Best Illinois Sportsbooks | Guide to Illinois Sports Betting 2024
Looking for the best in Illinois sports betting? Check out this detailed guide and find great deals and the top sportsbooks in Illinois. Bettors can now sign up with selected operators and place bets wherever they are in The Prairie State.
Sports betting in Illinois, regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, is legal for those 21 and over. Illinois sports bettors have access to seven online sportsbooks and 11 retail sportsbooks. The Illinois sports betting market opened for online registration in March 2022. Betting is permitted on professional, collegiate, and international sports, but restrictions apply for IL collegiate teams online. Geolocation ensures betting occurs within Illinois state lines.
Latest Offers at Illinois Sportsbooks
- 1
Established 2013Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.Only US Sportsbook with NFL StreamingFire Bets - High value bets with enhanced odds or special offersCustom Bet Requests - Create personalized bets directly in the appGAMBLINGDYWPromo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available14Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesiOS AppYesPowered by Caesars Entertainment, the sportsbook features exclusive Profit Boost Tokens, live NFL streaming, custom parlay options, early cash-out, and personalized bets, all while earning Caesars Rewards on every wager. - 2
Established 2018Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI). Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico. - 3
Established 202221+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, or WY only. Must apply this promotion in your bet slip and place a $1+ cash wager with odds of - 500 or longer each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you establish your account. Wager must settle as a loss to qualify for Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets will equal the amount of the losing wager(s) (up to $100 in Bonus Bets per day) and expire 7 days from issuance. This offer is not available in New York. Terms apply- see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700, CT (888) 789-7777, IA 1-800-BETS-OFF, MA 1-800-327-5050, VA 1-888-532-3500 - 4
Established 201221+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in IA/KS/KY/LA/MD/MI/NJ/NY/TN/VA/VT/ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: dkng.co/bball. Ends 1/5/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DraftKings. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). - 5
Established 2009Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
The Best Online Sports betting sites and Apps in Illinois Compared
There are seven top online sportsbooks available in IL, each providing benefits for players that sign up. Our experts have selected the 5 best Illinois sportsbooks and compared them across a variety of categories using our fair and unbiased review process.
Overall Comparison of the Top Sportsbooks in Illinois
1. ESPN BET Sportsbook Illinois
- 🏆 Best For: Wide Sports Coverage
- 📱 Mobile App: Rated 4.7/5 on iOS and 4.4/5 on Android
ESPN BET Illinois is one of the new bookmakers for bettors in the state. As a rebrand of Barstool, it's now available different states, including Illinois. ESPN BET app ensures a secure betting environment with state-of-the-art encryption and promotes responsible gambling with features like self-exclusion and deposit limits.
2. BetMGM Sportsbook Illinois
- 🏆 Best For: MGM Rewards at MGM Resorts
- 📱 Mobile App: Rated 4.8/5 on iOS and Android, providing a seamless betting experience with excellent mobile functionality and live streaming features.
Part of MGM Resorts International, BetMGM Sportsbook quickly rose to prominence among US legal operators since its launch in 2018. With a strong presence across multiple states, BetMGM offers a unique user experience and a wide range of betting markets.
3. Caesars Sportsbook Illinois
- 🏆 Best For: Exclusive NFL Streaming
- 📱Mobile App: Rated 4.6/5 on iOS and 4.2/5 on Android, offering an intuitive interface, competitive odds, and a seamless betting experience.
Caesars Illinois offers an array of exceptional features and diverse betting markets. With the option to download the Caesars Sportsbook app or sign up online, you can enjoy a substantial welcome bonus, ongoing promos and a rewarding loyalty program.
4. DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois
- 🏆 Best For: MLB Live Streaming
- 📱Mobile App on: 4.9 on Android
DraftKings, famous for their daily fantasy sports site, has expanded into the sports betting market in multiple regulated US states. In August 2020, DraftKings Illinois went live, featuring one of the most generous welcome bonuses. Although you do not need a Draftkings Promo Code Illinois, you can still benefit from their welcome bonus.
Not only can you enjoy sports betting, but you can also utilize your funds for daily fantasy contests in various US sports. Experience the best of both worlds with DraftKings Illinois, combining sports betting and fantasy sports in one platform.
