The Prairie State became the 14th US state to legalize sports wagering when Illinois sports betting was signed into law in June 2019. Since sports betting officially launched in March 2020, the industry has taken off and today, bettors have seven regulated sportsbooks to enjoy.

This guide offers bettors a comprehensive look at IL sports betting, including what’s legal, the taxes you’ll pay on winnings, how to sign up online and where to visit retail sportsbooks in the state. We also rank and review five of the best IL sportsbooks, so keep reading to learn more.

Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites List

Illinois sports betting fans have seven legal, regulated sportsbooks to enjoy. However, some offer greater odds, more extensive betting lines, sports markets, and special promotions and bonuses. Our experts tried and tested them all to help you find the best IL sportsbooks, and below, you’ll see their top five picks.

1. DraftKings – The Best Illinois Sports Betting Site
2. BetMGM – Leading IL Sportsbook for Competitive Odds
3.  PointsBet – Best Downloadable App of all the IL Sportsbooks
4.  BetRivers – Lowest Minimum Deposits in IL
5. FanDuel – IL Sportsbook with the Most Exciting Props Betting

The Latest Illinois Sports Betting News

Because Illinois sports betting went live in 2020, there has been little in the way of further news on the topic. However, there have been a few minor developments, so let’s take a look:

• May 6, 2022 – Caesars Sportsbook has partnered with The Chicago White Sox, in a move reflecting the actions of teams like the Bears and RSI.
• March 5, 2022 –  Illinois permanently abolished the in-person sportsbook registration requirement.
• October 29, 2021 – The state no longer requires online sportsbooks to offer in-person registration in Illinois following a trial period enforced by the Covid-19 pandemic, eliminating the need for in-person casino partners.
• July 17, 2021 – IL SB0521 failed to pass in committee. This bill was set to remove the requirements for in-state collegiate wagering.

The Best Betting Sites in Illinois Reviewed

Besides offering you our list of the top five Illinois sports betting sites, we have reviewed each one, outlining what the site offers, why it stands out, and why our experts chose it. So, read on below to learn more and find your ideal IL sports betting site.

1. DraftKings – The Best Illinois Sports Betting Site Overall

Founded in America for US bettors, DraftKings has an exceptional reputation for offering several betting options, including Daily Fantasy Sports and an outstanding sportsbook.

Although it launched in Illinois in 2020, the sportsbook has expanded to become one of the state’s leading sports betting sites.

Bettors signing up with DraftKings or returning to the sportsbook will discover various exciting promotions they can claim using DraftKings promo codes. While these bonuses boost players’ bankrolls, they also simplify exploring the site’s features. Further, bettors input promo codes when depositing funds into their DraftKings accounts. However, the options for depositing funds are limited to a handful of options, including bank wire transfers, MasterCard and Visa credit cards, DraftKings gift cards, eWallets like PayPal, and cash payments which bettors can make at select locations.

When it comes to sports markets, DraftKings offers over 20 sports, like the MLB, NHL, NFL, UFC, cricket, snooker, and Esports. Further, it ranks as one of the best NBA betting sites in IL. Then, when placing their wagers, bettors can choose between several betting lines, from props and parlays to moneylines, spreads, and totals. Further, DraftKings provides a live betting facility and allows bettors to live-stream sports games on the website.

Finally, this Illinois sports betting site offers a mobile app that makes it simple to enjoy wagering on the go, provided bettors are within state lines.

2. BetMGM – Leading IL Sportsbook for Competitive Odds

While state-regulated Illinois sports betting sites typically offer similar odds on sports, some offer slightly more competitive odds, and BetMGM is one of them. However, this is unsurprising, considering BetMGM is the brainchild of betting giant MGM. Besides offering bettors a retail sportsbook, BetMGM also provides a downloadable app and an online sports betting site in Illinois.

Bettors visiting the sports betting site can enjoy over 14 sports to wager on, from the MLB, NHL, and NBA, to NASCAR, Formula1, boxing, and lacrosse. Additionally, the sportsbook ranks as one of the best NFL betting sites in IL. When placing wagers, bettors can use several betting lines, from parlays, spreads, totals, moneylines, and props. Further, bettors can enjoy live betting and watch sports events live on the website.

