Sports betting in Illinois has become a popular activity, with the state embracing legal wagering for both residents and visitors alike. In 2019, Illinois passed legislation allowing sports betting, and since then, the market has grown rapidly. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer looking to place your first wager, understanding the ins and outs of Illinois sports betting is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sports betting in Illinois— from the best sportsbooks and betting options, to legal requirements and bonuses available.
Yes, sports betting is legal in Illinois. The state passed the Illinois Sports Wagering Act in 2019, which legalized both in-person and online sports betting. The law allows residents to place bets on professional and college sports, with specific restrictions regarding college teams from Illinois.
Sports betting in Illinois operates under strict regulations to ensure a fair and secure betting environment. It is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, which oversees the licensing and operation of sportsbooks.
Illinois boasts several top-rated online sports betting sites, offering users a variety of options for placing bets. Whether you prefer mobile betting or enjoy visiting physical sportsbooks, Illinois has a range of legal options.
DraftKings has quickly become one of the most popular sports betting platforms in Illinois. Known for its easy-to-use interface and wide range of betting markets, DraftKings offers betting on major sports leagues, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL. They also offer daily fantasy sports (DFS) and betting promotions to enhance your experience.
Another top contender is FanDuel, which has earned its reputation through great customer service and solid betting options. FanDuel is known for its intuitive design and competitive odds. Sports enthusiasts can bet on everything from football and basketball to niche sports like soccer, tennis, and golf.
For Illinois residents who want a unique betting experience, PointsBet stands out with its innovative "PointsBetting" feature. This platform offers a variety of betting options with higher-risk, higher-reward possibilities. If you enjoy faster-paced, action-packed betting, PointsBet is an excellent choice.
BetRivers is another well-established sportsbook in Illinois. It’s known for offering a diverse selection of betting markets and a rewarding loyalty program. BetRivers also provides live streaming of select events and solid promotions to help you maximize your betting potential.
Illinois sports bettors have access to a wide range of sports. The most popular sports that you can wager on in Illinois include:
NFL (National Football League)
NBA (National Basketball Association)
MLB (Major League Baseball)
NHL (National Hockey League)
NCAA Football and Basketball
Soccer (MLS, international leagues)
Tennis
Golf
Boxing and MMA
Esports
Additionally, you can also bet on niche markets such as motorsports, rugby, and other international sports.
Placing a sports bet in Illinois is a simple process, whether you choose to bet online or in person.
Sign Up: Choose a licensed sportsbook, and create an account with your personal information. You may need to verify your identity and age, as you must be at least 21 years old to place a bet in Illinois.
Deposit Funds: Add money to your sportsbook account using a secure payment method. Most Illinois sportsbooks accept bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and popular e-wallets.
Choose Your Bet: Navigate through the available sports markets and choose the event you wish to bet on. You can select from different betting types such as moneyline, spread, over/under, and prop bets.
Place Your Bet: After reviewing the odds and wager amounts, confirm your bet and place it. You’ll receive confirmation and can track the results live.
Many Illinois sportsbooks offer enticing bonuses and promotions to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged. Some common types of promotions include:
Welcome Bonuses: Typically, sportsbooks offer a matched deposit bonus for new customers. This means they’ll match your first deposit up to a certain amount, giving you more betting power to start with.
Free Bets: Some sportsbooks offer free bet credits or risk-free bets, allowing you to place a wager without the risk of losing your money.
Referral Bonuses: If you refer a friend to a sportsbook, both you and your friend could earn bonuses once they sign up and deposit.
Make sure to check the terms and conditions of each promotion to understand any wagering requirements or restrictions.
It’s important to gamble responsibly when engaging in sports betting. Set a budget for yourself, and avoid betting more than you can afford to lose. Illinois also offers resources for individuals who may develop gambling problems, including self-exclusion programs and counseling services.
Sports betting in Illinois has seen rapid growth since becoming legal, and with plenty of licensed sportsbooks to choose from, there’s never been a better time to get involved. By following this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to choose the right platform, bet responsibly, and enjoy the excitement that comes with sports betting.
Make sure to stay updated on any changes in Illinois’ sports betting laws and always bet within your means for a fun and responsible experience.
