Online Sports Betting Illinois March 2024: Top IL Sports Betting Sites & Apps

Date IconLast Updated: Feb 5th, 2024

 

Looking for the best in Illinois sports betting? Check out this detailed guide and find great deals and the top sportsbooks in Illinois. With the in-person registration order lifted, Illinois bettors can now sign up with selected operators and place bets wherever they are in The Prairie State.

Discover the best Illinois betting sites below:

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  1. Only US Sportsbook with NFL Streaming
    Caesars Rewards Redeemable at Ceasars Locations
    Improved Odds for NY Mets & Chicago White Sox
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLING1000
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    14
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    iOS App
    Yes
    Backed by Caesars Entertainment, the sportsbook provides real-life loyalty rewards for bettors bringing the Las Vegas feel to you. Between Live Streaming, Generous Welcome Offer, & Daily Boosted Parlays, you'll find yourself very busy on the Caesars Sportsbook App.
  2. Brand Ambassadors such as Jamie Foxx
    MGM Rewards Redeemable at MGM Resorts
    Official Partner of NY Knicks, Rangers & Devils
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLINGCOM
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    iOS App
    Yes
    BetMGM is one of the biggest sportsbooks in the US. Brand offers a broad variety of sports betting markets. It's M rewards program is uniquely rewarding.
  3. Bet on Same Game Parlays to Receive Free Bets
    Backed by Rush Street Gaming, Founded in the 90s
    20% MLB Profit Every Tuesday
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLING
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    9
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    iOS App
    Yes
    BetRivers provides a wide range of free bet promotions for major league sports. Also offers the iRush Rewards program.
  4. Official Live Streaming of MLB Games
    Free-To-Play Prize Pool Games
    Official Partner of the NBA, Including NBABet Stream
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    19
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    iOS App
    Yes
    DraftKings is one of the biggest US sportsbook brands. Also provides Daily Fantasy Sports, an online casino, and NFT marketplace.
  5. 'Operator of the Year' 2021
    MLB Same Game Parlay $20 Refunds
    Official Partner of the NFL, NBA, NHL, & MLB
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    18
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    iOS App
    Yes
    FanDuel is one of the biggest sportsbook operators in the US. Backed by Flutter Entertainment, one of the biggest gambling operators globally.
DGE Seal

REGISTRATION NO: 9904-889
All Operators on this List are Licensed by Illinois Gaming Board

Latest US Gambling Promotions

GameSense Logo Disclaimer

Can you bet on sports online in Illinois?

✅ Online Sports BettingAvailable
🟢 Number of online sportsbooks availableSeven
🔞 Legal age for sports betting Illinois21+
✏️ College Sports Betting✔️ Available
🏇🏻 Online Horse Betting✔️ Available
🏆 DFS Daily Fantasy Sports✔️ Available
🎮 Betting on eSports✔️ Available
💲 Tax Rates15% on sports betting revenue

 

Online and retail sports betting are both legal in Illinois and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board. After a few years of significant market changes thanks to the initial in-person registration requirements and the Covid-19 pandemic, the Illinois market is now settled, with no major changes expected in the future.

 


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

BetMGMCaesarsDraftKingsFanDuelBetRivers
Welcome Bonus8/109/1010/108/107/10
Ongoing Promos8/108/107/107/1010/10
Fast Payouts9/107/108/109/108/10
Live Streaming7/109/108/107/109/10
Sports Choice8/108/1010/108/109/10
Betting Markets8/108/109/108/109/10
Odds Value8/108/109/108/109/10
Desktop UX10/109/109/108/107/10
Mobile Site UX9/109/109/108/107/10
Mobile Apps9/108/1010/108/108/10
RATING84%83%89%79%83%

1. ESPN BET Sportsbook Illinois


ESPN BET sportsbook

ESPN BET Illinois is an exciting new sportsbook option for bettors in the state. As a rebrand of Barstool, it's now available in 17 states, including Illinois. With the exclusive promo code 'GAMBLING', users can bet anything and get up to $250 in bonus bets. ESPN BET 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


BetMGM sportsbook

Part of MGM Resorts International, BetMGM Sports 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


Caesars sportsbook

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


DraftKings sportsbook

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


Fanduel sportsbook

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


Wynnbet - Online sportsbook

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. Illinois sports betting handle regularly tops over $1 billion in a month, and 2022 saw revenue of over $800 million and Illinois generated $120 million of tax revenue generated for the state.

Sports gambling in Illinois is seasonal, with the two most significant events being March Madness and the NFL season. In 2023, March Madness saw record betting levels, with almost $1.1 billion wagered, with only New York seeing larger betting numbers.

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.

Online Sports Betting Culture in Illinois

Missouri's sports betting landscape is evolving, but how do its neighbors fare in this sector? Let's delve into the sports betting updates from the states surrounding Missouri.

Future of Online Sports Betting in Illinois

While no further Illinois sports betting updates are expected for state regulations, the betting market could still see some changes with the launch of new online sports betting platforms. Recent Illinois sports betting news has suggested sportsbooks like Bally Bet and Circa Sports have applied for licensing. Caliente Interactive, a leader in Mexico's online casino and sports betting market, has also applied for a license.

 


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.

 


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.

 


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.

