Most NFL betting questions come down to three things: is it legal where you live, how old do you have to be, and what happens when something weird occurs — like a push. I've gathered the 12 questions I see most often and answered each one straight.

Is it legal to bet on NFL games in my state?

Probably, but not guaranteed. Sports betting became legal at the state level after the Supreme Court's 2018 Murphy v. NCAA ruling. Most states have since passed legislation, but a handful have not. Check your state's gaming commission website to confirm. For a full breakdown, see the Bet on NFL guide to finding a legal sportsbook.

What age do you have to be to bet on NFL?

21 in most states. A few allow 18+. Washington, D.C. permits betting at 18. There's no single federal standard — each state sets its own floor. Always check your state's rule before signing up.

How does a point spread work?

The favorite gets a negative number, say -14.5. They must win by 15 or more for that bet to pay. The underdog gets +14.5 and wins the bet if they lose by fewer than 15 — or win outright. The plain-English breakdown of how NFL betting works covers this with more examples.

What happens if my bet pushes?

A push means the final margin or combined score lands exactly on the posted number. Your original stake comes back. No win, no loss — just a refund.

What is the vig?

The sportsbook's cut. Standard NFL spread and totals odds are -110 on each side, which builds in roughly a 4.5–5% edge for the house. The real cost of betting NFL page walks through how vig, taxes, and playthrough all eat into your bankroll.

What is a parlay?

Two or more bets combined into one ticket. All legs must win. The payout is higher than betting each game separately, but the risk compounds. Most bettors lose money on parlays over time. See every NFL bet type explained for a fuller look.

Which sportsbooks are the official NFL partners?

DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics Betting and Gaming are the three Official NFL Sports Betting Partners for 2026 and beyond. DraftKings and FanDuel have held that status since 2021. Fanatics replaced Caesars, whose deal was not renewed. The ranked list of the best NFL sportsbooks for 2026 compares them side by side.

What is the best NFL betting bonus right now?

Bet365 currently offers $365 in bonus bets on a $10 first wager, no promo code required. Across all major sportsbooks, new-player welcome offers can total over $3,000 combined. Read the fine print — bonus bets aren't cash. The NFL betting bonuses guide explains what to claim and what to skip.

Can I use PayPal to bet on NFL?

Yes. PayPal is accepted at most major US sportsbooks. Deposits post instantly. Withdrawals typically process within 24 hours. The deposit and withdrawal guide for NFL sportsbooks covers PayPal, Venmo, debit cards, ACH, and more.

Do I have to pay taxes on NFL betting winnings?

Yes. All gambling winnings are federally taxable income, reported on Form 1040 Schedule 1. If you win $5,000 or more, the sportsbook may withhold up to 31% for federal taxes and issue a W-2G. Most states also tax gambling winnings. Report offshore winnings too — there's no W-2G, but the IRS still expects it.

Is DraftKings or FanDuel better for NFL betting?

Both are Official NFL Partners with similar market depth. The right choice depends on which promos are live in your state and which app you find easier to use. I'd open accounts at both and line-shop — odds differ by a point or two more often than you'd think.

What is a bonus bet?

A sportsbook credit used to place a wager. If it wins, you keep the profit — not the original stake. Bonus bets can't be withdrawn as cash on their own. Watch playthrough requirements: a 30× requirement on a $100 bonus means $3,000 in total wagers before you can cash out.

Must be 21+ (18+ in some states). If gambling is becoming a problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.