Best Illinois Sportsbooks, Sports Betting Apps, Promos (2026)
Sports betting is legal and live in Illinois.
Our experts rank and review the best Illinois sportsbooks and sports betting apps. Use our guide to claim the top Illinois sportsbook promos available today.
Best Illinois Sportsbook Promos
Why You Should Claim Illinois Sportsbook Promos
Many sites offer Illinois sportsbook promo codes to attract new customers and retain existing players, and you should maximize these offers as soon as you sign up with a new site:
- You can create an account with multiple sportsbooks and claim a welcome offer promo code at each site.
- You can make riskier bets with offers that return some or all of your stake as bonus bets.
- You can profit while risking less of your own funds than you otherwise would.
Latest News Affecting Illinois Sports Betting
Comparing our Experts' Top Illinois Sportsbooks
| IL Sportsbook | Our Overall Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. FanDuel | 9.1/10 |
| 2. DraftKings | 8.9/10 |
| 3. bet365 | 8.9/10 |
| 4. BetMGM | 8.6/10 |
| 5. Fanatics Sportsbook | 8.15/10 |
| 6. Caesars Sportsbook | 7.1/10 |
Since Illinois betting launched in June 2020, Illinois residents have been given access to some of the top U.S. sportsbooks.
The best platform for you depends on what you're looking for. Use our expert guidance on this page to choose a legal Illinois sports betting site, and click the links to sign up and get your welcome offer.
| Launch Date | Aug. 28, 2020 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, desktop |
| Licensing Partner | Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino |
| Retail Locations | FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing, Par-A-Dice Sportsbook |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | None |
Our experts graded FanDuel as one of the best-designed sports betting sites in Illinois with a polished, fast, and clean interface. The site is easy to use, allowing for seamless switching between upcoming live events and all sports. Some of our favorite FanDuel features are in its live betting offering: live streaming with real-time odds and no lag, live same-game parlays, and early cash outs.
Plus, FanDuel consistently posts some of the earliest odds for any contest and usually remains relatively competitive. We found that point-spread prices generally offer the best value for you.
Pros & Cons
- Great user experience & strong app performance
- Competitive odds
- Low minimum bet to activate bonuses
- Efficient payments methods & near-instant withdrawals
- Easy-to-claim welcome offer for beginners
- No loyalty scheme for sports bettors
- No phone customer support
- Added surcharge on every bet
- Lacking in withdrawal options vs. competitors
What IL App Users are Saying
- “This is by far the easiest to use sports book when wagering and I have never had an issue if I won...no complaints. Keep up all the good work, but if I can offer a suggestion, it would be to create a point system that rewards those who choose to play on this sportsbook.”
| Launch Date | Aug. 5, 2020 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, desktop |
| Licensing Partner | Casino Queen |
| Retail Locations | DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook, DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | Dynasty Rewards |
Our experts have graded DraftKings as a top Illinois sportsbook for its overall functionality and ease of live betting. DraftKings offers a seamless and intuitive software experience, featuring a user-friendly site and quick mobile app. The dedicated Stats Hub provides detailed notes to help you gain pre-game insights and place more informed bets.
One thing that really separates DraftKings from our No. 1 Illinois sportsbook, FanDuel, is its Dynasty Rewards program, which you're automatically enrolled in as soon as you create your account. DraftKings will even match your rewards status at different sportsbooks.
Pros & Cons
- Intuitive site & smooth mobile app experience
- Wide range of bet types, especially props, on all major sports
- Excellent loyalty program
- Best range of payment methods in Illinois
- Extensive customer support options
- Slower withdrawals for some payment methods
- Added surcharge on every bet
- Deposit match has a very high playthrough requirement
What IL App Users are Saying
- “The profit boosts are nice and unlike anything I’ve ever seen on any other app or site. So that’s a plus. The lag on placing bets is a bit annoying, but it’s understandable. The UI is nice and the social hub is a huge plus and extremely underrated.”
| Launch Date | March 16, 2024 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, desktop |
| Licensing Partner | Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | None |
bet365 is a relatively new sportsbook in Illinois, delivering one of the best live-betting and streaming experiences in Illinois, with lightning-fast odds updates and deep markets across every major and niche sport. Competitive odds and excellent early-payout features make it a favorite for value-focused bettors.
While the interface isn’t the flashiest, the sportsbook excels where it matters most—speed, reliability, market selection, user-friendliness, strong app performance, and customer support. Promotions are consistently strong across all sports, though the lack of a loyalty program is noticeable.
