Iowa Sportsbook Promos and Bonuses September 2024

by Ryan Gutzler (rgutzler) Last Updated 2024-11-15T16:33:53

Since becoming the first state to go live with retail and online sports betting simultaneously, Iowa has generated significant handle in this industry. The Hawkeye State continues to be a lucrative sports betting market (especially following the Caitlin Clark craze of 2024), meaning operators must extend competitive welcome offers to entice users.

We’ve made things easy for you by gathering the best Iowa sportsbook promos and bonuses. Check out this review to learn more about which offers are right for you and what the online sports betting scene in Iowa looks like in general.

Top Iowa Sports Betting Promos

Check out the top Iowa sportsbook offers below. Thanks to this list of the most competitive Iowa sportsbook promo codes, you can claim bonus bets at a leading online sports betting platform today.

bet365 Sportsbook IA

• Launch: June 5, 2023
• Retail Partner: Casino Queen Marquette

The bet365 Sportsbook partnered with the Casino Queen Marquette riverboat facility to gain mobile access to the state. It’s one of the biggest sportsbooks in the world but has just recently made a push to gain market share here in the U.S. Bettors in Iowa enjoy the competitive odds and wide variety of betting options that the platform offers.

Despite its international roots, the operator has Iowa sports betting bonuses that you can claim with the bet365 Sportsbook promo code GRINDERS:

• Get a First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets!
• Bet $5+, Get $150 in Bonus Bets!

Those who opt into the first bonus get coverage on their initial bet up to $1,000 in bonus bets.

Fanatics Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: February 6, 2024
• Retail Partner: Catfish Bend Casino

Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Iowa in February 2024. The rebranded platform replaced PointsBet, allowing existing users to use the same login info at the new sportsbook. This is good news for bettors in Iowa because Fanatics Sportsbook is a solid product that’s particularly well-regarded as one of the best NFL betting apps thanks to its live streaming feature. Fanatics Sportsbook has retained its licensing partnership with Catfish Bend Casino for access to the state’s mobile market.

Want to claim bonus bets with a Fanatics Sportsbook promo code? You actually won’t need one—signing up through our link will grant you the welcome bonus of Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets!

BetMGM Sportsbook IA

• Launch: January 4, 2021
• Retail Partner: Diamond Jo Worth

BetMGM made its way into the Hawkeye State via a partnership with Diamond Jo Worth Casino, bringing its years of experience to the Iowa sports betting industry. Initially launching as playMGM, BetMGM emerged in mid-2019 after a complete facelift and new name. MGM International has made its intentions clear that it has lofty goals of being the top online sportsbook in the U.S.

BetMGM backs up its claims with massive financial investment and partnership deals throughout the country. There is a packed weekly promotional schedule, competitive lines, and one of the largest selections of prop bets in the business.

See what the hype is about by signing up for one of the following BetMGM Sportsbook promo code offers:

• Use code RG1500 for an Exclusive Offer: Get a 20% Deposit Match up to $1,500 in Sports Bonus!
• Use code GRINDERS to Get up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win!

The first offer is one of the most competitive deposit bonuses in the industry. If you want insurance on your first qualifying bet, the second offer is the way to go.

DraftKings Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: February 19, 2020
• Retail Partner: Wild Rose Casinos in Clinton, Emmetsburg, and Jefferson

The DraftKings online sportsbook officially launched in Iowa in February 2020. This operator is one of the largest names in online gaming today not only because of its sportsbook offerings but also its daily fantasy sports expertise. Users can easily transition between the sportsbook and DFS products via the app. Another desirable feature is the Dynasty rewards program that doles out Crowns.

If you want to claim the operator’s Iowa sports betting bonus, you won’t need a DraftKings Sportsbook promo code. Use our link to create a new account, and you’ll be eligible to Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 1 Month of NFL+ Premium!

Caesars Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: August 15, 2019
• Retail Partner: Harrah’s Casino, Horseshoe Casino, Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo, Isle of Capri in Bettendorf, and Prairie Meadows

Industry giant William Hill was the first operator to offer online sports betting in the state of Iowa, which now operates under the Caesars Sportsbook brand. The now Caesars Sportsbook mobile betting app for Android was available at launch on August 15, 2019, with the iOS option following just a few days later and relaunching under the Caesars Sportsbook brand in August 2021.

