South Carolina Sports Betting

South Carolina Sports Betting – How to Bet Today

South Carolina, a state renowned for its passionate sports culture and storied college athletics, remains one of the few holdouts in the United States when it comes to legal sports betting. Despite the rapid expansion of regulated wagering across the country since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to overturn PASPA, the Palmetto State’s legal landscape is marked by strict prohibitions, political resistance, and ongoing debates about the future of gambling. This comprehensive guide explores the current legal status of sports betting in South Carolina, the legislative efforts underway, the practical options available to residents, and how to bet safely and responsibly today. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned bettor, this article provides a detailed, SEO-optimized overview of everything you need to know about South Carolina sports betting in 2025 and beyond.

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The Current Legal Status of Sports Betting in South Carolina (2025–2026)

State Law and Political Climate

As of December 2025, sports betting remains illegal in South Carolina, both for retail and online sportsbooks. The only forms of state-sanctioned gambling are the South Carolina Education Lottery and charitable bingo. There are no state-licensed casinos, racetracks, or sportsbooks, and daily fantasy sports (DFS) operate in a legal gray area, unregulated but generally tolerated.

The state’s conservative political culture has long resisted gambling expansion. Governor Henry McMaster is a vocal opponent, repeatedly stating that gambling is “bad for our culture” and vowing to veto any legislation that would legalize sports betting or casinos. Overriding a gubernatorial veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the General Assembly—a high bar given the state’s political composition.

Recent Legislative Efforts

Despite the opposition, bipartisan efforts to legalize sports betting have intensified in recent years. The 2025–2026 legislative session saw the introduction of several bills:

House Bill 3625 (South Carolina Sports Wagering Act): Proposes the creation of the South Carolina Sports Wagering Commission, up to eight online sportsbook licenses, and a 12.5% tax on adjusted gross revenue. The bill would allow anyone 18 or older to bet online and includes provisions for responsible gambling and revenue allocation.
Senate Bill 444: A companion bill with similar parameters, including licensing fees and regulatory oversight.
House Bill 4176 (I-95 Economic and Education Stimulus Act): Focuses on legalizing retail casinos in select rural counties, with the aim of boosting local economies and funding infrastructure.
House Joint Resolution 3353: Proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the General Assembly to legalize gambling—including sports betting, casinos, and pari-mutuel horse racing—in specified areas of the state.

Despite increased engagement and public hearings, none of these bills have advanced beyond committee as of late 2025. The legislative gridlock is attributed to strong conservative opposition, religious advocacy groups, and the governor’s steadfast resistance.

Constitutional Amendment Requirement

A key obstacle is that legalizing sports betting in South Carolina would require a constitutional amendment. This process demands a two-thirds vote in both legislative chambers and majority approval by voters in a statewide referendum. Given the current political climate, the earliest realistic path to legalization is a 2026 ballot initiative, with a potential market launch in 2027 or later if approved.

Tribal Gaming and Casino Proposals

The Catawba Nation and Casino Development

South Carolina is home to the Catawba Nation, the state’s only federally recognized Native American tribe. For decades, the Catawba have sought the right to operate casino gaming on their lands, as is permitted for over 240 tribes nationwide. However, South Carolina law has consistently prohibited tribal casinos, even as the Catawba successfully opened the Two Kings Casino in neighboring North Carolina.

In 2025, a proposal emerged for a large non-tribal casino project in Santee, SC, spearheaded by private developers. The Catawba Nation’s leadership publicly opposed the project, arguing that any casino development should be owned and operated by the tribe to ensure economic benefits for their people. Internal divisions within the tribe and disputes with former business partners have complicated the debate, but the consensus remains that no tribal or commercial casinos are currently authorized in South Carolina.

Legislative Outlook

Casino legalization faces the same constitutional and political hurdles as sports betting. While some lawmakers and local leaders support casino development for its potential to create jobs and generate tax revenue, opposition from religious groups and the governor remains strong. As of late 2025, no casino projects have been approved or are operational within the state.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Alternative Legal Options

DFS in South Carolina

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) platforms such as DraftKings, FanDuel, PrizePicks, and Underdog Fantasy operate in South Carolina in an unregulated but generally tolerated environment. The state has not passed legislation explicitly legalizing or banning DFS, and the attorney general’s office has declined to take enforcement action. As a result, South Carolina is considered one of 17 states where DFS exists in a legal gray area.

