Thanks to its rich sporting history, there’s lots to expect from the best Illinois sports Betting sites!

To ensure that you won’t have your work cut out for you, we’ve featured the top sportsbooks in the Prairie State, guaranteeing that the best odds, betting markets, and sports bonuses are always within reach.

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Leading the charge is PointsBet, a top-tier betting site offering some of the most competitive odds, unique wagering alternatives, and intriguing bonus bets — our other two sportsbook recommendations also excel in their own right.

So if you’re ready to learn more about our top picks and the legal Illinois Sports Betting scene as a whole, check out our in-depth review guide!

Let’s get started!

Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites

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1. PointsBet – Best Illinois Sports Betting Site Overall

Pros:

• $250 in Second Chance Bets (5 bonus bets)
• Same Game Parlays
• Highly competitive odds
• Name A Bet option
• Smooth banking

Cons:

• Would benefit from more live streams

PointsBet is the clear winner for today. It became the best IL betting site by offering the best odds in most sports, combining it with a unique sign-up promotion.

Betting Markets & Odds: 5/5

Not only does PointsBet offer a wealth of options for football enthusiasts, but it also stands out among Illinois bettors due to its comprehensive odds for all the major leagues — meaning the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB. The platform provides a unique betting experience for its users.

For experienced bettors looking to maximize their profits, PointsBetting presents an appealing option.

This exclusive approach enables you to win more than your initial stake, depending on the number of points that are scored during a game. For instance, if the team that you pick wins by a greater margin, you’ll end up winning more.

In addition to traditional betting choices such as spread bets, moneyline bets, and over/under bets, PointsBet features Same Game Parlays.

Moreover, the inventive “Name a Bet” feature allows you to suggest specific markets to bet on, further enhancing your betting experience.

Bonus Bets & Promo Offers: 5/5

Newcomers to the platform can take advantage of 5 second chance wagers, each worth $50, totaling $250.

These bets function like risk-free betting, as you’ll receive betting credits equal to your stake (going up to $50) if your first cash bet of the day doesn’t win.

To fully benefit from this promotion, make a bet each day during your first five days as a member.

As mentioned, only your first cash bet of the day during your first five days here will qualify for a refund.

Related Guide: Best NY Sports Betting Sites

Banking Methods & Cashout Speed: 4.9/5

With an array of convenient payment options such as debit/credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, and more, PointsBet caters to various user preferences.

Each payment method has its specific minimum and maximum deposit limits, with debit/credit cards offering the greatest flexibility with a $5 minimum.

For swift deposits, opt for bank cards or PayPal.

Mobile Betting Options & Customer Support: 4.95/5

PointsBet features an attractive layout and user-friendly navigation on all mobile and desktop devices. The official app offers a wide variety of sports betting options for users.

When assistance is required, customer support is readily available 24/7 via the website and mobile app, guaranteeing help is always at hand when necessary.

>> 5x $50 second chance bets [PointsBet]

2. FanDuel – Best Illinois Sports Betting Site for Competitive Odds

Pros:

• Bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets welcome promo
• Industry-beating odds
• Excellent NFL betting markets and odds
• 25+ featured sports
• Fair 1x wagering requirement on bonuses
• Daily fantasy sports betting

Cons:

The NFL is the biggest sports league in the States, and there is no better place to enjoy it than FanDuel. Don’t miss the $150 bonus bet promo for new users, either!

Betting Markets & Odds: 4.8/5

FanDuel’s live betting section stands out, offering unparalleled odds and a wide range of betting opportunities, as well as live streaming capabilities for certain events.

Soccer enthusiasts can easily wager on home, draw, or away outcomes, with attractive odds available for eagerly awaited matches.

In total, FanDuel features more than 20 sports, guaranteeing consistently competitive odds across a majority of showcased betting markets.

Bonus Bets & Promo Offers: 4.9/5

For those new to FanDuel, enjoy $150 in bonus bets by depositing a mere $10.

After fulfilling the minimum deposit criteria, wager a minimum of $5 and delve into the captivating universe of sports betting.

With FanDuel’s appealing referral incentive, you’ll also have the opportunity to introduce the thrill of sports wagering to your friends and family while being rewarded for it.

Read more in our complete FanDuel review.

