Underdog Fantasy Review

_{This page contains references to products from one of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. For an explanation of our Affiliate Policy, visit this page.}

Underdog (formerly Underdog Fantasy) has emerged as one of the most innovative daily fantasy sports platforms in the United States. Launched in July 2020, this Brooklyn-based company has quickly gained traction among sports fans seeking a fresh approach to fantasy contests. What sets Underdog apart from traditional DFS sites is its unique combination of salary-free drafts, intuitive Pick’em contests, and a recent expansion into federally regulated prediction markets.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Underdog—from its diverse contest offerings and welcome bonuses to its groundbreaking partnership with Crypto.com that’s bringing sports prediction markets to mainstream users. Whether you’re a seasoned DFS veteran or new to daily fantasy sports, this guide will help you understand why Underdog has become one of the fastest-growing sports gaming platforms in America.

Is Underdog Legit and Safe?

Yes, Underdog is absolutely legitimate and safe to use. The platform has established itself as a trustworthy operator in the daily fantasy sports industry with several factors working in its favor. First, Underdog boasts an impressive roster of high-profile investors including Mark Cuban, Kevin Durant, Adam Schefter, Steve Aoki, The Chainsmokers, Nas, and other notable names. This level of backing from respected figures in sports and entertainment speaks volumes about the company’s credibility.

The platform operates legally across 40 U.S. states and Ontario, Canada, complying with all applicable state regulations for daily fantasy sports. Underdog employs modern encryption techniques to protect user funds and personal information, ensuring your data remains secure. The company is transparent about its operations, including being one of the few DFS operators to openly display rake percentages on individual contests.

What truly distinguishes Underdog from competitors like DraftKings and FanDuel is its salary-free draft format. This innovative approach eliminates the complexity of managing salary caps, making fantasy sports more accessible to casual players while still providing depth for experienced users. The platform has received overwhelmingly positive reviews on both the App Store and Google Play Store, with users praising its fast withdrawals, responsive customer support, and user-friendly interface.

An In-Depth Look at Underdog

Underdog was founded by an experienced team including Trevor John, Brandon Stakenborg, and Jeremy Levine. Levine’s background is particularly noteworthy—he previously founded DRAFT, a popular mobile fantasy game that was acquired by Paddy Power Betfair. This expertise in the fantasy sports industry has been instrumental in shaping Underdog’s user-centric approach and technological innovation.

The company has positioned itself as the only top-tier sports gaming operator built entirely on proprietary technology. This technical foundation has enabled Underdog to rapidly innovate and launch new products, including fantasy sports games, prediction markets, and, previously, a licensed sportsbook. According to CEO Jeremy Levine, the company expects to generate $500 million in revenue for 2025, demonstrating significant growth in a competitive market.

Underdog’s Expansion into Prediction Markets

In September 2025, Underdog announced a major strategic partnership with Crypto.com Derivatives North America (CDNA) to launch sports prediction markets. This makes Underdog the first major sports gaming operator to blend fantasy contests with market-style prediction trading, creating an entirely new way for fans to engage with sports.

Through this partnership, CDNA—a CFTC-registered exchange—provides the underlying event contracts while Underdog supplies the technology and user interface. This arrangement allows Underdog to offer federally compliant sports prediction markets without needing separate licenses in each state. Users can now trade on sports outcomes in real-time, buying and selling contracts based on their predictions about game results, player performances, and more.

The prediction market feature is currently available for NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, college football, soccer, and tennis, with plans to add more sports over time. Contract prices range from $0.01 to $0.99, with the market price reflecting the implied probability of the outcome. For example, if contracts on the Dallas Cowboys to win trade at $0.65, this indicates roughly a 65% chance of victory. If the Cowboys win, contracts settle at $1.00, netting a $0.35 profit per contract.

This pivot toward prediction markets represents a significant shift in Underdog’s business strategy. In December 2025, the company closed its traditional sportsbook operations in North Carolina (the only state where it operated sports betting) to focus entirely on DFS and prediction markets. This move signals Underdog’s belief that federally regulated prediction markets offer greater scalability and profitability than competing with established sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings in the traditional betting space.