DFS contests allow users to assemble virtual teams of real players and compete based on statistical performance. While traditional season-long fantasy sports are widely accepted as games of skill, the rise of “pick’em” style DFS—where users bet on player props in a manner similar to sports betting—has blurred the lines and drawn scrutiny in other states. For now, DFS remains accessible to South Carolina residents, but its legal status could change if lawmakers decide to regulate or restrict these contests.

Social Sportsbooks and Pick’em Sites

In addition to DFS, social sportsbooks and pick’em sites have gained popularity as legal alternatives to traditional sports betting. These platforms use virtual currencies or sweepstakes models to allow users to make picks on sporting events and win cash prizes without risking real money. Notable options include:

Fliff: Operates as a social sportsbook using Fliff Coins (for entertainment) and Fliff Cash (sweepstakes entries). In South Carolina, Fliff is legal for entertainment use, but sweepstakes cash prizes are generally unavailable due to state regulations.
Legendz, Betr, Thrillzz, ProphetX, Fliff, Novig, Onyx Odds, Rebet, WagerLab: Social sportsbooks offering various bonuses and community features.
Underdog Fantasy, Dabble, DraftKings Pick6, PrizePicks, Sleeper, PlaySqor, Bleacher Nation Fantasy, Chalkboard, Vivid Picks: Pick’em DFS sites with over/under player prop contests and bonus offers.

These platforms are widely used in South Carolina and provide a legal, low-risk way to engage with sports predictions and fantasy contests.

Offshore Sportsbooks: The Main Option for South Carolina Residents

Legality and Risks

With no state-regulated sportsbooks, offshore sportsbooks remain the primary avenue for South Carolinians to bet on sports online. These platforms are licensed and operated outside the United States, typically in jurisdictions such as Costa Rica, Panama, or Curaçao. While federal law (notably the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, or UIGEA) targets operators and financial transactions, there are no state or federal laws that explicitly prohibit South Carolina residents from placing bets with offshore sportsbooks. No South Carolina resident has ever been prosecuted for betting offshore.

However, it is important to note that offshore sportsbooks are not regulated by U.S. authorities. This means players do not have the same consumer protections, dispute resolution mechanisms, or guaranteed recourse in the event of a dispute or non-payment. Players should exercise caution, choose reputable sites with long track records, and understand the risks involved.

Top Offshore Sportsbooks for South Carolina

The following offshore sportsbooks are widely regarded as the best options for South Carolina residents in 2025–2026:

Sportsbook	Key Features	Welcome Bonus	Payout Speed	Mobile Experience	Crypto Support	Customer Service
XBet	Sleek, user-friendly, fast crypto payouts	100% up to $500	24–48 hours (BTC)	Responsive web	Yes	24/7 live chat
SportsBetting.ag	Fast payouts, sharp odds, broad markets	50% up to $250	<24 hours (BTC)	Responsive web	Yes	24/7 live chat
BetOnline	Early lines, competitive odds, live betting	50% up to $250	1–2 hours (BTC)	Top-rated mobile	Yes	24/7 live chat
Bovada	Deep prop markets, live betting, soft odds	50% up to $250	1–2 hours (BTC)	Smooth mobile	Yes	24/7 live chat
MyBookie	Creative props, fast crypto, NFL focus	100% up to $1,000	1–2 days (BTC)	Clean mobile	Yes	24/7 live chat
BetUS	Large bonuses, deep live betting, loyalty rewards	125% up to $3,125	Same day (BTC)	Mobile-first	Yes	24/7 live chat
BookMaker	High limits, early lines, sharp-friendly	25% up to $500	<1 hour (BTC)	Minimalist web	Yes	24/7 live chat

XBet and SportsBetting.ag are highlighted as top choices for South Carolina, offering a balance of user-friendly design, fast crypto payouts, competitive odds, and reliable customer support.

XBet: A Closer Look

Reputation: Operating since 2013, XBet is licensed in Costa Rica and has built a reputation for reliability, fast crypto withdrawals, and low rollover bonuses.
Markets: Covers all major U.S. sports, college athletics, global soccer, UFC, and niche markets.
Bonuses: 100% sports welcome bonus up to $500 (7x rollover), 200% casino bonus, reload and crypto-specific offers.
Banking: Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Visa, MasterCard, and P2P transfers. Crypto withdrawals are typically processed within 24–48 hours.
Mobile: Fully responsive web interface, no app download required, optimized for iOS and Android.
Support: 24/7 live chat and email, English and Spanish support.