Banking Methods & Cashout Speed: 4.8/5

Initiating your wagering voyage is simple with FanDuel’s modest deposit prerequisite, offering an array of customer-centric financial alternatives to cater to your unique preferences.

Select from various handy deposit methods, including PayPal, Venmo, Visa, MasterCard, and PayNearMe.

Mobile Betting Options & Customer Support: 4.8/5

The mobile app for FanDuel, which works seamlessly on both Android and iOS devices, emulates the website’s appearance and capabilities.

The process of setting up the app is hassle-free, and it is updated approximately every two weeks.

In case you need support, visit the Support section to start a live conversation with a professional.

>> Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets [FanDuel]

3. DraftKings – Best Illinois Sports Betting Mobile App

Pros:

• Top-quality mobile betting options
• $1,000 welcome bonus
• Many regular deals and promotions
• Low withdrawal minimums
• Reputable American gambling brand

Cons:

• A lower match rate for the sign-up deal (20%)

For mobile betting in Illinois, we can’t think of a better platform than DraftKings, another highly reputable betting website, this time around offering up to $1,000 in bonuses.

Betting Markets & Odds: 4.65/5

DraftKings persistently provides odds across a multitude of sports, exceeding 20 in number.

Their vast array of choices spans various athletic events, featuring options such as specific pitchers, total runs, and three-way bets in baseball.

Furthermore, appealing betting odds can be found within their NASCAR Cup Series, with some events even boasting staggering odds of +50000!

To cater to the interests of online gaming aficionados, DraftKings has recently introduced the Call of Duty League to their esports gambling selection, thus broadening their appeal even further.

Learn more in our honest DraftKings review.

Bonus Bets & Promo Offers: 4.8/5

A diverse selection of bonus programs, specifically crafted for different inclinations, is readily presented by DraftKings.

The platform’s enticing play-through bonus, accessible to newcomers, allows you to claim up to a $1,000 bonus.

Moreover, through the referral initiative, users can introduce up to five acquaintances, garnering up to $100 in bonus rewards for each referral made.

Suggested Post: NJ Sports Betting Sites

Banking Methods & Cashout Speed: 4.7/5

DraftKings guarantees smooth financial operations through its diverse range of payment alternatives.

Users have the flexibility to select from various methods like online banking, credit or debit cards, PayPal, and gift cards for depositing and withdrawing money.

For cash deposits, completion usually occurs within 60 minutes, while debit card transactions may need a full day.

Meanwhile, transferring funds via PayPal and bank wire could require a two-day timeframe, VIP Preferred disbursements typically take close to three days, and online banking transactions might extend up to five days.

Mobile Betting Options & Customer Support: 5/5

The sports betting app by DraftKings, obtainable on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, is designed to create an enjoyable experience with its polished interface.

To support customers, DraftKings has a live chatbot in the Help Center, a search bar, and an array of educational articles geared toward newcomers.

For extra help, users have the option to reach out to the efficient and attentive support staff by submitting a ticket using the “Contact Support” function or through email.

>> $1,000 welcome bonus [DraftKings]

How We Ranked the Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites

Online Sports Betting Markets & Odds

In evaluating the top online sportsbooks in Illinois, we considered the variety and depth of sports betting markets offered.

We also examined the competitiveness of the odds, ensuring that bettors have access to fair and attractive wagering opportunities across different sports and events.

Bonus Bets & Promo Offers

Another critical factor in our rankings was the availability and quality of bonus bets and promotional offers.

We scrutinized the terms and conditions associated with these incentives, ensuring that they provide genuine value to both new and existing customers while maintaining reasonable wagering requirements.

Banking Methods & Cashout Speed

We understand the importance of efficient and secure banking options for online bettors.

Therefore, we assessed the range of deposit and withdrawal methods available at each sportsbook and the speed of cashouts.

Our aim was to ensure that bettors could manage their funds with ease and confidence.

Mobile Betting Options & Customer Support

We evaluated the mobile betting experience provided by each Illinois sportsbook, taking into account user-friendliness, features, and compatibility with various devices.

Additionally, we analyzed the quality and responsiveness of customer support, as prompt assistance is crucial for a seamless online betting experience.

Why Is PointsBet the Best Illinois Betting Site?

