Montana boasts a rich and diverse gambling industry that caters to a wide range of gaming enthusiasts. From tribal casinos and horse racing to lotteries and online poker, the state offers numerous opportunities for players.
Gambling in Montana has deep cultural roots, especially through the activities of tribal communities that manage most of the legal betting establishments. Over the years, the industry has evolved to incorporate modern trends, including online sports betting and digital casino platforms.
Players in Montana benefit from a regulatory framework that aims to ensure fairness and transparency. The state carefully monitors casinos, poker rooms, horse racing, and lottery operations to maintain integrity within the industry.
Additionally, Montana’s gambling market attracts both casual players and high-stakes gamblers due to its unique combination of land-based venues and emerging online opportunities.
As technology continues to advance, Montana has gradually embraced digital gaming options. Online betting, especially sports wagering and poker, is gaining popularity among residents.
With a mix of historical tradition, tribal influence, and modern gaming innovation, Montana’s gambling industry remains dynamic and accessible.
Best Online Sportsbooks in Montana
Best Online Gambling Sites in Montana
Recent Gambling News from the State of Montana
More Montana News
Loading...
Overview: Montana Tribes and Their Role in State Betting
Tribal communities play a pivotal role in Montana’s gambling landscape. The state recognizes several federally recognized tribes, each operating its own gaming establishments under the framework of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). These casinos generate revenue for tribal governments, fund community projects, and create local employment opportunities.
Tribal casinos in Montana offer a wide variety of gambling options. They range from slot machines and table games to poker rooms and bingo halls. Many tribal casinos also feature hotel accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making them full-service destinations for visitors. The profits from these operations are reinvested into tribal communities, supporting education, healthcare, infrastructure, and cultural initiatives.
Importantly, tribes in Montana work closely with state regulators to ensure compliance and maintain the highest standards of integrity. They adhere to strict licensing requirements, regular audits, and responsible gaming protocols. This collaboration fosters a safe and controlled gambling environment, distinguishing tribal operations from venues that are not licensed or regulated.
In summary, Montana tribes not only provide recreational gambling opportunities but also serve as economic and cultural anchors. Their influence helps shape the state’s overall gaming industry while supporting the prosperity and autonomy of tribal communities.
Key Montana Tribes and Their Operations
Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation
The Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in northeastern Montana hold a current Class III gaming compact with the state (approved January 2024). This allows the operation of up to 925 Class III gaming machines, of which up to one-third may be “high stakes” (with maximum wager $50 and maximum payout $5,000) on the Reservation.
These tribes operate multiple gaming properties including the Silver Wolf Casino in Wolf Point, Montana. Their operations are significant in the state tribal gaming landscape, providing economic development and jobs in a more rural region.
Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation
The Chippewa Cree Tribe, located on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in north-central Montana, signed a Class III gaming compact in December 2012 (approved February 2013). This allows up to 750 Class III machines (500 with payouts up to $3,000; 250 with payouts up to $5,000).
Their gaming enterprise plays an important role in the tribal economy, helping to fund tribal services and community development.
Crow Tribe of the Crow Indian Reservation
The Crow Tribe’s compact with the State of Montana was amended (8th Amendment) and approved in 2014. Under it, the tribe can offer up to 925 Class III video gambling machines, with up to a third of those classified as “high stakes” (wager up to $50, payout up to $5,000).
The Crow Tribe’s gaming operations are among the larger tribal gaming activities in Montana, contributing significantly to tribal revenues and regional employment.
Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation
The Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservation signed a compact with the state on August 23, 2007 (effective December 10, 2007). This compact lets them operate up to 400 Class III video gambling machines (with maximum wager $5 and maximum payout $2,000) plus all other forms of gambling legal in Montana.
This compact marks the first gaming agreement between Montana and a tribal community and has been instrumental in the tribe’s economic ventures.
Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation
The Northern Cheyenne Tribe signed a Class III gaming compact with the state in January 2013 (approved March 2013). Their agreement allows up to 750 Class III machines at tribal casinos on the Reservation (and on specified trust lands) with a maximum payout of $3,000.
