Illinois allows statewide online sports betting through licensed sportsbook apps. Although each platform operates under the same state regulations, sportsbooks differ in features such as betting options, app design, bonuses, and banking methods.
This guide compares the best Illinois sports betting apps and explains how legal sports betting works in the state, including key rules, eligibility requirements, and what to know before signing up.
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Illinois currently has 10 licensed online sportsbooks available to bettors statewide. The previews below outline key differences between some of the most popular platforms, focusing on features, betting options, and other factors that may matter when choosing a sportsbook.
FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the most established betting apps in Illinois and operates through a partnership with Par-A-Dice Casino. Since launching in the state in 2020, FanDuel has built a strong following largely due to its easy-to-use app and reliable live betting tools. Markets are well organized, same-game parlays are simple to build, and in-play betting updates make it a popular option for bettors who like wagering during games.
FanDuel also offers a wide range of major U.S. and international sports, along with frequent odds boosts and rotating promotions throughout the year. That said, lines may not always be posted as early as at some competitors, which could be a drawback for bettors who prioritize early markets or niche events.
Overall, FanDuel is a strong choice for Illinois bettors who value app usability, live betting features, and broad market coverage, even if it may not suit every betting style.
Caesars Sportsbook operates in Illinois through a partnership with Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin and is part of the broader Caesars Entertainment network.
After acquiring and rebranding William Hill, Caesars focused on building a straightforward sportsbook with broad market coverage and familiar betting tools. The app is easy to navigate and includes standard features like live betting, parlays, and rotating odds boosts.
Caesars’ biggest differentiator is Caesars Rewards, which allows bettors to earn points on wagers that can be redeemed for hotel stays, dining credits, and other perks at Caesars properties. One limitation is that its betting menus—especially for player props and alternate lines—are sometimes less expansive than what’s available at a few competing sportsbooks.
Caesars is a solid option for Illinois bettors who value simplicity and real-world rewards, even if it may not offer the deepest selection of niche betting markets.
BetMGM Sportsbook operates online in Illinois through a partnership with Par-A-Dice Casino in East Peoria and launched in the state in 2022. While it does not run a standalone retail sportsbook, BetMGM has built a strong online offering that covers all major U.S. sports along with a wide range of betting options, including live betting and parlays.
One of BetMGM’s strengths is the number of markets and bet types available, with plenty of alternate lines, player props, and in-game options across popular leagues. It also runs regular odds boosts and seasonal promotions tied to major events like the NFL. The tradeoff is that ongoing offers for existing users are not always as consistent as those at some competing sportsbooks, which may matter to bettors who prioritize long-term promos.
BetMGM works well for Illinois bettors who want lots of betting options in one place, even if it isn’t always the most promo-heavy sportsbook over time.
DraftKings Sportsbook operates in Illinois through a partnership with Casino Queen in Alton and launched in the state in 2020. It also offers a retail sportsbook at Casino Queen, giving bettors the option to wager both online and in person. DraftKings is best known for its easy-to-use app and the variety of betting options available across major U.S. sports.
One of DraftKings’ main strengths is its range of betting markets and bet types, including alternate lines, player props, same-game parlays, and in-game options across sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college athletics (where permitted). The platform also runs ongoing promotions, such as daily profit boosts and short-term offers tied to major events, which can add value beyond the initial sign-up bonus. A limitation is that DraftKings offers limited live streaming, and its teaser odds are generally less favorable than those available at some competing sportsbooks.
Getting started with online sports betting in Illinois is a straightforward process and typically takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.
Start by selecting a sportsbook that is legally licensed to operate in Illinois. Many bettors compare platforms based on features, betting markets, and available Illinois sportsbook bonuses, which can vary by operator. Clicking a link above will take you directly to the sportsbook’s official registration page.
To register, you’ll need to provide basic personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. This verification step is required to confirm eligibility and ensure compliance with Illinois regulations.
Once your account is approved, you can fund it using the sportsbook’s online cashier. Most Illinois betting apps accept common payment methods like Visa and Mastercard, along with alternatives such as PayPal, online bank transfers, eChecks, and Venmo (availability varies by sportsbook).
Some operators also allow cash deposits at retail locations through services like PayNearMe, which can be completed at participating stores such as CVS Pharmacy or 7-Eleven. If you plan to use a specific payment method, it’s a good idea to check the sportsbook’s banking options in advance.
After your deposit is complete, you can begin placing wagers across available sports and markets. As with any form of betting, it’s important to set a budget and only wager amounts you’re comfortable with, since outcomes are never guaranteed.
Yes. Sports betting is legal in Illinois and has been in effect since March 9, 2020, following the passage of SB 690, which was signed into law in June 2019. The law authorized both retail and online sports betting statewide, allowing licensed casinos and racetracks to partner with online sportsbook operators.