Underdog Welcome Bonus and Promotions

New users signing up for Underdog can take advantage of an attractive welcome offer. When you make your first play of $5 or more, you’ll receive $75 in bonus entries. This essentially gives you $80 in total value to start your DFS journey, providing ample opportunity to explore the platform’s various contest types without significant upfront risk.

To claim this bonus, you must be 18 years or older in most states (19+ in Alabama and Nebraska; 19+ in Colorado for certain games; 21+ in Arizona, Massachusetts, and Virginia). For complete details about the Underdog promo code and current offers, visit the dedicated promotions page.

Important note: This promotional offer is not valid in Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, or Pennsylvania. Underdog also occasionally runs special promotions throughout the year. To stay updated on the latest offers, follow the platform’s social media pages or check the promotions section within the app.

Additionally, Underdog offers a refer-a-friend program that rewards existing users for bringing new players to the platform. This creates opportunities for ongoing bonuses beyond the initial welcome offer.

Where is Underdog Legal? Available States and Restrictions

Underdog operates in 40 U.S. states plus Washington D.C. and Ontario, Canada. This wide availability makes it one of the most accessible daily fantasy sports platforms in North America. However, it’s important to understand that not all contest types are available in every state due to varying local regulations. For the most current information on Underdog legal states and product availability in your area, check the official resources.

States where Underdog is NOT available:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Louisiana
• Montana
• Nevada
• Washington

In states where Underdog operates, different age requirements apply. Most states require users to be at least 18 years old, but Alabama and Nebraska require users to be 19+, while Arizona, Massachusetts, and Virginia require users to be 21+. The platform uses GeoComply location verification technology to ensure users are physically present in an eligible state when accessing contests.

Contest type availability also varies by state. Draft contests are generally available in all 40 states where Underdog operates. However, Pick’em contests face more restrictions in certain jurisdictions. States like Alabama, Colorado, and Vermont have specific limitations on Pick’em games. Alabama only allows Combo Pick’em products, while Colorado and Vermont limit the number of fantasy points that can be acquired in Pick’em contests.

How to Sign Up for Underdog

Creating an Underdog account is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. The registration process is designed to be simple while ensuring compliance with legal requirements:

Step-by-Step Registration:

• Visit the Underdog website or download the mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store
• Click the “Sign Up” button to access the registration page
• Enter your username, email address, secure password, and date of birth
• Submit your registration information
• Make your first deposit (minimum $10)
• Place your first $5 entry to receive $75 in bonus entries

Important: If you previously created an Underdog account but can’t remember the details, do not create a new account. Creating multiple accounts violates the platform’s terms of service and could result in both accounts being suspended. Instead, use the password recovery feature to regain access to your original account.

Underdog Contest Types and Game Formats

Underdog offers a diverse range of contest formats designed to appeal to different types of fantasy sports players. Each format has its own unique characteristics and strategic considerations:

Pick’em Contests

Pick’em contests are Underdog’s most popular format. In these contests, you select whether individual players will perform higher or lower than projected statistical lines. For example, you might predict that DeMar DeRozan will score more than 25.5 points or that a quarterback will throw for fewer than 275 yards.

You can combine 2-5 picks into a single entry, creating a parlay-style contest. Entry fees typically range from $3 to $100, and payouts increase exponentially with each additional correct pick. Pick’em contests are available for NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and other major sports.

A unique variation is Rivals Pick’em, where you pit two real-life players against each other and predict which one will perform better. For instance, you might select Steph Curry to score more points than LeBron James in their respective games. This head-to-head format adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement.

Best Ball and Draft Contests

Best Ball is Underdog’s signature draft format and represents a significant departure from traditional fantasy sports. In Best Ball contests, you draft a team once before the season begins, and that’s it—no roster management, no weekly lineup decisions, no trades, and no waiver wire claims. Your best-performing players are automatically placed in your starting lineup each week, maximizing your points without any maintenance.