This gaming operation supports the tribe’s goals of self-determination and economic development through revenues derived from gaming.
Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation
The Salish and Kootenai Tribes operate gaming facilities under Class II regulations (i.e., they do not have a current Class III compact with the state).
Their operations include the KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino in Polson, Montana, and they are planning a new standalone casino, the 400 Horses Casino, scheduled to open around 2026.
Their gaming operation contributes significantly to the local economy, and their business unit (S&K Gaming, LLC) manages multiple tribal-gaming and hospitality assets.
Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Reservation
The Blackfeet Tribe, located in northwestern Montana, currently does not have a Class III compact with the state. They operate a Class II gaming facility, the Glacier Peaks Casino, on tribal land.
Although their gaming options are more limited compared to tribes operating under Class III compacts, the Blackfeet Tribe’s gaming operations remain an important part of the tribal economy.
Current State Laws of Montana Regulating Gambling
Montana Gambling Control Act
The Montana Gambling Control Division (GCD) oversees the enforcement of all state gambling laws, regulating the licensing and operations of casinos, poker rooms, bingo halls, and pull-tabs.
Operators are required to maintain secure funds, transparent practices, and regular audits to ensure fair and safe play. Gambling outside licensed casinos, tribal venues, lottery channels, or approved online platforms is not licensed or regulated, including unauthorized online poker sites and private betting operations.
Montana sets the minimum age for participation at 18 for lotteries and horse betting, and 21 for casino games and poker. All operators must verify players’ ages and maintain accurate records of participation, supporting both legal compliance and responsible gaming.
Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Title 23, Chapter 4
This law governs horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering within the state. It establishes the legal framework for licensed race tracks, outlining how betting on thoroughbred and quarter horse races may be conducted.
The law details the responsibilities of operators, including licensing requirements, reporting procedures, and compliance with state safety and fairness standards. The Montana Horse Racing Commission oversees enforcement, ensuring that all races and wagers adhere to these regulations.
By providing clear rules for pari-mutuel betting, MCA Title 23, Chapter 4 promotes transparency, protects players, and supports the economic viability of Montana’s horse racing industry.
MCA Title 23, Chapter 7
The Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Title 23, Chapter 7 governs the operation of the Montana Lottery and related gaming activities.
It provides the legal framework for issuing lottery licenses, conducting scratch-off and draw games, and participating in multi-state lotteries such as Powerball and Mega Millions.
The law outlines the responsibilities of the Montana Lottery, including revenue collection, prize distribution, and allocation of funds to state programs like education and community development. It also sets standards for licensed retailers, ensuring secure ticket sales, accurate record-keeping, and compliance with state regulations.
By establishing clear rules and oversight, MCA Title 23, Chapter 7 promotes transparency, fairness, and accountability, giving players confidence in the integrity of Montana’s lottery system.
Montana Administrative Rules, Title 23, Chapter 16, Subchapter 35
The Montana Administrative Rules, Title 23, Chapter 16, Subchapter 35 governs sweepstakes, skill-based gaming, and other non-traditional gambling activities within the state. These rules provide a framework for licensed operators to conduct sweepstakes casinos, promotional contests, and skill-based games while ensuring fairness and transparency.
The regulations require operators to clearly disclose game rules, odds of winning, prize details, and advertising practices. All licensed operators must register with the state and comply with consumer protection standards, helping to maintain a safe and accountable gaming environment.
By establishing these guidelines, Montana Administrative Rules, Title 23 protects participants, supports responsible gaming, and fosters the growth of legal and regulated sweepstakes and skill-based gaming within the state.
Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) & State-Tribal Compacts
The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) is a federal law that governs gaming operations on tribal lands across the United States, including Montana.
It establishes the framework under which federally recognized tribes can operate casinos, bingo halls, and other Class II and Class III gaming activities. IGRA ensures that tribes retain sovereignty over their lands while promoting fair, regulated, and transparent gaming.
