A sportsbook is a place where you can make bets on various sporting events. Usually, it offers a variety of bet types such as point spreads and over/under bets. You can also bet on specific teams or players.

In recent years, sports betting has grown in popularity and is now legal in many states across the US. However, there are still a few things you should keep in mind before placing your first bet with a sportsbook. Here are some of the most important things to consider:

1. Are they legally operating?

Most sportsbooks are licensed and regulated by their state. This ensures that you’ll have a safe and secure environment in which to bet. You can always check whether a particular sportsbook is licensed by visiting their website or reading reviews from other gamblers.

2. Do they offer a wide range of bonuses?

Sportsbooks offer a number of different bonuses to attract new customers. They usually give you a percentage back on your bets, which can be very tempting. If you’re a big fan of online gambling, it’s worth checking out their bonuses to see if they have any that suit your needs.

3. Do they have a good customer service?

It’s important to find out if a sportsbook has excellent customer service. This can include a fast response to your queries and the ability to quickly process any winnings you’ve won. It’s also important to check that they offer customer support in your language, as this will save you a lot of time and stress.

4. Do they offer a large selection of games?

The number of different games you can bet on is usually fairly high, and this is something to look out for when choosing a sportsbook. You can often find games from popular sports such as football, basketball, tennis and more.

5. Do they have a mobile app?

A good sportsbook should have an app that’s easy to use and allows you to deposit funds into your account using the most common methods. Most also offer quick withdrawals.

6. Does the sportsbook accept credit cards?

If you’re going to be betting on a sport that requires you to pay for your bets, it’s important that you’re using a sportsbook that accepts credit cards. This will prevent you from getting ripped off and will protect your personal information.

7. Does the sportsbook offer a live chat feature?

Most sportsbooks now offer a live chat feature that lets you speak to a live person about your bets. This can help you avoid any misunderstandings and give you peace of mind while you’re waiting for your winnings to come through.

8. Do they have an easy-to-use interface?

A sportsbook should be easy to use, and this is usually a big deal when you’re betting on a sport that has a high amount of volatility. If the sportsbook’s user experience is poor, it could affect your confidence and ultimately result in you losing money.