Betting on NFL games costs more than the obvious losses. The vig, taxes, and bonus fine print all chip away at your bankroll before you even think about winning.
What Is the Vig and How Much Does It Cost?
Standard NFL spread and totals odds are listed at -110. That means you bet $110 to win $100. The extra $10 is the sportsbook's cut — the vig, or juice. It implies a house edge of roughly 4.5–5% on each side.
It doesn't sound like much. But over a full season, that edge compounds. If you want to understand exactly how odds and bet types work before you play, read the plain-English breakdown of how NFL betting works.
Do I Owe Taxes on NFL Betting Wins?
Yes — all gambling winnings are federally taxable income, no exceptions. You report them on Form 1040, Schedule 1, Line 8b. Your rate depends on your tax bracket.
Win $5,000 or more on a single wager and the sportsbook may withhold up to 31% of proceeds, documented on a W-2G form. That's a big chunk gone before you see the funds. Most states add their own income tax on top of federal.
On the flip side, bettors who itemize can deduct gambling losses to offset gambling income — though losses can't exceed your reported winnings.
What Do Bonus Playthrough Requirements Actually Cost?
Welcome bonuses look free. They're not. A 30× playthrough on a $100 bonus means you must complete $3,000 in total wagers before you can cash out a single dollar of bonus-derived winnings. Spend the bonus before clearing that threshold and it's gone — forfeited automatically.
Bonus bets also can't be withdrawn as cash. Only the winnings from a bonus bet are cashable. Before claiming anything, check out the guide to NFL betting bonuses so you know what's worth grabbing and what to skip.
I track my own results. My actual cost per bet runs higher than the posted -110 once I factor in state tax and the occasional forfeited bonus. Know your real number before you bet. Must be 21+ (18+ in some states). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Quick Cost Summary
| Cost Type | Typical Amount | When It Hits |
|---|---|---|
| Vig / juice | ~4.5–5% per bet | Every wager at -110 |
| Federal tax withholding | Up to 31% | Wins of $5,000 or more |
| Bonus playthrough | e.g. 30× ($3,000 wagered) | Before bonus winnings cash out |
The NFL betting FAQ covers more on taxes and bonus terms if you want deeper answers before your first deposit.