In Montana, tribes enter into State-Tribal Compacts with the state government to operate Class III gaming, which includes casino table games, slot machines, and poker.
These compacts define operational rules, licensing requirements, revenue sharing, and regulatory oversight to protect both players and tribal interests. They also outline compliance standards, auditing procedures, and responsible gaming measures.
Together, IGRA and State-Tribal Compacts provide a structured and legal framework that balances tribal sovereignty, state oversight, and player protections.
They enable Montana tribes to generate significant revenue for community development, healthcare, education, and economic growth while maintaining integrity and transparency in tribal gaming operations.
Latest Montana Gambling Legislative Updates
Senate Bill 555 (2025): Broad Revision of Gambling Laws
This bill reworks several aspects of Montana’s gambling statutes. Notably, it updates definitions under Montana Code Annotated Title 23, Chapter 5 (MCA 23-5) to explicitly include “internet gambling” and online casinos for prohibition when they use currency or payouts.
The bill also revises criminal penalties, turning certain violations into felonies, and requires fines collected under these provisions to go to the state’s general fund via the Montana Department of Justice.
In effect, Senate Bill 555 signals a tightening of rules around digital or internet-based gambling in Montana, distinguishing platforms that do not use currency (which may not count as “gambling” under the amended statute) from those that do. It also enhances the state’s enforcement mechanisms against unlicensed or unregulated operations.
Competitive Bidding Reform for the Montana Lottery Contract (2025)
In 2025 the Montana Legislature and the Lottery Commission addressed concerns about the vendor contract for lottery and sports-betting operations.
A key article reports that the vendor, Intralot, secured a new multi-year contract after the Legislature forced a more transparent bidding process, closing a previously available loophole that might have allowed the commission to circumvent competitive bidding.
This update is significant for the gambling industry because it affects how Montana procures and oversees the operator for lottery and sports wagering services, potentially impacting user experience, fee structure, and regulatory oversight.
Monitoring Bill: House Bill 204 (2025): Gambling Addiction & Related Laws
While this bill did not ultimately pass (it was tabled in committee), it reflects legislative interest in revising Montana’s gambling laws to address gambling addiction and related regulatory issues. The bill aimed to revise provisions related to gambling addiction and possibly expand regulatory tools.
The mere drafting of HB 204 indicates the state’s growing focus on consumer protection, problem gambling treatment, and the regulatory environment of gaming.
Sports Betting Framework and Retail Model
Although not a “new” law in 2025, the regulatory model under which sports betting operates in Montana continues to evolve. Under the law signed by Steve Bullock on May 3, 2019 (HB 725 and SB 25), sports betting is permitted through the Montana Lottery’s “Sports Bet Montana” and retail kiosks in licensed locations.
Key aspects remain relevant: wagering must occur at licensed in-person locations; mobile betting is only permitted on site; age requirements apply (18+ for sports betting). The framework is still being fine-tuned in 2025, including vendor contracts and technology platforms.
Land-Based Sports Betting in Montana
Legal Status: Legal
In Montana, land-based sports betting is legal but tightly controlled by the Montana Lottery under state law.
Since 2019, Montana has allowed self-serve sports wagering kiosks to be installed in licensed retail locations such as bars, restaurants, and casinos. These kiosks are part of the Sports Bet Montana system, which is the only state-sanctioned sportsbook operator.
While bettors can use a mobile app to register, fund their account, and build bet slips, they must be physically present at a retail location to place any actual wager.
The state uses geofencing technology to enforce this requirement, ensuring that bets are only made within approved premises.
The Montana Department of Justice’s Gambling Control Division regulates the sportsbook, overseeing licensing, compliance, and storefront operations. Moreover, the legal age to place a sports bet in Montana is 18 years old.
Because there are no other licensed or regulated sportsbooks operating independently in the state, Sports Bet Montana holds a monopoly.
The limited, retail-only structure gives Montanans a way to bet on sports legally, but the system lacks the flexibility and competition seen in other states.
