After establishing itself as one of the premier Daily Fantasy Sports sites in the US, DraftKings pivoted into the world of sports betting in 2012 and is now a popular online sportsbook. Thanks to new online sports betting laws, DraftKings was able to live in a number of legal states, including the Prairie State along with a few other Illinois online sportsbook apps.
The all-new DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois will offer legal sports betting in the Land of Lincoln, DraftKings Illinois is hoping to make its debut in the next couple of weeks. When it does, bettors can expect to find top features, an incredible range of markets and great promotions that will help them off to a winning start.
21+ and present in IL. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
As far as welcome promotions go, DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois hits the mark with $200 in bonus bets after you wager $5 on any market. Broken down into eight parts, customers will receive a 8x$25 free bets.
Both offers are issued as site credits, meaning they must be used on the DraftKings platform. This in turn means they must be wagered 1x before they can be withdrawn as actual cash. It's as low as the BetRivers Illinois promo code offer, which only requires x1 wagering. Players will have up to 7 days to complete these requirements and use their free bets.
How to Claim the Promo Code
CLICK HERE or on our banner to activate the DraftKings welcome offer.
Deposit and bet $5 on any market to qualify for the promotion.
You'll automatically receive a $200 in bonus bets which can be used on any sport.
Use bonus bets within 7 days of receiving the bonus.
No DraftKings Illinois Sports Betting Promo Codes
Claiming the DraftKings free bet and deposit match promotions does not require customers to enter a promo code. If any offer that requires a promo code appears in future, however, you'll be able to find it on our DraftKings sportsbook bonus code page.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Our DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois Review Summary
DraftKings Sportsbook was one of the first online sports betting apps to partner with a land-based casino in Illinois. Founded in 2012, the US-born group now boasts over 10 million registered users and is currently live in a number of legal states. In Illinois, DraftKings will be able to do likewise courtesy of its ties to the recently rebranded DraftKings at Casino Queen sportsbook.
When it does launch properly online later - most likely this March, players can expect to find one of the most detailed and best US online sportsbooks. Backed by a state-of-the-art mobile app, you'll find a great selection of promotions, features and betting options. Plus the Illinois market will have live streaming of top Chicago teams like the Bulls, Bears and White Sox, and a range of live betting options.
On the downside, players can become inundated by email bet updates and push notifications. But we'll weigh up all the pros and cons in this full review.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
1. DraftKings Free Bets and Odds Boosts: 3/5
Besides the two sign-up sports betting bonus codes offers available to new players, DraftKings features ongoing promotions. For the Illinois market, these will mainly be odds boosts and bet specials on the Chicago teams. Players could find enhanced prices on the Chicago Bears or other teams, that can refund customers in free bets. Thus giving DraftKings Illinois an edge over some other online sportsbooks when it comes to pricing.
How to claim Bonuses: Deposit and bet on eligible markets
How often can you get promos: New promotions are available every day
How to find new promo offers: Look out for emails and push notifications
How to check bonus expiry date: Any expiry dates will always be included in the T&Cs
Expected Promotions at DraftKings Sportsbook in Illinois
Daily Odds Boosts:
DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois offer best-in-market prices on the Chicago Bears, Bulls, White Sox and many other US teams.
No Goals, No Problem:
Sometimes, DraftKings Sportsbook offers free bet refunds on selected soccer games. These will be issued for 0-0 draws and worth up to $25.
Parlay Insurance:
A popular feature at all major online sportsbooks, Parlay Insurance gets you a free bet refund when your multi-line wager lets you down by one leg.
2. Quality of DraftKings Odds vs Other Sportsbooks: 4/5
DraftKings Futures
FanDuel Futures
Caesars Futures
Buffalo Bills
+750
+700
+750
Kansas City Chiefs
+750
+750
+750
Los Angeles Rams
+1200
+1200
+1000
Green Bay Packers
+1400
+1300
+1500
Dallas Cowboys
+1400
+1300
+1600
Even without boosts, this will often be the case when it comes to backing hotly-tipped teams at DraftKings, similar to FanDuel Illinois. DraftKings Sportsbook offers the best price on three out of the five favorites for Super Bowl LVII.
