What Is It?
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) allows participants to build a roster of athletes while staying within a salary cap. Players earn fantasy points based on the real-world performance of those athletes, and contest outcomes are determined by total fantasy points scored.
How It Works
Salary Cap Contests
Participants build a lineup of athletes while staying under a predetermined budget. Each athlete is assigned a value based on factors such as expected performance.
Head-to-Head Contests
One participant competes directly against another participant. The higher fantasy score wins.
50/50 Contests
Participants compete in a larger group and approximately half of entrants receive a payout.
Tournaments (Guaranteed Prize Pools, or GPP)
Large contests with prize pools where a small percentage of participants receive larger payouts.
Single-Game Contests
Participants create a lineup using athletes from a single sporting event.
Understanding Contest Fees
DFS platforms generally earn revenue by retaining a portion of contest entry fees, often referred to as a “rake.” Contest prizes are paid from the remaining prize pool.
Safer Play Tips
Safer play encourages approaching Daily Fantasy Sports with realistic expectations, intentional choices, and a focus on enjoyment rather than results.
- Learn how scoring systems work before entering contests.
- Understand that player knowledge does not guarantee outcomes.
- Set a budget before entering contests.
- Focus on the enjoyment of building a lineup and following the games.
- Remember that even well-researched lineups can perform poorly.
When to Call a Time Out
You may want to take a break if:
- Contest fees are becoming difficult to afford.
- You’re entering more contests to recover previous losses.
- Fantasy play is affecting your mood or daily responsibilities.
- You’re spending money intended for other priorities.
- You feel pressure to enter every contest or slate.
Taking a Time Out
- Daily Fantasy Sports are not included in Vermont’s statewide sports betting self-exclusion program. Players interested in self-exclusion should contact their DFS operator directly.
- Many DFS operators offer spending controls and temporary account restrictions.
- Consider using digital blocking tools such as BetBlocker® or Gamban® to help limit access to gambling websites and apps during a break from play.
- Free and confidential support is available 24/7 through 1-800-GAMBLER or LiveChat at VTGamblingHelp.org.
Hope to win, expect to lose.