List of Land-Based Sports Betting Operations in Montana
Silver Wolf Casino
Operator: Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
Located at Wolf Point, this is the first tribal casino in Montana that has received approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to offer retail (in-person) sports betting.
The compact allows the tribe to run a sportsbook in their casino, making it a landmark operation for sports wagering in the state.
Montana Online Sports Betting
Legal Status: Legal
Online sports betting in Montana operates under a highly regulated framework, primarily through the Sports Bet Montana system, managed by the Montana Lottery.
While residents can register accounts, fund them, and build bet slips through a mobile app, all wagers must be placed on-site at licensed retail locations, such as casinos, bars, and restaurants. This restriction is enforced using geofencing technology, which ensures that bets cannot be placed from outside approved premises.
The legal age for online sports betting in Montana is 18 years old, and all licensed operations comply with state rules for responsible gaming, auditing, and secure payment processing. Montana currently does not allow fully remote online sports betting from home, meaning there is no statewide, mobile-only online sportsbook.
Any online sports betting platforms outside the Montana Lottery’s approved network are not licensed or regulated. This includes offshore sportsbooks or apps that may offer Montana residents access to betting.
In summary, Montana’s online sports betting is legally available only through geofenced, retail-linked mobile apps. While it provides a secure and regulated option, it remains limited compared with other states that allow fully remote online wagering.
List of Online Sports Betting Operations in Montana
Sports Bet Montana
Operator: Montana Lottery
This is the state-run sportsbook, operated by the Montana Lottery in partnership with Intralot. The mobile app allows users to register, deposit funds, create bet slips, and manage their accounts.
However, due to Montana law, bets can only be placed while physically present inside a licensed retail location – this is enforced using geofencing technology.
The app depends on a geolocated system: when a user is within the perimeter of an approved venue, they can place a bet through their phone instead of using a kiosk.
According to the Montana Lottery’s FY 2024 report, the app and kiosks are available in 520+ sales agent locations, and the system saw a notable increase in betting activity.
Other Online Sports Betting Options
Betting sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Montana residents seeking to place online wagers. Because these operators are headquartered outside the United States, they operate in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there are no known cases of Montana players being prosecuted for placing bets on these offshore platforms.
Montana Land-Based Casino Gambling
Status: Legal
Land-based casinos in Montana operate under a mix of state licensing and tribal compacts, making them an integral part of the state’s regulated gambling landscape.
The Montana Gambling Control Division (GCD) oversees licensing and compliance for non-tribal establishments, while federally recognized tribes operate casinos on their reservations under Class III compacts approved by the state and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Montana’s land-based casinos offer a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, bingo, and pull-tabs.
Tribal casinos, such as Silver Wolf Casino (Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes), Apsaalooke Nights Casino (Crow Tribe), and KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes), operate large-scale facilities that generate significant revenue for tribal governments and fund community development programs.
The minimum age to gamble at Montana land-based casinos is 21, and operators must implement strict responsible gaming measures, maintain secure funds, and undergo regular audits.
Top Land-Based Casinos in Montana
Apsaalooke Nights Casino
Operator: Crow Tribe of Montana
Apsaalooke Nights is a compact but culturally significant casino operated by the Crow Tribe. It features about 200 Class II gaming machines (bingo-based), along with keno and bingo.
The venue supports tribal economic development and offers a relaxed, community-focused gaming experience.
Charging Horse Casino & Bingo
Operator: Northern Cheyenne Tribe
This is a larger facility that includes slot-style machines (electronic bingo), a full-scale bingo hall that seats many patrons, and even dining options. It helps fund Northern Cheyenne tribal operations and community services.
Fort Belknap Bingo Hall (Casino)
Operator: Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservation
Although called a “bingo hall,” this facility also offers Class III machines under the tribal compact, supporting the economic goals of the Fort Belknap tribes.
Glacier Peaks Casino
Operator: Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Reservation
Glacier Peaks is one of the more prominent casinos in the region and is Class II, meaning its machines are based on bingo mechanics rather than traditional slot reels.
KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino
Operator: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
This is a resort-style casino combining gaming with lodging, lake views, and tribal hospitality. It offers a range of video gaming machines and serves as a destination for both gaming and recreation.
Gray Wolf Peak Casino
Operator: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
A modern casino facility with a good selection of Class II gaming machines. It’s nestled in a scenic mountain area and provides both gaming and community-focused services.
Northern Winz Hotel & Casino
Operator: Chippewa Cree Tribe (Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation)
A full casino and hotel run by the Chippewa Cree Tribe. It features electronic gaming machines, providing a significant source of revenue and employment for the tribe.
Silver Wolf Casino
Operator: Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation
One of Montana’s prominent Class III casinos under its tribal compact. The casino supports tribal autonomy and contributes significantly to the Fort Peck community.
Montana Online Casino Gambling
Legal Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Online casino gambling in Montana is not licensed or regulated for fully remote play. While the state permits land-based and tribal casinos, there are currently no state-authorized platforms that allow Montanans to gamble on casino games entirely online from home.
Tribal casinos in Montana, such as KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino, Silver Wolf Casino, and Glacier Peaks Casino, provide geofenced mobile apps or kiosks. These allow players to create bets and manage accounts, but the actual wager must be placed physically on-site.
In 2025, the Montana Legislature passed Senate Bill 555 (SB 555), which was signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte.
SB 555 revises the definition of “internet gambling” under state law to explicitly include “online casinos… by whatever name known,” meaning that platforms that allow bets or wagers using any form of currency (including cryptocurrency) and make payouts in currency are now clearly prohibited.
Montana’s legal framework ensures that all gaming within licensed casinos, whether tribal or state-regulated, is secure, fair, and audited.
Online Casino Options for Montana Residents
Online casinos based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Montana residents seeking online gambling. Since these operators are located outside the United States, they exist in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there is no record of individuals being legally prosecuted solely for playing on these offshore platforms.
Montana Poker
Status: Legal
Land-based poker in Montana is fully legal and regulated, but its availability is primarily restricted to tribal casinos and licensed venues.
The Montana Gambling Control Division (GCD) oversees licensing, compliance, and regulation for non-tribal establishments, while tribal casinos operate under federal compacts approved by the state and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
These regulations ensure that poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and other variants, are conducted fairly, with secure handling of funds and adherence to responsible gaming standards.
Montana’s tribal casinos, such as KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino, Silver Wolf Casino, and Glacier Peaks Casino, host a variety of poker tables and tournaments.
These venues often feature daily cash games, scheduled multi-table tournaments, and promotional poker events that contribute to the tribe’s economic development and fund community programs.
The minimum age to participate in poker games in Montana is 21 years old, and operators are required to verify ages, maintain participation records, and implement safeguards against problem gambling.
Montana’s legal framework for land-based poker ensures secure, fair, and regulated gameplay, while also supporting tribal and local economies.
Top Poker Operations in Montana
Big Sky Poker (Big Sky, MT)
Operator: Big Sky
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
A dedicated poker card room operating in Big Sky, where players can engage in real-money poker. It’s one of the licensed CRCs (Cardroom Contractors), offering regulated poker gameplay under state supervision.
The Poker Parlor at The Gold Dust (Billings, MT)
Operator: Gold Dust
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
This poker room provides Billings-area players with a place to play real-money poker. As a licensed CRC, it follows Montana’s regulatory requirements, including stakes and rake limits.
Queen of Hearts Card Club (Billings, MT)
Operator: Not specified; Licensed cardroom in Billings, per the Gambling Control Division.
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
A smaller club venue focusing on poker. As a licensed establishment, it operates under state rules, making it a legal, regulated destination for live card games.
Glacier Peaks Casino (Browning, MT – Blackfeet Tribe)
Operator: Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
Though primarily a Class II tribal casino, the Glacier Peaks Casino offers a poker room. According to some sources, they host traditional poker variants under tribal gaming rules.
pokerwebsites.com
Fort Belknap Casino / Bingo Hall (Harlem, MT)
Operator: Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservation.
