Illinois has been ahead of the game when it comes to gambling, legalizing sports betting in 2019 and opening the state’s first sportsbook app in 2020.
Both online and offline sports betting is widely available, with the only headache for many when the bill was initially drawn up was the need for in-person registration – bettors are required to go to the partner casino of the app they choose to use and register there. That need has now ended, meaning registration for the available apps can be done entirely online, with sports betting open to everyone aged 21 and over.
Along with the online sports books offered by the likes of FanDuel, Caesars, and BetRivers, state law has licensed sports betting at land-based casinos, riverboat casinos, racetracks and a number of sports arenas, including Wrigley Field and Soldier Field in Chicago. There is also horse race betting available along with the state lottery; the only limit to online betting is that you must be within state borders to gamble.
Online Gambling Sites in Illinois
A leader in the field of US gambling, both online and offline sports betting is widely available in Illinois. The scheme’s need for in-person registration has now ended, with bettors able to register online for their app of choice.
Here is the list of legal sportsbooks in Illinois:
- BetMGM
- BetRivers
- Caesars Sportsbook
- Draftkings
- Hard Rock Bet
- Fanduel
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- ESPN Bet
- Circa Sportsbook
Illinois Online Casinos
No online casinos have been legalized but there are land-based and riverboat venues offering a range of services including roulette, live dealer games and electronic gaming. 2025 might be the year of Illinois igaming to be legalized.
Illinois Sweepstakes Casinos
Illinois players can legally enjoy online gaming through sweepstakes casinos, offering an exciting alternative to traditional platforms. Popular options include Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Funzpoints.
These casinos use Gold Coins for free play and Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for real prizes. With games like slots, blackjack, video poker, and even poker tournaments, sweepstakes casinos provide a safe and accessible way to win cash prizes statewide.
Illinois Online Poker
There are no online legal poker sites available in Illinois but many of the land-based casinos and riverboat casinos offer extensive poker play and a number have poker rooms.
Illinois Horse Racing Betting
The closure of Arlington Park last year has left Illinois with just two race tracks with live action, but betting on horse racing can be done online as well as on-site.
Lottery in Illinois
The state lottery was the first in the US to offer online sales back in 2012, with tickets for a variety of different lottery games available to anyone aged 18 or over. Available online games include Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto, Pick 3, Pick 4.
In fiscal year 2024, the Illinois Lottery reported $687 million in online sales, a 31% increase from the previous year, contributing to a total of $3.9 billion in sales.
Illinois DFS
DFS events are in a gray area, legally, but competitions run by the likes of FanDuel, DraftKings, PrizePicks, and Underdog Fantasy are open to residents of Illinois.
Is it legal to gamble in Illinois?
The state of Illinois was one of the few in the US to require in-person registration to allow users to place online sports bets. The need for in-person registration ended in March 2022 with gambling regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.
Is online gambling legal in Illinois?
Yes partly, sports and horse betting as well as Daily Fantasy Sports sites are legal in Illinois. Online casino is not yet legal in the Prairie State. Download a mobile sportsbook app or bet online for real money.
Who would oversee Illinois gambling?
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) ensures the integrity of and regulates gaming within the State of Illinois.
What is the minimum age to gamble in Illinois?
The minimum age for sports gambling in Illinois is 21. You will need to provide your Social Security Number in order to verify your details during registration at a sportsbook.
Where can I get help with problem gambling in Illinois?
While gambling can be enjoyable for many, for some it can be real problem affecting their lives every day. If you, or a friend or relative, is struggling to cope with their gambling, help is available. Illinois – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org). Both Illinois and out-of-state residents can enroll in the problem gambling registry. Contact the IGB at 1-877-YOU-QUIT (1-877-968-7848) for Illinois residents or (312) 814-8832 for Non-Illinois residents.