Most sportsbook loyalty programs return less than 1% of your action. But Fanatics FanCash and BetMGM Rewards are two of the more generous options in Ohio. If you're going to concentrate your betting somewhere for rewards, which one actually pays better?
We ran the numbers.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | FanCash (Fanatics) | MGM Rewards (BetMGM) |
|---|---|---|
| Earn Rate | 5% of bet amount | Variable (points-based) |
| Redemption Value | 1 FanCash = $1 | Complex tier system |
| What You Can Buy | Merchandise, bonus bets | Hotel, dining, shows, betting credits |
| Expiration | 12 months | 24 months |
| Tier Benefits | Boost multipliers at higher tiers | Casino comps, hotel upgrades |
| Ecosystem | Fanatics merch store | MGM casinos nationwide |
FanCash: How It Works
Fanatics FanCash Structure
- Base earn rate: 5% FanCash on every settled bet
- Redemption: 1 FanCash = $1 at Fanatics stores or for bonus bets
- Tier bonuses: Bronze (1x), Silver (1.5x), Gold (2x), Icon (3x)
- Expiration: FanCash expires after 12 months of inactivity
The beauty of FanCash is its simplicity. You bet, you earn 5%, you spend it on jerseys, hats, or bonus bets. No complicated point conversions, no confusing tier math. It's straightforward.
At Icon tier (highest), you're earning 15% FanCash on every bet. That's an exceptional return rate—though reaching Icon requires significant volume.
FanCash Value Example
MGM Rewards: How It Works
BetMGM Rewards Structure
- Earn rate: Variable iRewards Points based on bet type and odds
- Conversion: Points convert to MGM Rewards at varying rates
- Redemption: Use at MGM properties for rooms, dining, shows
- Tiers: Sapphire, Pearl, Gold, Platinum, Noir
- Expiration: Points expire after 24 months of inactivity
MGM Rewards is more complex but offers a different value proposition. Points earned through BetMGM contribute to your overall MGM Rewards status, which unlocks benefits across all MGM properties—including their Las Vegas casinos.
If you visit Vegas or MGM properties regularly, this ecosystem value can exceed FanCash's pure dollar return. Free rooms at Bellagio or Aria are worth real money.
When FanCash Wins
- You want simple, guaranteed value — 5% is 5%, no complexity
- You buy sports merchandise — FanCash at Fanatics store is true 1:1 value
- You don't visit casinos — MGM's ecosystem is wasted on non-casino visitors
- You want immediate redemption — FanCash is usable right away
When MGM Rewards Wins
- You visit MGM properties — Hotel comps, show tickets, and dining add up
- You gamble at casinos too — Combining sportsbook and casino play accelerates tier status
- You value premium experiences — High tiers unlock concierge services, upgrades
- You're a high-volume bettor — MGM's tier benefits favor big players
You don't have to choose one. Use Fanatics for everyday betting to maximize FanCash, but maintain a BetMGM account to build MGM Rewards for when you visit Vegas or other MGM properties. Best of both worlds.
What About Other Programs?
Caesars Rewards
Similar to MGM—points contribute to casino tier status, redeemable at Caesars properties. Less valuable than MGM's ecosystem for most Ohio bettors unless you frequent Caesars casinos.
DraftKings Dynasty Rewards
Earn Crowns on bets, redeem for DK Dollars or entries. Lower return rate than FanCash, but DraftKings' product quality may justify the trade-off for some users.
FanDuel
No formal loyalty program—they compete on product and promos rather than rewards. If you prioritize loyalty earnings, FanDuel isn't the answer.
The Real Talk on Loyalty
Here's the uncomfortable truth: loyalty programs shouldn't drive your betting decisions. The best line is more important than the best rewards program.
A 5% FanCash return doesn't matter if you're consistently betting -115 at Fanatics when you could get -108 elsewhere. That's a 6.5% edge you're giving up to earn 5% back.
Loyalty programs are the tiebreaker when lines are equal, not the primary decision factor.
Increasing your betting volume just to hit a higher tier is almost always -EV. The rewards don't justify the additional risk. Bet what you would normally bet; let tier status happen naturally.
The Verdict
For most Ohio bettors: FanCash offers the best pure value with its straightforward 5% return and simple redemption.
For Vegas visitors: MGM Rewards provides ecosystem value that can exceed FanCash's dollar return through hotel comps and experiences.
For everyone: Line shop first, worry about loyalty second. The best rewards program is useless if you're paying extra juice on every bet.
Compare All Ohio Apps
Loyalty is just one factor. See the full comparison.
Read: FanDuel vs DraftKings →