What is Matched Betting? A Beginner's Guide

Matched betting is one of the fastest-growing side hustles in the United States. Since 2019, 25+ states have opened their doors to this money-making trend.

But although thousands of Americans are signing up for matched betting platforms each month, many aren't aware of what it involves, how it works and how you can use it to increase your income.

Don't worry! We've got your back. Below we've answered the key questions to help you kickstart your matched betting journey and start banking real profits with this side hustle.

1. What is Matched Betting?

Matched betting is a risk-reduced betting strategy that involves placing bets on all outcomes of a sports event to unlock and convert sportsbook promotions into profit. It’s most often used with sign-up offers or bonus bets and doesn't rely on luck, but on careful planning and execution.

• Involves placing multiple bets: a “back” bet and a “hedge” bet to cover all outcomes.
• Uses bonus bets or bonuses from sportsbooks to ensure profit.
• No previous sports betting experience is required to get started.
• Rapidly growing in popularity in the US.
• Software tools help beginners find and complete profitable bets easily.

Also known as bonus bet conversion, it involves betting on opposing outcomes of the same event to unlock a sportsbook promotion, which is then converted into cash.

Having started in the UK in 1999 and boomed in the 2000s and 2010s, to date, more than 500,000 people in Europe have used matched betting to make money online.

Now matched betting is available in the US. With more states welcoming it by the month, it's become an increasingly attractive side hustle for the everyday American looking to earn extra cash from the comfort of their home.

2. How Does Matched Betting Work?

Matched betting works by placing a bet on one outcome of a sporting event to unlock a promo (in most cases a bonus bet / free bet promotion), before placing another on the opposing outcome to cover all possible outcomes. The bettor then repeats this process on a different sporting event using their bonus bet to unlock a profit.

Put simply, this is the matched betting process broken down in five simple steps:

1. Sign Up: Register with a sportsbook that offers a bonus bet or a sign-up bonus for new customers.
   
   
2. Place a Back Bet: Place a bet with your own money on a specific outcome. For example, you might bet on Team A to win a football game.
   
   Note: placing this wager qualifies you for your bonus, so this is also often referred to as the "qualifying bet".
   
   
3. Place a Hedge Bet: Place a bet against that outcome with a different sportsbook. This means you're betting that Team A will not win. By completing step 2 and 3 you have matched your bet. All outcomes are covered and your returns will cover any 'qualifying' costs.
   
   
4. Repeat the Process: Once the game has concluded and you have received your bonus bet, repeat steps 2 and 3 on a different game, using your bonus bet for one team.
   
   
5. Withdraw Your Profit: After the required bets have been completed, you'll have banked a profit. You can then withdraw this profit from the sportsbook.
   
   

Matched Betting Step-by-Step

3. What is a Sportsbook?

An online sportsbook is a digital platform that allows individuals to wager on various sporting events.

Put simply, it's a betting site that sets up bets, like DraftKings, Fanduel or BetMGM.

Sportsbooks play a crucial role in the matched betting process. They are the ones that offer the bonus bets and promotions that matched bettors can turn into cash, and they are where you place your qualifying and hedge bets.

4. How Much Can I Make Matched Betting?

How much you can make matched betting depends on a range of factors, including how much time you dedicate and how large of an initial bankroll you start with.

However, in the US, the average matched bettor can consistently add profits to their bank accounts.

And for those looking to maximize their earnings further, certain matched betting affiliate programs can help! With more and more companies looking at affiliate programs to boost sales, and more individuals looking to monetize their social audiences as affiliates, it's an increasingly popular method side hustlers are turning to generate a passive income. 

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What The Data Says

"According to findings from the American Gaming Association, the sports betting industry hit a record revenue figure of $16.96 billion in 2025."

- ESPN.com

5. Is Matched Betting Legal?

Matched betting is legal in the US, but you must live in a state in which online sports betting is legal to access it. Currently, 31 states have legalized online sports betting, with many more states destined to legalize it in the coming months and years.

It's important to note that just because matched betting isn't available in your state it doesn't mean you can't make money from it. More and more Americans are going on 'matched betting road trips' where they travel from state to state and earn profits by making use of the sportsbook promos available in each one.