Pros & Cons
- Massive selection of markets, including niche sports
- Industry-leading live betting with real-time stats, fast ticker updates, extensive live streaming
- Highly competitive odds & frequent boosts
- Early cash-out promos across major sports
- Fast, reliable payouts with broad banking options
- No loyalty or rewards program
- Mobile app, while functional and fast, is less intuitive or modern-looking
- Added surcharge on every bet under $10
What IL App Users are Saying
- “One of the better sportsbooks with the best odds, markets, promos and perks but the app has to be one of the worst. ... Would easily be the best sportsbook in the game if they fixed up their app just a bit."
| Launch Date | March 5, 2022 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, desktop |
| Licensing Partner | Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | MGM Rewards |
BetMGM offers a unique user experience, complete with mobile live streaming options and a wide range of betting markets, which our experts have voted as the best selection in Illinois.
The site is simple to use, with in-play games prominently displayed and other sports easily accessible. BetMGM particularly stands out for its parlay tools, which are prominently displayed on the home screen.
Our experts also love using the BetMGM mobile app, as it offers a seamless betting experience with excellent functionality. However, we encountered lengthy loading times when switching between events or markets, making live betting challenging.
Pros & Cons
- Impressive market selection across major sports
- Great range of ongoing bonus offers
- Includes features like Parlay Builder and live streams
- No added surcharge on bets
- MGM Rewards offers chance to earn real-world perks
- Requires $2.50 minimum bet to offset transaction fees
- Withdrawal processing times can be slow
- No phone customer support
- Lag times when betting on mobile
What IL App Users are Saying
- “Lots of line and wager options. Good promotions. Trustworthy and easy to deposit/withdraw. The app is not as smooth as others, but I’m overlooking this because of a good experience with the book and their customer support.”
| Launch Date | April 5, 2024 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
| Licensing Partner | Hawthorne Race Course |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | FanCash Rewards |
The Fanatics Illinois app is available for both Android and iOS users, offering a streamlined and straightforward experience.
Fanatics offers a FanCash loyalty program, which allows gamblers to earn points on their sports betting activities. In Illinois, users can redeem their FanCash for various rewards, including exclusive merchandise for Illinois teams, game tickets, and dining experiences.
However, the promo values and boost amounts tend to be a bit lower compared to other sportsbooks. With a few more promotions and more alternate lines and parlay options, Fanatics would be right up there with our top choices.
Pros & Cons
- Innovative FanCash Rewards program provides win-or-lose rewards
- Easy-to-use mobile app
- Unique bonuses available to ongoing users
- Wide variety of betting markets
- Added transaction fee for every bet
- No phone support
- Tends to have fewer promos vs. competitors
- Limited bet types
What IL App Users are Saying
- “Before I downloaded, I was reading reviews…most of which were very negative. I have had literally zero issues. The app itself is very easy to navigate. The odds are great. Easy to deposit. When you bet on a player prop, you get paid out as soon as the bet hits...I highly recommend this sportsbook.”
| Launch Date | March 9, 2022 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, desktop |
| Licensing Partner | Grand Victoria Casino |
| Retail Locations | Grand Victoria Casino; Harrah's Metropolis |
| Mobile Live Streaming | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | Caesars Rewards |
Caesars Illinois offers an array of exceptional features and diverse betting markets. You can enjoy a substantial welcome bonus, ongoing promos, and a rewarding loyalty program in Caesars Rewards. However, Caesars shows a mixed performance in terms of odds compared to BetMGM and DraftKings. It offers some of the best odds when backing the favorite, but long-shot odds on underdogs compare less favorably to DraftKings.
Caesars Sportsbook offers an excellent mobile app with live NFL streaming on Sundays. Overall, it provides a seamless betting experience with an intuitive interface and decent odds.
Pros & Cons
- Intuitive, multi-functional platform with robust & responsive app
- Generous Caesars Rewards program
- Competitive odds, especially for favorites
- Multiple banking options with near-instant withdrawals
- No added surcharge or transaction fee on bets
- Live betting features include Watch & Bet NFL live streaming, early cashouts
- Frequent promos, including odds boosts
- Low lag time
- No phone support available
- Does not always match competitors in overall odds or features
What IL App Users are Saying
- “I love the promos and bonus bets they provide. I think the app could be a bit more stable, logging in is weird half the time. Deposits are easy.”