SportsBetting.ag: A Closer Look

Reputation: Part of the BetOnline network, licensed in Panama, known for sharp odds, fast payouts, and broad sports coverage.
Markets: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, soccer, tennis, golf, and more.
Bonuses: 50% up to $250 welcome bonus, frequent reloads, and crypto promotions.
Banking: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, credit/debit cards, bank wires, and e-wallets.
Mobile: Responsive web platform, fast load times, and full-featured live betting.
Support: 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support.

How to Bet Online in South Carolina: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose a Trusted Offshore Sportsbook

Select a reputable offshore sportsbook that accepts South Carolina residents. Consider factors such as licensing, years in business, payout speed, odds quality, bonus offers, and customer reviews. Opening accounts at multiple sportsbooks can help you shop for the best lines and maximize bonuses.

2. Create and Verify Your Account

Click “Sign Up” or “Join Now” on the sportsbook’s homepage.
Enter your personal details (name, address, email, phone).
Set a strong password.
Complete email verification if required.
Some sportsbooks may request identity verification (KYC) before your first withdrawal. This usually involves uploading a government-issued ID and proof of address.

3. Deposit Funds

Choose your preferred deposit method: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are recommended for speed and privacy, but credit/debit cards and bank transfers are also available.
Enter the deposit amount and any promo code to claim your welcome bonus.
Crypto deposits are typically processed within minutes; card deposits are instant if approved.
Minimum deposits vary by method (e.g., $10 for crypto, $20 for cards).

4. Claim Your Bonus

Most sportsbooks offer a welcome bonus for new players (e.g., 100% match up to $500).
Read the terms and conditions, including rollover requirements and eligible bet types.
Bonuses are usually credited automatically after your first deposit, but some may require a promo code.

5. Place Your Bets

Browse the sportsbook’s markets: NFL, NBA, college football, soccer, tennis, golf, and more.
Select your desired event and bet type (moneyline, spread, total, prop, parlay, etc.).
Enter your stake in the bet slip and confirm your wager.
Live betting is available for most major events, with odds updating in real time.

6. Withdraw Your Winnings

After meeting any bonus rollover requirements, request a withdrawal via your preferred method.
Bitcoin and other crypto withdrawals are typically processed within 24–48 hours; checks and bank wires may take 5–10 business days.
Complete any required KYC verification if prompted.

How to Read Odds and Types of Bets Explained

Understanding Odds Formats

Sportsbooks offer odds in three main formats:

American (Moneyline) Odds: Used by default at most U.S. sportsbooks. Favorites are shown with a minus sign (e.g., -150), indicating how much you must bet to win $100. Underdogs are shown with a plus sign (e.g., +200), indicating how much you win on a $100 bet.
Decimal Odds: Common in Europe and Canada. Shows the total payout per $1 wagered (e.g., 2.50 means a $1 bet returns $2.50).
Fractional Odds: Popular in the UK. Expresses profit relative to stake (e.g., 5/1 means $5 profit for every $1 wagered).

Most sportsbooks allow you to toggle between odds formats in your account settings.

Common Bet Types

Moneyline: Bet on which team or player will win the game or event.
Point Spread: Bet on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by more than the spread; the underdog can win outright or lose by less than the spread.
Totals (Over/Under): Bet on whether the combined score will be over or under a set number.
Props: Bet on specific outcomes within a game (e.g., player touchdowns, passing yards, first team to score).
Parlays: Combine multiple bets into one wager for a higher payout. All legs must win.
Teasers: Adjust point spreads in your favor for a lower payout.
Futures: Bet on long-term outcomes (e.g., Super Bowl winner, MVP).
Live/In-Play Betting: Place bets as the game unfolds, with odds updating in real time.

Mobile Betting and App Experience

Offshore Sportsbook Mobile Platforms

While South Carolina does not allow state-regulated sportsbook apps, offshore sportsbooks offer mobile-optimized websites that function seamlessly on iOS and Android devices. These platforms do not require downloads; simply access the site via your mobile browser, log in, and enjoy the full range of betting markets, live odds, and account management features.

Key Features of Top Mobile Betting Sites

Responsive Design: Adapts to any screen size for easy navigation.
Live Betting: Place in-play wagers with real-time odds updates.
Banking: Deposit and withdraw funds directly from your phone.
Security: SSL encryption and secure login options (fingerprint or facial recognition).
Notifications: Some sites offer push notifications for scoring plays, line changes, and promotions.
No App Download Required: All features are accessible via mobile browsers.

XBet and SportsBetting.ag are noted for their clean, fast mobile interfaces, making it easy for South Carolina bettors to place wagers on the go.