Daily and weekly drafts employ a snake-style format and typically feature 3-12 fantasy managers. Entry fees range from $3 to $100. These drafts are completely salary-free, meaning you’re not constrained by a salary cap when building your roster. This eliminates one of the most complex and frustrating aspects of traditional DFS, making the game more accessible to casual players while still rewarding draft strategy and player knowledge.

Season-long Best Ball contests lock your roster before the start of the season. Throughout the season, your optimal lineup is automatically selected each week based on actual player performances. At season’s end, the teams with the most cumulative points win cash prizes. This format is perfect for players who want season-long fantasy involvement without the week-to-week time commitment.

Team Picks and Prediction Markets

Team Picks represent Underdog’s integration with Crypto.com’s prediction market platform. When you make a Team Pick, you’re actually purchasing event contracts on a CFTC-regulated exchange. These contracts trade between $0.01 and $0.99, with prices reflecting the market’s consensus probability of outcomes.

You can pick game outcomes straight up, against the spread, or predict over/under totals for point totals. The beauty of this format is that you can cash out early—unlike traditional bets that are locked in until settlement, prediction market contracts can be sold before the event concludes if the market price has moved in your favor.

Combo entries blend Team Picks with traditional fantasy Pick’em selections. In a Combo entry, 90% of your entry fee funds the Team Pick contracts while 10% goes toward the fantasy pick’em portion. If your Team Pick wins, Underdog rolls those winnings into the fantasy portion, creating a parlay-style multiplier effect. If the Team Pick loses, the remaining 10% fantasy portion still plays out independently.

Champions Contests

Champions is Underdog’s newest game mode, designed as a peer-to-peer alternative to traditional Pick’em contests. In Champions, you compete against other users rather than the house. You build a roster of 2-8 players and earn Champions Points based on their performances. The user with the most Champions Points at the end of the tournament wins.

This format was introduced partly in response to regulatory pressure in certain states where Pick’em contests were deemed too similar to sports betting. By structuring Champions as a player-versus-player competition, Underdog can offer the format in some jurisdictions where traditional Pick’em is restricted.

Underdog Mobile App and Desktop Experience

Underdog has invested heavily in creating a best-in-class user experience across both mobile and desktop platforms. The mobile app, available on iOS and Android, consistently receives high ratings from users who praise its speed, design, and functionality.

Mobile App Features

The Underdog mobile app delivers a fast, sleek, and intuitive experience. Navigation is smooth and logical, with all major features easily accessible from the main menu. The app’s gorgeous design uses clean lines, readable fonts, and a color scheme that makes important information stand out without overwhelming users.

Performance is exceptional—the app rarely crashes and loads contests, player projections, and draft lobbies almost instantly. Both iOS and Android versions maintain high ratings on their respective app stores, with many users citing the app as one of the best DFS experiences available. Push notifications keep you updated on contest results, lineup changes, and promotional offers without being intrusive.

The mobile app supports all contest types, including Pick’em, Best Ball drafts, Team Picks, and Champions. You can deposit funds, withdraw winnings, manage your account settings, and access customer support—all from your smartphone. This makes Underdog truly mobile-first, allowing you to participate in contests anytime, anywhere.

Desktop Platform

While Underdog’s mobile experience is stellar, the desktop site offers additional features that make it worth using on a larger screen. The web platform maintains the same clean, user-friendly design as the mobile app but takes advantage of additional screen real estate to display more information at once.

One standout desktop-exclusive feature is the Underblog section, which provides fantasy news, insights, trends, and expert analysis from the Underdog Fantasy team. This content helps inform your draft decisions and Pick’em selections with data-driven recommendations. The larger screen also makes draft lobbies more manageable, as you can see more players at once when building your Best Ball rosters.

Banking: Deposits and Withdrawals at Underdog

Underdog’s banking options are somewhat limited compared to some competitors, but the available methods are widely used and convenient for most players. For complete details on Underdog banking options and processing times, consult the dedicated banking guide.

