Illinois Sports Betting Sites
The betting experts at MyBettingSites rank all the top betting sites and promos available in the Prairie State!
Best Sports Betting Sites in Illinois 2024
Betting Site | Sign Up Bonus | Pros & Cons | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 |
Get up to $1000 in No Sweat Bets |
Pros & Cons Exceptional FanCash Rewards Program Best book for Existing Customer Promos Top Tier Same Game Parlay Options NFL Live Streaming No Credit Cards Only available on mobile |
T&C Apply
Get up to $100 Back in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Loses for 10 Straight Days (Up to $1,000 Total) 21+. New customers in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KY/LA/MD/MA/ MI/NC/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC only. Different offer available in NY. Must opt-in and make a qualifying wager of $1+. One qualifying wager per day. Qualifying cash wager must have odds of -500 or greater. If the qualifying wager settles as a loss, receive a non-withdrawable Bonus Bet equal to your stake, up to a maximum of $100 per day. Bonus bets paid out within 72 hours of qualifying wager settlement. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. See full T&C at Fanatics Sportsbook. | ||||
#2 |
Bet $5, Win $150 in Bonus Bets + 3 Months of NBA League Pass |
Pros & Cons Daily Fantasy, Sportsbook, Casino and Horse Racing & more Best Parlay Betting in the US One of the most complete & user-friendly apps in the US In-App Live Streaming for NFL, MLB, NHL, & more Lacks a robust Loyalty Program Odds Boosts limited to $50 wagers |
T&C Apply
Place a $5 Wager and Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Wager Wins Plus 3 Months of NBA League Pass Win or Lose 21+. New customers only. Offer(s) available in AZ/CO/CT/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA/MD/MA /MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC. Minimum $10 first deposit required. A promotion code to access your three month subscription to NBA League Pass will be sent to your email within 72 hours of your eligible bet placement, regardless if your wager wins or lose. Promotion bonus and will be credited to your account within 72 hours of settlement of Qualifying Wager as a win. First online real money wager only (minimum $5). Bonuses issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. See full T&C at FanDuel. | ||||
#3 |
Get Up to $300 Instantly |
Pros & Cons Sportsbook, Casino, Daily Fantasy Sports & DK Horse Huge selection of betting markets Fantastic SGP and Microbetting options Tons of Odd Boosts and Daily Promos #1 App for Beginners Limited Live Streaming options No Support via Phone |
T&C Apply
Get up to $300 in Bonus Bets Instantly After Your First Real Money Wager of $5+ 21+. New customers only. Offer only available in IA/IL/LA/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/VT/WY. Alternative offer(s) available in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA/MD/MI/NC/NJ/ NY/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV/WY. Minimum $5 deposit required. Min. $5 bet to receive $150; $10+ to receive $200; or bet $50+ to receive max. $300 issued as multiple equal amount Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bonus Bets will be awarded instantly upon bet placement. One qualifying bet per customer. Bonus bets expire 7 days after being awarded. See full T&C at DraftKings. | ||||
#4 |
Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Bets |
Pros & Cons Top Site for Odds Boosts Exceptional Loyalty Rewards Program Superb Mobile & Desktop design NFL Live Streaming Live odds not as good as competitors |
T&C Apply
Get 10 100% Profit Boosts After Your First Real Money Wager of $1 21+ only. New customers only. Must use Promo Code BBDYW. AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA/ME/MA/MD/MI/NJ/NY/NC/OH/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY/DC only. Deposit required (min $10). Must place first real money Qualifying Wager (min $1) within 30 days. Receive ten 100% Profit Boosts to use on any market. Maximum wager for each profit boost is $25. Maximum additional winnings for each rewarded profit boost is $2,500. Profit Boosts expire 14 days after receipt. See full T&C at Caesars. |
Illinois Sports Betting
Illinois officially entered the world of legal sports betting on March 9, 2020, opening up exciting opportunities for wagering enthusiasts across the state.
To help Illinois bettors navigate the wide array of sportsbooks, our team of seasoned experts has crafted what we believe to be the ultimate guide to Illinois' top betting sites.
In this page we carefully review each platform, highlighting their unique features and benefits, to ensure you have all the information you need to make confident and informed decisions on where to place your bets.
