Placing a money line bet takes about two minutes once you have a licensed sportsbook account. Pick a winner, enter a stake, confirm the slip — done. Here is exactly how to get there.

Which sportsbook should you open first?

Start with a nationally recognized, licensed operator. DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars are available in most legal states and all carry moneyline markets on the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. Check out the best sportsbooks for moneyline betting to compare platforms before you commit to one.

Is moneyline betting legal where you live?

Online sports betting is live in 38+ states plus Washington D.C. as of 2025. California, Texas, and Florida are among the states where it is still not available. Before downloading any app, confirm your state's status in the state-by-state moneyline betting legality guide.

How to place a moneyline bet: step by step

  1. Download the app or visit the desktop site. Use the operator's official app store listing. Never sideload APKs or use third-party links.
  2. Create an account. Enter your name, address, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. Sportsbooks use this for identity verification — standard KYC process.
  3. Deposit funds. Visa/Mastercard debit, PayPal, ACH bank transfer, and PayNearMe are typical options. Minimum deposits vary by operator.
  4. Find the game you want. Tap the sport (NFL, NBA, etc.), then the specific matchup. The moneyline market is usually the first column displayed.
  5. Read the odds before tapping. A minus sign means favorite; a plus sign means underdog. If you need a refresher, the guide on reading moneyline odds walks through every scenario.
  6. Tap the moneyline price. It drops straight into your bet slip.
  7. Enter your stake. The slip calculates your potential payout in real time. Want to run the math yourself first? The moneyline payout calculator does it before you even open the app.
  8. Review and confirm. Check the team, the odds, and the stake one more time. Tap "Place Bet." You will receive a confirmation with a bet ID — screenshot it.

What happens after the game?

Winning bets settle automatically, usually within minutes of the final whistle. The payout lands in your sportsbook wallet. Standard moneyline markets include overtime, so a win in OT still counts — see the breakdown on whether moneylines include overtime if your sport runs long.

One common mistake: heavy favorites carry big negative odds. Betting –700 risks $700 to profit just $100. One upset wipes out seven wins. The moneyline betting strategy guide covers how to find value instead of just chasing chalk.

Thinking about combining picks? All legs must win or the ticket loses. Read how moneyline parlay bets work before stacking multiple games. And if you run into terms you don't recognize during signup or on the slip, the moneyline betting FAQ answers the most common questions.

Must be 21+ (18+ in select states). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.