Illinois bettors can now sign up with an online sportsbook as long as they are located within state lines. Most of its retail casinos also have sports betting facilities open for business. Illinois is one of the nation’s most populated states, and it is among the top 5 states in both handling and tax revenue. Chicago has turned into a sports betting epicenter in the United States.

A major roadblock was lifted on March 5, 2022, when an in-person registration rule, waived on a month-by-month basis during pandemic lockdowns, expired for good. Illinois has seven online sportsbooks, with BetMGM Sportsbook the latest to launch a mobile betting app.

Best Illinois Sportsbook Promotions and Bonuses

Loyalty Programs at Illinois Sportsbooks

We like that programs like BetMGM's MGM Rewards or Caesars' Caesars Rewards give points and tier placement for every dollar you wager.

There is no cost to join, and you'll probably enroll automatically when you register. These points and statuses can often lead to benefits like free meals, free hotel stays, and exclusive event invitations. This is a nice benefit to consider when choosing between different Illinois sportsbooks.

Most Illinois sportsbooks with a brand connection to a larger casino chain let you participate in the company-wide loyalty program, but Bet MGM and Caesar's are two of the best.

How to Place an Online Bet in Illinois

Now that online sports betting is legal and live in Illinois, it's time for you to start betting. Here's a quick 3-step guide on how to sign up and take advantage of new customer promotions at an online sportsbook in Illinois:

Step 1: Choose a Sportsbook

If you're a new customer at Bet365, if you place a $5 bet you'll get $200 in bonus bets! So, let's start there.

Eventually, you'll want multiple sports betting accounts to shop around for the best bonus offers, but for now, start with the one offering a great promo.

Step 2: Sign Up

Create a new account at Bet365 by following the steps once you click the link. Be ready to provide the last four digits of your social security number.

Step 3: Deposit Money Online (Not in Person)

Illinois makes it easy by allowing online sports bettors to sign up and register online. In other states, you have to sign up in person before you can bet online.

You can make a deposit at Caesar's with the following:

Credit card

Bank account

PayPal

Wire transfer

And more.

You will need to deposit money that then operates as your "bankroll," aka available funds to bet with. Most legal sportsbooks require this deposit before allowing you to place a bet. If you've previously bet offshore, you'll be happy to know that using a credit card or bank account is easy to deposit money at legal online sportsbooks.

Online sportsbooks in Illinois also make cashing out easy. Caesar's will put money right into your bank account whenever you're ready to withdraw it. We've seen withdrawals come through in fewer than 24 hours, though it may take a bit longer in some instances.

Ready to get started betting on sports in Illinois? Click here for Bet365's new customer offer.

Placing a bet with an Illinois online sportsbook is straightforward. Beginning sports bettors in Illinois should have no trouble placing their first bet. All these Illinois sportsbooks have helpful customer service teams if you encounter any sports betting issues.

Illinois Sportsbook FAQs

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Illinois?

Yes, online sports betting is legal in Illinois. The state legalized it in June 2019 with the passage of the Illinois Gambling Act, and went live in March 2022. Since then, several online sportsbooks have launched, offering legal betting options to anyone over the age of 21 and physically located within the state.

What Sports Betting Apps Are Available in Illinois?

Several sports betting apps are available in Illinois, including big names like Caesars, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers. These apps offer a range of betting markets, live betting, and various promotions.

How Many Online Sportsbooks Are There in Illinois?

The number of online sportsbooks in Illinois is continually growing. Seven legal sportsbooks are currently operating in the state, with more likely to launch in the future.

Can You Bet on College Sports in Illinois?

Yes, you can bet on college sports in Illinois. However, there are restrictions on placing bets on collegiate teams from Illinois or on collegiate events taking place within the state.

Are There Any Restrictions on Online Sports Betting in Illinois?

Yes, there are a few restrictions. You must be 21 or older and physically located in Illinois to place a bet. Betting on Illinois collegiate teams and events is restricted.

Our Favorite Sites for Online Sports Betting

When it comes to online sports betting, finding a trusted and reliable sportsbook is key. We’ve put together a list of our top picks based on their odds, bonuses, user experience, and overall reputation. Check out the best options available in your state:

1. BetMGM

✅ Why We Love It: Competitive odds, an excellent rewards program, and a top-tier app experience.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Get Up To $1,500 Paid Back In Bonus Bets If You Don't Win

2. FanDuel Sportsbook

✅ Why We Love It: Fast payouts, same-game parlays, and a user-friendly platform.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Bet $5, Get $300 In Bonus Bets If You Win.

3. DraftKings Sportsbook

✅ Why We Love It: Huge betting markets, daily promotions, and seamless integration with DFS.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Bet $5, Get $200 In Bonus Bet If Your Bet Wins!

4. Caesars Sportsbook

✅ Why We Love It: Best odds boosts, solid loyalty rewards, and trusted brand history.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings On Your Next 20 Bets!

5. Bet365

✅ Why We Love It: Simple interface, in-game betting excellence, and great odds boosts.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Bet $5, Get $200 In Bonus Bets.

6. BetRivers

✅ Why We Love It: Great for live betting, a solid rewards program, and low rollover requirements.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Second-Chance Bet Up To $500 (Varies By State).

7. Fanatics Sportsbook

✅ Why We Love It: Unique rewards program where you can earn fan gear, strong betting markets, and a growing platform.
🎁 Bonus Offer: Get Up To $100 Back in FanCash if Your Football Bet Loses Every Single Game Day!

Not available in your state?

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Disclaimer:

Illinois bettors Must be 21+. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER. or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling www.ncpgambling.org