All legal sports betting activity in the state is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, which oversees licensing, compliance, and consumer protections for both online and in-person sportsbooks.
Online betting apps launched in June 2020, giving bettors statewide access to regulated platforms offering common wager types such as point spreads, moneylines, parlays, and live betting.
Illinois does not have tribal casinos, so the sports betting market operates entirely through commercial venues and approved online partners. Bettors who use licensed Illinois sportsbooks are protected by state regulations, responsible gambling requirements, and standardized account verification processes.
It’s currently available online and at retail sportsbooks located at casinos and racetracks across the state. While other states have sports betting at sports stadiums and even certain sports bars, that’s not the case in Illinois at this time.
Here are some of the retail sportsbooks operating in Illinois where you can bet on sports at:
The Casino Queen is a strong choice if you’re in Illinois looking for some betting action. The Casino Queen is a riverboat casino with 38,000 square feet of gaming space and will celebrate its 30th birthday in 2023.
The property was rebranded as DraftKings Sportsbook at Casino Queen in 2020, a deal that saw the property renovated and a betting site added. The Casino Queen is expanding and will also start operating slots at the Fairmount Park Racetrack in the near future, something that will see the company grow its footprint in Illinois betting and gaming.
Caesars Sportsbook has become one of the United States’ largest sports betting sites. This largely stems from the sheer size and reach of the Caesars Entertainment conglomerate.
The company runs casinos across the United States and owns Harrah’s chain of casinos, which has two locations in Illinois. Alongside Harrah’s, Caesars also operates the Grand Victoria Casino, another riverboat casino that runs along the Fox River and is based in Elgin. All three of the casinos also have a Caesars Sportsbook retail location.
BetRivers and SugarHouse are the sports betting arms of the Rivers Casino chain. Alongside two locations in Pennsylvania, it also has one in Des Plaines, Illinois.
Naturally, the Rivers Casino in Des Plaines operates a BetRivers retail sportsbook location. It also has a huge 147,000-square-foot gaming floor with over 1,400 slot machines as well as table games and poker to suit anyone’s gaming tastes.
Fairmount Park is one of Illinois’ two active horse racing tracks, featuring thoroughbred flat racing with ample seating for fans. Since 2020, the track has been rebranded as FanDuel Sportsbook and Racing.
As the name suggests, the location now boasts a FanDuel Sportsbook. Slot machines may also be added to the property in the future, courtesy of Casino Queen which boasts a rival retail sportsbook operated by DraftKings.
FanDuel isn’t the only sportsbook option for those who also like to take in horse races. In Cicero, Illinois, Fanatics boasts a retail sportsbook at the Hawthorne Race Course.
Sports bettors are able to take in some races while also betting on sports including basketball, football, and baseball. A casino is also in the works at the location, which will make it a one-stop gaming shop in the near future.
Illinois sports bettors have almost all of the traditional sports betting options when it comes to wagering, but there are two big asterisks.
First and foremost, Illinois has a ban on betting on in-state collegiate sports. This means that Illinois sports bettors cannot bet on collegiate sports involving Illinois-based schools, but can bet on NCAA contests in any other state.
The other is that esports betting is in limbo in Illinois. Though it’s not actually illegal, it hasn’t been explicitly approved. This keeps it off the table for the time being. Here are some of the sports Illinois sports bettors can wager on:
The Chicago Cubs were long Major League Baseball’s lovable losers with their century-long World Series pennant drought becoming the stuff of legends. The signing of Boston Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein in 2011 kicked off a years-long rebuilding of the franchise that resulted in steady improvement for the club and culminated in a 2016 World Series victory, ending the Cubs’ curse after 108 years.
The team has been solid in the years since then, making the playoffs on multiple occasions. Though the team doesn’t look to be winning the World Series again any time soon, it has the pieces in place to return to contendership.
The Chicago Cubs are more popular nationally, but they’re not the only Chicago MLB franchise. The Chicago White Sox are an iconic team in their own right, and were generally the better team until the Cubs took the World Series in 2016.
The Cubs have largely fallen off since 2016, but the White Sox are regular contenders. The team is in the playoff hunt more often than not and gives Chicago baseball fans something to look forward to in October.
The Chicago Bears is one of the NFL’s most storied franchises. The team’s notoriously stiff defense is still the benchmark to this day, and the 1985 Monsters of the Midway are widely regarded as one of the greatest NFL teams of all time.
Things haven’t been as great for the franchise in recent years. The team made just six playoff appearances between 2000 and 2022, with its only notable run during that time being a 2006 Super Bowl defeat at the hands of the Indianapolis Colts. Da Bears’ faithful still continue to pack Soldier Field, though.
The Chicago Bulls are one of the most recognizable brands in American professional sports. Much of that stems from the immortal Michael Jordan and the franchise’s decade-long dynasty in the 1990s.