Want to claim the Caesars Sportsbook welcome offer? Enter promo code RGBAM1000 during registration to Get up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win!

ESPN BET Iowa

• Launch: November 14, 2023
• Retail Partner: Ameristar Casino

Through a partnership with PENN Entertainment, ESPN BET launched in Iowa in November 2023. The Hawkeye State was part of the first batch of states to get this innovative sportsbook from the Worldwide Leader in Sports.

Check out our article on the ESPN BET promo code to learn about any available Iowa sportsbook bonuses.

FanDuel Sportsbook IA

• Launch: September 3, 2020
• Retail Partner: Diamond Jo Casino

FanDuel has made a habit of becoming the top online sportsbook in every market it enters, and things are no different in the Hawkeye State. The FanDuel sportsbook app came after the brand opened two retail locations immediately after sports betting was launched in the state a year prior.

FanDuel offers a packed promotional schedule, lightning-quick deposits and withdrawals, and some of the best lines in the industry. It has established a reputation for being extremely player-friendly and finds new and innovative ways to keep bettors interested through various betting options and stellar customer service.

Whether you’re a DFS fan who expects the same quality from FanDuel Sportsbook or just want to see what one of the best online sports betting sites has to offer, you’re in luck. Just head to FanDuel for the latest sportsbook promo code offers 

How to Sign Up for an Iowa Sportsbook Bonus

If any of these Iowa sports betting promos have caught your attention, follow these steps to claim your sign-up bonus today.

1. Meet State Requirements

The Hawkeye State has pretty straightforward requirements for using online sportsbooks and claiming Iowa sports betting promos:

• Be 21+ years old: Similar to brick-and-mortar casinos throughout the state, you must be at least 21 years old to engage in Iowa sports betting and claim betting promos.
• Be physically present in the state: You don’t have to be a resident—as long as you place a bet while physically present in the state, you’re good. Online gambling sites and mobile sports betting apps have geolocation software to ensure that this requirement is met.
• Meet other eligibility requirements: You may not bet via an Iowa sportsbook if you’re on a self-exclusion list or are a coach, trainer, player, or anyone who would have a conflict of interest.

2. Click the Links on This Page

You can claim multiple Iowa sportsbook promos at different platforms, but start with one for now. Choose one that suits your betting preferences and click on the corresponding link in this article. You’ll be taken either to the sportsbook’s desktop site or mobile app. Ideally, read the promo’s terms and conditions before opting in so you understand how to get the most value out of the offer.

3. Create an Account

Create an online sports betting account by providing your personal details. Online sportsbooks may automatically apply bonus codes when you use our links, but if there is a promo code available, now would be the time to enter it.

Appreciate the fact that you can create your account from the comfort of home, as prior to 2021, users had to drive to a retail casino to sign up for an online sportsbook account. Iowa bettors can now register for a new account on all legal and live online sportsbooks via computers or mobile devices and begin betting right away. Registration only takes a few minutes, and once your identification is verified, you can start placing your bets immediately.

4. Satisfy Promo Requirements to Get Bonus Bets

Having already read the terms and conditions, you should know how to satisfy the promo’s requirements. If it’s a deposit bonus, for instance, you might have to add a certain amount to your account. You should also know when your bonus bet funds expire, what a qualifying wager looks like, etc.

How We Review the Best Betting Promos in Iowa

Curious how we ranked the best betting promos in Iowa? Below, we discuss the criteria that went into our decision. This info can help you sort through the various bet-and-get, safety net, and deposit bonuses so you can choose the one that’s right for you.

• Requirements of your initial wager: Some promos set requirements for your initial wager. See how much you have to bet to qualify and whether that amount is within your budget.
• Wagering requirements: When you get bonus bet credits, you must play through them a specified number of times before you cash in any winnings you get from them.
• Expiration date: Bonus bets expire, usually within seven days of receipt. If you need more time to meet wagering requirements, go with an offer that has a longer expiration period.
• Quality of the sportsbook: Even when you sign up with promo codes, sportsbooks usually require an initial investment on your part whether it’s a minimum deposit or qualifying wager. Regardless, you should only sign up for sportsbooks that you want to try out and think you’d enjoy since you’re putting some of your own money down.