Responsible Gambling Resources and Protections

Recognizing the Risks

Sports betting should be a form of entertainment, not a way to solve financial problems. Gambling carries real risks, including the potential for addiction, financial loss, and negative impacts on relationships and mental health. Offshore sportsbooks do not provide the same regulatory protections as future state-licensed operators, so it is crucial to bet responsibly.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Betting with money needed for essentials (bills, rent, food)
Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut back
Hiding betting activity from family or friends
Chasing losses with more bets
Borrowing money or using credit cards to continue betting

Where to Get Help

Support is confidential, judgment-free, and available 24/7:

National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-522-4700 or text “HELP” to 53342
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): ncpgambling.org
Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org
South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS): daodas.sc.gov
QuitGamble.com: Online support, video courses, and community for problem gamblers.

Self-Exclusion and Safer Gambling Tools:

Set deposit and wager limits
Take cooling-off breaks
Use self-exclusion options where available
Track your bets and outcomes

If gambling stops being fun or starts to feel stressful, seek help immediately.

Comparing South Carolina to Neighboring States

North Carolina

Legal Status: Mobile sports betting legalized in March 2024.
Performance: In the first year, North Carolina generated $131.3 million in gambling tax revenue, with $685 million wagered in March 2025 alone.
Impact: South Carolina residents have opened over 365,000 accounts in North Carolina, crossing the border to place bets and contributing to revenue flight from the Palmetto State.

Georgia

Legal Status: No legal sports betting as of late 2025, but legislative hearings are ongoing and momentum is building for future legalization.

Economic Arguments and Tax Revenue Estimates

Potential Revenue: Fiscal estimates suggest South Carolina could see between $1.7 billion and $3.9 billion in first-year wagering handle, with annual tax revenues of $13.6 million to $31.3 million under a 12.5% tax rate, based on comparable states’ performance.
Public Opinion: Benchmark Research polls indicate that 70% of South Carolinians support legal sports betting, reflecting strong demand and potential for future legislative change.

Public Opinion and Advocacy

Supporters

Sports Betting Alliance (SBA): Represents major sportsbooks and advocates for legalization, citing economic benefits and consumer protections.
Local Lawmakers: Some, like House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, argue that legalization would keep tax revenue in-state and provide safer, regulated options for residents.

Opponents

Governor Henry McMaster: Strongly opposed, citing cultural and moral concerns.
Religious and Social Groups: South Carolina Baptist Convention, Palmetto Family Alliance, and others warn of addiction, debt, and social costs.

Legal Risks and Enforcement

Offshore Betting

Legal Risk: While federal law targets operators, not individual bettors, and South Carolina has never prosecuted a resident for betting offshore, players should be aware of the lack of consumer protections and the potential for account restrictions or payout issues.
Financial Transactions: The UIGEA restricts U.S. banks from processing payments to offshore operators, making crypto and alternative payment methods more common.

Enforcement

State Law: Enforcement is focused on unlicensed operators, not individual players. The main risks are practical (e.g., non-payment, lack of recourse) rather than criminal prosecution.

How to Choose the Best Sportsbook

Key Criteria

Security: Licensing, SSL encryption, and fair play standards.
Payout Speed: Fast, reliable withdrawals, especially via crypto.
Odds Quality: Competitive pricing on spreads, moneylines, and props.
Market Depth: Wide range of sports, leagues, and bet types.
Bonuses: Transparent, achievable rollover requirements.
Mobile Experience: Responsive design and easy navigation.
Customer Support: 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support.
Reputation: Positive user reviews and long operational history.

Pro Tip: Open accounts at multiple sportsbooks to shop for the best lines and maximize bonus value.

Conclusion: The Future of South Carolina Sports Betting

South Carolina’s sports betting landscape is defined by strict prohibitions, political resistance, and a vibrant offshore market that fills the void left by the absence of state-regulated options. While legislative efforts have gained momentum and public support is strong, meaningful change is unlikely before 2026, when a constitutional amendment could reach the ballot. Until then, South Carolina residents can legally access offshore sportsbooks, DFS, and social betting platforms, provided they understand the risks and bet responsibly.

As neighboring states like North Carolina reap the benefits of regulated sports betting, the pressure on South Carolina lawmakers will only increase. The future promises more debate, advocacy, and, eventually, a regulated market that balances economic opportunity with consumer protection. For now, South Carolinians have a range of safe, reputable options to enjoy sports betting online—just be sure to choose wisely, play within your means, and seek help if gambling ever stops being fun.