Underdog Fantasy Legal States: Where You Can Play and What Texas Residents Need to Know

By Robert JohnsonLast Updated April 22, 2025

Understanding Underdog Fantasy: Legal Overview and Game Types

Underdog Fantasy has emerged as a leading platform in the world of daily fantasy sports (DFS) since its launch in 2020. It provides users the opportunity to participate in a variety of fantasy formats, including best ball and pick’em contests. The app is designed for both casual participants and more competitive users, offering a user-friendly experience, robust mobile access, and a wide variety of sports. However, one of the most important considerations before joining is understanding where Underdog Fantasy is legal to play and what restrictions may apply, especially if you reside in states with unique regulations like Texas.

Where Is Underdog Fantasy Legal in the United States?

The legal status of Underdog Fantasy varies from state to state due to local laws governing daily fantasy sports and online gaming. As of August 2025, Underdog Fantasy is legal and operational in a majority of U.S. states, but there are key exceptions where residents cannot participate in any or all contest types:

Underdog Fantasy is not legal in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, and Washington [1] [3] .
In most other states, both “best ball” and “pick’em” contests are available. However, in some states, only “best ball” is offered due to local restrictions [1] .
As of early 2024, Underdog Fantasy operates fully legally in 31 states for both primary contest types [1] .
The platform is also available in 40 states for some form of paid daily fantasy sports play [3] .

It is important for potential users to check the official Underdog Fantasy state eligibility page regularly for real-time updates, as these restrictions can change due to evolving state laws and regulations [5] .

Is Underdog Fantasy Legal in Texas?

For Texas residents, the legal situation is clear: Underdog Fantasy is currently legal in Texas for daily fantasy sports play. Texas classifies DFS games as “games of skill” rather than gambling, which allows operators like Underdog Fantasy to offer their contests to state residents [2] . This distinction is critical because Texas has strict laws prohibiting most forms of gambling, including traditional sports betting, but it recognizes and permits daily fantasy sports due to their skill-based elements.

Texas participants can access the full suite of Underdog Fantasy offerings, including both best ball and pick’em contests, through the official website and mobile app. The platform routinely verifies user location to ensure compliance with state regulations, so you must be physically located in Texas when entering paid contests.

Practical Steps for Texas Residents to Get Started

Visit the official Underdog Fantasy website or download the official mobile app from a recognized app store.
Register for an account, providing accurate identification and confirming your physical location within Texas.
Review the current contest formats and select the game type (best ball or pick’em) that suits your interest.
Fund your account using approved payment methods. Ensure your payment source complies with Underdog’s terms and Texas state law.
Choose your contest, draft your team, or make your picks as per the game mode rules. All game actions must be completed while located in Texas.
If you have questions or need assistance, consult the help section of the Underdog Fantasy site or consider searching for “Underdog Fantasy customer support” for official contact options.

Texans benefit from a vibrant DFS environment, but it remains essential to play responsibly and stay informed about any legal updates that could affect future eligibility.

Types of Contests and How They Work

Underdog Fantasy offers several main game types, each with its own rules and appeal:

Best Ball: A season-long or weekly format where you draft a team and then have no further roster management responsibilities. Your best performing players automatically contribute to your score each week [1] .
Pick’em: This mode lets you select player props (e.g., “over/under” on a specific statistic) and combine them into parlays for a chance at larger payouts. Pick’em contests are available for a wide range of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and many others [1] .

Participation in these contests is subject to state law, so always verify allowed contest types in your location. Texas residents can currently access both main contest types without restriction [2] .

Potential Challenges and How to Address Them

While Underdog Fantasy is accessible to most U.S. residents, some users may encounter issues related to eligibility, payment processing, or changes in state law. Here are some practical tips and solutions:

Location Verification: The app uses geolocation services to confirm your physical location. If you are near a state border or using a VPN, you may experience access issues. Always disable VPNs and ensure your device settings allow accurate location tracking.
Changing Laws: State regulations can shift. To avoid surprises, check the latest legal status on the Underdog Fantasy help center or perform a web search for “Underdog Fantasy legal status [Your State]” before entering major contests [5] .
Payment Holds or Declines: If you have trouble funding your account, confirm that your payment method is accepted for gaming transactions in your state. Some banks restrict payments to DFS platforms, so consider using alternative methods as allowed by Underdog Fantasy’s guidelines.
Age Restrictions: You must be at least 18 years old to participate in Underdog Fantasy in Texas and most other states, but some states may have higher age requirements. Consult the official help section for specific age limits.

Alternative Approaches for Fantasy Sports Enthusiasts

If you are located in a state where Underdog Fantasy is not legal or if you want to explore other fantasy sports options, consider the following alternatives:

Look for other daily fantasy sports providers that may be licensed in your jurisdiction. Search for “licensed DFS companies in [Your State]” for up-to-date options.
Participate in free-to-play fantasy contests, which are often exempt from gambling regulations and widely available even in restricted states.
Join local or private leagues with friends and colleagues, which may not fall under the same legal scrutiny as commercial DFS operations. Still, ensure compliance with state rules regarding prize pools and entry fees.
Monitor legislative developments in your state. Advocacy for DFS legalization is ongoing in several states, so future opportunities may become available.

Key Takeaways and Responsible Play

Underdog Fantasy offers a legal, engaging, and skill-based alternative to traditional sports betting in most U.S. states, including Texas. Residents of Texas can confidently participate in all Underdog Fantasy contests, but users elsewhere should verify eligibility before registering. Always prioritize responsible play and check for the latest legal and platform updates before entering any paid contests.