A fun and totally legit way of bolstering your bank account while traveling the country.

6. Matched Betting vs Traditional Sports Betting: What's the Difference?

When people hear the term 'matched betting' for the first time, they tend to suspect it must be very similar to traditional sports betting, but in reality, the two are very different.

Here are the five biggest differences between matched betting and traditional betting:

1. Reliance on Luck: Traditional sports betting is very risky and often demands years of expertise to predict outcomes accurately. Matched betting, though, doesn't rely on any luck or skill. Instead, calculations ensure that the best odds are chosen.
   
   
2. Role of Bonus Bets: With traditional sports betting, bonus bets and sportsbook bonuses (such as profit boosts) only play a small part in your betting strategy. But with matched betting (AKA bonus bet conversion) they are your main source of income, and you can make use of new bonus bets several times a week.
   
   
3. Skill Level: Becoming a well-rounded sports bettor takes a fine-tuned skill set and years of work. With matched betting though, no betting skills are needed due to the simple processes and range of beginner guides that some platforms offer, like ours.
   
   
4. Community and Support: Traditional sports betting is often an individual pursuit, where success depends on an individual's knowledge and skills. Matched betting, instead, has a strong online community where members often share strategies, insights, and support through channels like Discord and Facebook.
   
   This creates a collaborative environment for all members regardless of whether  they're beginners or experienced bettors.
   
   
5. Long-term Profits: Sports betting is unpredictable. It's challenging to be profitable long-term. With matched betting though, providing you stick to the guides, you can accurately gauge your income from your activity every month.
   
   

Matched Betting vs. Traditional Betting

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What Our Experts Say

"Matched betting flips the script on traditional gambling. Instead of hoping for a win, you’re working with calculated certainty. By using odds, promos, and tools effectively, you’re building repeatable, low-risk profits rather than relying on luck."

- Chris Allen, Sports & Matched Betting Expert at ProfitDuel

7. Do I Need Any Betting Experience to Start Matched Betting?

NO! Absolutely anyone can get involved with matched betting, as long as you live in a state where matched betting is accessible and you have a spare bit of cash to get started (at least $50).

Previously, matched betting was reserved for sports bettors with years of experience, but today the range of beginner guides, walkthrough videos and customer support that certain platforms provide has made making money from matched betting easier than ever before.

8. Do I Need a Separate Bank Account for Matched Betting?

You don't need a separate bank account to start matched betting, you can deposit and withdraw from sportsbooks/matched betting platforms using your main bank account.

However, it’s not a bad idea if you decide to set up a new bank account just for matched betting. Doing this might make it easier to keep track of your money and keep your day-to-day account clear of sportsbook deposit transactions.

9. Do I Need to be Good at Math to Matched Bet?

NO! Although basic math skills can help you along the way, you don't need to be great at math to do matched betting.

That's where we come in. The wide range of tools, software and calculators now available to beginner means all you need to do to begin building profits is follow a few simple instructions and have a small pot of cash to get you started (as little as $50).

10. What Tools are Available for Matched Betting as a Beginner?

A range of tools exist to help you get started on your matched betting journey and make sure you continue to maximize profits months and years down the line.

From free bet conversion calculators that tell you exactly how much to place in order to lock-in a profit, to software such as Promo Converter which scans thousands of sportsbook odds and sets up the most profitable matched betting opportunities. It's never been easier for a complete novice to be successful matched betting.

11. What are the Benefits of Matched Betting?

It's an awesome way of making money online. Matched betting is a fantastic side hustle anyone looking to make easy passive income.

Here are five of the most powerful benefits of matched betting:

1. Mitigated Risk: When the process is followed correctly, the matched betting involves strategically placing opposing bets, ensuring that, regardless of the outcome, you will profit. In other words, it's a win-win betting strategy
   
   
2. Low Startup Costs: With a modest initial investment of as little as $50, almost anyone can enter the world of matched betting. It is one of the most accessible and cost-effective side hustles in the US right now.
   
   
3. Highly Flexible: Matched betting is entirely flexible to your schedule, lifestyle and location. You can make money from matched betting anywhere with an internet connection. 
   