Deposit Methods:

• PayPal
• Debit cards (Visa, Discover, American Express, Mastercard)
• Trustly (for prediction markets)
• Apple Pay (debit cards only)

The minimum deposit amount is $10. Deposits process instantly in most cases, allowing you to start playing immediately after funding your account. There are no deposit fees charged by Underdog, though your payment provider may impose their own fees.

Withdrawal Methods:

• PayPal
• Electronic check (ACH transfer)

All withdrawals on Underdog are free of charge. Processing times vary by method: PayPal withdrawals typically complete within 24-48 hours, while ACH transfers may take 3-5 business days. This fast turnaround is one area where Underdog excels compared to many competitors, with numerous user reviews praising the platform’s withdrawal speed.

Note that for prediction market deposits and withdrawals, only debit cards (including Apple Pay) and Trustly are accepted. This is a requirement set by the CFTC regulations governing event contracts.

Customer Support and Service

Underdog offers multiple channels for customer support, though the available options are somewhat more limited than at larger competitors like DraftKings or FanDuel. You can contact the support team via:

• Email ([email protected])
• Twitter (@UnderdogFantasy)
• Facebook
• Discord
• Live chat (available within the app and website)

While the lack of phone support may disappoint some users, the available channels are generally responsive. User reviews consistently praise Underdog’s customer support team for being fast, friendly, and helpful. Response times to email inquiries typically range from a few hours to one business day. The live chat feature provides the quickest assistance for urgent issues.

The platform also maintains a comprehensive help center with FAQs, contest rules, and guides covering most common questions. This self-service resource can often resolve issues faster than waiting for a support response.

Safety, Security, and Responsible Gaming

Underdog takes safety and security seriously, implementing industry-standard protections to safeguard user funds and personal information. The platform uses modern encryption techniques for all transactions and data storage, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected from unauthorized access.

As a legally operating fantasy sports platform, Underdog must meet specific regulatory requirements in each state where it offers services. This includes maintaining segregated player fund accounts, regular financial audits, and compliance with state gaming regulations. Your deposits are kept separate from company operating funds, providing an additional layer of financial protection.

GeoComply location verification ensures that only users physically present in legal states can access contests. This technology works on both desktop (via a browser plugin) and mobile devices (through location services), preventing unauthorized access from restricted jurisdictions.

Responsible Gaming Tools

Underdog provides several responsible gaming features to help users maintain healthy play habits:

• Deposit limits (daily, weekly, and monthly)
• Entry limits to control spending per contest
• Session time limits and reminders
• Self-exclusion options (temporary and permanent)
• Links to national and state-specific problem gambling resources

If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, help is available. Contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org. New York residents can call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). Additional state-specific resources are available through the Underdog app.

Underdog Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Salary-free drafts eliminate complexity and level the playing field
• Generous welcome bonus ($75 for a $5 play)
• Innovative prediction markets integration for sports event trading
• Excellent mobile app with high user ratings
• Fast withdrawal processing (24-48 hours for PayPal)
• No withdrawal fees
• Transparent rake disclosure on contests
• Wide variety of contest formats (Pick’em, Best Ball, Team Picks, Champions)
• Available in 40 states plus Washington D.C. and Ontario
• Responsive customer support
• Built on proprietary technology enabling rapid innovation
• Early cashout option for prediction market positions

Disadvantages:

• Limited deposit and withdrawal methods compared to competitors
• No loyalty or rewards program for ongoing users
• Fewer ongoing promotions than DraftKings or FanDuel
• No phone support option
• Contest variety and prize pools smaller than industry giants
• Pick’em contests restricted or modified in several states
• Prediction markets facing regulatory challenges in some jurisdictions
• Promotional offer not available in MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, or PA

Notable Features That Set Underdog Apart

Transparency in Rake Structure

Underdog is the only major DFS operator that openly displays the rake percentage on individual contests. While all fantasy platforms collect rake (the commission taken from entry fees), most competitors bury this information or don’t disclose it at all. Underdog’s transparency allows users to make informed decisions about which contests offer the best value.