How we rank Illinois Betting Sites
The MyBettingSites team boasts nearly two decades of experience in the online betting industry, combines professional insight with a passion for sports wagering. This experience allows us to provide an in-depth look at Illinois sportsbooks, so you can find the platform that best suits your betting style and preferences.
To ensure the highest quality recommendations, we’ve rigorously tested each Illinois sportsbook across six key categories:
- Bonuses & Promos
- Betting Variety & Odds
- Payment Options & Speed
- Mobile App
- Web Platform
- Customer Support
Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites
After performing our tests on all active betting sites in Illinois, our team has chosen the following 4 sportsbooks as the best Illinois has to offer.
Click on any of the betting sites below to dive into detailed mini-reviews of our top selections for Illinois sports bettors!
Top Betting Sites in Illinois
Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois
Top Rewards Program in Illinois
Fanatics Sportsbook made a bold entry into the sports betting market by acquiring PointsBet, merging its established betting platform with Fanatics’ iconic sports merchandise brand.
Branding itself as the "most rewarding sportsbook" in America, Fanatics Sportsbook is known for its great rotating stable of existing customer promos, as well as its sensational FanCash Rewards Program. Our #1 pick for the best loyalty program in the US, Fanatics allows players to accumulate FanCash with every bet they make, which can then be redeemed for bonus bets or official merchandise & collectibles from all their online stores.
With a user-friendly app, a wide variety of betting markets, and attractive features like Same Game Parlays and NFL live streaming, Fanatics has quickly gained traction as one of the top betting sites across the nation.
BONUSES & PROMOS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
BETTING VARIETY & ODDS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
MOBILE & WEB UX | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
PAYMENT OPTIONS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 8/10 |
BETTING FEATURES | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 8/10 |
CUSTOMER SUPPORT | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 8/10 |
SUMMARY | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 8/10 |
Get up to $100 Back in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Loses for 10 Straight Days (Up to $1,000 Total)
21+. New customers in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KY/LA/MD/MA/ MI/NC/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC only. Different offer available in NY.
Must opt-in and make a qualifying wager of $1+. One qualifying wager per day. Qualifying cash wager must have odds of -500 or greater. If the qualifying wager settles as a loss, receive a non-withdrawable Bonus Bet equal to your stake, up to a maximum of $100 per day. Bonus bets paid out within 72 hours of qualifying wager settlement. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance.
See full T&C at Fanatics Sportsbook.
FanDuel Sportsbook Illinois
Best Parlay Betting Site in Illinois
Building on its tremendous success in the Daily Fantasy Sports world, FanDuel has become a dominant force in Illinois' sports betting market. Its platform, available on both mobile and desktop, is one of the most complete betting sites in the US, catering to all types of bettors - from casual users to experienced players.
FanDuel Sportsbook offers some of the most robust betting markets for US sports, along with standout features such as Same Game Parlays, a top-tier live betting interface, and even free in-app live streaming for popular sports, including NFL, MLB, and NHL.
FanDuel’s ability to integrate sports betting, Racebook, and Daily Fantasy Sports into a single account makes it a particularly versatile choice for those seeking variety and the convenience of multiple types of betting within one platform.
BONUSES & PROMOS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
BETTING VARIETY & ODDS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
MOBILE & WEB UX | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
PAYMENT OPTIONS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
BETTING FEATURES | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
CUSTOMER SUPPORT | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
SUMMARY | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
Place a $5 Wager and Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Wager Wins Plus 3 Months of NBA League Pass Win or Lose
21+. New customers only. Offer(s) available in AZ/CO/CT/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA/MD/MA /MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC.
Minimum $10 first deposit required. A promotion code to access your three month subscription to NBA League Pass will be sent to your email within 72 hours of your eligible bet placement, regardless if your wager wins or lose. Promotion bonus and will be credited to your account within 72 hours of settlement of Qualifying Wager as a win. First online real money wager only (minimum $5). Bonuses issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days.
See full T&C at FanDuel.
DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois
Best NFL Betting Site
DraftKings Sportsbook is one of our top choices for bettors in Illinois, offering a comprehensive suite of features that few can compete with. With access to Sportsbook, Racebook, Daily Fantasy Sports, Pick 6, and even free-to-play pools all through one account, DraftKings gives bettors unparalleled possibilities.
Known for its sleek, user-friendly platform, DraftKings provides a vast selection of betting markets, along with exclusive features like Progressive Parlays, Cash Outs, and Flash Bets. Additionally, the platform boasts a strong offering of Same Game Parlay options, giving bettors more ways to customize their wagers.
Boasting fast payouts, helpful betting guides, and a generous range of Odds Boosts and daily promotions, DraftKings has cemented itself as a top-tier platform for those seeking an engaging, rewarding, and versatile sports betting experience in Illinois.
BONUSES & PROMOS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
BETTING VARIETY & ODDS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
MOBILE & WEB UX | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
PAYMENT OPTIONS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
BETTING FEATURES | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
CUSTOMER SUPPORT | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
SUMMARY | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
Get $200 in Bonus Bets After Your First Real Money $5 Wager
21+. 1 per new customer. Offer available in
AZ/CO/CT/DC/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA (select parishes only)/MA/MD/ME/MI/NC/NJ/ NY/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV/WY.
Min $5 deposit + Min $5 qualifying wager. Max bonus amount of $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout.
See full T&C at DraftKings.
Caesars Sportsbook Illinois
Best Site for Odds Boosts
Caesars Sportsbook, a household name in the U.S. betting scene, has successfully transitioned from its legendary retail presence into one of the most respected online platforms in Illinois.
Known for delivering competitive odds across a broad range of sports markets, Caesars has become a go-to sportsbook for Illinois bettors looking for great value and diverse betting options - especially thanks to their robust selection of daily Odds Boosts.
But it doesn’t stop there—Caesars offers one of the best bonus packages in the industry, from their superb welcome bonus, to their ongoing promos, and finally their crown jewel: The Caesars Rewards Program. Every bet you place at Caesars will award you with Reward Credits, which can then be redeemed for bonuses or a variety of perks on Caesars properties nationwide - including hotel stays, dining, and event tickets, and more.
BONUSES & PROMOS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
BETTING VARIETY & ODDS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
MOBILE & WEB UX | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
PAYMENT OPTIONS | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
BETTING FEATURES | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
CUSTOMER SUPPORT | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
SUMMARY | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 9/10 |
Get 10 100% Profit Boosts After Your First Real Money Wager of $1
21+ only. New customers only. Must use Promo Code BBDYW.
AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA/ME/MA/MD/MI/NJ/NY/NC/OH/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY/DC only.
Deposit required (min $10). Must place first real money Qualifying Wager (min $1) within 30 days. Receive ten 100% Profit Boosts to use on any market. Maximum wager for each profit boost is $25. Maximum additional winnings for each rewarded profit boost is $2,500. Profit Boosts expire 14 days after receipt.
See full T&C at Caesars.
List of All Illinois Sports Betting Sites
While Illinois offers up to 26 licenses for online sports betting operators, there are currently only 9 betting sites operational in the Land of Lincoln:
- Fanatics Sportsbook - Best Recurring Promos & Rewards Program
- FanDuel Sportsbook - #1 Site for Parlay Betting
- DraftKings Sportsbook - Best Betting Site for Beginners
- Caesars Sportsbook - Top Site for Odds Boosts
- BetMGM - Great Parlay Betting
- BetRivers - NHL & MLB live streaming
- Hard Rock Bet - Great Flexible Parlay feature
- ESPN BET - Underwhelming effort from ESPN
- Circa Sports - No welcome offer
Illinois Sports Betting Promos
If you're looking for the best betting offers in Illinois, you've come to the right place!
Our team consists of avid bonus hunters that are constantly looking for the latest and greatest betting offers around the country, and we have gathered all the best promos offered by legal betting sites in Illinois in one place!
