Massachusetts gamblers are not allowed to use credit cards to fund their sports betting accounts in the state.
In fact, state law goes a step further. Regulations forbid the use of credit card funds added to a sports betting account from outside the state to fund wagers that take place in Massachusetts.
So, when using Massachusetts sports betting apps, it’s important to keep in mind that deposits from credit cards cannot be used in any way.
This subject was discussed during the Aug. 8 open meeting of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Specifically, the MGC reviewed comments and questions received from operators regarding aspects of the state’s regulations.
“Operators sought clarification,” the meeting materials read, “on whether patrons who use credit cards for deposits outside of Massachusetts may have those funds available for wagering in Massachusetts. The answer is no.”
No credit card funds from other states
Even if you deposit money into your sportsbook account(s) in a state that permit the use of credit cards, you won’t be able to use those funds in Massachusetts.
For example, say you are in Indiana and use a credit card to put money into your sportsbook account. If you then travel to Massachusetts, you won’t be able to use any of those funds to gamble on sports.
You can still use funds deposited using other methods, just not credit cards.
Why credit cards aren’t allowed
No sportsbook that operates legally in the Commonwealth can have credit cards as an available banking method.
Massachusetts is one of several states with this rule in place. Other states that don’t allow the use of credit cards include Iowa, New York, Tennessee and Connecticut.
The ideology is pretty sound, as lawmakers want to prevent their residents from racking up debt while gambling on sports. This is part of the focused effort on responsible gambling in Massachusetts that regulators have emphasized since before the industry launched.
In addition, it’s important to remember that credit cards cannot be used when claiming Massachusetts sports betting bonuses either.
Other funding options
But don’t worry. Massachusetts sportsbooks do a good job of providing bettors with a variety of banking methods.
Here are other options you can use to fund your betting accounts in the Commonwealth:
- Debit cards
- Online banking
- E-wallets
- PayPal
- Cash or check
- PayNearMe
- Wire transfer
- Prepaid Play+ card
All Massachusetts sportsbooks provide excellent security to both your personal and banking information. Deposits and withdrawals only take a couple of minutes, and most offer quick payouts for your winnings.
And if you ever have any issues, each sport betting platform has a dedicated customer support team that can help you with any question you may have.
