What is MasterCard?

MasterCard is one of the world leaders in payment processing. It’s one of the two largest major credit card networks and is accepted by more than 10 million U.S. merchants and in over 200 countries. MasterCard became a public company in 2006 and is one of the most recognized credit card brand names in the world.

As online sports betting is legalized in more states and becomes more mainstream in the U.S., credit card networks such as MasterCard are playing an increasing role. Most adults have a credit or debit card of some kind, making it one of the most convenient and secure ways to process online sports betting transactions, especially making deposits into your betting account. You can use Mastercard betting sites to place sports bets at.

It’s important to note that regulated online sports betting is still a young industry. While Mastercard credit card acceptance at online sportsbooks continues to rise, some banks may automatically block gambling-related transactions as a matter of policy. That’s why we recommend having a second option, such as a PayPal account or Play+ card, to ensure a smoother online gambling experience at your sports betting site of choice.

MasterCard Options to Choose From

MasterCard offers several card options for online sports bettors, the most popular of which are credit, debit, prepaid and gift cards.

Credit card: MasterCard makes available to each cardholder a specified line of credit. A purchase or online sportsbook deposit can be made anytime, with the cardholder billed at a later date, usually on a monthly basis.

Debit card: Allows cardholders to use only the amount of funds available in their checking account. This prevents the cardholder from spending more funds than they have available.

Prepaid card: An excellent option for bettors who don’t have a credit or debit card. A prepaid MasterCard is available at major retail stores or supermarkets, usually for a small fee. The prepaid cards come in different amounts or you can decide how much to deposit on the card, which are sometimes reloadable. A prepaid MasterCard is widely accepted for deposits at online sportsbooks.

Gift card: A MasterCard gift card is similar to a prepaid card. The difference is a gift card is not reloadable - once the money is spent, the card can no longer be used - and often includes an expiration date. There may also be an activation fee. Like a debit card, it helps prevent overspending and is another accepted online sportsbook deposit method.

Advantages of Using MasterCard at Online Sports Betting Sites

Among the benefits of betting with MasterCard to fund your online sports betting account:

Timeliness: Deposits are processed quickly, usually taking only minutes before the funds show up in your online account.

Convenience: Many people already have a MasterCard credit or debit card. That’s all you need to make a deposit into your online account. If you don’t have a MasterCard credit or debit card, it’s simple to apply for one, or you can purchase a prepaid MasterCard at your neighborhood store.

Security: MasterCard is among the biggest and most trusted payment processing brands in the world, so your transaction is secure and your personal information will not be compromised. If you have an issue, customer support is available any time.

Anonymity, if desired: If you don’t want anyone to have access to your personal or credit card information, you can purchase a MasterCard prepaid card or gift card to fund your betting account. There is no bill or statement and it may help prevent overspending.

Versatility: If your MasterCard bank refuses to approve a gambling deposit, you can still use your card to fund a Play+ card or an e-wallet deposit, such as PayPal, Neteller or Skrill, which can usually be established with a credit card.

What to Watch Out for When Using MasterCard

Limited withdrawals: Most online sportsbooks do not offer MasterCard credit cards (or any credit or debit cards) as a withdrawal option, even if you made a deposit with that same card. That means you will have to find an alternative method to make withdrawals, such bank transfers. Typically you can only withdraw into an e-wallet account you used to make a deposit with at your betting site.

Deposits not always approved: While many banks routinely approve credit card gambling deposits, some automatically reject them. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 restricts financial institutions from knowingly engaging in transactions in connection with another person in unlawful Internet gambling. Obviously, online sports betting is no longer unlawful in several states, but the law is still on the books and some banks simply choose to decline any form of online gambling transaction. This is not the fault of your betting site.

Fees: Many banks will charge small fees to perform these transactions. Some treat these deposits as cash advances and charge higher fees, so it’s worth asking or doing a little research. Note that some online sportsbooks may also charge small fees for performing these transactions.

How to Deposit at Online Sportsbooks Using MasterCard

Once you’ve selected your online sportsbook, the deposit process is simple for Mastercard betting sites.