5. FanDuel Sportsbook Illinois
- 🏆 Best For: 'Operator of the Year' 2021
- 📱Mobile App on: iOS 4.8/5 and Android 4.7/5 - Competitive odds
FanDuel, a prominent daily fantasy sports provider, has established itself as a top player in the legal online sports betting arena, including both IL and various other US states. Notably, FanDuel Illinois Sportsbook stands out with its no sweat betting offer.
6. BetRivers Illinois Sportsbook
- 🏆 Best For: Same Game Parlays to get Bonus Bets
- 📱 Mobile App on: Android and iOSAndroid and iOS
Operated under the Rush Street Interactive umbrella, it proudly collaborates with Rivers Casino Des Plaines. With the impressive Kambi platform, BetRivers offers a wide range of betting options on major US sports.
Why Sign Up For Multiple IL Sports Betting Sites?
By registering with multiple IL betting sites, you get the ideal combination for your needs. Each platform offers its own features, allowing you to explore and wager on a diverse range of options. Whether you prefer traditional bets like moneyline or specialized wagers like props, having multiple accounts expands your betting horizons.
📈 Get the best odds
One of the significant advantages of signing up for multiple Illinois sports betting sites is the ability to compare and secure the most competitive odds. Each platform sets its own odds, and they can vary from site to site.
By having multiple accounts, you can easily compare the odds offered for a particular event and choose the platform that provides the most favorable payouts. This allows you to optimize your potential winnings.
🎁 Get all the promos
When you register with the best Illinois sports betting sites, you can take full advantage of the promotions and bonuses offered by each platform. Sportsbooks often provide exciting sign-up bonuses, bonus bets and ongoing promotions to attract and reward their Illinois customers. By diversifying your accounts, you can access a wider range of promotional offers.
🎯 Get a bigger selection of bet types
When you sign up for multiple sports betting sites, you will have a larger selection of bet types. Each platform offers its own unique range of wagering options. Exploring different platforms allows you to embrace a wider variety of betting opportunities, adding excitement and potential profitability to your sports betting endeavors.
🔄 Try different brands to see which suits you most
By trying out various brands when wagering on sports in Illinois, you can assess factors such as ease of use, customer support quality, available payment options, and overall satisfaction. This allows you to find the platform that best suits your preferences, ensuring an optimal betting experience tailored to your needs.
📝 Different rules cater for different situations
Illinois betting sites can have distinct rules and regulations. Factors such as bet settlement, wagering requirements, cash-out options, and bonus terms can be impacted by these regulations. By registering on multiple sites, you gain the flexibility to select the platform that best matches your individual needs and preferences.
This allows you to find the ideal betting site that suits your requirements and offers the features and conditions that align with your expectations.
The Illinois Sports Betting Landscape
Sports betting has been legal in Illinois since Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 690 in 2019. Over this time, IL has developed into one of the biggest sports betting markets in the country.
Sports gambling in Illinois is seasonal, with the two most significant events being March Madness and the NFL season. As with most other states, the IL market is led by DraftKings and FanDuel. These two sportsbooks account for almost 70% of bets in Illinois, followed by BetRivers, Caesars, and PointsBet Illinois.
Online Sports Betting Culture in Illinois
Illinois is the sixth most populated state in the US and is represented by a Chicago team in every major sports league. The fact that all five major league teams have won a championship in the past 40 years further fuels the desire for more success and championships. Chicago sports will forever be synonymous with Michael Jordan and the Bulls, but the Bears, Blackhawks, White Sox, and Cubs also receive massive support. IL natives love to back their Illinois professional sports teams, and it’s no surprise that Illinois is one of the biggest sports betting markets in the US.
The Benefits of Choosing Legal Sportsbooks
It is essential to choose legal sportsbooks in Illinois to guarantee a safe and secure betting experience. These regulated platforms offer numerous advantages compared to unlicensed or offshore operators.
- Consumer Protection: Firstly, legal IL sportsbooks prioritize consumer protection by following strict regulations, ensuring transparency and fair play.
- Reliable Payouts: Moreover, they provide reliable payouts, alleviating concerns about withheld winnings. Legal sportsbooks also offer robust customer support.