PointsBet is undoubtedly the no. 1 Illinois sportsbook for several reasons. Check this out!

• Enticing Welcome Bonus: New players at PointsBet are greeted with a generous welcome bonus consisting of five $50 Second Chance Bets, allowing you to explore the site with less risk on your side.
• Partial Cash-Outs: PointsBet’s partial cash-out feature empowers bettors to secure a portion of their winnings before an event’s outcome is determined. This innovative option adds a level of flexibility and control, enabling users to minimize risk and lock in profits when they feel uncertain about the final result.
• Highly Flexible Banking: PointsBet accommodates various payment preferences by accepting all major credit cards as well as PayPal for deposits and withdrawals. The platform’s accessible minimum deposit requirement makes it easy for bettors to begin their journey without breaking the bank, further solidifying its status as the top Illinois betting site.
• Name A Bet: With the Name A Bet feature, PointsBet allows users to suggest specific betting markets, tailoring the wagering experience to their preferences and expertise. This unique option encourages bettors to create personalized wagers, adding a new dimension of excitement and engagement to the sports betting experience.

Why Should I Use Illinois Online Sports Betting Sites?

Taking the online route with your sports wagers carries so many benefits compared to traveling to traditional retail sports betting locations and retail sportsbooks.

Here are just some of them!

• Tailored for Local Sports Fans: Illinois betting sites have a keen understanding of the local sports scene, offering a wealth of betting opportunities on popular teams such as the Chicago Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks. This tailored approach ensures that fans can enjoy a more immersive and engaging wagering experience, supporting their home state heroes in the process.
• Competitive and Exclusive Odds: To stand out in the crowded market, online sportsbooks in Illinois often provide exclusive odds and special betting markets not found elsewhere. This competitive edge allows bettors to capitalize on unique opportunities, enhancing the overall excitement and potential winnings.
• Innovative Betting Features: Illinois sportsbooks continually strive to innovate and improve the betting experience for their customers. They offer cutting-edge features like live in-play betting, cash-out options, and customizable bet slips, enabling bettors to take control and fine-tune their wagering strategies.
• Larger Bonuses: One of the key advantages of using Illinois sports betting sites is the potential for increased bonuses. These platforms frequently offer generous welcome bonuses, deposit matches, and free bets to attract new users and keep existing customers engaged. As a result, bettors can stretch their bankrolls further and potentially maximize their returns.

Guide to Illinois Sports Betting Online

What Are the Best Sports Betting Sites in Illinois?

The three best online sportsbooks available to Illinois sports bettors right now are:

• PointsBet
• FanDuel
• DraftKings

PointsBet is the best Illinois online betting site overall, FanDuel has the most competitive odds, and DraftKings is the king of mobile betting for IL bettors.

Which Bonuses Can I Get at Illinois Betting Sites?

The three best bonus offers you can claim right now at IL sportsbooks are:

Are Illinois Sports Betting Sites Safe?

Yes, Illinois Sports Betting sites are safe, as they are regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.

This ensures these platforms adhere to strict security standards, fair play practices, and responsible gambling guidelines.

Additionally, reputable sports betting sites use advanced encryption technology to protect users’ personal and financial information.

How Can I Tell if an Illinois Online Betting Site Is Legit?

To ensure that an online betting site in Illinois is legitimate and reliable, follow these specific guidelines:

• Official Licensing: Make sure the website is licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board or another recognized regulatory body. This information can usually be found at the bottom of the website or within their “About Us” section.
• Established Reputation: Look for sites with a strong reputation among users and industry experts. Check platforms like Trustpilot for user reviews and visit reputable online betting forums to gather valuable insights.
• Advanced Security Protocols: A secure site should utilize encryption technologies such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to safeguard your personal and financial data. Confirm the presence of a padlock icon in the web address bar, signaling a secure connection.
• Wide Range of Payment Methods: Trustworthy sites offer multiple safe payment options, including well-known credit/debit cards, popular e-wallets like PayPal, and secure bank transfers.
• Responsive Customer Support: Legitimate betting sites prioritize customer satisfaction by providing efficient support through various channels, such as 24/7 live chat, email, or phone assistance.
• Transparent Policies: A credible platform will clearly display its terms of use, privacy policy, and responsible gambling guidelines, ensuring that users are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities.