Illinois Welcome Bonuses
Betting Site | Sign Up Bonus | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 |
Get up to $1000 in No Sweat Bets |
T&C Apply
Get up to $100 Back in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Loses for 10 Straight Days (Up to $1,000 Total) 21+. New customers in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KY/LA/MD/MA/ MI/NC/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC only. Different offer available in NY. Must opt-in and make a qualifying wager of $1+. One qualifying wager per day. Qualifying cash wager must have odds of -500 or greater. If the qualifying wager settles as a loss, receive a non-withdrawable Bonus Bet equal to your stake, up to a maximum of $100 per day. Bonus bets paid out within 72 hours of qualifying wager settlement. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. See full T&C at Fanatics Sportsbook. | |||
#2 |
Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Bets |
T&C Apply
Get 10 100% Profit Boosts After Your First Real Money Wager of $1 21+ only. New customers only. Must use Promo Code BBDYW. AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA/ME/MA/MD/MI/NJ/NY/NC/OH/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY/DC only. Deposit required (min $10). Must place first real money Qualifying Wager (min $1) within 30 days. Receive ten 100% Profit Boosts to use on any market. Maximum wager for each profit boost is $25. Maximum additional winnings for each rewarded profit boost is $2,500. Profit Boosts expire 14 days after receipt. See full T&C at Caesars. | |||
#3 |
Bet $5, Win $150 in Bonus Bets + 3 Months of NBA League Pass |
T&C Apply
Place a $5 Wager and Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Wager Wins Plus 3 Months of NBA League Pass Win or Lose 21+. New customers only. Offer(s) available in AZ/CO/CT/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA/MD/MA /MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN/VT/VA/WV/WY/DC. Minimum $10 first deposit required. A promotion code to access your three month subscription to NBA League Pass will be sent to your email within 72 hours of your eligible bet placement, regardless if your wager wins or lose. Promotion bonus and will be credited to your account within 72 hours of settlement of Qualifying Wager as a win. First online real money wager only (minimum $5). Bonuses issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. See full T&C at FanDuel. | |||
#4 |
Get Up to $300 Instantly |
T&C Apply
Get up to $300 in Bonus Bets Instantly After Your First Real Money Wager of $5+ 21+. New customers only. Offer only available in IA/IL/LA/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/VT/WY. Alternative offer(s) available in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA/MD/MI/NC/NJ/ NY/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV/WY. Minimum $5 deposit required. Min. $5 bet to receive $150; $10+ to receive $200; or bet $50+ to receive max. $300 issued as multiple equal amount Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bonus Bets will be awarded instantly upon bet placement. One qualifying bet per customer. Bonus bets expire 7 days after being awarded. See full T&C at DraftKings. |
Betting Promos for Existing Customers in Illinois
While sign-up bonuses might be what attracts you to a betting site initially, experienced players know that long-term value comes from the ongoing promotions sportsbooks offer to their loyal customers.
Bettors in Illinois can access a range of recurring promotions like odds boosts, no sweat bets, and free contests. Additionally, sportsbooks frequently run seasonal or event-specific promotions, whether for March Madness, the Super Bowl, or local favorites like the Chicago Bulls or Bears.
These promotions allow you to maximize your potential returns or reduce risk, adding long-term value that far surpasses the allure of a one-time welcome bonus.
Types of Existing Customer Betting Promos in Illinois
Bet BoostsA favorite among US bettors, Boosts enhance your profits on selected lines or increase the odds for specific bet types like Parlays. Look for Profit Boosts, Odd Boosts, and Parlay Boosts to increase the payouts on your bets. | Best Odds Boosts: |
'Bet & Get' PromosPlace bets on chosen markets or events and get rewarded with a bonus bet once your wager settles. Example: Bet $25 on a Detroit Lions game this weekend and get a $10 bonus bet. | Best 'Bet & Get' Promos: |
Bet InsurancePlace bets on selected events and get your stake back as bonus credit if your bet loses. Similarly, Parlay Insurance allows one leg of your parlay to fail, yet still return your bet amount. | Best Bet Insurance Promos: |
Free ContestsJoin various free handicapping contests for a chance at big prizes, including Daily Free Pools, Football Squares, Pick 'em Tournaments, and more. Example: DraftKings' Free '$30K The Football Survivor' Pool. | Best Free Betting Contests: |
Event PromosIllinois sports betting sites often offer attractive promos and free contests for special events. Examples: Super Bowl Bonuses, March Madness Pools, World Series Promos, etc. | Best Event Promos: |
Sportsbook Rewards ProgramsEarn Loyalty points with each bet you place and redeem them for thrilling bonuses and prizes. As you accumulate more points, you ascend through Reward program tiers to unlock larger rewards & prizes. | Best Rewards Program: |
Refer a friendInvite your friends to join the excitement of betting and reap great rewards. Ex. Refer a Friend Get $100, or Get $75, Give $75 (you split the referral amount with your friend) | Best Refer-a-Friend:
|
Click on any logo above to check out their current promos!
