 video poker tables. That said, you’ll find tables for specialty games like keno, craps, and war.

As one of the best offshore casinos, it also offers a variety of payment methods. Wild Casino promo codes offer a massive 250% deposit match for new players that’s worth up to $1,000. It comes with a 35X wagering requirement, which you must meet within 30 days. Use promo code WILD250 to claim your Wild Casino bonus today.

5. Ignition – Superb gambling in Kentucky operator for choice of slot titles

Ignition is the best online casino in the USA for playing blackjack, whether virtually or with a live dealer. You will find an incredible 31 blackjack games in total, including more than 2 dozen live dealer blackjack tables. Live tables are available 24/7 and you can hand-pick your dealer and your table limits. Ignition is also one of the best high roller casinos, as those with big budgets can play up to $2,500 per blackjack hand, but minimums start at just $5 per hand.

At Ignition, you’ll find virtual games and live dealer tables for roulette, baccarat, and Super 6, as well as several variations of video poker. Ignition is one of the best RTG casinos in the industry, boasting over 100 RTG slots and live dealer games, and it is the best casino for Chinese gambling games. The online casino also has more than 75 slot games, including several jackpot slots with payouts of over $100,000.

Ignition gives new players a 150% deposit match, of up to $1,500 for the online casino and another $1,500 for poker. So, you can claim $3,000 in all when you deposit $2,000. The bonus has a 25X wagering requirement that you must meet within 30 days. There’s no promo code required either.

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More on gambling in Kentucky…

Learn about all types of online gambling in Kentucky in our expert guides below:

• Kentucky Sports Betting
• Kentucky Real Money Online Casinos
• Kentucky Online Poker

Comparing the Best Sites for Online Gambling in Kentucky

So, what makes the best online gambling in Kentucky sites stand out? Our handy table below will show the different markets they have available, as well as promotions and payment methods you will find at the aforementioned operators:

Who can play at Kentucky Online Gambling Sites?

At the moment, the Kentucky online gambling laws are quite strict. Residents will only be able to bet on a handful of things, including horse racing in the Bluegrass State.

In terms of the online gambling age in Kentucky, the online gambling laws in Kentucky dictate you have to be at least 18 years old. Wagering over the Internet is limited, but that shouldn’t stop you from betting at the offshore sportsbooks we have outlined in this guide. Should things change, we will update this page.

Kentucky Online Gambling – Types of Betting

Online gambling in Kentucky comes in various forms, and here’s what you can expect to wager on when you sign up with a new platform.

Sports Betting Sites

Sports betting in Kentucky is frowned upon, so you will have to look at some of the best offshore operators, such as Bovada and MyBookie, which are considered to be among the best sports betting apps, and you will be able to make the most of their in-play options. Bovada is also great for live streaming and watching your favorite teams on the move.

Horse Gambling Sites

There are some sites dedicated to horse racing, such as Twinspires and TVG. The offshore sportsbooks on our site are also among the best horse racing betting sites. You will find inviting promos, and you will see Kentucky Derby gambling markets, as well as betting lines for international meets.

CS:GO Gambling Sites

Esports continues to gather momentum in the US, and some bettors will look for specific markets, such as CS:GO. By playing here, they will be able to locate Moneylines as well as spreads, which will enhance their betting experience.

Casino Gambling Sites

Casino gambling is prohibited in Kentucky, so residents will have to play at sweepstakes casinos, such as WinStar to play games for free.

Poker Gambling Sites

While Kentucky gambling laws don’t allow for poker, it is hoped this will change in the future. In the meantime, KY residents will have to bet at one of our recommended offshore casino operators.

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Kentucky Gambling Bonuses

Online gambling in Kentucky sites are always advertising some amazing bonuses, so let’s take a closer look at what they offer. The types of promotions will appeal to new and existing players.

Matched Deposits

This is the most common bonus you will encounter at offshore bookmakers. Matched deposits are based on how much you deposit, and they are usually matched to either 50% or 100%. If it is 50%, the bonus will be half your deposit. So, if you deposit $200, you will have an additional $100 to play with.

Risk-Free Bets

These are fixed bets that are equal to a set amount when completing a task. If you deposit a fixed amount, you will receive a free bet token in your account. In contrast to matched deposits, you will be able to spend your risk-free bets. Many of the top sites will have the best free bets offers.

No Deposit Free Bets

These are rare, but with these types of promos, they come with no risk attached. As the type of bonus suggests, you don’t need to deposit funds into your account to make use of them. If Kentucky gambling sites start offering them, we will update this page.

How to Register in Kentucky Online Gambling Sites

When it’s time to begin online gambling in Kentucky, signing up to platforms is easy. Here is how it is done using our team’s No.1 ranked site in this guide – BetOnline.

