How to Use ESPN Bet: A Beginner’s Guide is the perfect starting point for anyone new to online sports betting in the United States. ESPN Bet launched in 2023 as the official sportsbook of ESPN, offering a sleek, regulated betting experience for U.S. players across multiple states.
What Is ESPN Bet?
ESPN Bet is a licensed online sportsbook owned by PENN Entertainment in partnership with ESPN. Replacing Barstool Sportsbook in late 2023, it brings together ESPN’s massive sports media ecosystem and a fresh, modern betting interface. Available in over 15 states, the platform allows legal wagers on all major sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, and college games.
With its deep sports coverage, ESPN Bet aims to offer a seamless connection between watching games and wagering—integrated with real-time stats, lines, and personalized betting suggestions.
Why This Guide Matters
If you’re new to sports betting or just downloaded the ESPN Bet app, you might feel overwhelmed by the options and terminology. This guide breaks everything down into easy steps—from signing up and claiming your bonus to placing your first bet and withdrawing your winnings.
Whether you’re curious about live betting or confused by odds formats, this beginner’s guide will help you feel confident before risking a dollar.
- How to register and verify your ESPN Bet account
- Exploring the layout and betting menu
- Activating and using your welcome bonus
- Understanding different bet types (moneyline, spread, parlay)
- Tips for navigating odds, payouts, and settings
How to Register on ESPN Bet
- Download the ESPN Bet app from the App Store or Google Play (or visit the website on desktop).
- Select your state from the list of legally supported jurisdictions. You must be physically located in a legal state to place real bets.
- Enter your personal details: full name, email, date of birth, last 4 digits of your SSN, and home address.
- Create a secure password and enable two-factor authentication if available.
- Verify your identity using your driver’s license or government-issued ID.
- Deposit funds via debit card, online banking, PayPal, or other approved methods.
Once your account is verified and funded, you’re ready to explore ESPN Bet’s sportsbook features.
Exploring the ESPN Bet Interface
ESPN Bet’s app layout is clean and modern. The main navigation bar includes tabs for “Home,” “Live,” “Promos,” and “My Bets.” The top section of the homepage rotates featured games and betting markets, while the bottom section makes it easy to filter by league or sport.
You can add legs to a parlay with one tap, track bets in real-time, and sort by bet type, odds format, or popularity. The platform also includes quick access to live support and responsible gaming tools.
Welcome Bonus Explained
As of 2025, ESPN Bet offers a welcome bonus of Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets for new users. Here’s how it works:
- Make a minimum first deposit of $10.
- Place your first cash wager of $10 or more.
- Receive $150 in bonus bets, typically credited as 6 x $25 tokens.
- Bonus bets expire 7 days after issuance and cannot be withdrawn directly.
“I downloaded ESPN Bet out of curiosity, but the bonus was easy to claim, and the app felt way smoother than I expected.” — Rachel M., new user from Pennsylvania
How to Place a Bet in ESPN Bet
Once your account is verified and funded, placing a bet in ESPN Bet is simple:
- Navigate to the sport or league you want to bet on.
- Select the game or event you’re interested in.
- Choose your bet type (spread, moneyline, total, prop, or parlay).
- Tap the odds to add the selection to your bet slip.
- Enter your wager amount and confirm the bet.
You’ll receive a confirmation message, and your bet will appear under the “My Bets” tab. If you want to make a parlay, simply add more selections before confirming.
Popular Bet Types on ESPN Bet
| Bet Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Pick which team will win the game outright. |
| Point Spread | Bet on a team to win or lose by a specific number of points. |
| Over/Under (Total) | Wager whether the total score will be over or under the sportsbook’s line. |
| Parlay | Combine multiple bets into one; all must hit to win. |
| Player Props | Bet on individual performances (e.g., yards, points, assists). |
Unique ESPN Bet Features
- Live Betting: Wager in real-time as the action unfolds.
- Quick Parlays: Easily build same-game parlays with visual assistance.
- Odds Boosts: Daily enhanced odds on featured markets.
- Cash Out: Settle your bet early to lock in a win or reduce a loss.
- ESPN Integration: In-app links to analysis, expert picks, and stats.
These features make ESPN Bet competitive for both casual and sharp bettors looking for convenience, speed, and integration with the sports content they already consume.
FAQs
- Is ESPN Bet legal in my state?
ESPN Bet is licensed in over 15 U.S. states including Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey, Colorado, and Illinois. Always check your state’s gaming authority for updates. - Can I sign up if I don’t live in a legal betting state?
You can register and explore the app, but you must be physically located in a legal state to place real-money bets. - What is the minimum deposit?
The minimum deposit is typically $10, but some promos may require more. Deposits are available via debit cards, online banking, PayPal, and more. - How fast can I withdraw winnings?
Withdrawals via PayPal or online banking usually process in 1–3 business days after approval. - Can I cash out bets early?
Yes. ESPN Bet offers early cash-out on many wagers, allowing you to lock in profits or reduce losses before a game ends. - Is the ESPN Bet bonus withdrawable?
No. Bonus bets cannot be withdrawn, but winnings from them are yours once the wager settles successfully.
Conclusion
How to Use ESPN Bet: A Beginner’s Guide has shown you how to register, claim your bonus, place bets, and understand the platform’s unique features. Whether you’re new to online sportsbooks or switching from another app, ESPN Bet offers a clean, modern experience backed by one of the most trusted names in sports media.
As with any form of betting, always wager responsibly and within your limits. Use the responsible gaming tools within the app to set deposit limits, take time-outs, or self-exclude if needed.
Ready to try it yourself? Download the app, claim your welcome bonus, and explore betting markets built for sports fans like you.