Meanwhile, other sites like Caesars Illinois are better for outsider betting lines.
3. DraftKings Market Variety and Bet Types: 4/5
DraftKings is now one of the biggest regulated online sportsbooks in the US, with a huge market variety whether you're accessing the desktop site or DraftKings Sportsbook app. Including everything from standard futures, moneylines and totals to advanced selections like multi-way parlays and prop bets.
Naturally, all can be applied to a wide range of sports, with DraftKings Sportsbook covering all major domestic and international competitions. Popular options include the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, but players will also find English Premier League soccer and more.
Popular DraftKings Sports Betting Markets
Point Spreads: A wager that enables customers to predict whether the winning team will fall inside or outside of a certain margin of victory.
Money line: The Money line is probably the most popular single wager, a money line bet simply requires bettors to pick the winner of a one-off sporting contest.
Total Lines: Slightly more advanced, total lines enable bettors to gamble on the total number of points in a game by both teams combined.
Parlays: The bet of choice for those seeking the biggest lines, parlays enable bettors to combine multiple outcomes onto one bet slip. All legs must win to secure a payout.
Futures: Similar to a moneyline, futures allow bettors to look ahead and place money on distant outcomes like the next Super Bowl winner.
Prop Bets: Bettors can pick from a range of player-specific outcomes that they think will happen during a game.
4. DraftKings IL Sportsbook Features & Experience: 4/5
Live Streams & Live Bets
Parlay Builder
Stats Hub
DraftKings is certainly the top online sportsbook when it comes to overall functionality and ease of use. Both the desktop site and mobile app are simple to navigate, with current live events displayed at the top of the page and an A-Z menu to help players locate other sports.
Clearly marked buttons provide fast access to the cashier, stats hub and promotions section, while a range of smart features are on hand to help bettors make more informed choices. These include detailed statistics on all matchups, a live betting area that gives a play-by-play account of games that's updated in real time and a parlay builder that clearly states potential winnings.
Though perhaps not quite as comprehensive as the likes of PointsBet Illinois what DraftKings lacks in bells and whistles, it more than makes up for in its simple, streamlined betting experience.
Live Streams & Live Bets
Not only does DraftKings Sportsbook provide live streaming of all major events, but bettors can choose from a wide range of live bet options too. With selections being informed by up-to-the-minute data, customers can bet with confidence on live betting prices that are updated in real time.
Parlay Builder
Something of an online sportsbook staple, the Parlay Builder is ideal for those chasing big odds. The feature allows players to combine multiple selections on one slip, with lines and payouts shown automatically. Add six legs and the bet will also be covered by Parlay Insurance.
Stats Hub
The perfect pre-game preparation tool, the Stats Hub at DraftKings Sportsbook offers detailed notes on all upcoming games. Particularly useful when it comes to picking player prop bets, this handy site section is located right at the top of the DraftKings Sportsbook app.
DraftKings online sportsbook offers a range of quick and easy deposit methods including Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, and PayPal. All banking options are fee free, but sadly only the latter is available for withdrawal along with echeck. Withdrawals take 2-7 days to process, with PayPal betting payments easily being the fastest option.
6. DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois App on Mobile: 4/5
The DraftKings app is famed for its simplicity and ease of use and is available on Apple and Android devices. The app boasts all the features of the desktop site with enhanced mobile functionality. Over 101,000 reviews give the DraftKings app an App Store rating of 4.8. Notable highlights include the simple swipe navigation of lobbies, strong live streaming performance and the ability to log in securely using Face ID.
On the downside, there are several reports of the app running slow at peak times, while it's also a bit odd that it cannot be used in horizontal display mode. However, it remains one of the top betting apps on the market and an ideal companion for on-the-go betting.
iOS App Rating: 4/5
Android App Rating: 4/5
How to Download the DraftKings Sportsbook App
CLICK HERE or on our banner to activate your offer and create an account.
Download the DraftKings app from the App Store or directly from the site*.
If a security prompt appears, click to allow installs from "unknown sources".
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and launch the app.
*Please note that no online betting apps are currently featured in the Google Play Store.
