Why we only list licensed bookmakers
A licence is the single most important thing a betting site can offer you. Licensed bookmakers have to keep customer money protected, verify your age, offer deposit limits and self-exclusion, and settle disputes through an independent body. If something goes wrong with an unlicensed site, there is usually nobody to complain to.
That’s why every betting site on BettingSeeker is licensed in the country we list it for. We check each licence on the regulator’s own register and record the date we checked it.
How to choose a betting site
Most licensed bookmakers look similar at first glance. The differences show up when you actually use them.
1. Odds and margins
Every bookmaker builds a margin into its prices. Over hundreds of bets, a lower margin leaves you with noticeably more money. Compare the same market at two or three bookmakers before you bet, or use our margin calculator to see how much a bookmaker is taking.
2. Payout speed
Fast, predictable withdrawals are a sign of a well-run bookmaker. Check which payment methods support withdrawals, how long they take, and whether there are fees. E-wallets and debit cards with fast payment support are usually quickest.
3. Markets and features
If you bet on more than the main football and US sports leagues, check the depth of markets for your sports. Features like cash out, bet builders and live streaming matter if you bet in-play.
4. Welcome offers and their terms
A big headline offer can hide strict terms. Read the minimum odds, the expiry date and whether free bet stakes are returned with winnings. A smaller offer with fair terms is often worth more.
5. Responsible gambling tools
Good bookmakers make it easy to set deposit limits, take a break and see your betting history. If these tools are hard to find, that tells you something about the operator.
Odds formats around the world
Bookmakers show odds differently depending on where you are: fractional odds (5/2) in the UK and Ireland, American odds (+250) in the US, and decimal odds (3.50) in Canada and most other countries. They all mean the same thing. Convert between them with our odds converter, or read our guide to how betting odds work.
Frequently asked questions
Are online betting sites legal?
It depends on where you live. Online sports betting is fully regulated in the UK, in Ontario and through provincial lottery sites elsewhere in Canada, and in most US states. Always use a bookmaker licensed by the regulator in your country or state.
How do I know a betting site is licensed?
Licensed bookmakers show their licence number and regulator in the footer of their site. You can check it on the regulator's public register, such as the UK Gambling Commission's register or your state gaming regulator's list of licensed operators.
Which betting site has the best odds?
No single bookmaker has the best odds on everything. Compare prices before you bet, and look at the bookmaker's margin. Our margin calculator shows how much a bookmaker builds into any market.
Can I use a betting site from another country?
Licensed bookmakers only accept customers in the countries or states where they hold a licence, and they check your location. Using a VPN to get around this breaks their terms, and they can void your bets and withhold winnings.
Find free support in your country on our responsible gambling page.