Can You Bet on Sports in Illinois?

Yes, you can bet on sports in Illinois. Sports betting was legalized in the state in June 2019 when Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the Sports Wagering Act into law.

Both retail and online sports betting are permitted, allowing residents and visitors to place wagers on a variety of professional, collegiate, and international sports events.

To participate in sports betting in Illinois, you must be at least 21 years old and located within the state’s borders.

You can register for an online sportsbook account either in person at a partnered casino or through the sportsbook’s website or mobile app.

There are several licensed online sportsbooks available in Illinois, offering a range of betting options and user experiences.

More States Betting Guides:

Which Payment Methods Can I Use at Illinois Online Sports Betting Sites?

Illinois online sports betting sites offer a variety of secure and convenient payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. Some of the most common options include:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and Discover are widely accepted for deposits. However, some banks may decline transactions related to gambling, so it’s essential to check with your financial institution.
• E-wallets: Popular e-wallets like PayPal allow for fast and secure transactions. These services act as intermediaries between your bank account and the betting site, providing an extra layer of security.
• Bank Transfers: You can transfer funds directly from your bank account to the sportsbook using methods like ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfers or online bill pay services.
• Prepaid Cards: Some sportsbooks offer their own branded prepaid cards, such as Play+ cards, which can be loaded with funds and used for deposits and withdrawals.
• PayNearMe: This cash-based option allows you to deposit money at participating retail locations, such as 7-Eleven or CVS stores. You will receive a barcode from the sportsbook, which you can present at the retail store to complete the transaction.
• Cash at Casino Cage: If the online sportsbook is partnered with a land-based casino, you can deposit and withdraw funds in person at the casino’s cashier cage.

Each online sportsbook may have its specific list of accepted payment methods, so it’s essential to review the available options before signing up.

Additionally, ensure you are aware of any fees, processing times, and minimum or maximum limits associated with each method.

Is Live Betting Available at Online Sportsbooks in Illinois?

Yes, live betting, also known as in-play betting, is available at online sportsbooks in Illinois. This popular feature allows you to place bets on sporting events as they are happening in real-time.

The odds for various outcomes change dynamically throughout the game, providing a more engaging and exciting betting experience.

Most licensed online sportsbooks in Illinois offer live betting options for a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and more.

You can typically access live betting through the sportsbook’s website or mobile betting app, where you’ll find a dedicated section displaying ongoing events and available betting markets.

In our humble opinion, the best live betting site in Illinois is FanDuel because it offers the best live betting options and even live-streaming capabilities on some markets.

How Do Odds at IL Sports Betting Sites Work?

Odds at Illinois sports betting sites convey the implied probability of an event’s outcome and determine the potential payout for a winning bet.

There are three main formats for presenting odds: American, fractional, and decimal.

American Odds

Also known as moneyline odds, this format is popular in the United States.

A positive (+) or negative (-) sign indicates the underdog and favorite, respectively.

Positive odds show the profit you would make on a $100 bet, while negative odds reveal the amount you need to wager to win $100.

For example, Chicago Bulls +150 vs. Miami Heat -200 means that betting $100 on the Bulls would yield a $150 profit if they win.

On the other hand, to win $100 by backing Miami, you would need to bet $200 on the Heat.

Fractional Odds

More common in the UK betting market, fractional odds represent the potential profit relative to your stake.

As an example, Chicago Bears win at 5/1 means that if you bet $100 on the Bears, you would win a $500 profit (5 times your original stake).

Decimal Odds: Widely used in Europe, Australia, and Canada, decimal odds indicate the total payout, including your original stake, for a winning bet

For example, Chicago Blackhawks win at 2.50 means that a $100 bet on the Blackhawks would result in a $250 payout ($150 profit plus your initial $100 stake).

To determine your potential payout, apply the appropriate formula based on the odds format provided by the sportsbook.

Remember that odds can fluctuate leading up to an event due to factors such as injuries, team performance, and betting trends.

Do You Have to Be an Illinois Resident to Join Illinois Betting Sites?

No, you do not have to be an Illinois resident to join and bet on Illinois sports betting sites. However, you must be physically located within the state boundaries when placing a wager.