Fantasy Insights and Analysis

The desktop platform features the Underblog, a dedicated section providing fantasy news, player analysis, lineup recommendations, and statistical trends. This content is produced by Underdog’s in-house team of fantasy experts and gives users data-driven insights to improve their contest selections. The quality and depth of this analysis rivals paid fantasy advice services.

Combo Entries Blending Markets

The Combo entry format is unique to Underdog, allowing users to blend prediction market contracts with traditional fantasy Pick’em selections in a single entry. This creates parlay-style opportunities where successful Team Picks amplify fantasy winnings. The dual-product approach gives users more strategic flexibility and higher potential payouts while maintaining the safety net of the fantasy portion even if the Team Pick loses.

Recent Developments and Industry Position

Underdog’s strategic pivot toward prediction markets in late 2025 represents a significant bet on the future of sports engagement. By partnering with Crypto.com to offer CFTC-regulated event contracts, Underdog positions itself to operate nationally without the expense and complexity of securing 50 separate state sports betting licenses.

This move has attracted both opportunity and controversy. On one hand, prediction markets potentially offer access to massive untapped markets like California, Texas, and Florida—states that collectively represent nearly 30% of the U.S. population but don’t offer legal sports betting. The federal regulation pathway could allow Underdog to reach these users while competitors remain locked out.

However, state gambling regulators are pushing back. Arizona moved to revoke Underdog’s DFS license in December 2025, arguing that prediction markets constitute illegal sports betting under a different name. Other states, including Ohio, have issued warnings to operators about offering event contracts. Underdog maintains that its products are federally compliant financial instruments and has filed appeals, but the regulatory landscape remains uncertain.

To strengthen its position, Underdog joined the Coalition for Prediction Markets (CPM) in December 2025 alongside Kalshi, Crypto.com, Coinbase, and Robinhood. This industry trade group aims to advocate for prediction markets and promote consistent regulatory treatment nationwide. Underdog also submitted an application to become a member of the National Futures Association (NFA) as a futures commission merchant, demonstrating its commitment to full regulatory compliance.

The company’s revenue projections—$500 million expected for 2025—indicate strong market demand regardless of regulatory debates. Whether prediction markets will ultimately be classified as financial instruments or gambling remains to be seen, but Underdog’s early mover advantage and technological infrastructure position it well to capitalize on whichever direction the industry evolves.

How Underdog Compares to Competitors

Underdog vs. DraftKings

DraftKings offers significantly larger contest pools and prize money, reflecting its status as an industry giant. However, DraftKings uses traditional salary cap formats that can be complex for new players. Underdog’s salary-free drafts are more accessible. DraftKings has an extensive loyalty program (Dynasty Rewards) and frequent ongoing promotions, while Underdog lacks a rewards program. For players who prioritize simplicity and innovative formats over maximum contest variety, Underdog is the better choice.

Underdog vs. FanDuel

FanDuel dominates the market in terms of user base and marketing presence. The platform offers more banking options and has recently announced plans to enter prediction markets through a partnership with CME Group. However, FanDuel still uses salary caps in most formats. Underdog’s mobile app is generally rated more highly for user experience and speed. FanDuel’s larger prize pools come with tougher competition, while Underdog offers more favorable odds for recreational players.

Underdog vs. PrizePicks

PrizePicks is Underdog’s most direct competitor in the Pick’em space. Both offer similar player proposition formats, though PrizePicks focuses exclusively on Pick’em while Underdog provides more variety with drafts and prediction markets. PrizePicks has faced similar regulatory challenges regarding contest classification. Underdog’s addition of Team Picks and Best Ball gives it more diversity, while PrizePicks specializes in perfecting one format. For players who want Pick’em only, PrizePicks may be preferable; for those seeking variety, Underdog wins.

Underdog vs. Sleeper

Sleeper built its reputation on season-long leagues and social features before expanding into DFS. Sleeper excels at community engagement and league customization but offers fewer contest types than Underdog. Sleeper’s deposit match bonus (up to $100) is competitive with Underdog’s play-and-get offer. For players prioritizing social leagues and communication features, Sleeper is stronger; for those focused on quick daily contests and prediction markets, Underdog is the better platform.