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
While known as a bingo hall and video gaming location, this facility also supports poker under the class-III compact. Tribal and regulatory rules govern the poker operations here.
400 Horses Casino (West Polson, MT – forthcoming)
Operator: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
Number of Tables: Not disclosed
A new casino currently under construction (scheduled for 2026) that will include a poker room, table games, and a sportsbook, expanding the Salish-Kootenai tribe’s gaming operations.
Montana Online Poker
Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Online poker in Montana is currently not licensed or regulated for full remote play. While the state allows land-based poker in licensed cardrooms and tribal casinos, there are no state-authorized platforms that permit residents to play poker entirely online from home.
Until Montana authorizes fully remote online poker, residents seeking real-money online games are limited to unregulated offshore sites, which carry inherent legal and financial risks.
Other Online Poker Options for Montana Residents
Online poker sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Montana players seeking to place online wagers. Because these operators are headquartered outside the United States, they operate in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there are no known cases of Montana players being prosecuted for placing bets on these offshore platforms.
Montana Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Land-based horse betting in Montana is legal and regulated, but it is relatively limited compared with other states.
The state primarily allows wagering through pari-mutuel betting at licensed racetracks, which are regulated by the Montana Racing Commission. The commission oversees licensing, compliance, and operational standards for racetrack operators to ensure fair and secure wagering.
Montana’s horse racing facilities, such as Big Sky Downs in Great Falls, offer residents the opportunity to place live bets on Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races.
Patrons can place win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and other common pari-mutuel wagers. Tracks must maintain secure funds, transparent accounting, and comply with rules on minimum and maximum bets.
The minimum age to participate in horse betting in Montana is 18 years old, and operators are required to verify age, maintain participation records, and implement responsible gaming measures.
Moreover, Montana law also allows some racetracks to operate simulcast betting, providing residents the chance to wager on races held at other tracks across the country.
Montana’s framework provides a secure environment for live horse racing enthusiasts while supporting the racing industry and local economies.
Top Horse Betting Operations in Montana
Great Falls Turf Club
Operator: The Great Falls Turf Club itself, under the oversight of the Montana Board of Horse Racing.
This track hosts a live race meet (six days, typically in July) at the Montana ExpoPark fairgrounds. It supports pari-mutuel wagering under Montana racing law, making it one of the few places in the state for live in-person betting.
Miles City Bucking Horse Sale / Mile City Race Meet
Operator: Miles City Bucking Horse Sale organization, with sanctioning and regulation by the Montana Board of Horse Racing.
This event is famous not only for rodeo and bucking horse sales, but also for its live horse racing meet. During its annual meet (typically in May), there is pari-mutuel wagering available on the races.
Montana Online Horse Betting
Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Online horse betting in Montana is currently not licensed or regulated. While the state permits pari-mutuel wagering at land-based racetracks and certain off-track venues, Montana has not authorized fully remote online platforms that allow residents to place real-money horse bets from home.
Until Montana authorizes online horse betting, residents seeking digital wagering options can utilize offshore platforms.
Other Online Horse Betting Options for Montana Residents
Online horse betting based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Montana players seeking online gambling. Since these operators are located outside the United States, they exist in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there is no record of individuals being legally prosecuted solely for playing on these offshore platforms.
Montana Lotteries
Status: Legal
Montana operates a state-licensed lottery system, managed by the Montana Lottery, which falls under the oversight of the Montana Department of Administration.
The Montana Lottery was established to generate revenue for the state while providing regulated gaming opportunities for residents. Proceeds from the lottery support important programs, including education, environmental initiatives, and general state funding.
Montana offers a variety of lottery games, including traditional scratch-off tickets, draw-based games such as Montana Cash, and multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Players must be 18 years or older to participate.
Tickets are sold through licensed retail locations across the state, such as convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. The Montana Lottery ensures fair play and transparency through rigorous auditing, secure ticket management, and strict oversight of prize payouts.