This requirement is enforced through geolocation technology, which online sportsbooks use to verify your location before allowing you to place a bet.

Visitors and non-residents can sign up for an account, deposit funds, and browse betting markets from anywhere. However, to actually place a bet, you must be inside the state.

It’s important to note that you must be at least 21 years old to participate in sports betting in Illinois, regardless of your residency status.

Comparing the Top 3 Illinois Sports Betting Sites

Here’s a brief reminder of what the top 3 Illinois sports betting sites offer:

• PointsBet: This is the best Illinois sportsbook online overall, offering the most competitive odds with the widest selection of sports betting markets. As a new customer, you can claim five second chance bets worth $50 apiece.
• FanDuel: Undoubtedly, this is the top site for industry-beating odds, especially in the NFL. Beyond the competitive NFL odds and stellar betting markets, FanDuel hosts a cool promo where new players simply need to bet $5 to receive $150 in bonus bets.
• DraftKings: For mobile bettors, DraftKings is the best mobile betting site in Illinois. Beyond the stellar optimization for all mobile devices, DraftKings offers a cool welcome bonus that goes up to $1,000.

How to Join an Illinois Sports Betting Site

To become a fully registered member of an Illinois online sportsbook, all you need to do is follow our outlined steps.

For this, we’ll use PointsBet as an example because we believe it’s the best IL betting site, but these rules apply to most online sports betting websites in the state.

1. Betting Account Registration

• Visit the PointsBet betting website and click the sign-up button.
• Set Illinois as your state and fill out the required fields.
• Accept the Terms & Conditions and register your account.

2. Fund Your Betting Account

• Enter the cashier section and set your payment method.
• Deposit $5 or more.

3. Place Sports Bets!

• Enter the sports betting section on the site to check the latest betting markets.
• Form your betting slip.
• Place sports bets and enjoy online gambling!

Betting Tips for Illinois Sports Bettors

Unleash your full potential as an online sports bettor in Illinois with these unique tips and tactics tailored to the local betting landscape.

• Explore Local Market Opportunities: IL sportsbooks often provide special markets and promotions tailored to the state’s passionate sports fan base. Keep an eye on these unique wagering opportunities, focusing on local teams like the Chicago Bears or Bulls, to capitalize on exclusive odds and maximize your potential returns.
• Embrace In-Play Betting: With live betting becoming increasingly popular, Illinois bettors can benefit from this dynamic form of wagering. By closely monitoring the action as it unfolds, you can spot valuable opportunities and make informed decisions based on real-time data, adding an extra layer of excitement to your betting experience.
• Leverage Promotions and Bonuses: IL betting sites are known for their enticing promotional offers and bonuses. Stay updated on the latest deals and maximize these incentives to boost your bankroll. Don’t hesitate to join multiple betting platforms and claim the sign-up offers.
• Experiment with Betting Types: The world of sports betting is vast and diverse, offering a plethora of betting types to suit different preferences and strategies. Don’t be afraid to try new wagering options, such as parlays, teasers, or prop bets, as they can provide fresh perspectives and potentially lucrative opportunities for seasoned bettors and newcomers alike.

Still Looking for the Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites?

And that wraps it up! Let’s reiterate — PointsBet is the best IL sports betting site, offering competitive betting odds combined with a sweet 5 x $50 second chance bets welcome promotion.

Other top-tier betting sites in Illinois include FanDuel and DraftKings, both of which are valid options for IL betting enthusiasts.

Don’t forget to check out our Illinois sports betting FAQ, take your time to find your ideal betting site, and always gamble responsibly!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Moreover, the risks associated with online gambling are enormous and should be taken as an entertainment form solely. While your gambling fortunes might seem to yield some dividends, remember that the “house always wins.”

Do you feel you’re getting addicted to gambling, or do you know someone facing a similar issue? There’s no need to worry as the National Gambling Helpline is available at 1-800-522-4700 to give you the much-needed assistance to reverse gambling addictions. Remember that all gambling sites and articles are for those who are 21+ only.

Casino sites might not be accessible in your region. Always check local laws to see if online gambling is an activity you can partake in legally.

Should you want further insight on gambling, visit these organizations for free gambling addiction resources: