Highlights
Sports betting will be available in Missouri on December 1.
The state’s gaming commission is already accepting licensing applications.
Up to 19 retail licenses and 14 online sportsbooks licenses will be available.
Rabid Missouri sports fans will be glad to know that the Show-Me state is moving full steam ahead on its planned sports betting launch this December, with its gaming commission now beginning to review and accept applications from leading sportsbooks.
However, this new development raises more questions than answers, especially around topics such as tax revenues and legal betting age. In this article, we’ll explore what’s currently known about Missouri’s sports betting launch and highlight questions that might need clarification before its December launch. So, make sure to read this one to a tee before you plan your wagers.
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Is Sports Betting Legal in Missouri?
Sports betting was officially legal in Missouri last year following a razor-thin vote margin of just 0.10%, with Amendment 2 passing by just approximately 2,961 votes out of the three million cast. It is, however, worth noting that sportsbook operations are still unavailable as of press time. This means that you won’t be able to wager on the St. Louis Cardinals, the Kansas City Chiefs, or any of your favorite sports teams just yet.
Nevertheless, sports fans won’t have to wait much longer, with the Missouri Gaming Commission already accepting licensing applications from leading retail and online sportsbooks. Submissions for license applications will end on September 12, with sports betting expected to roll out on December 1, which is just in time for the National Football League and the National Basketball Association seasons.
What Is the Legal Age for Sports Betting in Missouri?
You need to be 21 years old or older to wager on your favorite sports in Missouri. As part of the state’s licensing requirements, online and retail sportsbooks will require players to undergo a Know-Your-Customer (KYC) verification process to prevent underage gambling. This is similar to casino gambling in Missouri, wherein you need to be at least 21 years old to participate in any betting activity.
As per Amendment 2, retail sportsbooks must ask players to present a government-issued identification card upon entry.
Missouri betting sites, on the other hand, will need bettors to undergo an identity verification process wherein they would need to submit details such as their names, date of birth, and residential address, along with a government-issued ID to join.
Can You Place Sports Bets Online in Missouri?
Online sports betting is currently unavailable in Missouri, although that is expected to change in the coming months following the legalization of sports betting in the Show-Me state. As of press time, the Missouri Gaming Commission is accepting applications for tethered and untethered sports betting licenses.
The MGC is expected to issue approximately 19 retail sports betting licenses and up to 14 online sports betting licenses as per the approved framework under Amendment 2. With leading sportsbooks expected to jockey for the 14 available online sports betting licenses, Missouri sports fans will have plenty of options to take part in the action, whether that’d be moneyline betting, spread betting, or the over/under markets.
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What Sports Can I Bet on in Missouri?
Once sportsbooks launch in December, you will be able to wager on multiple sports. This includes basketball, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, mixed martial arts, volleyball, and college sports. It is, however, worth mentioning that restrictions might apply for in-state college prop bets depending on final regulations.
The Missouri Gaming Commission is expected to set final regulations on in-state college prop bets right before the December 1 launch. Although nothing is certain, the Missouri Gaming Commission could potentially limit betting opportunities on in-game performances involving Missouri-based college athletes to ensure amateur sports integrity.
What Are the Taxes on Sports Betting in Missouri?
Leading sportsbooks will have to pay a 10% tax to legally operate in Missouri once the market launches in December. This is nine percent lower than the national average of 19%. According to Amendment 2, the first $5 million in taxes collected will be intended for setting up responsible gambling tools, while the rest will be used to support K-12 schools and the state’s higher education.
Likewise, sports betting winnings are also subject to taxes. It is worth noting that tax rates are divided into state and federal obligations. You will be required to report your sports betting winnings as income on your federal tax returns, which are taxed at up to 24%. State taxes, on the other hand, will vary depending on your income as outlined in the table below.
| Sports Betting Income |
Tax Rate |
| $0 to $111 |
0% |
| $112 to $1,121 |
1.5% |
| $1,122 to $2,242 |
2% |
| $2,243 to $3,363 |
2.5% |
| $3,364 to $4,484 |
3% |
| $4,485 to $5,605 |
3.5% |
| $5,606 to $6,726 |
4% |
| $6,727 to $7,847 |
4.5% |
| $7,848 to $8,968 |
5% |
| $8,969 or more |
5.4% |
Is Responsible Gambling and Support Available for Missouri Bettors?
There are plenty of responsible gambling tools and support available for Missouri players. Currently, the Missouri Gaming Commission is offering help via phone and email. If that’s not good enough, the state’s mental health department is also offering free treatments for problem gamblers, such as counseling and therapy in addition to their self-exclusion programs.
Even more impressive is the fact that the government will use the first $5 million in sportsbook taxes to support problem gambling initiatives. This includes providing players with education, outreach, and treatment programs, making Missouri among the many states to dedicate a significant portion of gambling revenue to player protection from the start.
Conclusion - Looking Ahead to Missouri Sports Betting Launch
With the Missouri Gaming Commission already accepting licensing applications and the December 1 launch coming closer than ever, bettors can now look forward to placing wagers on their favorite sports and teams. Whether you plan to bet in person or online, reading this FAQ from top to bottom is key to understanding the rules and getting started on the right foot.
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