Final Verdict: Is Underdog Worth It?

Underdog has earned its reputation as one of the most innovative daily fantasy sports platforms available in 2026. The combination of salary-free drafts, intuitive Pick’em contests, and cutting-edge prediction markets creates a unique offering that stands apart from traditional DFS competitors.

For new users, the $75 bonus for a $5 play represents exceptional value—one of the best welcome offers in the industry. The platform’s user-friendly mobile app, fast withdrawals, and transparent operations make it easy to recommend to both DFS veterans and newcomers alike.

The salary-free draft format is a genuine improvement over traditional DFS, removing unnecessary complexity while maintaining strategic depth. Players who’ve been frustrated by salary cap constraints will find Underdog’s approach refreshing. Best Ball contests are perfect for those who want season-long engagement without constant roster management.

Prediction markets represent Underdog’s biggest innovation and potential growth driver. The ability to trade sports event contracts in real-time, cash out positions early, and combine prediction markets with fantasy picks creates new strategic possibilities. However, the regulatory uncertainty surrounding prediction markets means this feature’s long-term availability isn’t guaranteed in all jurisdictions.

Areas for improvement include expanding banking options, implementing a loyalty program for existing users, and increasing the frequency of ongoing promotions. The contest variety, while solid, doesn’t match the depth of DraftKings or FanDuel. Players who prioritize maximum prize pools and tournament options may still prefer the industry giants.

Overall, Underdog is absolutely worth trying, especially given the generous welcome bonus that provides ample opportunity to explore the platform risk-free. The company’s focus on innovation, user experience, and accessibility makes it an excellent choice for casual players and a compelling alternative for experienced DFS users seeking something different from the status quo.

Whether Underdog’s bet on prediction markets will pay off remains to be seen, but the platform’s core daily fantasy product is already excellent. For players in the 40 states where it operates, Underdog deserves serious consideration as your primary or supplementary DFS platform.

Important Terms and Disclaimers

Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. See assets.underdogfantasy.com/web/PlayandGetTerms_DFS_.html for complete details.

Bonus offer not valid in MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, and PA. Check local state regulations to ensure full eligibility. Bonus Terms and Conditions apply.

Event contracts for prediction markets are offered by Crypto.com Derivatives North America (CDNA), a CFTC-regulated exchange, powered by Underdog Predict. Trading on CDNA involves risk and may not be appropriate for all. By trading you risk losing your cost to enter any transaction, including fees. You should carefully consider whether trading on CDNA is appropriate for you in light of your investment experience and financial resources. Any trading decisions you make are solely your responsibility and at your own risk.

The Event Contract has not been endorsed by any Association, any Association Participant that is part of such Association, or any Individual in any Association. The use of the name of any Association, Association Participant or Individual in any Association does not indicate any endorsement of this tradeable financial instrument.

Gambling Problem? Get Help:

• Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org
• Arizona: 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXT-STEP to 53342
• New York: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369)

Learn more about Underdog Contests and how to identify highly experienced players at app.underdogfantasy.com/rules. Learn more about average results at underdogfantasy.com/average-results.

Offers, features, and availability are subject to change. Always verify current terms and conditions on the official Underdog website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Underdog Fantasy legal in the United States?

Yes, Underdog is legal and operates in 40 U.S. states plus Washington D.C. and Ontario, Canada. The platform offers daily fantasy sports contests, which are legal under federal law and regulated at the state level. Underdog is not available in Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, and Washington. Age requirements vary by state: 18+ in most states, 19+ in Alabama and Nebraska, and 21+ in Arizona, Massachusetts, and Virginia. For complete information on Underdog legal states and product availability, check the official resources.

What is Underdog’s welcome bonus for new users?

New users who sign up for Underdog receive $75 in bonus entries when they make their first play of $5 or more. This welcome offer is available in most states where Underdog operates, but it is NOT valid in Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, or Pennsylvania. To claim the bonus, you must be of legal age in your state and physically present in an eligible jurisdiction. For the latest Underdog promo code details and terms, visit the promotions page.