   
4. No Betting Experience Needed: Anyone can dive into matched betting without prior knowledge of sports betting, thanks to the step-by-step guides and readily available resources we have.
   
   
5. Consistent Profits: By making use of sportsbook promotions and favorable odds across a range of sports and markets, matched bettors can achieve a steady stream of income. Many sportsbooks also offer VIP programs which can get you prizes and higher profits.

12. What are the Risks of Matched Betting?

When following matched betting guidelines, there are three key considerations every beginner should make note of before matched betting:

1. Human Error: If you make a mistake and don't follow the suggested process an error may occur. For example, placing a bet on the wrong event could result in a loss.
   
   How to Avoid: Always, always double-check your bets and choose a matched betting platform with plenty of walkthrough guides and a strong customer support team.
   
   
2. Account Restrictions: Even though it's completely legal to matched bet, sportsbooks don't like it when the everyday American has an edge over them, so they may limit your account if they believe your activity doesn't match that of a standard bettor.
   
   How to Avoid: Take a few simple measures, such as rounding your bets and sticking with large markets, to give your account the best possible chance of avoiding being limited.
   
   
3. Time Commitment: Matched betting isn't a 'Get Rich Quick' scheme. It's a proven side hustle that can help you make consistent profits if you put the time and effort in. As a result, you must put time aside to hit your financial goals.
   
   How to Avoid: Spend anywhere from a few hours a week working through matched betting offers and walkthrough guides to generate consistent returns.

13. What are Some Tips when Matched Betting?

To maximize how much you can make during the process  and help your experience flow that bit smoother, applying a range of matched betting strategies and tips is a smart move. Here are five top tips:

1. Get to Know the Process: Understanding the ins and outs of matched betting is crucial. Use everything from matched betting blogs to custom guides written by matched betting experts (available with paid memberships) to familiarize yourself with the process, key terms, and strategies.
   
   
2. Use a Dedicated Bankroll: Separate your matched betting funds from your regular finances. This ensures better control, easier tracking of profits and minimizes the risk of unintentional misuse of your budget.
   
   
3. Make Use of Helpful Tools: Leverage specialized tools and calculators designed for matched betting. These range from free bet conversion calculators to dutch matchers. These resources can streamline the matched betting process, finding the best odds for matched betting to maximize returns.
   
   
4. Track Your Profits: Maintain an accurate record of your bets and profits. Profit tracking keeps you organized and also provides valuable insights into your overall performance and allows for continuous improvement.
   
   You can carry this out on a basic level on spreadsheets, however, specialized tools like profit trackers help you avoid inaccuracies, miscalculations, and give you better insights into your progress.
   
   
5. Sign Up For a Trusted Platform: Above all, signing up for a reputable betting platform is the No. 1 tip you should follow for the most safe, enjoyable and profitable matched betting side hustle.
   
   Find a platform with a proven track record, user-friendly interface, strong customer support and a reasonable subscription fee to avoid unnecessary stress and watch the profits roll in. We just know of one! 

14. What are the Best Matched Betting Sites for Beginners?

You can access a handful of matched betting sites in the US today. But right now only one stands head and shoulders above the rest for beginners.

Why? Because it helps beginners turn their matched betting side hustle into a consistent profit-producing income stream in a matter of weeks.

ProfitDuel has over 10 years of experience in the matched betting industry. Having set up in 2010 in the UK as OddsMonkey, since that point we've helped over half a million customers increase their income with matched betting. And you may have seen us in national publications like Vice along the way.

And it won't take you long to see why.

With a library of beginner guides, walkthrough videos and hundreds of sportsbook offers, earning profits with matched betting has never been easier.

But what makes us a cut above the competition? Our friendly matched betting experts are on hand to help whenever you need them. Got a question or ten? Book a one-to-one session and you'll see why our customer support is unrivaled.

Still not convinced? Well, how about we take it a step further and show you exactly how easy it is to make money matched betting with ProfitDuel in four simple steps below.

15. How to Start Making Money Matched Betting: 4 Simple Steps

Follow these four simple steps and discover just how easy it is to start your matched betting side hustle and increase your monthly income at times and places convenient to you.