Online Banking at Iowa Sportsbooks

One of the greatest advantages of using legalized sportsbooks is the plethora of banking options at your disposal. Options will vary by site, but the most popular options include:

• PayPal
• ACH/eCheck
• Cash at the Cage
• Visa/Mastercard
• Play+ Prepaid card
• Online Banking
• PayNearMe

You can use these methods and more to meet the requirements of Iowa sportsbook promos and cash out any winnings.

Other Iowa Online Sports Betting Platforms

The major sportsbooks listed at the top of this page have the best Iowa sportsbook bonuses. But, as the table and sections below demonstrate, there are several more Iowa sports betting sites to explore.

Whether you’re looking for the best MLB betting apps, generous ongoing sportsbook bonuses, or something in between, Iowa’s competitive market will help you find just what you need. Let’s take a closer look at some other options for Iowa bettors:

ESPN BET Iowa

• Launch: November 14, 2023
• Retail Partner: Ameristar Casino

Through a partnership with PENN Entertainment, ESPN BET launched in Iowa in November 2023. The Hawkeye State was part of the first batch of states to get this innovative sportsbook from the Worldwide Leader in Sports.

Check out our article on the ESPN BET promo code to learn about any available Iowa sportsbook bonuses.

BetRivers Iowa

• Launch: January 2021
• Retail Partner: Wild Rose Casinos in Clinton and Jefferson

BetRivers brings years of experience from other states like Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Illinois, and comes complete with tons of betting options and the iRewards program. The iRewards program is the premier loyalty system that rewards players with points that can be traded in for bonus cash, odds boosts, bonus bets, and more!

BetRivers is owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive, which also owns retail casinos throughout the country. Rush Street has partnered with industry-leading Kambi for lines and pricing.

Stay up to date on the platform’s Iowa sportsbook promos by checking out our BetRivers Sportsbook promo code page.

Betway Sportsbook IA

• Launch: October 8, 2021
• Retail Partner: Diamond Jo Casino

Another extremely popular bookmaker originating from Europe, Betway Sportsbook is slowly but surely making its mark on U.S. bettors across the map. The company reached its fifth state of operation following its launch in Iowa on October 8, 2021. Before creating a new account, review our Betway Sportsbook promo code page so you can be aware of any Iowa sports betting promos.

Hard Rock Sportsbook IA

• Launch: December 16, 2019
• Retail Partner: Hard Rock Casino

Hard Rock first got involved in online gaming in New Jersey in 2018. It launched online operations the same week that the doors opened on the new Hard Rock Casino in Atlantic City, following a thorough (and pricey) renovation of the old Trump Taj Mahal property.

Hard Rock, in conjunction with its retail location, now operates a user-friendly online sportsbook in Iowa. Place wagers on everything from football and baseball to rugby and darts. Hard Rock bettors also enjoy live betting, with odds updated on the fly. The Iowa sportsbook utilizes the Gaming Innovation Group (GiG) software platform and has been approved by the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission.

For those looking for Iowa sportsbook promos, find info on the Hard Rock Sportsbook promo code.

Betfred Iowa

• Launch: September 10, 2020
• Retail Partner: Grand Falls Casino

BetFred is a well-known British sportsbook brand that originally went live in Iowa on September 10, 2020. The BetFred Sportsbook brick-and-mortar location is open for business and accepting bets at the Grand Falls Casino.

Like at many other operators, you can claim an Iowa sports betting bonus with the help of the Betfred Sportsbook promo code.

Circa Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: October 7, 2021
• Retail Partner: Wild Rose Casino in Jefferson

Hailing out of the infamous Las Vegas, Nevada, Circa Sportsbook has long been a veteran in the sports betting industry. Known for its extremely high limits and diverse selection of prop bets, Circa is positioned to quickly rise to the top as it expands its mobile betting ventures. Read about the Circa Sportsbook promo code if you want to discover more relevant Iowa sports betting promos.

