AmWager

AmWager is an advance-deposit wagering (ADW) platform operated by AmWest Entertainment LLC, an affiliate of Sportech Racing and Digital. It has operated since the late 2000s and is one of the larger pure-play racing ADWs still independent from a sportsbook brand.

Overview

AmWager holds ADW authorization in roughly 27 US states, secured through multi-state hub licensing and individual state racing commission approvals. Its parent, Sportech, also runs the brick-and-mortar Connecticut OTB network under the MyWinners brand, which is where much of the company's pari-mutuel infrastructure originated. AmWager simulcasts from more than 250 US and international tracks on a typical day.

Welcome Offer / Signup Bonus

New users can claim a first-deposit match currently advertised at up to $150, paid as a wagering credit after a qualifying play-through on the initial deposit. The offer has moved between $50 and $150 over the last two years, so the exact headline number depends on the promo cycle — always read the T&Cs before opting in.

Track Coverage

A typical weekday card at AmWager carries 20 to 30 US thoroughbred and harness tracks plus several international feeds from Australia, the UK, Ireland, France, Canada, Hong Kong, South Africa, and Dubai. Weekend cards routinely exceed 50 tracks. Coverage is broader than most sportsbook-attached racebooks because AmWager's business is racing, not a racing add-on.

Pricing (Takeout + Rebates)

Takeout rates are set by each individual track, not by AmWager — WPS pools typically run 14% to 17%, exactas 19% to 22%, trifectas and pick pools 22% to 26%. What AmWager controls is the rebate. Its loyalty program returns 2% to 5% cashback on wagers win or lose, with higher tiers unlocked by monthly handle. AmWager has also run promotional 0% takeout pools on signature days like the Preakness Stakes, which is a genuinely aggressive handle-share mechanic.

Banking

Deposits accepted include Visa and Mastercard debit, ACH, PayPal, Play+ prepaid, wire, and cash via PayNearMe. Withdrawals run through ACH, check, or Play+. Standard US ADW KYC applies: SSN, DOB, government ID, and state of residence all verified at signup. Minimum deposit is $10.

Live Streaming and Handicapping Tools

Live HD streams are free to account holders on nearly every track in the menu — no daily wager minimum required for most. The handicapping stack includes free past performances on signature stakes days, integrated Equibase speed figures, trip notes, and a configurable race card with quick-wager templates. Power users can set up multi-race betting grids and auto-wager scripts for pick bets.

Regulatory Reality

US horse race wagering sits under the Interstate Horseracing Act of 1978 (15 U.S.C. §§ 3001–3007), which exempts pari-mutuel horse wagering from the state-by-state prohibitions that govern sports betting. But the IHA still requires the consent of the host racing commission, the host track, and the bettor's home-state racing commission. That is why the AmWager state list is specific: around 27 jurisdictions grant authorization, and the rest do not. Always confirm your state on the AmWager signup page before you fund an account.

User Experience

The AmWager web interface is power-user oriented — dense, data-rich, and not the prettiest in the category. The mobile app is functional but plainly built for form over polish. Customer support is US-based phone and email, with decent response times during racing hours. The product is clearly built by racing people for racing people; casual bettors who come from a sportsbook background may find the UI a step back from TwinSpires or FanDuel Racing.

The Bottom Line

AmWager is a serious racing ADW with broad track coverage, free live streaming, a real rebate program, and multi-state authorization. It is not the prettiest app and not the biggest brand, but for a grinder who cares about the 2% to 5% cashback and wants access to tracks the sportsbook-attached racebooks skip, it earns a seat at the table.