Then, when funding their betting accounts, IL players can use unique BetMGM promo codes to unlock exciting and generous bonuses, including welcome and reload rewards. But, BetMGM needs to improve when it comes to the options it offers for bettors to deposit and withdraw funds from their sportsbook accounts. As a result, bettors can choose between online banking, Apple Pay, PayPal, bank wire transfers, and credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

3. PointsBet – Best Downloadable App of all the IL Sportsbooks

Although each Illinois sports betting site provides bettors with a downloadable app, none quite measures up to the one PointsBet offers. While the sportsbook website is somewhat minimalistic, this translates well onto mobile, making it simple for bettors to navigate the app and enjoy their betting experience. Additionally, the app is compatible with smartphones and tablets and various operating systems, including iOS and Android.

Besides an app, bettors signing up with the Illinois sports betting site can unlock fun and exciting bonuses. However, to access these rewards, bettors must input PointsBet promo codes when depositing funds into their accounts. Further, bettors will find this process straightforward as PointsBet accepts various payment methods, like PayNearMe, eCheck, online banking with Trustly, and a debit or credit card from Visa or MasterCard.

PointsBet continues its impressive selection of options to its sports markets, which includes the MLB, NHL, NFL, NBA, NCAA, darts, MMA, cycling, Aussie Rules, and cricket. Further, bettors can make use of several betting lines to wager on these sports either before the game begins or while it’s in play. As a result, bettors can place parlays, moneylines, spreads, totals, teasers, fixed odds, player props, game props, and lightning bets, all from the website or mobile app. Lastly, this Illinois sports betting site gives bettors the latest news and stats of each team involved in a sports event the site offers a wager on, making it easier for bettors to make more informed predictions.

4. BetRivers – Lowest Minimum Deposits in IL

Although some bettors don’t mind depositing a large sum f money, others are working to a budget, which can be difficult to stick to if the Illinois sports betting site they are visiting imposes a high minimum deposit value. However, BetRivers is one of the regulated sportsbooks in Illinois that accepts low minimum bets making it ideal for all bettors, no matter their budget.

When it comes to payment options, bettors visiting the BetRivers website or mobile app can use methods like PayNearMe, Vanilla, Play+ prepaid cards, PayPal, eCheck, online banking, bank wire transfers, and credit cards like Visa, Discover, and MasterCard. However, keep in mind that BetRivers does not accept deposits using cryptocurrencies. Additionally, bettors can use BetRivers promo codes when funding their accounts to access bankroll-boosting bonuses. However, repeat bettors can also sign up for BetRiver’s premium loyalty program, iRush Rewards, which allows bettors to accumulate points and claim rewards like VIP dinners, BetRivers Swag, cash prizes, and promos.

The sports BetRivers offers include all-American favorites like the NHL, NBA, and NFL. Additionally, the sportsbook ranks as one of the best MLB betting sites Illinois has to offer. However, bettors can also wager on less common sports like rugby, motorsports, jai alai, boxing, and cycling. Lastly, bettors can place various wagers, from live bets to spreads, moneylines, totals, and props..

5. FanDuel – IL Sportsbook with the Most Exciting Props Betting

One of the most stand-out features of FanDuel is that it is one of two sportsbooks that covers Daily Fantasy Sports. However, this Illinois sports betting site also covers a range of leading sports and provides some of the most diverse betting lines. As a result, IL bettors can wager on sports like baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, football, collegiate sports, ice hockey, motorsports, and Aussie Rules. Further, they can place wagers like moneylines, runlines, spreads, totals, and parlays. In addition, however, FanDuel provides some of the most exciting game and player props available in Illinois, giving bettors more ways to win.

IL bettors visiting FanDuel must fund their accounts before they can start betting. However, the sportsbook simplifies this process by accepting a variety of options, like credit cards, PayPal, FanDuel gift cards, Green Dot MoneyPak, PayNearMe, money orders or checks, and bank wire transfers. However, some deposit and withdrawal methods incur relatively high transaction fees. Lastly, FanDuel promo codes will help bettors claim unique and fun bonuses and rewards that make it simple to place various wagers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Illinois Sports Betting

What is the legal gambling age for Illinois sports betting?