Much like the Chicago Bears, that reputation doesn’t quite sync up with modern results. The team has missed the playoffs more often than not in recent years but a solid 2021-2022 NBA season is enough to inspire confidence in the team’s prospects in the coming years.
The Chicago Blackhawks were one of the Original Six NHL franchises, giving the team loads of history and plenty of banners to hang from the ceiling of the United Center. The team has been up and down throughout its history, but was a dynasty-caliber franchise after coming under the control of owner Rocky Wirtz.
In the seasons after Wirtz became principal owner, the Blackhawks ushered in a modern dynasty by winning three Stanley Cups between 2009 and 2015. The team has been on a downturn since, which wasn't helped when a significant controversy in 2021 forced the general manager to resign.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is one of two major NCAA forces in the state of Illinois. The school has 21 varsity teams, competing primarily in the Big Ten conference.
The most notable team for the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is its men’s basketball team, which has made multiple appearances in recent NCAA Tournaments. That said, the school boasts competitive teams in a number of sports including a top-notch wrestling program that produced the fearsome Isaiah Martinez.
Northwestern University is another prominent NCAA Division I school in Illinois. It’s one of the chief rivals of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, competing in the Big Ten conference.
For betting purposes, the team to focus on is Northwestern’s football team, which has been a force in football in recent seasons. The team has earned regular bowl appearances and has come out on top of most of them. It’s also a serious threat at the top of the Big Ten’s western division.
There are many other NCAA programs in Illinois and plenty of other pro teams that call the state their home. Here are some of the most notable:
Moneylines are what most people imagine when they first think of sports betting. You bet on the team you expect to win and get money based on how the match was expected to go beforehand. No other considerations are made outside victory, making this the simplest style of betting.
“The spread” is often referred to when discussing sports betting, but what is it? Other regions refer to it as a handicap, which spells it out clearly. The favorite to win the match has to win by a certain number of points in order to have a bet on them hit. This can result in you winning a bet when a team loses, or losing a bet when your team wins. The actual number of points required is explicitly stated before placing the wager.
Live betting is betting that takes place during a game. Even after a game officially starts, bettors can keep wagering on its outcome. The lines are adjusted based on how the action is unfolding, which cna make for some big payouts if you accurately predict a comeback.
Oddsmakers will make a prediction regarding how many points a team will score during a game and allow bettors to wager whether the team’s final score is over or under that prediction. These lines are presented in decimal fashion, where the line will be set at 24.5 to have the under come in as 24 points or fewer while the over is 25 points or more.
Totals have the most straightforward name in sports betting. They’re the total combined points scored by both teams during a game. These are usually presented in a fashion similar to an over/under, but include the points scored by both teams.
Prop bets are bets that look at things beyond just points scored and the winner of the match. These can relate to statistics, like how many yards a quarterback will throw, or specific happenings like a boxer receiving a point deduction for fouls. Each sport has its own popular prop bet categories, and larger events can receive special prop bets.
Parlays group together multiple bets as one. Many bookmakers have “same-game parlays” that group together bets from the same match. Parlays carry higher risk since all the bets need to hit in order to result in a win, but have greater potential rewards as well.
Sports betting should be treated as entertainment, not a way to make money. Illinois requires licensed sportsbooks to provide responsible gambling tools and resources for players. If you or someone you know needs support, the following options are available:
If gambling ever stops being enjoyable or becomes difficult to manage, help is available.
Do I need to live in Illinois to place a bet?
No. You do not need to be an Illinois resident to use an Illinois sportsbook. However, you must be physically located within state lines at the time you place a wager. Sportsbooks use geolocation software to confirm this.
Can I use multiple sportsbook apps in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois does not limit how many sportsbook accounts you can have. Many bettors use more than one app to compare odds, access different betting tools, or take advantage of promotions across platforms.
Are sportsbook winnings taxed in Illinois?
Yes. Sports betting winnings are considered taxable income at both the federal and state level. Sportsbooks may issue tax forms for larger wins, but bettors are responsible for reporting all gambling income when filing taxes.
Written by Mike McDermott, Online Gambling Expert & Industry Analyst
Mike McDermott has been part of the online gambling world since the early days back when dial-up connections were still a thing and online poker rooms were just starting to take off. With over 20 years in the industry, he's seen trends come and go, watched regulations tighten, and helped shape the strategies behind some of the most recognizable names in iGaming. Mike doesn’t just write about online casinos and sportsbooks he’s worked inside them. From advising on risk management and user experience to testing games for fairness and compliance, his experience runs deep. He’s consulted for operators, contributed to gambling safety initiatives, and still plays regularly to stay sharp. His goal? Simple. To help players make smarter choices, avoid shady sites, and understand the real odds behind the games. You’ll find his work quoted in major gambling publications and trusted by thousands of readers looking for real, unfiltered insights - not marketing fluff.