DRF Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: January 25, 2022
• Retail Partner: Lakeside Casino

Daily Racing Form entered new, uncharted waters by launching the company’s first-ever mobile sportsbook on January 25, 2022. DRF previously supplied premium data and editorial coverage to horse racing and sports enthusiasts throughout the United States before expanding its services into bookmaking. Through market access gained from the Lakeside Casino, DRF Sportsbook is making significant strives among the state’s legal online sportsbooks.

Q Sportsbook Iowa

• Launch: November 12, 2019
• Retail Partner: Q Casino

Q Sportsbook received the go-ahead from the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission on November 8, 2019, and officially opened its doors a few days later on the 12th. All sports wagering with Q is conducted through a mobile sports betting app with options for both Android and iOS users. It allows single bets, spreads, parlays, round robins, futures, teasers, and more. Whatever you are keen to bet, Q has a way to do it.

Q Sportsbook is partnered with the Dubuque-based Q Casino, which is a city-owned operation. The sportsbook is powered by the popular IGT software platform, one of the most used in the United States sports betting market. Though not as well-known as some other Iowa online sportsbooks, Q does a good job of holding its own in a competitive market.

Iowa’s Betting History

Iowa has a strong gambling community, as made evident by the state’s impressive selection of brick-and-mortar casinos and racinos. However, this hasn’t always been the case.

From 1846 to 1972, all forms of Iowa gaming were illegal. During that time, the state constitution contained an article stating “No lottery shall be authorized by this state nor shall the sale of lottery tickets be allowed.” Gambling laws were so strict during this time that even a pinball machine that awarded an extra ball was deemed an illegal gambling device. The state had ruled that the term “Lottery” is often used to define a form of gambling, and the general legal term for gambling is “a chance for a prize for a price.”

Representative Lloyd F. Schmeiser was asked in 1972 if bingo for seniors was illegal, and he responded with a resounding “yes.” This interaction got the ball rolling on the lottery ban repeal, which eventually took place later that year. In 1973, the General Assembly began authorizing games of chance, including bingo and raffles by approved organizations.

1983

Fast forward to 1983, horse and dog track racing were authorized in the state at three locations. Tax revenue was designated towards public works and education. In 1985, the Iowa state lottery began, later offering interstate games like MegaMillions and PowerBall in 1991.

1994

The addition to MegaMillions and PowerBall was just a small part of a larger gambling expansion package. Also included was the authorization for two riverboat casinos. In 1994, two more riverboat casinos were added along with three land-based casinos. Since then, the number of B+M casinos and racinos within the state has skyrocketed. In addition, there are also Native American casinos. Offerings like slots, table games, and poker are all popular today within the state.

1999

The Des Moines-based Iowa Gaming Association was established in 1999 to help support and grow the state’s gaming interests. Iowa remains the only state that actually requires licensed casinos to contribute revenue towards charities and community projects.

2010s

Iowa has previously taken an interest in legalizing and regulating online gambling. Attempts in 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 all failed to pass.

2018

For decades, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was the main barrier standing between Iowa and legal sports betting. Originally passed in 1992, PASPA essentially prohibited sports betting across the country, with only a few exceptions. As anti-PASPA momentum began to build, Iowa Republican Jake Highfill filed House Bill 2448 in February 2018. The bill laid the groundwork for future legislation but lacked the necessary details to move things forward. The proposed bill permitted sports betting in all of the state’s casinos and race tracks.

PASPA was eventually overturned in the Supreme Court in May 2018, opening the door for states to once again pursue sports wagering. However, HB2448 failed to gain traction and died at the end of the 2018 legislative year. New Jersey was the first state to move forward with sports betting, followed closely by other states including Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

2019

In May 2019, Governor Kim Reynolds placed her signature on the historic bill SF617, officially legalizing online sports betting in Iowa. Legal sports betting went live on August 15, 2019, with nine retail locations and four mobile apps launching on opening day, becoming the first state to do both simultaneously.

Iowa Sports Betting Laws

In 2019, Rep. Bobby Kaufman and Sen. Roby Smith introduced SF617 and HF648 which would legalize Iowa sports betting. SF617 passed the Senate on April 18, 2019, and was sent to the House. In the House, there was a contentious 90-minute debate and Kauffman was accused of rushing the bill. Eventually, cooler heads prevailed and the bill passed the House on April 22, 2019, by a vote of 67-31. In February, Gov. Reynolds said that sports betting “needs to be regulated.” Reynolds stayed true to her word and signed the bill, officially making it a law.

