A sportsbook is a place where you can make wagers on various sporting events. These bets can include a variety of types including future bets and props. These bets can also be placed on different teams, individuals and a wide range of other options including the total score of a game. A person who accepts bets is known as a bookmaker. The United States legalized sports betting in 2018 and now there are more than 20 states where you can place a bet at a sportsbook.
The odds at sportsbooks can vary from one to the next, which means that if you are betting on a game, it is important to shop around and find the best line. While this is money-management 101, many people don’t bother to do this, which can mean that they are missing out on potential profits. For example, if the Chicago Cubs are listed as -180 at one sportsbook, but -190 at another, this small difference will cost you a few extra bucks in profit over time.
In addition to offering competitive odds, the top sportsbooks will offer high-value bonuses to attract new customers. This is especially true in states where there are multiple sportsbooks, which can increase the amount of bonus cash you can claim. This is why it’s so important to read the terms and conditions carefully when claiming a bonus. For example, some sportsbooks limit the number of times you can play a bonus before it expires.