Illinois Sports Betting Apps
Mobile betting apps have become the go-to platform for Illinois sports bettors looking for convenience and flexibility. Boasting user-friendly interfaces, combined with fast load times and smooth navigation, betting apps can offer a seamless experience from the moment bets are placed to when they’re cashed out.
With features like live betting, cash-out options, and in-depth game stats readily available, betting apps make it easier than ever for you to engage with your favorite sports in real-time. Illinois bettors can also enjoy free in-app live streaming on most apps, allowing you to watch the games you have money riding on.
To help bettors make the most informed decision, our team has conducted in-depth tests of all the top Illinois betting apps. We've looked at critical factors such as app speed, features, ease of use, and overall design. Based on our comprehensive evaluations, we’ve curated a list of the best mobile betting apps available in Illinois.
Top Illinois Betting Apps
- Most complete betting app
- Top app for Same Game Parlays
- Superb Live Betting experience
- NFL, MLB & NHL Live Streaming
Aspect | App Store | Google Play |
---|---|---|
Ratings | 4.8/5 (Out of 1.2M Reviews) | 4.7/5 (Out of 246k Reviews) |
File Size | 127.7 MB | Not specified |
Software Requirement | iOS 14.0 or later | Android 5.0 and up |
Languages | English | |
Age Restriction | 18+ (To Download), 21+ (To Play) | |
App Support | Available In-App |
- #1 app for new bettors
- Tons of NFL betting options (including free pools and Pick 6)
- Odd Boosts & SGPs on all major sports
- Great existing customer promos
Aspect | App Store | Google Play |
---|---|---|
Ratings | 4.8/5 (Out of 605.7K Reviews) | 4.6/5 (Out of 112K Reviews) |
File Size | 382.2 MB | Not specified |
Software Requirement | iOS 16.0 or later | Android 5.0 and up |
Languages | English | |
Age Restriction | 18+ (To Download), 21+ (To Play) | |
App Support | support@draftkings.com |
- Top new betting app in America
- Curated feed highlights top events and popular bets
- Earn FanCash & exchange for bonuses or merch
- Top Same Game Parlay selection
Aspect | App Store | Google Play |
---|---|---|
Ratings | 4.7/5 (Out of 10.5K Reviews) | 4.1/5 (Out of 1.22K Reviews) |
File Size | 295.4 MB | Not specified |
Software Requirement | iOS 15.0 or later | Android 6.0 and up |
Languages | English | |
Age Restriction | 18+ (To Download), 21+ (To Play) | |
App Support | support@betfanatics.com |
- Best app for Odds Boosts
- Smooth, intuitive interface with sleek design
- NFL Live streaming
- Great Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program
Aspect | App Store | Google Play |
---|---|---|
Ratings | 4.6/5 (Out of 47.8k Reviews) | 4.3/5 (Out of 22.2k Reviews) |
File Size | 184.4 MB | Not specified |
Software Requirement | iOS 15.0 or later | Android 7.0 and up |
Languages | English | |
Age Restriction | 18+ (To Download), 21+ (To Play) | |
App Support | support@caesarssportsbook.com |
Best Betting Apps in Illinois - Ranking Factors
Our team has conducted a thorough analysis of the best mobile betting apps available in Illinois, examining key aspects to help bettors make informed decisions:
- User Experience (UX): We assess how intuitive and visually appealing each app is, focusing on the overall design and how easy it is to navigate.
- Functionality: We evaluate the smoothness and effectiveness of core features like live betting and cash-out options.
- Responsiveness: We review how quickly each app updates odds, processes bets, and reacts to user inputs during fast-moving games.