Under SF617 Iowa sports betting licenses may be purchased for a $45,000 fee and require an additional $10,000 payment each year for annual renewal. Each license originally allowed holders to host up to two separate mobile skins, but that number would eventually be raised to three skins at the beginning of 2021.

All legal sports betting is regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Iowa sports betting officially began on August 15, 2019, both in-person and through a mobile app.

DFS in Iowa

It’s unusual for states to permit legal sports betting before DFS, but that’s exactly what happened in Iowa. Would-be participants had to wait until October 2019 to play daily fantasy sports.

Check out these DFS sites and their sign-up bonus offers for another way to engage with your favorite teams:

Social Sportsbooks in Iowa

If DFS or traditional sportsbooks aren’t your thing, consider social sportsbooks. The welcome offers in the table below will help you get started with platforms that mimic real money wagering and emphasize community engagement:

Gamble Responsibly With Iowa Sign-Up Bonuses

Sports bettors should always prioritize responsible gambling, even if they’re wagering with bonus bets they acquired from a welcome bonus. Treating bonus bets as if they were your own money helps build smart habits from the start.

Reputable Iowa betting sites put your safety first via responsible gambling tools like time, deposit, and wagering limits. If these tools aren’t sufficient, contact the following organizations for professional support:

• Call 1-800-GAMBLER to reach the National Problem Gambling Helpline
• Call 1-888-BETSOFF for 24/7 support

Iowa Sportsbook Promos FAQs

You’ll want to be armed with as much info as possible before claiming Iowa sports betting promos. Check out these FAQs for more insights:

What are the best sports betting promos in Iowa?

One of the best sports betting promos for Iowa bettors is from Fanatics Sportsbook. All you have to do is register through our link to Bet and Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets! If you take full advantage of this deposit match bonus, you’ll get $1,000 in bonus bets!

What is the DraftKings bonus in Iowa?

The DraftKings welcome bonus in Iowa is Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 1 Month of NFL+ Premium! Similar to some other Iowa sports betting promos, you won’t need a promo code to claim your bonus bets—just register via our link.

What’s the FanDuel Iowa welcome bonus?

Head to FanDuel for the Latest Offers!

Are Iowa sports betting promo codes legal?

Yes, Iowa sports betting promo codes from licensed platforms are legal! Legal sports betting went live on Aug. 15, 2019, and is regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. You’ll get your bonus bet credits as long as you adhere to the offer’s terms and conditions.

What types of sports bets can you place in Iowa?

The top online sportsbooks in Iowa allow users to place various bets, including but not limited to moneylines, parlays, same-game parlays, props, totals, point spreads, futures, round robins, and teasers. Notably, Iowa does not permit in-game props for college sports at retail or online sportsbooks. Check your preferred sportsbook for all available betting markets. If you’re claiming a signup bonus with a first-bet requirement, make sure you place a wager on a qualifying market.

What sports teams can you bet on in Iowa?

While Iowa isn’t home to any professional sports teams, you can bet on teams from across the country. Pro teams in surrounding states that are particularly popular among Iowa bettors include the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs. And, as long as you don’t bet on college props, you can bet on college teams like the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.

Where can I place bets in Iowa?

There are various retail sportsbooks in Iowa that are accepting bets. In addition, there are more than a dozen Iowa online sportsbooks that allow sports betting through a mobile app. Iowa sports betting has a presence throughout the state, from Council Bluffs, to Des Moines, to Dubuque.

Can I sign up for a mobile sports betting account online in Iowa?

Now you can! As of January 1, 2021, all bettors in the state are allowed to sign up for any sportsbook they want to from the comfort of their own home. In 2020 and prior, bettors had to go to a retail casino to sign up for an online sports betting account, which was inconvenient, to say the least. Now that the process is entirely online, it makes it seven easier to claim sportsbook promos.

What Iowa resources are available to those who may have a gambling problem?

Each individual Iowa sports betting operation, in addition to the Iowa Gaming Association, has a dedicated section for responsible gaming. Assistance for problem gamblers is available in the form of sportsbook restriction features, treatment programs, and self-exclusion.