- Robust Customer Support: Furthermore, they contribute to maintaining the integrity of sports by detecting and preventing illegal activities such as match-fixing.
- Sports Integrity: By opting for legal Illinois sportsbooks, bettors can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their funds are secure and their wagers are placed within a regulated environment.
Which Sportsbooks Partner with Professional Teams?
Illinois is home to five major league sports teams based in the Chicago area. With betting legal in Illinois, each team has an official betting partner.
- Chicago White Sox - Caesars Sportsbook
- Chicago Bears - BetRivers
- Chicago Cubs - DraftKings
- Chicago Blackhawks - DraftKings
- Chicago Bulls - Betway (is not licensed to operate in Illinois)
Exploring Illinois Sportsbook Apps on Mobile
Mobile sportsbook apps provide convenient, on-the-go betting with user-friendly interfaces, live updates, and secure payments for Illinois bettors. Bet anytime, anywhere from your smartphone for a seamless betting experience. Enjoy flexibility and accessibility at your fingertips with mobile sportsbook apps.
Guide to Downloading Illinois Betting Apps on Android
- Visit the App Store or download directly from the sportsbook (APK).
- Check if the operator has an Illinois-specific app or only offers generic apps.
- Click on the INSTALL button to download the sports betting app.
- Agree to the app's terms and conditions.
- Tap the icon on your smartphone's homepage to open the app.
- Register for an account through your mobile browser or the app itself.
- Complete the registration form and create a username and password.
- Log in using your credentials.
- Upload any necessary supporting documents if required by the sportsbook.
Ensure you have the latest version of Android installed on your device. The required Android version for the sportsbook app can be found on its Store page. Stay up to date to increase compatibility and optimal performance when using the sportsbook app.
Downloading the Best Illinois Sportsbook Apps on iOS
When using the latest Apple smartphones, you can easily place sports wagers by visiting the App Store and downloading your preferred betting apps, provided your device operates on the correct OS version. Most sportsbooks typically require iOS 13.0, so it's important to verify the compatibility with your iPhone or iPad before proceeding. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the iOS App Store and search for the specific mobile sports betting app.
- Confirm whether the operator offers an IL-specific app or generic versions.
- Tap the INSTALL button to initiate the download of the mobile sports betting app.
- Agree to the app's terms and conditions.
- Access the app by tapping its icon on your smartphone's homepage.
- Complete the registration form, providing the necessary information, and create a username and password.
- Log in using your credentials.
- If required, upload any supporting documents as requested by the sportsbook.
Benefits & Downfalls of Illinois Sportsbook Apps vs Desktop
Pros & Cons
- Enhanced usability and accessibility for convenient betting on the go.
- Access to a greater variety of betting bonuses and promotions.
- Easy and convenient mobile payments for seamless transactions.
- Enjoy sports streaming wherever you are, providing on-the-go entertainment.
- Flexibility to use WiFi or mobile data for uninterrupted betting experiences.
- You'll need storage space on your phone
- Smaller screen than desktop or TV
- GPS or geolocation issues may arise
IL Promotions and Sign-Up Bonuses
In sports betting, promotions and sign-up bonuses are essential. They provide attractive incentives for new IL users and can significantly boost your initial bankroll. Illinois sports betting promos include a variety of bonuses, including deposit matches and bonus bets.
Returning members can also enjoy the advantages of ongoing bonuses, such as loyalty rewards, reload bonuses, and exclusive promotions for special events. You can take advantage of these offers to maximize your betting experience.
Reload Bonuses
Residents of Illinois have the chance to take advantage of reload bonuses that allow them to increase the funds in their betting accounts. As an example, an Illinois sportsbook might provide a reload bonus of 50%, capped at $100, for the second deposit made by users. As a result, if Illinois bettors deposit $200, they would be awarded an additional $100 in bonus funds.
Bonus Bets
In Illinois, users can receive Bonus bets as part of promotional deals or welcome offers. As an illustration, when new users register with a sportsbook, they may be granted a $20 bonus bet. This bonus bet allows users from Illinois to place a wager without using their own funds. In the event of a win, users receive the winnings, excluding the initial stake.