To place a legal wager on sports in The Prairie State, bettors must meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years or older. Further, this stipulation applies to in-person and online sports betting in the state.

Is online Illinois sports betting legal?

Yes. Following the Supreme Court of the United States repeal of PASPA, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed sports betting into law in June 2019. However, Illinois sports betting only became active in the state in March 2020, which lead to the launch of several state-regulated online and in-person sportsbooks.

What organization oversees online IL sports betting?

All sports betting in IL, whether online or retail, is governed and regulated by The Illinois Gaming Board. Further, the board issues the relevant licenses and manages the running of sportsbooks in the state.

Is mobile Illinois sports betting legal?

Yes. The Illinois sports betting bill included mobile wagering in its language. As a result, bettors in the state can download apps for their smartphones and tablets and place wagers from anywhere within state lines. Further, in March 2022, The Prairie State made it possible for bettors to register for mobile betting online instead of in person.

Where can I bet on sports in IL?

Bettors can access Illinois sports betting in the state by logging onto one of seven state-regulated online sportsbooks provided they are within state lines. Alternatively, players can also visit one of ten casinos in the state that have retail sportsbooks.

Comparing Sportsbooks in Illinois

Although reading reviews of IL sports betting sites gives a deep understanding of what the sportsbooks offer, comparing their features side-by-side makes it simple to narrow down the ideal site for your needs. So, to help you do this, we created the comparison table below:

Is Illinois Sports Betting Legal?

Yes, Illinois sports betting became legal in 2019. Following the repeal of PASPA in 2019, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the Sports Wagering Act into law on June 28, 2019, making Illinois the 15th state to offer legal sports betting.

However, sports betting in Illinois only officially launched on March 8, 2020, giving bettors the opportunity to place bets in person at retail sportsbooks or to wager online. However, The Prarie State had a stipulation that required bettors wanting to create an online betting profile to first register in person at a land-based sportsbook. But, following the Covid-19 pandemic, lawmakers did away with this rule, allowing bettors to register for a betting profile online.

While bettors have other means of placing online bets, those regulated by the state provide safety, security, and fair play to bettors, ensuring an optimal wagering experience.

Who can Legally Bet on Sports in Illinois?

Anyone with a computer or a mobile device can find and browse a state-regulated Illinois sports betting site. However, those wanting to register, deposit funds, and claim promos will need to meet a few stipulations.

For example, bettors who do not meet Illinois’ legal wagering age of 21 or older will not be able to place bets online or in person. Further, those using online betting platforms must be within state lines to place legal wagers.

How to Sign Up & Bet on Sports Online in Illinois

Illinois sports betting sites are typically simple to navigate and operate. However, new players may need little assistance when signing up. So, we created the quick step-by-step guide below that makes it easy to register, deposit funds, and start betting.

Step One – Register with DraftKings

Start by launching the DraftKings website then click the green “Log In” button on the top right of the screen, before selecting the “Sign Up” option. Then fill in the registration form on the page that opens, before clicking “Next.”

Step Two – Verify Your Account

Following registration you’ll need to verify your DraftKings account. So, head to your email inbox and locate the DraftKings verification email. Then, click the link in the mail to verify your new account before signing back into the sportsbook using your new credentials.

Step Three – Fund Your Account

Then you’ll need to fund your DraftKings account. So, click the green “Deposit” button on the top right of the screen and select your preferred payment method from the options provided. Next, add in the amount you wish to deposit and type in your bonus promo code before clicking “deposit.” Finally, follow the prompts to complete your payment.

Step Four – Start Wagering

Once your funds reflect in your DraftKings account, you’re set to start wagering. So visit the sportsbook section and find the sport or match you want to bet on. Then, add your bet amount onto the best slip on the right of the screen before clicking “Place Bet.”