 

ILLINOIS SPORTSBOOK APPIOS RATINGANDROID RATINGHIGHLIGHTSDOWNLOAD
📱 BetMGM App4.84.8Live streamingDownload Now
📱 Caesars App4.64.2Easy to useDownload Now
📱 DraftKings App4.84.6Loyalty rewardsDownload Now
📱 FanDuel App4.84.7Competitive oddsDownload Now
📱 BetRivers App4.73.3Live streamingDownload Now

 


Guide to Downloading Illinois Betting Apps on Android

  1. Visit the App Store or download directly from the sportsbook (APK).
  2. Check if the operator has an Illinois-specific app or only offers generic apps.
  3. Click on the INSTALL button to download the sports betting app.
  4. Agree to the app's terms and conditions.
  5. Tap the icon on your smartphone's homepage to open the app.
  6. Register for an account through your mobile browser or the app itself.
  7. Complete the registration form and create a username and password.
  8. Log in using your credentials.
  9. 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:

  1. Visit the iOS App Store and search for the specific mobile sports betting app.
  2. Confirm whether the operator offers an IL-specific app or generic versions.
  3. Tap the INSTALL button to initiate the download of the mobile sports betting app.
  4. Agree to the app's terms and conditions.
  5. Access the app by tapping its icon on your smartphone's homepage.
  6. Complete the registration form, providing the necessary information, and create a username and password.
  7. Log in using your credentials.
  8. 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.

How to Claim Illinois Online Sports Betting Bonuses

  1. Register an account on a sports betting site and enter a valid promotional code, if provided.
  2. Ensure you make a minimum qualifying deposit to activate your bonus and unlock its benefits.
  3. If your bonus is associated with a specific bet, remember to place your sports wager at the required qualifying odds.
  4. Once you have met all the necessary requirements, your bonus should be promptly credited to your account.
  5. 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:

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.

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:

  1. Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Choose a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated in IL. This makes sure your betting experience is safe and fair.
  2. 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.
  3. Verify Your Identity: You'll need to confirm your identity for security. This usually means providing a copy of your ID or passport.
  4. Deposit Funds: Put funds into your account. Most sportsbooks accept different payment methods, like credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets.
  5. Understand Bonuses and Promotions: Get to know the bonuses and promotions offered. These can give extra betting funds or bonus bets.
  6. Explore Betting Markets: Look at the different betting markets available. These can range from game results to individual player performances.
  7. 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 MA Sportsbooks

Banking options at IL sportsbooks include various methods for deposits and withdrawals. 

Deposits:

Withdrawals:

Fees and Considerations:

It's essential to consider fees and other factors when selecting banking options. 

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.

The Timeline to Legal Online Sports Betting in IL

  • The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) is overturned by the US Supreme Court. This landmark decision means that each US State can determine the legality of sports betting in the state.

  • After a smooth passage through the legislature, SB 690 is signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker. The bill allows for online and retail betting. An unpopular clause among bettors is the requirement for in-person registration for online accounts. To use betting apps in Illinois, you must first register at a land-based casino. Betting on any IL collegiate team is banned.

  • BetRivers opens the first land-based sportsbook at Rivers Des Plaines Casino. The sportsbook closed a week later as all Illinois casinos were forced to shut down due to the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic.

  • The ongoing pandemic causes Gov. Pritzker to temporarily remove the in-person registration requirement for online Illinois betting sites.

  • Facing internal pressure due to the loss of potential tax revenue, Gov. Pritzker signs HB 3136. This permanently removes the need for in-person registration for online Illinois betting sites and allows wagering on in-state college teams. However, college betting on Illinois-based teams remains available in retail sportsbooks only.

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

 

 


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.

 


Illinois Sports Betting Market vs Neighboring States

IL shares a land border with five US States, and these states treat sports betting very differently. Iowa, Wisconsin, and Indiana all offer legal sports betting, similar to the State of Illinois. While Indiana and Iowa both allow online and retail sportsbooks, you can only bet in Wisconsin if you visit land owned by local Native American tribes.

Kentucky will offer legal sports betting from the start of 2024 onwards. Missouri is the final state that shares a border with IL and the only state which does not have legal sports betting available. Missouri residents can cross the border to join other IL sports betting users if they wish to place a sports bet.

 


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.

 


Where can I bet on sports in Illinois

According to Illinois sports betting law, retail sportsbooks can only open at licensed land-based retail casinos. Seventy retail sportsbooks have launched since retail sports betting went live in Illinois in March 2020. We've listed all the retail locations available in the Illinois market below.

Retail SportsbookAddressMobile PartnerKiosks
Barstool at Argosy Casino Alton1 Piasa Street, Alton, IL 62002BarstoolTo be confirmed
Barstool at Hollywood Casino Aurora1 W. New York Street, Aurora, IL 60506BarstoolTo be confirmed
Barstool at Hollywood Casino Joliet777 Hollywood Boulevard, Joliet, IL 60436BarstoolTo be confirmed
BetRivers at River Des Plaines3000 S. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018BetRiversTo be confirmed
Caesars at Grand Victoria250 S. Grove Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120CaesarsTo be confirmed
DraftKings at Casino Queen200 S. Front Street, East St Louis, IL 62201DraftKingsTo be confirmed
FanDuel Illinois at Par-a-Dice Casino21 Blackjack Boulevard, East Peoria, IL 61611FanDuelTo be confirmed

 


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.

Retail Sports BettingMobile Sports Betting
❌ Bets must be placed physically during certain hours.✔️ Provides 24/7 betting access from anywhere.
❌ Odds are usually lower.✔️ Allows for odds comparison between operators to find the best one.
❌ Limited market coverage.✔️ Offers a potentially wider range of markets.
✔️ Some comp points or loyalty rewards might be available.✔️ More betting bonuses are typically found online.
✔️ Instant payouts without fees.❌ Withdrawals might take 1-7 days and could include fees.
❌ Betting in person lacks privacy.❌ Payments might appear on bank statements.

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.

 

 


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

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