How does Underdog’s prediction market feature work?

Underdog’s prediction markets allow users to trade on sports outcomes through event contracts offered by Crypto.com Derivatives North America (CDNA), a CFTC-regulated exchange. Contract prices range from $0.01 to $0.99 and reflect the probability of an outcome. If your prediction is correct, contracts settle at $1.00. For example, if you buy Dallas Cowboys to win contracts at $0.65 and they win, you profit $0.35 per contract. You can also sell contracts before settlement to lock in profits or cut losses. Learn more about sports prediction markets and how they differ from traditional sports betting.

What makes Underdog different from DraftKings and FanDuel?

Underdog’s main differentiator is its salary-free draft format. Unlike DraftKings and FanDuel, which use salary cap systems, Underdog eliminates this complexity entirely. You simply draft players in snake-style format without worrying about budget constraints. Underdog also pioneered the integration of federally regulated prediction markets with traditional DFS, creating unique contest types like Combo entries that blend both formats. The platform generally offers better odds for recreational players and has a more intuitive mobile app, though DraftKings and FanDuel have larger prize pools and contest variety.

How long do withdrawals take at Underdog?

Underdog offers fast withdrawal processing with no fees. PayPal withdrawals typically complete within 24-48 hours, while ACH electronic check transfers take 3-5 business days. This is one of Underdog’s strengths—many users praise the platform for quick payouts compared to competitors. All withdrawal methods are free of charge. For complete details on Underdog banking options, processing times, and deposit methods, consult the banking guide.

What are Pick’em contests on Underdog?

Pick’em contests are Underdog’s most popular format. You select whether individual players will perform higher or lower than projected statistical lines (e.g., will Patrick Mahomes throw for more or less than 275.5 yards). You can combine 2-5 picks into a single entry, creating a parlay-style contest. Payouts increase exponentially with each additional correct pick. Entry fees typically range from $3 to $100. Pick’em contests are available for NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and other major sports, though availability varies by state due to local regulations.

Does Underdog have a mobile app?

Yes, Underdog has highly rated mobile apps for both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play Store). The app is fast, intuitive, and rarely crashes. It supports all contest types including Pick’em, Best Ball drafts, Team Picks (prediction markets), and Champions mode. You can deposit funds, withdraw winnings, manage your account, and access customer support entirely through the mobile app. Many users consider it one of the best DFS apps available, praising its clean design, smooth navigation, and responsive performance.

What is Best Ball on Underdog?

Best Ball is Underdog’s signature season-long format. You draft a team once before the season starts, then your optimal lineup is automatically selected each week based on actual player performances—no roster management required. There are no trades, waiver wire pickups, or weekly lineup decisions. At season’s end, the teams with the most cumulative points win cash prizes. This format is perfect for players who want season-long fantasy engagement without the time commitment of traditional leagues. Best Ball contests are completely salary-free, eliminating budget constraints during the draft.

Can I refer friends to Underdog and earn bonuses?

Yes, Underdog offers a refer-a-friend program that rewards existing users for bringing new players to the platform. When your referred friend signs up and meets the promotion requirements, both you and your friend can earn bonuses. This creates ongoing earning opportunities beyond the initial welcome offer. Check the Underdog promotions section for current refer-a-friend bonus amounts and terms.

What deposit methods does Underdog accept?

Underdog accepts PayPal, debit cards (Visa, Discover, American Express, Mastercard), Trustly, and Apple Pay (debit cards only). The minimum deposit is $10, and deposits process instantly in most cases. Note that for prediction market deposits specifically, only debit cards (including Apple Pay) and Trustly are accepted due to CFTC regulations. There are no deposit fees charged by Underdog, though your payment provider may have their own fees.

Is Underdog safe and secure?