- Security: Protecting users' personal and financial data is a top priority. We carefully review each app’s encryption technologies and security protocols to ensure that they are safeguarding your information and complying with industry standards.
- App Features: We delve into the unique offerings of each app, such as live streaming, parlay builders, variety of payment methods, stats hub, and more.
With these insights, our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what each mobile betting app in Illinois has to offer, what kind of bettor it suits best, and highlight any potential areas for improvement to ensure a top-notch experience.
Illinois Betting Payment Methods
If you're just getting started with sports betting in Illinois, you'll find that the state’s top betting sites offer a variety of secure and convenient payment options to make both depositing and withdrawing funds hassle-free.
Whether you’re adding funds to your account or ready to cash out your winnings, Illinois sportsbooks provide both traditional methods like credit/debit cards and bank transfers, as well modern digital options such as Instant Banking, PayPal, and other e-wallets. Additionally, you can make cash deposits at participating retail locations.
Top Illinois Betting Sites for Payment Methods
Illinois Legal Sports Betting
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) is tasked with overseeing all sports betting activities in the state.
The IGB monitors both retail sportsbooks and online platforms, making sure they comply with comprehensive rules aimed at protecting bettors and upholding the integrity of the sports betting industry. This includes performing audits, preventing fraud, and ensuring all operators follow legal age restrictions, requiring bettors to be 21 years or older.
With these regulations in place, Illinois bettors can confidently engage with licensed sportsbooks, knowing their bets are safeguarded by state law. Additionally, in the event of any disputes or concerns, the IGB provides formal channels for resolving issues, giving bettors peace of mind that their interests are protected.
Legalization of Sports Betting in IL
The road to legalizing sports betting in Illinois began with the passage of the Illinois Sports Wagering Act on June 28, 2019, signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker. This landmark legislation followed the 2018 Supreme Court decision that overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing individual states to regulate sports betting.
Illinois officially launched legal sports betting on March 9, 2020, with the first wager placed at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. This move came as part of a broader gambling expansion in the state, aimed at generating tax revenue, particularly to fund infrastructure projects.
The legalization process was driven by the need to compete with neighboring states and capitalize on the growing sports betting industry, which had been operating in the black market for decades. The Illinois law allowed betting on a wide range of sports, but initially required in-person registration for online betting accounts. This requirement was lifted in March 2022, allowing for remote registration, making it easier for bettors to access online platforms.
Today, Illinois offers numerous sports betting options, both online and at retail locations, with a tax rate of 15% on gross revenue from licensed sportsbooks, which has contributed significantly to state revenues.
Illinois Sports Betting Quick Facts
🚀 IL Betting Sites Launch Date | March 9, 2020 |
🆔 Legal Betting Age | 21+ |
⚖️ Illinois Regulator | Illinois Gaming Board |
🌐 # of Betting Sites | 9+ |
📱 Mobile Sports Betting | Yes ✅ |
📝 Remote Registration | Yes ✅ |
🎰 Retail Sportsbooks | Yes ✅ |
🎲 Retail Casinos | Yes ✅ |
🏈 Betting on College Sports | Yes, but no in-play bets on in-state teams ❌ |
💻 Online Casinos | No ❌ |
🎮 Betting on Esports | No ❌ |
♠️ Online Poker | No ❌ |
💵 Total Handle (2023) | $11.6 billion |
🧾 Illinois Tax Rate | 15% on adjusted gross revenue |
💰 Tax Revenue (2023) | $150 million+ |
Illinois Sports Teams
National Football League (NFL):
- 🏈 Chicago Bears
National Basketball Association (NBA):
- 🏀 Chicago Bulls
National Hockey League (NHL):
- 🏒 Chicago Blackhawks
Major League Baseball (MLB):
- ⚾ Chicago Cubs
- ⚾ Chicago White Sox
Major League Soccer (MLS):
- ⚽ Chicago Fire FC
College Football (NCAA - FBS):
- 🏈 Illinois Fighting Illini
- 🏈 Northwestern Wildcats
College Basketball (NCAA):
- 🏀 Illinois Fighting Illini
- 🏀 Northwestern Wildcats
- 🏀 DePaul Blue Demons
- 🏀 Loyola Chicago Ramblers
- 🏀 Southern Illinois Salukis
- 🏀 Northern Illinois Huskies
Illinois Betting Site Restrictions
- Illinois Legal Betting Age
In Illinois, the legal age for sports betting is 21 years or older. This applies to all forms of sports gambling, including betting at retail sportsbooks, online platforms, and mobile apps. This regulation is strictly enforced across all licensed sportsbooks in the state.