7. DraftKings Illinois Loyalty Rewards: 4/5
Having overhauled its loyalty program at the backend of 2021, DraftKings Illinois Sportsbook now features one of the more detailed rewards schemes out there. Dubbed "Dynasty Rewards", players will receive one crown per $2 spent on sports betting. As you earn crowns, you move up through five VIP levels, each granting more perks than the one before. All crowns earned can be redeemed for real dollars to use on the DraftKings platform or in the Dynasty Store for exclusive goodies.
One notable thing about DraftKings Illinois Sportsbook is that while it's a strong performer in all major categories, it doesn't really wow in many of them. Unlike PointsBet, which has carved out an identity for innovative betting lines, or BetMGM, which has always put features first, DraftKings simply serves up a good all-around package. At a push, you could say that the loyalty program is one of the better offerings in the market, which makes it a great site for casual bettors.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
How to Register an Illinois DraftKings Account
CLICK HERE or on our banner to activate your welcome offer and head to registration.
Click the green "sign up" button at the top right of the page.
Enter an email address, username and secure password before accepting the T&Cs.
Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, address and last four digits of SSN.
Complete your registration in-person at DraftKings at Casino Queen in East St Louis.
Can I have more than one betting account?
Yes, you can register for DraftKings while also opening an account at another site. In fact, this is the best way to redeem multiple bonuses at once and find the best lines on Chicago teams. When opening a betting account, just remember to do so while using a promo code found here.
As we mentioned before, it's incredibly easy to add funds at DraftKings, but perhaps not so convenient to withdraw them. The minimum deposit is $5 and players can withdraw any amount higher than this without fees, but unfortunately, only a few betting payment methods can be used to cash out your DraftKings winnings.
Payment Option
Deposit
Withdrawal
Withdrawal Time
Visa Debit
$10
$20
Within 24 hours
PayPal
$10
$20
Within 24 hours
VIP Preferred
$10
$20
2-4 business days
Online Banking
$10
$20
2-4 business days
Instant Banking
$10
$20
2-4 business days
Play+
$10
$20
Within 24 hours
PayNearMe
$10
N/A
N/A
MasterCard
$10
N/A
N/A
Discover
$10
N/A
N/A
In-Person
N/A
$20
Within 1 hour
How to Deposit
Log into your account.
Access the cashier section via the button at the top of the homepage.
Choose your payment method
Input an amount
Hit "deposit" to instantly add funds.
How to Withdraw
Log into your account.
Access the cashier section by using the button at the top of the homepage.
Choose an available cashout method, input an amount and hit "withdraw" to complete.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
DraftKings Sports You can Legally Bet on in Illinois
Football
Basketball
Baseball
Hockey
Soccer
Golf
Tennis
NASCAR
MMA
Boxing
Table Tennis
Rugby Union
Cricket
Formula 1
Snooker
College sports
Teams to Back in the DraftKings Illinois Sportsbook App
Chicago Bears
One of the best-loved franchises in Chicago and beyond, the Bears will certainly be a popular pick when it comes to NFL betting at DraftKings. Expect them to feature prominently both in daily odds boosts and special player prop bet markets.
Chicago Bulls
Though they've never managed to hit the heights of the Jordan-Pippin-Rodman dynasty, the Chicago Bulls are undoubtedly one of the most famous franchises in the world. Supported far beyond Chicago city limits, the team are certain to drive a lot of action at DraftKings Illinois.
Chicago White Sox
One of the iconic MLB franchises, the Chicago White Sox are another Illinois team that we expect to see receive preferential treatment at DraftKings. Again, this should occur in the form of enhanced odds and bet specials, so be sure to keep an eye on the promotions section.
How to Place a Bet
Search or scroll to the event that you wish to bet on.
Review the bet types available or use the Stats Hub for more info.
Select your preferred option to load it onto your bet slip.
Input your stake amount or redeem a free bet token if you have one.
Click the button at the bottom of the betting slip to place your wager.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Security & Support for DraftKings Sportsbook Online in Illinois
DraftKings uses all of the advanced security protocols that you'd expect to find at a big online sportsbook. Personal data is protected by secure 128-bit SSL encryption, while customer funds are always segregated using a major checking partner. Should bettors encounter any kind of issue, however, they can reach DraftKings support 24/7 via a number of different methods. The best of these is the live chat facility, which normally guarantees a response within one hour.