Yes, Underdog is safe and employs modern encryption techniques to protect user funds and personal information. The platform operates legally in 40 states and Ontario, complying with all applicable regulations. Player funds are kept in segregated accounts separate from company operating funds. Underdog is backed by notable investors including Mark Cuban, Kevin Durant, and other respected figures. The platform uses GeoComply location verification to ensure compliance and has received consistently positive reviews for security and trustworthiness.

What sports are available on Underdog?

Underdog offers daily fantasy contests and prediction markets for NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, college football, college basketball, soccer (MLS and international leagues), tennis, golf, MMA, and esports. Sport availability varies by contest type and time of year. The platform focuses heavily on the major American sports leagues, with NFL and NBA being the most popular. Prediction market coverage includes NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, college football, soccer, and tennis, with plans to expand to additional sports.

Does Underdog have a loyalty program?

No, Underdog currently does not offer a loyalty or rewards program. This is one area where competitors like DraftKings (with Dynasty Rewards) and FanDuel have an advantage. Underdog occasionally runs special promotions and offers throughout the year, but there’s no ongoing points-based system for regular users. Many players hope that Underdog will introduce a loyalty program in the future to reward continued play and engagement on the platform.

How do I contact Underdog customer support?

You can contact Underdog customer support via email ([email protected]), live chat (available in the app and website), Twitter (@UnderdogFantasy), Facebook, or Discord. While phone support is not available, users consistently praise the responsiveness of the support team. Email responses typically arrive within a few hours to one business day, while live chat provides the fastest assistance. The platform also maintains a comprehensive help center with FAQs and contest rules for self-service support.

Can I play Underdog in New York?

Yes, daily fantasy sports contests are available in New York on Underdog. However, the welcome bonus offer ($75 for a $5 play) is NOT available to New York residents. Some contest types may have restrictions in New York due to state regulations. New York players must be 18 years or older. For gambling problem assistance in New York, call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369).

What are Rivals Pick’em contests?

Rivals Pick’em is a unique Underdog format where you pit two real-life players against each other and predict which one will perform better. For example, you might select Steph Curry to score more points than LeBron James in their respective games that day. This head-to-head player comparison format adds strategic depth beyond traditional higher/lower picks. You can combine multiple Rivals picks into a single entry for parlay-style payouts. It’s a creative twist on standard player propositions that makes fantasy sports more engaging.

What is the minimum deposit on Underdog?

The minimum deposit on Underdog is $10. This applies to all accepted payment methods including PayPal, debit cards, Trustly, and Apple Pay. Deposits process instantly in most cases, allowing you to start playing immediately after funding your account. There are no deposit fees charged by Underdog itself, though your payment provider (bank, credit card company, PayPal) may impose their own transaction fees.

Are prediction markets legal?

Underdog’s prediction markets are offered through Crypto.com Derivatives North America (CDNA), a CFTC-regulated exchange, making them federally legal financial instruments under commodity futures law. However, some state gambling regulators argue that sports-based prediction markets constitute sports betting and require state licenses. This regulatory conflict is ongoing. Underdog maintains that the contracts are compliant financial products, while states like Arizona have moved to restrict them. The legal landscape for sports prediction markets is still evolving as courts and regulators work through these questions.

Can I cash out early on Underdog prediction markets?

Yes, one of the key advantages of prediction markets is the ability to sell your position before the event concludes. If you purchased contracts at $0.50 and the market price moves to $0.75, you can sell immediately to lock in a $0.25 per contract profit without waiting for final settlement. This early cashout feature provides flexibility that traditional sports betting doesn’t offer—you’re not locked into your position until the game ends. You can also cut losses by selling if the market moves against you.

What is Champions mode on Underdog?

Champions is Underdog’s peer-to-peer game mode where you compete directly against other users rather than the house. You build a roster of 2-8 players who earn Champions Points based on their statistical performances. The user with the most Champions Points at tournament end wins. This format was introduced partly in response to regulatory concerns about Pick’em contests in certain states. By structuring it as player-versus-player competition, Champions can operate in some jurisdictions where traditional Pick’em is restricted. It offers a different strategic experience than standard DFS formats.