More Great Illinois Sportsbooks to Explore
| IL Sportsbook | Licensing Partner | Retail Location |
|---|---|---|
| BetRivers | Rivers Casino Des Plaines | BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino |
| Circa Sports | Full House Resorts | Circa Sports Illinois Sportsbook at The Temporary by American Place Casino |
| Hard Rock Bet | Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Casino Aurora | The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Joliet |
How We Rate Illinois Sportsbooks & Betting Apps
We register with every legal Illinois betting site, assessing each platform's features, markets, bet types, customer support, and payments. This enables us to evaluate its overall user experience and determine whether we should recommend it to our users.
"Here at Gambling.com, our goal is to deliver honest, helpful information about Illinois betting apps' pros, cons, features, and functionality."
Licensing & Safety
It is essential to choose a reputable legal sportsbook in Illinois to ensure a safe and secure betting experience. These regulated platforms offer numerous advantages compared to unlicensed or offshore operators. They contribute to maintaining the integrity of sports by detecting and preventing illegal activities, as well as preventing underage gambling and identity theft.
That's why every sportsbook we recommend has been licensed through the Illinois Gaming Board. That means they’re all vetted, monitored, and guaranteed to be operating within specific standards for privacy, information security, and fairness to the player.
Trust Factors
Our experts have selected the best Illinois sportsbooks and compared them across various categories using our fair and unbiased review process. Using the trust factors detailed below, in addition to some other key criteria, we average each sportsbook's grade to get the final ratings you saw above.
Sports & Markets
Each platform offers its own unique range of wagering options; an app with more options and betting markets will likely appeal to a broader range of bettors. We explore every platform's betting markets and menus, particularly those of major professional teams in Illinois, to ensure depth and breadth across all the sports you care about.
Promotions
Sports betting promotions and sign-up bonuses are essential. We claim Illinois sports betting promos to ensure you can take full advantage of the sportsbook promos offered by each platform.
Payments
We check each sportsbook's limits, transactions feeds, and processing times. The best sportsbooks should offer a variety of payment methods, secure transactions, and prompt withdrawal times.
Reputation & User Feedback
The best sportsbooks should prioritize protecting your funds, ensuring fairness, and offering robust customer support. We ensure that all our recommended Illinois sportsbooks adhere to these standards by evaluating their reputation in the industry and among their current users. There’s a wealth of information to be gleaned from overall app ratings and reviews.
Mobile Product
Mobile sports betting apps offer convenient, on-the-go betting with user-friendly interfaces, live updates, and secure payment options for Illinois bettors. We download every app in Illinois to test the betting experience on mobile. Different apps have different strengths, and we show you where each stands tall or where it stands to improve.
Odds Value
Each platform sets its own odds, and they can vary from site to site. We compare the most competitive betting odds and assess each sportsbook's odds value.
How to Sign Up for Illinois Sportsbooks & Betting Apps
Getting started with sports betting in Illinois is a simple procedure. Here, you'll find a clear and concise step-by-step manual to assist you:
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Choose a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated in IL. This makes sure your betting experience is safe and fair.
- Download the Mobile App: Visit the iOS App Store or Google Play Store and search for the name of the app. Click "Get" or "Install" to download it to your device.
- Create an Account and Use Welcome Bonus: Sign up for an account on your chosen sportsbook. Most offer a welcome bonus, which can increase your initial betting funds.
- Verify Your Identity: To ensure security, confirm your identity. This usually means providing a copy of your ID or passport.
- Deposit Funds: Put funds into your account. Most sportsbooks accept different payment methods, like credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets. Ensure you make a minimum qualifying deposit to activate your bonus and unlock its benefits.
- Understand Bonuses & Promotions: Familiarize yourself with the available bonuses and promotions. These can give extra betting funds or bonus bets. If your bonus is associated with a specific bet, remember to place your sports wager at the required qualifying odds.
- Explore Betting Markets: Look at the different betting markets available. These can range from game results to individual player performances.
- Place Your Bets: Once you've done your homework, it's time to place your bets. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the process.
- Claim Winnings and/or Bonuses: Once you have met all the requirements, your bonus should be promptly credited to your account.
Illinois Sports Betting at a Glance
| Is IL Sports Betting Legal? | Yes - online & in person |
| Launch Date | June 18, 2020 |
| Legal Betting Age | 21+ |
| Total Licenses | 20 |
| Tax Rate | 20-40% with $0.25-0.50 per bet (online) |
| Regulatory Body | Illinois Gaming Board |
| College Betting Rules | ✅ Bet on out-of-state games online 🎟️ Bet on in-state games only in person ❌ No player props |
Sports betting has been legal online and in person in Illinois for individuals 21 years of age and older since Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 690 in 2019.