Enhanced Odds
Enhanced odds promotions provide improved betting odds for specific events or outcomes. For instance, a sportsbook might offer enhanced odds of +300 for the Chicago Bulls to win a basketball game, whereas the regular odds are +200. This presents an opportunity for users to potentially win higher payouts if the Bulls emerge victorious in the game.
Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs are designed to motivate and acknowledge Illinois users for their consistent betting engagement. Through placing bets, users accumulate loyalty points that can be exchanged for a range of rewards, including bonus bets, merchandise, and exclusive promotions. These loyalty points serve as a valuable currency, allowing users to access exciting benefits and enhance their overall betting experience. As users continue to bet, their loyalty level increases, unlocking more enticing rewards as they advance through the program.
Refer-a-Friend Bonuses
Refer-a-Friend bonuses in Illinois and other states serve as incentives for users to encourage their friends to join a sportsbook. When a referred friend from Illinois signs up and meets specific criteria, such as making a deposit or placing bets, the user who referred them receives a bonus as a reward for their successful referral. This bonus can take the form of bonus funds, adding extra value for both the referrer and the referred friend.
Event Bonuses
Event bonuses are exclusive promotions directly linked to specific sporting events or special occasions. For instance, in Illinois, a sportsbook might present a special bonus, wherein users who bet on the Chicago Cubs during a particular event receive additional perks. These bonuses can include extra bonus bets or enhanced odds on related markets, heightening the excitement and value of major sporting events in IL.
How to Claim Illinois Online Sports Betting Bonuses
- Register an account on a sports betting site and enter a valid promotional code, if provided.
- Ensure you make a minimum qualifying deposit to activate your bonus and unlock its benefits.
- If your bonus is associated with a specific bet, remember to place your sports wager at the required qualifying odds.
- Once you have met all the necessary requirements, your bonus should be promptly credited to your account.
- Stay informed about the latest sports betting news to stay on top of new offers and promotions that may come your way.
Types of Bets Available in Illinois
Sports betting encompasses a range of bet types that provide diverse wagering options for games and events. Each bet type carries its own unique characteristics that distinguish it from others. Below are several common bet types you may encounter:
Points Spread
In points spread betting, a team is either favored or considered an underdog by a predetermined number of points. To win the bet, the favored team must win by more than the spread, while the underdog must win or lose by fewer points than the spread. For example, if the Chicago Bears have a spread of -6.5 against the Green Bay Packers, they must win by at least 7 points for the bet to be successful.
Moneyline
Moneyline betting involves selecting the team that will win the game outright, without any consideration for the point spread. The odds associated with each team indicate the payout potential. For instance, if the Chicago Bulls have a moneyline of -150 against the Milwaukee Bucks, a successful $150 bet on the Bulls would yield a $100 profit if they win the game.
Parlay
Parlay bets allow you to combine multiple individual wagers into a single bet. All selections within the parlay must be correct for the bet to win. For example, you could create a parlay bet by combining the moneyline wagers of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Bears to win their respective games. If all three teams win, the parlay bet is successful, resulting in a higher payout.
Over/Under (Totals)
In over/under betting, you predict whether the total combined score of both teams will be over or under a specific number determined by the sportsbook. For instance, if the total for an Illinois Fighting Illini basketball game is set at 150.5 points, you can bet on whether the final score will be above or below that threshold. If the total score is 146, an under bet would be successful.
Futures
Futures bets are wagers that are placed on outcomes that will be determined at a later time, typically focusing on events such as championship winners or season-long achievements. These bets involve predicting the outcome well in advance, allowing bettors to speculate and potentially earn winnings based on their accurate predictions. For example, you can place a futures bet on the Chicago Blackhawks to win the Stanley Cup at the beginning of the NHL season. If the Blackhawks go on to win the championship, your futures bet will be successful, resulting in a potentially significant payout.
Live Betting
Live betting, or in-play betting, allows you to place wagers in real-time as the game is being played. You can react to the unfolding action and place bets on various aspects of the game, such as the next team to score or the outcome of the current drive. For example, during a Chicago Fire soccer match, you can bet on whether the next goal will be scored by the Fire or the opposing team. Live betting adds an exciting interactive element to sports wagering.
