Horse betting has increasingly become easier and easier since the internet was established. No need to head to the racetrack, fighting traffic, paying to park and admissions.  

Staying home and betting on horses has become immensely popular, since online racebooks are now offering plenty of incentives to horseplayers and vivid HD video streaming giving you the feeling you are actually at the track.

There are plenty of options available for horseplayers, and it is smart to take a good look at what the different racebooks have to offer before making a deposit.

Many online racebooks offer generous sign-up bonuses for Sportsbook a betting account. These bonuses can be upwards of 100 percent of the original deposit, and can certainly help a horseplayer get off to a winning start.

One of the most important issues facing horseplayers is the high percentage the tracks take out of wagers, known as the takeout.

These taxes can be as high as 31 percent on trifecta bets, making it very difficult for a horseplayer to make a profit without some type of player rewards, more commonly known as rebates.

If you are going to play online, make sure your racebook offers a generous rebate program. Many of the top racebooks offer rebates of at least three percent on traditional win, place and show wagers, and eight percent or more on exotic wagers.

For the vast majority of horseplayers, receiving a rebate is the difference in whether the bottom line is in the red or black.

If possible, take a test drive of the racebook’s software – see how easily wagers can be placed and what information is available.

While offering free video is important to some horseplayers, with horse racing networks like TVG and HRTV available on DirectTV, it is not as important as rebates.

In addition, make sure the racebook you are looking at offers easy options for making deposits and withdrawals.

Ready to choose? Select your top racebook now

Handicapper Michael Dempsey on racebooks:

“I am amazed when I hear some horseplayers are betting with a U.S.-based racebook that actually charges 25 cents to place a wager. Choose a racebook that offers solid customer service, has a solid rebate program and a reputable racebook where you know you are going to be paid. Wagering at home is my preferred way to play the ponies, as there are fewer distractions, and my commute is from the bedroom to my den. The food is usually better, and at home you can get a quick nap in between races, something that is frowned upon at the racetrack.”