Illinois Online Casinos - IL Online Gambling Updates

Online casinos are still illegal in Illinois, but lawmakers are considering changes that could lead to legalization. Until then, players will have to wait for legal real money gaming options to become available.

Are Online Casinos Legal in Illinois?

Illinois has not legalized online casinos yet, but there are ongoing discussions about potential changes. Currently, only online sports betting is allowed, while players can still access social casinos for casino-style games without real money wagering.

When Will Illinois Legalize Online Casinos?

While online casinos remain illegal, Senate Bill 1963 and House Bill 3080 are being considered to legalize them. If passed, online casinos could launch in Illinois if passed, but opposition from the VGT industry and labor unions may slow the process.

Key Online Gambling Legislation Supporters and Opponents

Illinois is considering legalizing online casinos; there’s no shortage of opinions. Supporters argue it could bring in much-needed tax revenue, while opponents worry about its impact on existing businesses and casino jobs.

• Governor J.B. Pritzker – Open to the idea, especially as a way to help fill Illinois’ $3 billion budget gap. He sees online casinos as a potential new source of state revenue.
• Senator Cristina Castro – A big proponent of online gambling, she introduced Senate Bill 1963 in 2025, believing it could generate significant tax dollars.
• Representative Edgar González Jr. – Co-sponsored House Bill 3080 alongside Castro, supporting efforts to bring legal online casinos to Illinois.
• VGT (Video Gaming Terminal) Operators – Business owners in the VGT industry worry that online casinos will lure customers away from their machines, cutting their profits and hurting local bars and small businesses.
• Casino Worker Unions - Some unions are resisting and are concerned that online casinos could lead to job losses at physical casinos.

The discussion is ongoing, and Illinois' decision on online casinos will involve weighing the potential financial gains against the concerns of workers and small business owners.

Should I Play at Offshore Online Casinos in IL?

With real money online casinos still unavailable in Illinois, some players explore offshore gambling sites. However, these platforms operate without state oversight, bringing potential risks that players should be aware of.

• No Legal Oversight – Illinois or U.S. authorities don’t regulate these sites, meaning there is no protection against unfair practices.
• Unreliable Payouts – Some offshore casinos delay or refuse to pay winnings because they don’t follow state or federal gaming laws.
• Security Risks – Your personal and financial details could be at risk without proper regulation.
• No Way to File Complaints – If you encounter problems, Illinois has no legal support to help you recover lost funds.

Until Illinois legalizes online casinos, players should be mindful of the risks associated with unregulated gambling sites. Concerns like security, payouts, and fair play remain uncertain without state oversight.

Land-Based Casinos in Illinois

Illinois allows a wide range of casino games at its land-based casinos, including slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps. The Illinois Gaming Board oversees these casinos to maintain fair gaming practices and ensure they follow state regulations.

Responsible Gambling in Illinois

Gambling should be enjoyable, but it’s important to recognize when it becomes a problem. Illinois offers several resources to help those struggling with gambling addiction or seeking support.

Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG) 
Website: www.illinoisproblemgambling.org
Phone: 833-937-4274

National Problem Gambling Helpline 
Phone: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

Gamblers Anonymous 
Hotline: 855-2CALLGA (855-222-5542)

Illinois Department of Human Services
Website: www.dhs.state.il.us
Phone: 1-800-GAMBLER

Illinois Gaming Board
Website: www.igb.illinois.gov