The Most Popular Sports Teams to bet on in Illinois
There are many Illinois sports teams to bet on. If you like professional sports, you can bet on the Chicago Bears in football, the Chicago Blackhawks in hockey, the Chicago Bulls in basketball, and the Chicago Cubs or the Chicago White Sox in baseball.
If you like soccer, you can bet on the Chicago Fire FC. In college sports, the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the Northwestern Wildcats are popular. Always remember to check the updated local laws before betting on sports.
NFL: Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are a beloved NFL team in Illinois, and betting on them is a tradition for many. Sportsbooks offer various types of bets, such as point spreads, money lines, and over/under totals. Bettors can also make prop bets on specific players, like the team's star quarterback, predicting the number of passing yards or touchdowns.
NBA: Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls, with their rich history, are a favorite for Illinois bettors. You can bet on regular game outcomes or even specific player performance with prop bets. A prop bet might involve a player like the team's leading scorer and whether he will exceed a certain number of points in a game.
MLB: Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs, one of the oldest teams in baseball, offer numerous betting opportunities. Along with game outcomes, you can make prop bets on key players, such as predicting a star pitcher's strikeouts.
NHL: Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks are a popular choice for NHL Illinois betting. Various betting options exist, including predicting game outcomes or prop bets on a star player's performance, like goals scored. As always, bettors should understand the odds and wager responsibly.
MLS: Chicago Fire FC
Soccer fans in IL often place bets on Chicago Fire FC games. Alongside typical game outcome bets, prop bets on players are also popular, such as predicting the number of goals or assists for a top player.
College Sports: University of Illinois Fighting Illini and Northwestern Wildcats
In Illinois, college sports betting is very popular. Teams like the Fighting Illini and the Northwestern Wildcats see a lot of action. You can bet on overall game outcomes or even make prop bets on standout players.
Other Illinois Sports Betting Options
Other betting options in IL include Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), horse racing, and esports, all of which are legal and offer unique wagering opportunities. In DFS, you create a team of players and earn points based on their performances. Horse racing is a long-standing tradition, with bets placed on race outcomes. Esports betting is growing rapidly, with bets on teams and individual players. Always remember to bet responsibly and understand the nature of the bet you're placing.
How to Start betting in Illinois
Getting started with sports betting in Illinois is a simple procedure. Here, you'll find a clear and concise step-by-step manual to assist you:
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Choose a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated in IL. This makes sure your betting experience is safe and fair.
- Create an Account and Make Use of Welcome Bonus: Sign up for an account on your chosen sportsbook. Most offer a welcome bonus, which can increase your initial betting funds.
- Verify Your Identity: You'll need to confirm your identity for security. This usually means providing a copy of your ID or passport.
- Deposit Funds: Put funds into your account. Most sportsbooks accept different payment methods, like credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets.
- Understand Bonuses and Promotions: Get to know the bonuses and promotions offered. These can give extra betting funds or bonus bets.
- Explore Betting Markets: Look at the different betting markets available. These can range from game results to individual player performances.
- Place Your Bets: Once you've done your homework, it's time to place your bets. Remember to bet responsibly and have fun with the process.
Banking options at IL Sportsbooks
Banking options at IL sportsbooks include various methods for deposits and withdrawals.
Deposits:
- Credit/Debit Cards: Most sportsbooks accept major credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard, offering instant transactions.
- E-Wallets: Such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill are also popular options, providing secure and fast deposit capabilities.
- Bank Transfers: Allow you to move funds between your bank account and the sportsbook, although processing times may vary and some banks may charge fees.
- Prepaid Cards: Sportsbooks may offer their branded prepaid cards, ensuring convenient and secure deposits.
Withdrawals:
- E-Wallets: The likes of PayPal or Neteller are often processed quickly, allowing you to access your funds promptly.
- Bank Transfers: These can also be used for withdrawals, but they may take a few business days to complete. Some sportsbooks may charge fees for bank transfers.
- Check: Physical checks can be requested for withdrawals, but they typically have longer processing times and may incur additional fees.
- Cryptocurrencies: In recent years, some sportsbooks have begun accepting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for both deposits and withdrawals, offering faster processing times and increased privacy.
Fees and Considerations:
It's essential to consider fees and other factors when selecting banking options.