Step 1: Set up a BetOnline Account

Click on the BetOnline page. Press the “Join Now” button to bring up the registration page, and fill in personal details, such as name, address, and phone number.

Step 2: Verify Your Email

You can confirm your identity once the BetOnline team pings over a link. Click on the link emailed to you to complete this stage of the process.

Step 3: Deposit Funds

Make your way to the cashier section to deposit funds into your account. Check you can use your preferred payment method before proceeding.

Step 4: Start Betting

Once funds have been deposited into your account, you can start betting. Head over to the sportsbook lobby, and pick the markets that appeal the most to you.

Online Gambling in Kentucky Payment Methods

The best online gambling in Kentucky sites will have plenty of payment methods available for new and existing players. The most common option is credit and debit cards, however, at the likes of XBet and MyBookie, you can expect to find all the latest cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Let’s assess the payment methods that you will come across.

Crypto Sites

Cryptocurrencies are becoming more popular at Kentucky sports gambling sites. At some sportsbooks, such as BetOnline, XBet, and Bovada, you will find the most trusted cryptocurrency methods, such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. Usually, there won’t be any fees passed on using crypto.

With Bitcoin, the minimum deposit is $20 at XBet, and payments can sometimes be processed within 24 hours.

E-Wallet Sites

E-wallets have become a much more effective way to carry out transactions at betting sites. This is the case at Kentucky betting sites. So, for example, at Bovada, you can make deposits using Zelle.

Deposit fees will generally vary, however, the minimum deposit amount is $10. E-wallet payments are also processed quite quickly, mostly within 48 hours.

Traditional Payment Options

Many of the best high limit sportsbooks will allow you to deposit using more traditional methods, such as Visa and Mastercard.

So, for example, if you are using MasterCard at MyBookie, the minimum deposit amount is $45, while the maximum is set at $2,500, however, this will vary depending on the customer. A bank wire can normally take up to 7 business days to process, and there is a $15 processing fee attached.

Kentucky Gambling Payout Percentages – Comparing Land-based and Online Sites

While Kentucky land-based locations will cater to the needs of their customers, KY online gambling sites will generally have a much higher payout rate. This is the case with slots that will have a high RTP (Return to Player), while for some sports, if a parlay is placed, then certain offshore sites will provide daily odds boosts so that you can maximize your profits should you return a winning betting slip.

Online Gambling in Kentucky – Casino Games Providers

Let’s now examine the top casino providers on our page, and compare the games and software providers they use:

Kentucky Online Gambling Apps

Kentucky betting sites generally have great apps, but here are the advantages and disadvantages of using apps for mobile betting.

Can you Play Legally at Kentucky Online Gambling Sites?

You can play legally at online gambling in Kentucky sites, but it depends on what you are wagering on. Fantasy sports isn’t seen as gambling, so you can bet on this as well as horse racing.

But many forms of gambling are prohibited, so you will have to wager at offshore sites instead.

Gambling in Kentucky and Taxing Winnings

Kentucky currently has a 5% tax rate on all gambling profits made. Winnings under $5,000 will be exempt from tax, while any profits made from slots, keno, and bingo are also usually excluded.

Who Regulates Online Gambling in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Gaming Commission will oversee all gambling-related activities in the state. Gambling laws are regulated, and bettors can find key information about licensing, and what to expect when playing at an operator online.

How Does Online Gambling in Kentucky Compare to Other States?

Kentucky online gambling laws are more rigid compared to other states. In Virginia, for example, you will find that West Virginia sports betting is legal, and WV became the fifth state to legalize sports betting. Maybe Kentucky might follow suit.

Kentucky Gambling Facilities

There are a few places where you can make in-person bets in Kentucky, which we have illustrated in our table:

Kentucky Online Gambling Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs are an important aspect of Kentucky gambling sites. They will reward players who have shown commitment over time.

This can be in the form of special reload bonuses, or in the case of casinos, a pyramid scheme, where players can attain a certain status, such as Diamond.

Kentucky Online Gambling and How to Stay Safe

If you are playing at online gambling in Kentucky sites, we suggest you do the following to stay safe:

• Set a Budget – Stay on top of your finances when betting online, otherwise, it could lead to disappointment if you rack up losses
• Read the Terms and Conditions –Make sure you understand what is expected of you, so take the time to read the T&Cs fully.
• Check payment methods –Always check you can use your preferred payment method to make deposits and withdrawals.

Final Words on Online Gambling in Kentucky

While Kentucky allows some forms of gambling, it isn’t quite what you may expect compared to other states, however, we are hoping this will change in the future.

Anyway, if you are looking to bet on the best site, then we think you will be more than happy with what the top-rated operator on our page – BetOnline – has to offer. This site is giving new players a 100% deposit match bonus worth a potential $1,000. Sign up to BetOnline today, and enter the promo code BOL1000 to claim your $1,000 welcome bonus.

Online Gambling KY FAQs