Previous Illinois Sports Betting Bills

Since Illinois sports betting was legalized relatively shortly after the repeal of PASPA, the state didn’t have any sports betting bills prior to the Sports Wagering Act that Governor Pritzker signed into law in 2019. However, since the authorization of sports betting in The Prairie State, lawmakers have passed another amendment that makes online wagering in the state simpler.

2022

• HB 3136 – This legislation comes in the form of an amendment to the state’s original sports betting act abolishing the need for players to sign up in person to register for an online Illinois sports betting account.

Tax on Illinois Sports Betting Winnings

Whether you participate in retail or online sports betting in Illinois, you’ll need to pay a 4.95% tax on all sports betting winnings.

Payment Methods available at IL Sports Betting Sites

The top sites offering online sports betting in Illinois make it simple for bettors to fund their betting accounts by accepting an assortment of payment methods. Further, this casts a wider net that allows more bettors to sign up and enjoy the available markets. So, let’s review the most common payment options online sportsbooks offer.

Crypto Betting Options

Cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin are all decentralized digital currencies. In other words, these providers move money independently of third-party financial institutions like banks. As a result, cryptocurrencies have little to no transaction fees, which makes them popular among online bettors. However, they also allow bettors to transact anonymously, which makes it difficult for state-regulated sportsbooks to monitor a bettor’s deposits and withdrawals. As a result, state-regulated Illinois sports betting sites do not accept cryptocurrencies.

eWallet Betting Options

Another secure payment method that IA sports betting sites do accept is eWallet systems. Since these providers act as an intermediary between a bettor’s sportsbook account and their bank account, they offer a barrier against fraud. As a result, eWallets are popular among bettors, and many regulated sportsbooks work with eWallet providers like Paypal, EcoPayz, Skrill, and Neteller. So for the best PayPal betting site in IL, visit DraftKings.

Traditional Payment Methods

Although new payment options are becoming available, many bettors prefer using traditional methods to fund their sportsbook accounts. As a result, the top Illinois sports betting sites accept options like credit cards, debit cards, bank wire transfers, online banking, checks, and money orders. So, if you want to fund your IL sports betting account using MasterCard or Visa, you’ll find any of the sportsbooks on our list an excellent option.

Bonuses Available at Illinois Sports Betting Sites

One of the primary perks offered by Illinois sports betting sites is promotions. In some cases, these bonuses boost a bettor’s bankroll or allow them to place a risk-free wager, increasing their chances of winning. So, let’s review some of the best bonuses offered by sports betting sites in Illinois.

Match Deposit Bonuses

One of the most common promotions offered by IL sports betting sites is the matched deposit, which betting sites use to reward players for funding their accounts. In this case, the sportsbook matches a bettor’s deposit up to a specific amount, often doubling their wagering funds. For instance, a sportsbook offering a 100% matched deposit of up to $3,000 will give a bettor depositing $2,500 an additional $2,500 to spend.

No Deposit Bonuses

While a matched deposit bonus requires bettors to fund their accounts first, the No Deposit Bonus rewards bettors for simply signing up with the sportsbook. In this case, the Illinois sports betting site gives a bettor complimentary credits that allow them to place risk-free wagers. However, bettors usually deposit their own funds to continue wagering once the credits run out, securing a new bettor for the sportsbook.

Free Bets

Free bets are another exciting bonus offered by Illinois sports betting sites. In this case, the sportsbook gives a bettor a coupon, voucher, or site credits, allowing them to place a risk-free wager. In other words, if the bettor loses the bet, they don’t risk any of their own funds, and if they win, they can keep their earnings. For instance, DraftKings may offer a $50 free bet on the next MLB game.

Popular Sports to Bet on in Illinois

The leading sites offering sports betting in IL provide a range of sports markets, from America’s favorites like the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB, to less common options like darts, golf, lacrosse, and jai alai. So, let’s look at the more common sports offered in Illinois and the different betting markets players can enjoy when wagering on them.