- Fees: Sportsbooks may charge fees for certain deposit or withdrawal methods, so it's crucial to review the terms and conditions.
- Processing Times: Vary depending on the chosen method, with e-wallets generally offering quicker transactions compared to bank transfers or checks.
- Verification Requirements: Sportsbooks may require you to verify your identity before processing withdrawals, usually by providing identification documents.
- Minimum/Maximum Limits: Each sportsbook also sets minimum and maximum deposit and withdrawal limits, so it's important to check the specific limits associated with each method.
Understanding Illinois Sports Betting Laws
Illinois sports betting laws have changed since sports betting was launched in 2020, but the market has now settled, and rules around what you can bet on in IL are clear. You can place a wager if you are 21 years or older and physically located in IL.
When sports betting was introduced in 2020 after SB 690 was signed, online and retail betting was allowed. However, you could only open an Illinois sportsbook account online after registering in person at a land-based Illinois casino. This requirement was criticized when SB 690 was signed, and the Covid-19 pandemic only made this requirement more problematic as the world was placed in lockdown soon after sports betting was launched.
The Illinois Department of Revenue realized how much this requirement was costing the state in tax revenue, and as a result, the in-person sign up for online accounts was removed in late-2021.
You can only bet on sporting events in IL, so occasions like the NFL Draft or the Academy Awards are ineligible. Betting on in-state college teams is allowed, but under a quirk in Illinois law, you can only place these bets at retail sportsbooks.
What are the IL Sports Betting Licenses?
Sportsbooks launching in Illinois can apply for a land-based or online sportsbook license. If you apply for a land-based license, you can only operate in partnership with a land-based casino or racecourse. While most operators choose to partner with a land-based location, Illinois sportsbooks can launch online without an agreement with a local gambling location.
A land-based sportsbook license requires an initial license fee of $10 million. An online sports betting license in the Prairie state costs even more, with a $20 million license fee required, followed by a $1 million renewal payment every four years.
The Role of the Illinois Sports Betting Regulator
The Illinois Gaming Board oversees gambling in the state. The Board's purview includes sports betting, video gaming and the regulation of any online casino Illinois in the future. The Board's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and integrity of gaming in the state.
The Board is comprised of five members who the State Governor appoints. After SB 690 was passed, the Board was responsible for implementing the framework and infrastructure that brought legal sports betting to Illinois. Any company wishing to open an Illinois online sportsbook will require thorough vetting from the Illinois Gaming Board to ensure the company is fit to operate a sportsbook in the state.
List of Illinois Important Betting Regulation Resources
- SB 690 is the sports betting bill passed by Illinois lawmakers that legalized wagering in the Prairie State. The attached 10-page summary of the bill is far easier to digest than the complete document running over 100 pages.
- Illinois Sports Wagering Rules and Approved Events details what Illinois residents can be on. Any requests to wager on events that are not professional sports or college sports must receive prior approval.
- Help for Problem Gamblers is provided by the Illinois Gaming Board. Details of support groups and problem gambling tools are available, as well as instructions on how to self-exclude from all Illinois betting sites.
- The Illinois Gaming Board oversees all gambling activities in the state, and its website contains detailed explanations about the Illinois Gambling Act and what types of betting are available for the IL market.
Illinois Sports Betting Taxes
You must pay taxes on sports betting winnings in IL from both online and retail sportsbooks. If you win more than $600 from an Illinois sports betting site, it is necessary to report your winnings to the IRS and complete a W-2G form. This form ensures compliance with tax regulations and assists in accurately reporting your gambling income. IL sports betting sites can also withhold up to 25% of your winnings as tax.
You need to include your sports betting winnings in your state tax as well as paying the IRS. Illinois has a flat tax rate of 4.95% for this.
Prohibited Wagers in Illinois
Illinois law places unique restrictions on placing bets on in-state college teams. Unlike some states, such as New Jersey and New York, betting on Illinois college teams is legal. However, you must place these bets in person at a retail sportsbook. You also can't place prop bets on any NCAA college events.
Alongside these college sports betting regulations, Illinois betting laws also prevent you from betting on events not approved by the Gaming Board. This includes eSports and the NFL Draft.