DraftKings Online Sportsbook Support
Live Chat: Available 24/7 on-site
Email: sportsbook@draftkings.com
An online contact form is also available on the "help" page.
Responsible Sports Betting in Illinois
The responsible betting section of the DraftKings app and website contains a number of useful resources for players who are concerned about their gambling behavior. First and foremost, they'll find practical advice about keeping their betting in check, with a number of links to external organizations also provided. These include the National Council on Problem Gambling and a number of regional agencies located in Illinois. Additionally, customers can also contact DraftKings support to impose any of the following restrictions at any time:
Deposit Limits
Max Bet Limits
Max Loss Limits
Max Session Limits
Cooling Off Periods
Permanent Self Exclusion
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
DraftKings Sportsbook in IL vs Other States
The major difference between DraftKings in Illinois and elsewhere was that bettors had to complete their registration in person. Players used to do this at DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook in East St. Louis, but the good news is this rule was removed in March.
The brand offers everything that you'll find in other states. That's great news for Illinois players, as they can enjoy all the benefits that DraftKings has to offer. Luckily the same applies to other states. Since the brand is consistently expanding, it has now joined Kansas online sportsbooks, and players in the Sunflower State also have access to all the top DraftKings features, betting markets and competitive odds.
In this regard, the brand is doing everything it can to provide an equal experience across all states. The same goes for new markets such as Maryland and Ohio. The brand is already offering DraftKings Maryland sportsbook promo and DraftKings Ohio sportsbook bonus to residents in those states.
DraftKings IL Retail Location and Partnership
The retail location is available for DraftKings at Casino Queen. Here, players can complete their registration, place bets and even spend any Dynasty crowns collected on food and merchandise.
Address: 200 South Front Street, East St. Louis, IL 62201
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Map:
Illinois Online Betting Laws, Rules and Requirements
Once it is available for download, the DraftKings app will offer fully licensed and legal betting in Illinois. Players will be able to deposit, wager and claim bonuses so long as they keep these important rules in mind:
Bettors must be 21 or over
All bets must be placed within state lines
No betting is allowed on in-state college events
Taxes are applicable on annual sports betting winnings over $600
Our Final Verdict on DraftKings Illinois
Aided by a generous deposit match offer for new customers, DraftKings looks set to be a big hit in Illinois. The site is incredibly easy to use and offers a great selection of bet types, with these being further complemented by a robust sportsbook app. Although perhaps not as innovative as other sites, DraftKings is a solid all-rounder and a great place for IL bettors to get started.
Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state to participate. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
DraftKings Illinois FAQs
Is DraftKings legal in Illinois?
DraftKings was one of the first online sportsbooks to partner with a land-based casino in IL. As such, when sports betting goes live in the state in March, it will be completely legal to use.
Is DraftKings safe to use in Illinois?
Absolutely. DraftKings has established an unparalleled reputation for trust and fairness in the US. Should players have any concerns on this front, they should simply check the site's reviews.
Does DraftKings work in Illinois?
Technically yes, though customers will have to complete in-person registration before they can get started. Once they've done this and deposited it, they will be able to use the app remotely.
Is DraftKings Casino available in Illinois?
No. Although online sports betting will officially get the green light next month, online casinos are not currently permitted to operate in Illinois. Players should instead visit riverboat casinos.
How do you get DraftKings in Illinois?
You can download the DraftKings app in Illinois just as you would in any other legal state. The only difference is that it can't be used for betting until the account has been verified in person.
Why is Illinois not on DraftKings?
If you're finding that Illinois is not mentioned on the DraftKings page, it's because the site has not yet fully launched in the state. This is expected to happen in mid-March this year.
What is the DraftKings Illinois Promo Code?
At the time of writing, we are expecting the DraftKings deposit match bonus to be available without a promo code. If this changes, however, we'll update our review page accordingly.
Can you use DraftKings in Illinois?
Of course! DraftKings operates a legal online and mobile sportsbook in Illinois. Bet on 1000s of markets covering football, baseball or hockey.