The NFL at Illinois Sports Betting Sites

Regarded as one of the US’s top four sports, the NFL (National Football League) is a popular sport to wager on at Illinois sports betting sites. Further, these sportsbooks allow bettors to place wagers like spreads, totals, props, teasers, futures, and moneylines on these games and players. So, for the best site to wager on the NFL in Illinois, visit DraftKings.

Illinois only has one NFL team:

• Chicago Bears – The Chicago Bears are nine-time winners of NFL Championships, including one Super Bowl. Additionally, they hold the NFL record for the most inductees in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

IL NBA Betting

The NBA (National Basketball Association) is another popular sport to wager on in Illinois. Here, pro basketball teams duel it out to see who wins the championship title. When wagering on the NBA, we recommend visiting BetMGM, where you can place totals, spreads, props, futures, and moneylines.

Only one NBA team hails from Illinois:

• Chicago Bulls – Six-time Championship winners

MLB Wagering in Illinois

Major League Baseball (MLB) is another of the great American sports and a popular choice on which to bet. Bettors visiting online sportsbooks like PointsBet or BetRivers will find excellent odds and ways to wager, including runlines, totals, props, and moneylines.

Illinois MLB team are the:

• Chicago Cubs – Won their first World Series in nearly 100 years in 2016

The NHL at Sports Betting IL Sites

The NHL or National Hockey League is the last of the top four American sports. So, for the best odds on the Stanley Cup or other NHL games, visit BetMGM or DraftKings. Here, bettors can place props, moneylines, point spreads, and totals.

Illinois has one NHL team:

• Chicago Blackhawks – Three-time winners of the Stanley Cup

NCAA Football Betting in Illinois

Bettors placing sports wagers in Illinois will discover that The Prairie State has a law that only permits bettors to place wagers on collegiate-level sports and games in person. So, bettors cannot wager on the NCAAF (college football) online and regulated sportsbooks may not offer wagering on NCAAF games. However, players can place some of the best props, spreads, moneylines, and totals on Illinois’ teams by visiting DraftKing’s retail sportsbooks.

Below are some of the state’s Division I NCAAF teams:

• Illinois Fighting Illini –  The 2011 Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl was the team’s last bowl game victory.
• Eastern Illinois Panthers – Home to players like former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
• Northern Illinois Huskies – 2021 winners of the MAC Conference.
• Northwestern Wildcats – Have an all-time record under 500.

NCAA Basketball Betting in Illinois

Similar to collegiate-level football, wagers on NCAAB (College-level basketball) may only take place at retail sportsbooks, which makes betting on major events like March Madness challenging. However, avid bettors will find they can still visit in-person sportsbooks like FanDuel or BetMGM to place props, spreads, totals, and moneylines.

Illinois’ NCAAB teams include the following:

• Illinois Fighting Illini – Winners of the 1915 Helms National Championship.
• Loyola Ramblers  – Participated in the Final Four in 2018.
• DePaul Blue Demons – Two-time Final Four veterans.

Golf Wagering in Illinois

Illinois offers some of the most iconic golf greens in the US, like Glen View. As a result, the state has a thriving golf industry which bettors can wager on by visiting BetMGM or FanDuel. Here they can place bets like outright winners, top-five, 10, 15, and 20 finishes, and discover some of the best odds on IL pro golfers.

Horse Racing in IL

Two live horse racing tracks can be found in The Prairie State. Further, both offers live betting on the races. However, bettors can place off-track wagers online or using mobile sites like DraftKings or enjoy traditional simulcast betting. But, for the best parlays, exactas, trifectas, places, and wins, visiting BetMGM.

Illinois boasts two live racecourses:

• Hawthorne Racecourse

• FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing

DFS Betting in Illinois

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) was illegal in Illinois until 2020 when IL Attorney General Lisa Madigan declared that wagering on DFS at sites like FanDuel and DraftKings is a form of sports betting. As a result, IL bettors can visit these two online Illinois sports betting sites to wager bets on their favorite fantasy teams.

Live Betting with Illinois Sports Betting Site

While all sites offering sports betting in Illinois allow bettors to place pre-game wagers using lines like spreads, props, runlines, totals, and moneylines, the best sportsbooks offer live betting too. In this case, the IL sports betting site allows bettors to place these wagers on sports matches already in play.

