Betting on NFL games in California became legal with the passage of Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 in November 2022, which allowed for the expansion of legal sports betting in the state. Here’s a general guide on how to bet on NFL games in California, but please note that specific rules and regulations may change, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest information:
1. **Understand the Legal Age**: You must be at least 21 years old to legally bet on sports in California.
2. **Choose a Licensed Sportsbook**: California allows sports betting through tribal casinos and online platforms that partner with these tribes. Make sure to use a licensed and regulated sportsbook to ensure your bets are legal and secure.
3. **Create an Account**:
– Visit the sportsbook’s website or download the mobile app.
– Sign up for an account by providing the required personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number for identity verification purposes.
– You may need to verify your identity by uploading documents such as a driver’s license or passport.
4. **Deposit Funds**:
– Once your account is set up, you’ll need to deposit funds to start betting.
– Sportsbooks offer various deposit methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets (like PayPal), bank transfers, and sometimes cash at the casino cage if you’re betting in person.
5. **Learn the Types of Bets**:
– **Spread Bets**: Wager on the margin of victory for one team over another.
– **Moneyline Bets**: Bet on which team will win the game outright.
– **Over/Under Bets**: Wager on the total number of points scored by both teams.
– **Prop Bets**: Bet on specific events within the game, like the number of yards a player will gain or which team will score first.
– **Parlays**: Combine multiple bets into one for a higher potential payout.
6. **Place Your Bets**:
– Navigate to the NFL section of the sportsbook.
– Choose the game you want to bet on and the type of bet you want to make.
– Enter the amount of money you wish to bet and confirm your bet.
7. **Understand the Odds**:
– The odds will indicate the potential payout for your bet. Understanding how to read odds is crucial to making informed decisions.
8. **Monitor Your Bets**:
– You can usually track the status of your bets through the sportsbook’s platform.
– Once the game is over, winning bets will be settled, and funds will be credited to your account.
9. **Responsible Gambling**:
– Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it.
– Avoid chasing losses, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Remember that sports betting carries inherent risks, and it’s essential to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available to help, such as the California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG).
Lastly, always check the current legal status of sports betting in California and ensure that you are using a legal platform, as the information provided here is subject to change based on new laws or regulations.