- Geolocation
To legally place a bet in Illinois, you must be physically located within state boundaries. While you can register and deposit funds from anywhere, actual bets must be placed within Illinois.
Licensed betting sites in the state use geolocation technology to confirm that users are in Illinois when placing wagers. Therefore, you will want to make sure to turn on your device's location services to ensure a seamless betting experience.
- College Sports Betting in Illinois
Betting on college sports is legal in Illinois, but with some restrictions.
While you are allowed to bet on out-of-state college teams online, you will only be able to wager on Illinois college teams like the Illinois Fighting Illini and Northwestern Wildcats at retail locations, as betting on Illinois college teams is prohibited online.
- High School Sports Betting in Illinois
Similar to most other states, betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited in Illinois. This measure ensures the integrity of amateur competitions and protects underage athletes from any potential harm related to gambling.
- Illinois Politics Betting
Betting on political outcomes, such as elections, is not permitted in Illinois.
Like in most U.S. states with legal sports betting, Illinois limits its regulated market to athletic competitions, keeping political events outside the scope of legal betting options.
- Illinois Entertainment Betting
Betting on entertainment events, such as award shows or reality TV, is currently not allowed under Illinois sports betting laws. The state's sports betting legislation is focused exclusively on sports events and competitions.
- Illinois eSports Betting
While many states are beginning to embrace eSports betting, Illinois currently does not allow wagering on eSports.
Despite the growing popularity of competitive gaming tournaments like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Call of Duty, Illinois’ sports betting legislation has yet to include eSports as an approved market.
Legal Illinois Sports Betting Sites vs. Offshore Sites
Before sports betting became legal in Illinois, sports enthusiasts faced limited and unreliable options for placing wagers. Many turned to offshore sportsbooks that operated outside U.S. regulations. These platforms, lacking consumer protections and accountability, posed significant risks to bettors, including a lack of legal recourse in the event of disputes.
This landscape shifted in June 2020, when Illinois officially launched legal sports betting through online sportsbooks, giving Illinois residents access to trusted, licensed platforms for betting on professional and collegiate sports.
With the Illinois Gaming Board overseeing all operations, bettors now enjoy enhanced safeguards like consumer protection, financial security, and a regulated market that ensures fair play.
Category | Legal Illinois Sportsbooks | Offshore Sportsbooks |
---|---|---|
Legality | ✅ Fully licensed and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board. | ❌ Operate outside U.S. legal frameworks and regulations. |
Consumer Protections | ✅ Provide robust protections with established mechanisms for dispute resolution. | ❌ Offer minimal consumer protections, making dispute resolution difficult. |
Oversight & Regulation | ✅ Subject to stringent oversight by state authorities to ensure fair play and ethical practices. | ❌ Lack regulatory oversight from U.S. authorities, leading to questionable accountability. |
Safety & Security | ✅ Employ advanced security protocols to safeguard financial and personal information. | ❌ Can lack adequate security measures, posing a higher risk of data breaches. |
Payouts | ✅ Ensure consistent and timely payouts via trusted and regulated payment methods. | ❌ Payouts are not guaranteed; payment options are not well known. |
Economic Impact | ✅ Contribute to Illinois' economy through taxes and local job creation. | ❌ Do not support the local economy, as profits are directed offshore. |
User Experience | ✅ Offer high-quality apps available on official app stores | ❌ Apps are typically unavailable on official stores and lack features like live streaming |
In Illinois, sports betting is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), which ensures that all licensed sportsbooks comply with strict legal guidelines. These regulations are designed to protect consumers, promote fairness, and maintain the integrity of the state’s sports betting industry.
The IGB actively monitors operators to ensure they are following rules, such as protecting user data, ensuring financial transparency, and providing proper dispute resolution channels. If any issues arise, like payout disputes or account management concerns, bettors can rely on the Illinois Gaming Board to intervene and help resolve them fairly.
