The landscape of sports fandom in Illinois changed forever in 2020 with the launch of legal sports betting. What started as a trickle has become a tidal wave, establishing the Prairie State as one of the most competitive and vibrant sports betting markets in the United States.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a curious newcomer, navigating this new world can be daunting. This guide covers everything you need to know, from how to sign up and claim bonuses to the top sportsbooks operating in the state.
The Legal Framework: How Illinois Sports Betting Works
Illinois sports betting was signed into law in June 2019 and officially launched in March 2020. The legislation is overseen by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), which regulates all casino gaming and sports betting activity in the state.
A key and unique feature of Illinois’ initial law was the in-person registration requirement. Originally, bettors had to sign up for an online sportsbook account in person at a partnered casino. However, this requirement was permanently lifted in 2022, allowing for fully remote registration from anywhere in the state. This change supercharged the market, making it easier than ever for Illinoisans to participate.
You must be 21 years of age or older and physically located within Illinois state lines to place a bet. Geo-location technology is used by all apps to verify your location.
How to Get Started: Signing Up and Claiming Bonuses
- Choose a Sportsbook: Select one of the many licensed operators (see our list below). Consider factors like the welcome bonus, app usability, and betting options.
- Download the App or Visit the Website: Using your mobile device or computer, download the sportsbook’s app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store, or visit their website.
- Create an Account: You will need to provide personal information including your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number for identity verification.
- Claim Your Welcome Bonus: The most common bonus is a “risk-free bet” or a “first deposit match.” For example, a “$1,000 risk-free bet” means if your first bet loses, you will receive the amount back as site credit. Always read the terms and conditions, as these bonuses come with playthrough requirements.
- Deposit Funds: Fund your account using a variety of methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, online bank transfer, Play+, or at a casino cage.
- Place Your Bet! Browse the available sports, select your wager, add it to your bet slip, enter your stake, and confirm.
Top Illinois Sportsbook Apps
Illinois boasts a highly competitive market with nearly a dozen major operators. Here are some of the leaders:
- DraftKings Sportsbook: A market leader known for its slick interface, extensive betting options, and innovative features like same-game parlays. Its promo offers are consistently among the best.
- FanDuel Sportsbook: The other titan of the industry, FanDuel rivals DraftKings in size. It is praised for its intuitive design, competitive odds, and excellent live betting platform.
- BetRivers: Owned by Rush Street Gaming, which also operates the Rivers Casinos in Illinois, BetRivers has a strong local presence. It offers a solid product with a robust rewards program.
- Caesars Sportsbook: A legacy brand that has made a huge digital push. Caesars is famous for its generous welcome bonuses (often a first bet on them up to a large amount) and its integration with the Caesars Rewards program.
- BetMGM: The powerhouse brand of MGM Resorts International. BetMGM offers a premium experience with strong odds, a wide array of markets, and seamless integration with the MGM loyalty program.
- Fanatics Sportsbook: The new player on the block, leveraging its massive fan apparel business. It’s quickly gaining traction with competitive promotions and a user-friendly app.
Other notable books include ESBET, PointsBet (known for its unique PointsBetting feature), and Hard Rock Bet.
What Can You Bet On?
The options are nearly endless. Illinois sportsbooks offer wagering on:
- Major Professional Sports: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS
- College Sports: A full slate of NCAA football and basketball. Note: Illinois law prohibits wagering on in-state college teams (e.g., University of Illinois, Northwestern) unless it is a tournament like March Madness.
- International Sports: Soccer (English Premier League, Champions League), Golf (PGA Tour, Masters), Tennis, MMA (UFC), Formula 1, and more.
- Other Markets: Awards ceremonies (Oscars, Heisman Trophy), political elections, and novelty events.
Types of Bets
- Moneyline: Simply betting on who will win the game.
- Point Spread: Betting on a team to win or lose by a certain number of points.
- Totals (Over/Under): Betting on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set number.
- Parlays: Combining multiple bets into one wager for a higher payout. All selections must win.
- Props (Proposition Bets): Bets on specific outcomes within a game, e.g., which player will score first, how many passing yards a QB will have.
- Futures: Bets on events that will happen in the future, e.g., who will win the Super Bowl or the NBA Championship.
- Live Betting: Placing wagers on a game that is currently in progress.
Responsible Gambling
Sports betting is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. It’s crucial to gamble responsibly.
- Set a Budget: Only bet what you can afford to lose.
- Set Time Limits: Don’t let betting consume your day.
- Don’t Chase Losses: Trying to win back money you’ve lost often leads to bigger losses.
- Use Tools: Illinois sportsbooks offer tools to help you stay in control, including deposit limits, time-
- out periods, and self-exclusion. Resources like the Illinois Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-
- GAMBLER) are available for confidential support.
The Future of Illinois Sports Betting
The market continues to evolve. We can expect to see more operators enter the space, further enhancements to live betting technology, and the potential integration of betting into live sports viewing experiences. As competition heats up, bettors will continue to benefit from better promotions, odds, and user experiences.
The Final Whistle
Illinois has fully embraced legal sports betting, offering its residents a safe, regulated, and exciting way to engage with their favorite sports. With a crowded field of top-tier sportsbooks vying for your action, there has never been a better time to be a sports fan in Illinois. Just remember to sign up wisely, claim your bonuses, and, most importantly, bet responsibly.
About The Author