Over time, IL has developed into one of the biggest sports betting markets in the country. As with most other states, the IL market is led by DraftKings and FanDuel. These two sportsbooks account for almost 70% of bets in Illinois, followed by BetRivers and Caesars.
Illinois Sports Betting Laws & Legislation
Senate Bill 690, also known as the Illinois Sports Wagering Act, was signed into law in June 2019. Illinois laws prevent you from betting on events not approved by the Gaming Board.
Initially, the law's language required users to register in person for an online sportsbook account at a land-based casino. This requirement was criticized at the time SB 690 was signed, and the COVID-19 pandemic only made this requirement more challenging. In-person sign-up for online accounts was removed in late 2021.
In 2025, Illinois approved a state budget that introduced a progressive tax on online betting. In response, several sportsbooks, including bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics, now add a surcharge on bets.
Illinois Sports Betting Licensing
The Illinois Gaming Board oversees gambling in the state. The Board's purview includes sports betting, video gaming, and the regulation of any online Illinois casinos in the future.
Any prospective online sportsbook in Illinois must undergo thorough vetting by the Illinois Gaming Board to obtain a license.
Online sportsbooks can partner with a land-based casino or racecourse to obtain a license, or launch online without a retail partner.
A land-based sportsbook license requires an initial license fee of $10 million. An online sports betting license in the Prairie state costs even more, with a $20 million license fee required, followed by a $1 million renewal payment every four years.
Illinois Sports Betting Timeline: How We Got Here
- Sept. 2, 2025: bet365 announces a $0.25 surcharge on bets less than $10.
- July 1, 2025: The new tax rate goes into effect, requiring sportsbooks to pay a rate of 20% to 40% based on adjusted gross revenues.
- June 27, 2025: Fanatics announces a $0.25 transaction fee on all sports bets in Illinois.
- June 12, 2025: DraftKings announces a $0.50 charge for every bet placed in Illinois.
- June 10, 2025: In response to the tax rate increase, FanDuel announces a $0.50 surcharge on every Illinois bet.
- June 1, 2025: Illinois lawmakers pass a state budget that includes a progressive tax rate hike on sportsbooks.
- July 1, 2024: Betting on in-state teams online is banned. Bettors must place bets on in-state teams in person at retail locations.
- Sept. 29, 2023: Circa Sports launches online in Illinois.
- March 5, 2022: The requirement that bettors must register in person for an online account is eliminated, allowing users to register from anywhere in the state.
- June 18, 2020: BetRivers becomes the first Illinois sportsbook to launch online.
- March 9, 2020: Rivers Casino in Des Plaines opens Illinois' first retail sportsbook.
- June 28, 2019: The Illinois Sports Wagering Act is signed into law by J. B. Pritzker, establishing the regulatory framework for legal sports wagering in Illinois.
Illinois Sports Betting Tax Rate
You must pay taxes on sports betting winnings in IL from both online and retail sportsbooks. If you win more than $600 from an Illinois sports betting site, it is necessary to report your winnings to the IRS and complete a W-2G form.
Where Can I Bet in IL?: Retail IL Sportsbooks
| Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Bally Bet Sportsbook in the Quad Cities | 20-ft. LED video wall, 25 big-screen TVs, 3 betting windows, 5 kiosks |
| BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino | Hi-def LED TV wall, TV screens, 26-seat bar, bartop poker, kiosks, betting windows |
| Caesars Sportsbook at Grand Victoria Casino | Kiosks, seating, TV screens |
| Circa Sports Illinois Sportsbook at The Temporary by American Place Casino | Kiosks, betting windows, live odds board, 36 TVs |
| DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook | 6K-sq-ft, 60-ft. video wall, 28+ LED TVs, live odds board, 5 betting windows, 38 betting kiosks, food & bar |
| DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field | 2K-sq-ft HD LED display with directional sound, 300 seats, food & bar, private rooms available |
| Fanatics Sportsbook at Hawthorne Race Course | TVs, leather seats & couches, bar |
| FanDuel Par-A-Dice Sportsbook | Betting windows |
| FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing at Fairmount Park | 30+ TVs |
| Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford | LED TV wall, food & bar, 5 kiosks, 2 betting windows |
| Sportsbook at Argosy Casino Alton | 35 HDTVs, individiual viewing stations, live odds board |
| Penalty Box Sportsbook & Bar at Hollywood Casino Aurora | 20+ big-screen TVs, 10 kiosks, betting windows, luxury seating, food & bar |
| The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Joliet | 42-ft video wall, betting windows, food & bar |
Why Bet Online in Illinois
The large majority of sports betting now takes place via mobile apps, as opposed to cashier counters at retail sportsbooks. There are many reasons for this trend, but let’s take a look at some of the most critical factors:
Convenience & Accessibility: You can bet from anywhere within state borders at any time of day, as opposed to a limited number of retail locations at certain hours.