Although the odds here are more volatile, it offers a nail-biting experience that keeps bettors on the edge of their seats. Further, top sportsbooks live-stream sports events which bettors can watch on the sportsbook website or app, making it easier to catch the match and place live wagers.

So, for the best live betting site in IL, we recommend DraftKings, which also offers live streaming and excellent odds.

Bets that are Illegal in Illinois

The Prairie State only has a handful of bets it considers illegal. Firstly, and most importantly, the state prohibits online wagers on NCAA teams and sports. As a result, bettors must place NCAAF and NCAAB bets in person at retail sportsbooks.

Additionally, regulated Illinois sports betting sites may not offer wagering on politics and awards shows like the Academy Awards and the Grammys.

How Illinois Sports Betting Compares to its Neighboring States

Illinois sports betting fans can legally place wagers online, via mobile, or in person. However, it is also exciting to see what neighboring states offer. So, how does sports betting in IL compare to that provided by other states?

Firstly, a trip to Iowa or Indiana makes it simple for bettors to try  IA sportsbooks or IN sports betting sites since both offer legal sports wagering. But Wisconsin and Kentucky have yet to authorize sports betting. However, Missouri is making inroads toward legalizing sports wagering.

Casinos with Illinois Sports Betting

Besides offering online sports betting, Illinois features several land-based sportsbooks, each based at sports stadia, retail casinos, and racecourses. However, the majority of Illinois’ sports betting establishments sit in and around Chicago and the border to Missouri. So, let’s look at five of the best land-based sportsbooks in IL:

DraftKings At Casino Queen

• Address: 200 Front St, East St Louis,
• Opening hours: 8am – 3am

Located near the Mississippi River in East St. Louis is Illinois’ riverboat casino, the Casino Queen. In addition to a hotel and RV park, bettors can discover a DraftKings sportsbook and a well-stocked casino with over 960 slots, 29 table games, and exciting video poker games.

FanDuel Sportsbook at Par-a-Dice Casino

• Address: 21 Blackjack Blvd, East Peoria
• Opening hours: 

The Par-A-Dice Casino, owned and operated by Boyd Gaming, stands on the Illinois River. When visiting the casino bettors can enjoy over 520 slots and 20 table games. Additionally, they can place wagers on their favorite sports at the FanDuel sportsbook.

Club Hawthorne Prospect Heights & PointsBet Sportsbook

• Address: 1250 River Rd, Prospect Heights
• Opening hours: 10am – 11pm

Club Hawthorne in Prospect Heights isn’t a casino. However, bettors can find delicious meals and beverages at this pub and grill, which offers bettors a little fuel before they visit the on-site PointsBet sportsbook to place wagers on their favorite sports.

BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino

• Address: 3000 S River Rd, Des Plaines
• Opening hours: 24 hours

The Rivers Casino in des Plaines, Illinois is home to a BetRivers sportsbook. However, besides a top-quality sports betting experience, players can enjoy several restaurants and a casino with over 1,400 slots and fantastic table games.

Grand Victoria Casino

• Address: 250 S Grove Ave, Elgin
• Opening hours: 24 hours

Another exquisite riverboat casino in Illinois is The Grand Victoria Casino. Here, bettors can discover delicious dining options and a fantastic 24 hour casino. Besides 860 slots and a variety of table games, bettors can visit the Caesars sportsbook which caters to all their betting needs.

The Best Sports Betting Site for Illinois

Sports betting in Illinois became legal in 2019 and officially launched in 2020. Since then, bettors in The Prairie State have had access to several retail and online sportsbooks regulated by the Illinois Gaming Commission. While each of these offers unique betting options, some provide a superior experience to others, and you’ll find these top sites on our experts’ list.

However, if you are still deciding which Illinois sports betting site to sign up with, we recommend DraftKings. Besides offering exciting promotions, diverse sports and betting markets, an app, and competitive odds, the sportsbook has an outstanding reputation. So, don’t waste time on sub-par sportsbooks. Instead, sign up with DraftKings and claim your welcome reward.