Top Lottery Platforms in Montana
Montana Lottery
Operator: The Montana Lottery, under the State of Montana (Montana Department of Administration)
The state-run lottery oversees all major licensed lottery games and instant tickets sold in Montana. It sells tickets through more than 1,100 licensed retailers across the state.
Montana Lottery
Powerball
Operator / Partnership: A multi-state lottery game run by the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL), of which Montana is a member.
Players select five numbers plus a Powerball. In Montana, the base ticket price is $3, which includes the Power Play option. Double Play (a separate drawing) is also available for an additional cost.
Mega Millions
Operator / Partnership: Also operated through MUSL, with Montana as a participating member.
In Montana, players choose five numbers and a Mega Ball number. The ticket costs $5, and drawings happen twice weekly.
Montana Ca$h
Operator: Montana Lottery
A local Montana lotto game with jackpot-based drawings. It’s a favorite for those who want a state-centered game with more frequent opportunities than major national draws.
Lucky for Life
Operator / Partnership: Montana Lottery, in coordination with a multi-state network
A draw game where top prizes pay out “for life” – giving winners an annuity-style payout rather than a lump sum.
Big Sky Bonus
Operator: Montana Lottery
One of the state’s smaller draw games, it offers frequent drawings and modest jackpot levels tailored to local players.
Lotto America
Operator / Partnership: Through MUSL, with Montana Lottery participation.
A national-style lotto game that gives Montana players access to a multi-state jackpot format, with odds and prize structures similar to other large lotteries.
Montana Millionaire
Operator: Montana Lottery
A limited-edition lottery game, often released for special events. It offers top cash prizes and is popular among Montana players for its hype and potential big wins.
Treasure Play
Operator: Montana Lottery
This is a terminal-based instant-win style game found in taverns and casinos. Rather than scratch tickets, players use Treasure Play kiosks to play for progressive jackpots.
Montana Lottery
Montana Sweepstakes
Status: Legal, but with Caveats
Sweepstakes in Montana are legal promotional activities that allow participants to enter contests or drawings for prizes without paying a fee.
They are often used by businesses, retailers, and organizations to promote products, services, or events. The Montana Department of Justice oversees regulations that ensure sweepstakes are conducted fairly, transparently, and in compliance with state laws.
A valid Montana sweepstakes must clearly communicate the rules, entry methods, prize descriptions, and deadlines. No purchase can be required to participate, and entries must be open to all eligible individuals who meet the minimum age requirements.
Generally, participants must be at least 18 years old, and operators must maintain accurate records of entries, winners, and prize distributions to comply with legal requirements.
Sweepstakes prizes can include cash, merchandise, vacations, or other goods of value. Operators are required to ensure that prizes are awarded according to the published rules and that winners are notified promptly.
Transparency and fairness are central principles of Montana sweepstakes law, helping prevent fraud or deceptive practices.
Montana sweepstakes provide a legal way for residents to participate in contests and promotions while supporting businesses’ marketing initiatives. By adhering to state rules, sweepstakes remain a safe and regulated activity for both operators and participants.
Montana Sweepstakes Casinos
Status: Not Legal
Sweepstakes casinos in Montana are not licensed or regulated under state law. While traditional sweepstakes and tribal gaming operations are legal and regulated, sweepstakes-style casinos that operate like online or physical casino games for monetary-equivalent prizes fall outside Montana’s licensing framework.
These venues typically use “dual-currency” systems or promotional credits that players can redeem for cash or prizes, mimicking the experience of real-money gambling.
Moreover, in 2025, Montana passed Senate Bill 555 (SB 555), explicitly banning sweepstakes casinos that allow prize payouts in cash or equivalent value.
The law classifies violations as felony offenses, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $50,000 per violation. SB 555 effectively closed loopholes previously exploited by unregulated sweepstakes operators and reinforced that any venue resembling a casino using sweepstakes mechanics is illegal in the state.
Montana’s regulatory stance ensures that sweepstakes casinos cannot operate legally, protecting residents from unregulated, high-risk gaming operations.
Montana Gambling FAQ
Still Here?
Check out everything we have to offer at Betting News!
We really are All About the Game!