Prediction Markets
in Delaware
Delaware has a restricted prediction market status because Manifold Markets has blocked its real-money Sweepcash feature for Delaware residents. Kalshi, Polymarket QCEX, PredictIt, and Robinhood remain fully available. Delaware holds a notable place in sports betting history: it was the first state to offer legal sports betting after PASPA was struck down, launching in June 2018 before even New Jersey. CFTC-regulated prediction markets operate alongside Delaware's established sports betting framework.
Which platforms work in Delaware?
Kalshi available in Delaware. CFTC federal jurisdiction, no state enforcement.
Polymarket QCEX available in Delaware. No enforcement action taken.
Manifold Markets restricts real-money Sweepcash in Delaware per its terms of service. Play-money Mana still available.
CFTC no-action letter. US politics only, $850 cap. Available in DE.
Robinhood prediction market contracts available in Delaware.
Delaware: the original post-PASPA sports betting state
Delaware actually had limited sports betting before PASPA was struck down: the state offered parlay betting on NFL games since 1976 under a grandfather clause. When PASPA fell in May 2018, Delaware was able to launch full-card sports betting immediately on June 5, 2018, beating New Jersey by weeks. William Hill (now Caesars) operates the Delaware Sports Lottery at the state's three casinos.
CFTC-regulated prediction markets operate entirely separately from Delaware's lottery-run sports betting. Delaware residents can use Kalshi and Robinhood for digital event contracts: including economics and political markets not covered by traditional sports betting. The Manifold restriction only affects Manifold's own real-money prize feature, not the major prediction market platforms.
Delaware vs the Mid-Atlantic
New Jersey
Restricted status (Polymarket blocked. Sports betting pioneer alongside Delaware. 10.75% top rate) much higher than Delaware.
Neighbor statePennsylvania
Open status, all platforms available including Manifold. 3.07% flat rate: much lower than Delaware's 6.6%.
CautionMaryland
Caution: Polymarket restricted. Federal preemption litigation ongoing. Delaware has better platform access than both NJ and MD neighbors.