1. The first step is to create an account at Mastercard betting sites. You will need to provide some personal information, such as name, address, email address and last four digits of your Social Security number (occasionally the entire number), and create password. You will typically be asked for a government-issued ID to confirm your identity and geolocation software will be used to ensure that when you place a wager you are located in the sports betting site’s state.
2. After the account is created, go to the ‘’Cashier’’ link on the main menu. Click on deposit and choose the MasterCard deposit option.
3. You will be asked to provide the information on your MasterCard, including account number, expiration date and CVC code.
4. Enter the amount of money you wish to deposit in your online sportsbook account. Authorize the transaction and the funds will generally appear in your account within minutes.

You are ready to begin betting at Mastercard betting sites.

MasterCard vs. Other Deposit Methods

MasterCard is one of the most popular deposit options for online sportsbook account holders, but there are several other great alternatives. The list includes:

Play+: A branded prepaid card usually associated with the sportsbook, online casino or social casino that your account is affiliated with. You can fund your Play+ account with a MasterCard credit or debit card. This is a way to get around banks that restrict gambling transactions. You can usually apply on your sportsbook’s website and deposits are processed quickly with little or no fees. You can use one Play+ card at multiple sportsbooks and withdraw cash with it from an ATM.

PayPal: Another way to work around banks that won’t process gambling transactions. E-wallets such as PayPal securely store your funds and payment information. Pay Pal accounts are simple to set up and can be funded with a MasterCard credit or debit card, or through a checking account. Fees are generally low and PayPal can be used for withdrawals.

ACH: Also known as e-check, this is an electronic deposit from your bank account to online sportsbook account. Widely accepted, usually with small fees, but deposits are not instantaneous and can take several days. Also a popular withdrawal method.

PayNearMe: A deposit option for bettors who don’t have a credit card or bank account. Choose the PayNearMe deposit option and you will receive a barcode, which you bring to a participating 7-Eleven, Family Dollar or CVS Pharmacy in your home state. The cashier will scan the barcode and take your cash payment (only cash deposits are accepted), and the funds will be transferred to your online sportsbook account, usually in 30 minutes or less.

MasterCard Betting Sites FAQ

Can MasterCard be used at all online betting sites?

MasterCard is accepted at nearly all of the top U.S. online sports betting sites. You can use MasterCard credit, debit, prepaid or gift cards to make deposits to your account. While MasterCard is widely accepted, some banks automatically reject gambling-related transactions.

Are there any fees when using MasterCard for online betting deposits?

It varies. Some banks on MasterCard’s network charge low or possibly no fees. Some treat an online sportsbook deposit as a cash advance and charge higher fees. Some sportsbooks may also charge small fees.

What is the transaction speed when using MasterCard?

Deposits are processed quickly and generally show up in your account in minutes.

Do I need an account to use MasterCard? How do I get one?

Yes, you need a MasterCard account. If you don’t have have a MasterCard, it’s easy to apply for one. The company has created an online tool on its mastercard.us website to help determine which card products may be available for you. You can also call 1-800-Mastercard to apply.

Can I withdraw my winnings using MasterCard?

It depends on your online sportsbook, but generally credit and debit cards can be used for deposits but not withdrawals.

What are the maximum and minimum deposits with MasterCard?

The amounts vary depending on the online sportsbook. Deposit maximums often have a limit of up to $5,000. Minimums generally range from $10-$50.

Is MasterCard allowed at mobile sportsbooks?

Yes. You can use your MasterCard credit, debit and prepaid cards on mobile sportsbook apps that offer a cashier function.

Is MasterCard safe to use?

It’s among the safest options available. MasterCard is one of the world’s leading payment processing brands, so bettors can make a MasterCard deposit at a licensed online sportsbook knowing the transaction is both safe and secure. If any questions or problems arise, MasterCard offers customer service 24 hours a day.

Can I still obtain a bonus using MasterCard?

Yes. Online sportsbooks offer a variety of welcome bonuses to new players, including a deposit match, in which your initial deposit (made with MasterCard or any other form) is matched up to 100 percent by your sportsbook operator. You may also be eligible to take advantage of other bonuses or promotions.