Not everyone wants to link their bank account to a betting app. Whether you prefer cash for budgeting, privacy, or just convenience, Ohio has options for bettors who want to deposit and withdraw physical money.
Retail Sportsbook Cash Options
The simplest way to bet with cash in Ohio is at a retail sportsbook. You walk up, hand over cash, place your bet, and receive a paper ticket. When you win, you exchange the ticket for cash. No app, no bank account, no digital trail.
🏆 Ohio Casinos (Full Cash Betting)
Ohio's four casinos offer full retail sportsbooks with cash betting windows and kiosks.
🏇 Ohio Racinos (Cash Betting)
Racinos also have retail sportsbooks with cash options.
Cash Deposits to Mobile Apps
Want to bet on your phone but deposit cash? Several methods exist:
💵 PayNearMe
Many Ohio sportsbooks partner with PayNearMe, which lets you deposit cash at participating retailers like 7-Eleven, CVS, and Family Dollar. Generate a barcode in your sportsbook app, take it to a store, pay cash, and the funds appear in your betting account.
🏧 Casino Cage Deposits
Some sportsbooks let you deposit cash at their retail casino cage and have it credited to your mobile account. This links your retail and mobile betting under one account.
Cash deposit options vary by sportsbook. Before making a trip, check your app's deposit menu to see which cash options are available and any applicable fees.
Cash Withdrawals
Getting cash out of your betting account is trickier than deposits. Here are your options:
🏦 Casino Cage Withdrawals
The most reliable cash-out method. Visit the casino cage associated with your sportsbook, request a withdrawal, show ID, and receive cash. Processing varies—some are instant, others require advance notice for large amounts.
✉️ Paper Check
Request a check mailed to your address. Takes 7-14 days typically. Free option but slow. You'll need to deposit or cash the check yourself.
💳 Play+ Card
Some sportsbooks offer Play+ prepaid cards. You can withdraw to the card and use it at ATMs for cash. ATM fees may apply, but it's a relatively quick cash-out method.
Comparison: Cash Options by Method
| Method | Deposit | Withdraw | Speed | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Sportsbook | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Instant | None |
| PayNearMe | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | 15-30 min | $0-4 |
| Casino Cage | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Instant-1 day | None |
| Paper Check | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | 7-14 days | None |
| Play+ Card | ✅ Yes | ✅ (ATM) | 1-3 days | ATM fees |
Why Bet With Cash?
Budgeting
Cash creates natural friction. You have to physically go somewhere and hand over money. This makes it harder to impulsively deposit more than you planned. For some bettors, this physical barrier is valuable.
Privacy
Cash transactions don't appear on bank statements. If you want to keep your betting activity separate from your regular finances, cash is the way.
Banking Issues
Some banks decline gambling transactions. If you've had deposits rejected, cash is a workaround.
No Digital Footprint
Cash at retail sportsbooks means no app login, no account, no digital record (other than your ticket). Pure analog betting.
Cash or not, gambling winnings are taxable income. Sportsbooks report wins over $600 to the IRS regardless of how you deposited. Keep your own records.
Tips for Cash Bettors
- Keep tickets safe: A lost ticket is lost money. They expire after 1 year.
- Plan ahead: Retail sportsbooks get crowded on big game days. Arrive early.
- Know your limits: Large cash transactions may require ID verification.
- Photograph tickets: Backup in case of loss or damage.
- Set a budget: Bring only what you're willing to lose. Leave the rest at home.
The Bottom Line
Ohio offers legitimate options for cash bettors. Retail sportsbooks at casinos and racinos are the easiest—walk in, bet cash, walk out with cash if you win. For mobile bettors who prefer cash deposits, PayNearMe and casino cage deposits work well.
Cash withdrawals are more limited, but casino cages and paper checks get it done. If digital convenience isn't your priority, you can absolutely bet in Ohio without linking a bank account.