Retail Sports Betting vs. Mobile Sports Betting Illinois
The Illinois Sports Wagering Act allows for both mobile and retail betting. Both types of wagering have advantages and disadvantages depending on what you want from an Illinois sportsbook.
Online sports betting offers the convenience of betting whenever you want, while retail sportsbooks require extra effort and planning as you have to go to a specific location. However, retail sportsbooks have a fun atmosphere as you bet and watch sports with hundreds of other sports fans. You can also get very fast payouts through the casino cage cashier at retail sportsbooks.
Our experts have listed the main pros and cons for both retail and online sportsbooks so you can choose what type of betting suits you best.
Responsible Gambling
Like many US states, the Illinois Gaming Board has strict measures to ensure that gambling platforms keep players safe. All Illinois sportsbooks provide responsible gambling information, including tips on how to stay in control. Each platform also provides account tools like time outs, deposit, bet, and spend limits to help bettors manage their betting.
Outside of this, most Illinois online sportsbooks will provide links to responsible gambling organizations that can provide professional help to players, like the 'We Know The Feeling' support. The Board also operates a state-wide self-exclusion program players can join to prohibit themselves from gambling.
The account verification process required at Illinois sports betting sites is another measure to keep players safe, preventing underage gambling and identity theft.
Illinois Sportsbook Legal Overview Summary
Illinois sports betting was legalized when Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 690. This legalized both online and retail sports betting.
Illinois sports betting operations commenced on March 9, 2020, when Rivers Casino in Des Plaines opened the first retail sportsbook. Illinois online sportsbooks followed three months after, on June 18, 2020. Once again, BetRivers was the first platform to go live.
The original Illinois sports betting law required Illinois sports bettors to register for an online account in person. However, this regulation was removed by IL lawmakers on March 5, 2022, and now you can sign up using Illinois sports betting apps anywhere in the state.
- Current Status: Legal and live!
- Available Betting: Retail Sportsbooks and Online Illinois Sportsbooks
- Online Launch Date: June 18, 2020
- Confirmed Sportsbooks: Seven online sportsbooks, 20 betting licenses total
- Popular Leagues: NBA, MLB, MLS, NHL, NCAA events
- Betting Requirements: Legal age of 21+, located in Illinois
- Regulator: Illinois Gaming Board
Online Sports Betting MA Final Thoughts
Since Illinois betting launched in June 2020, Illinois residents have been given access to some of the best US sports betting sites. Yes, the Illinois sports betting market is smaller than most US states, with only seven licensed sportsbooks, but Illinois sports betting apps are some of the best.
Which platform is best for you depends on what you're looking for. If you're a big fan of the MLB, you may want to sign up with FanDuel for its generous betting lines on these events. Meanwhile, a budget player looking for a high-value welcome bonus might consider DraftKings Illinois the best choice.
Use our expert guidance on this page to choose a legal Illinois sports betting site, and click the links to sign up and get your welcome offer.
Illinois Sports Betting FAQs
Can I bet on sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet on sports legally in IL. There are some of the top online sportsbooks you can bet on in Illinois, which you can sign up for using the links on this page. To bet in person, you can also visit retail sportsbooks at a land-based casino.
Do you have to be 21 to sports bet in Illinois?
You must be 21 or older to use Illinois betting sites, as well as physically located within state lines. Whether you play online or visit Illinois retail sportsbooks, you must prove your age.
Can you bet on Illinois teams if you live in Illinois?
Illinois sports bettors can find loads of online betting markets for a range of professional and college sports, including betting lines for Illinois teams. You can place bets on major league teams anywhere in the state, but you must visit a retail sportsbook to wager on Illinois college teams.
Are Illinois online sports betting apps legal?
Illinois sports betting apps are legal, and you can choose from seven different sports betting apps. You must allow your Illinois sports betting site to access your geolocation services to prove your location.
What is the best Sportsbook in Illinois?
There are several top-quality Illinois online sportsbooks, and each has benefits for signing up. By reading our page, you can find more detail about which sites provide the best odds, top bonuses, and fun features.
Can you bet online on College Sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet online on college sports in Illinois, but there are some restrictions. Online sportsbooks are prohibited from offering bets on Illinois college teams. This means that while you can bet on college sports, you cannot place these bets online if the teams are from Illinois.
