Sports Betting Impact on Financial Wellbeing, Debt in New Survey

As legal sports betting continues to expand across the U.S., a new nationwide survey of 1,200 respondents reveals the financial risks many Americans face behind the guise of excitement via game-day wagers. Betting platforms promote wins and entertainment, but their products contribute to growing financial strain, hidden debts and psychological distress. From missed rent to borrowing money at high interest rates, many Americans are risking more than they can afford, and the toll is becoming clear.

The July 2025 survey conducted by U.S. News & World Report highlights how widespread the issue has become. Here's a closer look at what the research found, and what it may mean for American society. 

Key findings from U.S. News & World Report survey 

The survey took responses from 1,200 Americans who placed a sports bet within the last six months. It paints a troubling picture. While many considered themselves casual bettors, their financial behaviors suggest otherwise.

Missed Bills Due to Betting 

Nearly 25% of respondents admitted to missing at least one bill payment because of a wager. This includes rent, utilities, groceries and other essentials.

Mounting Gambling-Related Debt

About 30% of bettors say they have debt directly tied to their sports gambling. Of that group, over half (51%) owe $500 or more.

High-Risk Borrowing

More than 15% of respondents said they’d taken out personal loans to fund bets, while 12% have turned to payday loans, which are notorious for high interest rates and debt traps.

Using Credit to Gamble

Around 24% used cash advances on credit cards to place wagers, and 5% went as far as taking out auto title loans, risking their vehicles.

Long-Term Financial Insecurity

Over 52% carry monthly credit card balances, and 45% lack the emergency savings many experts recommend to handle life’s unexpected costs.

Lack of Control and Regret 

25% expressed worry about their ability to stop betting. Roughly 1 in 10 have sought treatment for gambling addiction. Nearly 50% have seriously regretted a bet. 

In addition, 21% of sports bettors say they've verbally abused an athlete after losing money on a bet. More than 25% between the ages of 35 and 44 say they've lashed out at an athlete over a wager.

These stats make it clear that the financial and societal impacts of sports betting are real, and for many it’s more than just a harmless, entertaining hobby.

To connect with Birches, you can click here, call 833-483-3838 or email help@bircheshealth.com

What other research shows around gambling’s impact on society

Beyond the immediate financial strain, research from around the U.S. shows that habitual gambling can lead to long-term consequences for individuals and their communities.

Basic Needs at Risk

Problem gambling has been shown to interfere with meeting everyday needs like food, housing and healthcare. Families may struggle to cover essentials as more income is directed toward betting.

Credit Damage and Bankruptcies

In states with legalized sports betting, average credit scores dropped by 0.3%. Where online betting is legal, that decline triples to 1%. Reports show up to a 30% increase in bankruptcy filings over the last few years in such states.

Debt Collection Increases

Men in lower-income areas have experienced a rise in debt collections and loan consolidation, which are both indicators of financial instability linked to gambling habits.

Violence and Emotional Fallout

Gambling losses can fuel emotional volatility. A University of Oregon study found that an unexpected loss by a local football team resulted in a 10% increase in intimate partner violence, with spikes even higher in states with legal sports betting.

Criminal Activity

According to the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health, roughly 50% of people with Gambling Disorder commit crimes during their lifetime, and usually to obtain money to gamble or repay gambling debts. That number jumps to nearly 70% for those with severe gambling addiction.

Mounting evidence confirms what experts have long warned: gambling harms go beyond finances, rippling into relationships, safety and overall well-being.

Gambling impacting your finances? How to get help 

While gambling’s influence on everyday spending is well documented, fewer people realize it can also harm the ability to secure a loan or mortgage.

Lenders typically review 3-6 months of bank statements to evaluate a borrower’s financial health. If your statements show recurring deposits to betting platforms, large withdrawals or overdrafts tied to gambling, it can be interpreted as a sign of instability or risk.

Infrequent and small bets may not be a dealbreaker if your income and credit score are solid. Repeated or large betting activity, however, can lead to a denied application or reduce your loan amount. Some lenders may also require a written explanation during underwriting.

Mainstream banks are growing more cautious, while subprime lenders may still approve such applicants with higher interest rates and less favorable terms.

For those considering a home purchase or major loan, reducing gambling activity or stopping altogether several months prior can significantly improve approval chances.

Birches Health

If sports betting has started to affect your ability to pay bills, build savings or maintain stable finances, you’re not alone, and help is available.

Birches Health offers confidential, virtual support for people struggling with sports betting. Licensed counselors use evidence-based treatments tailored to your behaviors and goals. Whether you’re looking to stop altogether or gain better control, Birches can help you take meaningful steps toward financial and personal stability.

• Book an appointment 

• Call 833-483-3838

• Email help@bircheshealth.com