While offshore sportsbooks may offer tempting bonuses or odds, they operate outside of U.S. regulatory frameworks, leaving bettors unprotected. At MyBettingSites, we've learned from experience that it's crucial to choose licensed operators who are fully compliant with state laws. Betting through reputable sportsbooks gives you peace of mind, knowing that your money and personal information are safeguarded.
Responsible Gambling in Illinois
Illinois takes responsible gambling seriously, with numerous programs and initiatives aimed at helping those affected by problem gambling. The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), alongside the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), leads these efforts through prevention, treatment, and education programs designed to reduce gambling-related harm.
A significant portion of the state’s commitment is reflected in the $10 million annual funding that is allocated to support treatment, prevention, and education initiatives related to gambling addiction
One of the primary resources available to Illinois residents is the Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), which provides round-the-clock support for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues. This confidential service offers immediate assistance and referrals to professional counseling services for those in need. The state also offers a Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program, allowing individuals to self-ban from all licensed casinos and sports betting platforms in Illinois.
Beyond self-exclusion, Illinois provides access to counseling and treatment services through IDHS. These services include individual therapy, group sessions, and family support programs, ensuring that not only those affected by gambling addiction but also their loved ones can receive the care they need. Treatment options are designed to be either low-cost or free, depending on the individual's financial situation, ensuring that help is accessible to everyone.
Problems with Gambling in IL?
Sports betting can certainly enhance the excitement of watching your favorite teams, but it's crucial to keep your betting activities fun and manageable. In Illinois, there is a strong commitment to promoting responsible gambling and offering support to those who may need it.
It's important to always bet within your financial means and never wager money that you cannot afford to lose. Gambling should be treated as a form of entertainment, not a way to address financial stress or create additional burdens.
If you ever feel that your gambling habits are becoming problematic, Illinois provides confidential assistance available 24/7. You can access support through various methods, including phone calls, text, or online chat, with licensed professionals trained to help. Services are available through the Problem Gambling Helpline and other local resources.
Being aware of the signs of problem gambling is key. These signs include chasing losses, betting more than you initially planned, or feeling anxious about your gambling activities. Illinois encourages anyone struggling to keep their betting habits in check to seek help early and make use of the available resources.
Where to Get Help:
- Illinois Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Illinois Sports Betting FAQ
Yes, sports betting has been legal in Illinois since March 9, 2020. This came after the Illinois legislature passed the Illinois Sports Wagering Act in June 2019.
Bettors aged 21 or older can place wagers both in-person at retail sportsbooks and online betting sites licensed across the state.
No, bet365 is not currently legal in Illinois.
While bet365 has been expanding considerably in the US during the past year, Illinois has not yet granted them a license to operate in the Prairie State.
Yes, not only is FanDuel Sportsbook fully legal and available in Illinois, but it is one of the most popular sportsbooks in the state.
Offering features like Same Game Parlays, live betting, and live streaming of NFL, MLB & NHL games, FanDuel has established itself as one of the market leaders among Illinois bettors.
Yes, online sports betting has been legal in Illinois since June 2020.
Bettors can wager on a wide variety of sports using desktop or mobile betting apps, as long as they are physically located within the state.
In Illinois, the legal age for sports betting is 21 years old. This applies to both online and retail sports betting.
Licensed sportsbooks must follow age verification procedures to ensure compliance with state laws, meaning you will probably be asked to proof of age before you can place any real-money wagers.
While the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has approved a maximum of 26 betting licenses, at the time of writing, only 9 online betting sites are open for business in Illinois:
- BetMGM
- BetRivers
- Caesars Sportsbook
- Circa Sports
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- ESPN BET
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- Hard Rock Bet
Illinois Sport Betting Sites - Recap
Did you catch all that?
If you'd like to revisit any of the sections in this guide to make sure you choose the best sportsbook for your needs, just click on any of the following topics:
↳ Top Illinois Sports Betting Sites
↳ Illinois Betting Offers
↳ Illinois Sports Betting Apps
↳ Illinois Legal Sports Betting
↳ Responsible Gambling Illinois
↳ Illinois Betting FAQs