1. Sign Up for a Matched Betting Platform

The first step is to sign up for a matched betting platform. As we mentioned in the last section, no matched betting platform in the US offers a better service, product and support than ProfitDuel.

But regardless of who you sign up with, this step should be pretty simple: enter your name, email and other account details, verify your bank details and you're good to go.

2. Read Walkthrough Guides

This step only takes around 15 minutes, but it can have a major impact on your profits in the early days.

Run through the range of beginner guides and walkthrough videos your matched betting platform has to get to know the process. At ProfitDuel our three beginner walkthroughs should take you less than 15 minutes to get you started.

3. Follow Instructions Using Promo Converter

Promo Converter is a matched betting tool that matches two different sets of odds from two different sportsbooks that could result in a profitable matched betting opportunity.

The purpose of this tool is to save matched bettors hours manually scrolling through different sportsbooks and events to try and find suitable opportunities, before spending even more time calculating potential profits and placing bets.

ProfitDuel's Promo Converter scans all suitable sportsbooks in your area, runs through the most profitable odds they're offering on events, matches those with a different sportsbook and sets up the offer for you.

4. Withdraw Your Profits

Once the event you placed your bonus bet on has finished, you'll be ready to cash in your profits.

To do this, log into the relevant sportsbooks, withdraw your winnings via your preferred method, and boom! You've just taken your first step toward increasing your income with matched betting. 

Ready to get started? Sign up to your ProfitDuel trial today and we'll give you everything you need to convert your first promo.

16. What is ProfitDuel?

Matched betting is one of the most reliable ways to make consistent profits from sportsbook promotions — and ProfitDuel is built to make it simple. With real-time data, clear instructions, and powerful tools, we help beginners and experts turn promos into profit.

Trusted by over 500,000 users across the USA and UK, ProfitDuel is the smart betting toolkit built to help you maximize profit and minimize risk. We equip our members with real-time data, cutting-edge tools and expert support to help. Join our top earners who make consistent profits through strategy, not luck.

Centered around proven techniques like matched betting, arbitrage betting, and value betting (EV betting), our betting calculators, betting tools and live market data make it easy to spot hidden edges and turn them into profit. From converting sportsbook promos and casino bonuses into cash to maximizing your long-term winnings with using EV software, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re an experienced bettor sharpening your edge or a beginner looking for a profitable side hustle, ProfitDuel gives you the software, systems and expert support to boost your monthly earnings with confidence. Because the smartest way to bet isn’t gambling — it’s strategy.

FAQs on Matched Betting

Can you really make money from matched betting?
Yes! Matched betting is a proven method to make consistent profits by using sportsbook promotions. It’s not gambling, and our top users report making hundreds to thousands of dollars monthly.

Is matched betting safe for beginners?
Matched betting is considered safe when done correctly. Tools, tutorials, and software help minimize errors, making it accessible for complete beginners.

How much time does matched betting take each week?
Most beginners spend 2–5 hours a week. As you gain experience, you can automate parts of the process and earn more in less time.

What’s the minimum amount of money needed to start matched betting?
You can start matched betting with as little as $50. This bankroll allows you to complete your first qualifying bets and begin unlocking bonus bet profits.

Do I need to understand sports to do matched betting?
Not at all! Matched betting doesn’t require sports knowledge. You’re betting on all outcomes of an event, so results don’t affect your earnings.

Will matched betting affect my credit score?
No. Using matched betting platforms or sportsbooks does not impact your credit score unless you use a credit card irresponsibly to fund your account.

What happens if I make a mistake while matched betting?
Mistakes can lead to small losses, but most errors are avoidable with beginner guides and betting calculators. Always double-check each bet before placing it.

Can I do matched betting on my phone?
Absolutely! ProfitDuel is fully mobile-friendly. Many matched bettors manage their side hustle entirely from their smartphones using matched betting apps and sportsbook mobile sites.

Will sportsbooks ban me for matched betting?
Not directly for matched betting as they can't prove that you're using this strategy. They may, however, limit promotions if they detect unusual betting patterns.

What states allow matched betting in the US?
You can do matched betting in any state where online sports betting is legal. That's currently 31+ states and growing! Always check your local regulations.