Compare Odds: You can have accounts with multiple sportsbooks to shop for the best betting odds.
Better Live Betting: You don't need to be watching a game to bet alongside it with mobile betting apps.
Better User Experience: Apps and sites offer an instantly responsive and streamlined experience, making digital betting platforms less frustrating than waiting in line to bet.
Claim Multiple Promos: You can sign up for several welcome offers, and online betting sites in Illinois offer steady ongoing promos after you sign up.
Popular Sports & Teams to Bet on in Illinois
Illinois is the sixth most populous state in the U.S. and is represented by a Chicago team in every major sports league, so it’s no surprise that Illinois is one of the biggest sports betting markets in the U.S.
- NFL Teams: Chicago Bears
- NBA Teams: Chicago Bulls
- MLB Teams: Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox
- NHL Teams: Chicago Blackhawks
- Prominent College Teams: Illinois Fighting Illini, Northwestern Wildcats, Eastern Illinois Panthers, DePaul Blue Demons
- WNBA Teams: Chicago Sky
- MLS Teams: Chicago Fire
- NWSL Teams: Chicago Stars FC
Remember, betting on Illinois college teams is legal. However, you must place these bets in person at a retail sportsbook. You can't place prop bets on any NCAA college events, regardless of where the teams play.
Responsible Gambling in Illinois
Like many US states, the Illinois Gaming Board has strict regulations in place to ensure that gambling platforms keep players safe. All Illinois sportsbooks provide responsible gambling information, including tips on how to stay in control. Each platform also provides account tools, such as time-outs, deposits, bets, and spend limits, to help bettors manage their betting.
The Illinois Gaming Board assists individuals struggling with problem gambling. The Board also operates a state-wide self-exclusion program that players can join to prohibit themselves from gambling. Details of support groups and problem gambling tools are available, as well as instructions on how to self-exclude from all Illinois betting sites.
Additionally, most Illinois online sportsbooks will provide links to responsible gambling organizations that offer professional help to players.
FAQs
Can I bet on sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet on sports legally in IL. There are some of the top online sportsbooks you can bet on in Illinois, which you can sign up for using the links on this page. To bet in person, you can also visit retail sportsbooks at a land-based casino.
Do you have to be 21 to sports bet in Illinois?
Yes. You must be 21 or older to use Illinois betting sites, as well as physically located within the state lines. Whether you play online or visit Illinois retail sportsbooks, you must prove your age.
Can you bet on Illinois teams if you live in Illinois?
Illinois sports bettors can find loads of online betting markets for a range of professional and college sports, including betting lines for Illinois teams. You can place bets on major league teams anywhere in the state, but you must visit a retail sportsbook to wager on Illinois college teams.
Are Illinois online sports betting apps legal?
Yes. Illinois sports betting apps are legal, and you can choose from seven different sports betting apps. You must allow your Illinois sports betting site to access your geolocation services to prove your location.
What is the best sportsbook in Illinois?
The best sportsbook in Illinois will always depend on the person. There are several top-quality Illinois online sportsbooks, each offering benefits for new sign-ups, but FanDuel is graded as our No. 1 sportsbook in Illinois.
Find out more about which sites provide the best odds, bonuses, and features by reading our reviews.
Can you bet online on college sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet online on college sports in Illinois, but there are some restrictions. Online sportsbooks are prohibited from offering bets on Illinois college teams. This means that while you can bet on college sports, you cannot place these bets online if the teams are from Illinois.
You also cannot place prop bets on any NCAA players.
How do I claim Illinois sportsbook promos?
To claim an Illinois promo code bonus, click the link for that offer on this page. Sign up with an Illinois online sportsbook, enter your promo code (if required), and follow any additional terms, like making a minimum deposit, to claim your welcome offer and start betting in Illinois.
What types of Illinois sportsbook promotions are available?
- Bonus Bets: Site credits that allow you to wager on an event without using your own money
- Insured Bets: Match your losses up to a particular amount if your bet loses
- Odds Boosts: Enhanced odds for specific events or bet types
- Deposit Bonus: Match a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds
How do I download & install Illinois sports betting apps?
- Click or tap the “BET NOW” buttons on this page to claim your Illinois betting offer.
- Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and search for the sportsbook you’d like to install.
- Select the app to start the installation.
- Once the download is complete, open the app, fill in your personal and verification information, and create your account.
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