Illinois Sportsbooks

Since the legalization of sports betting, several well-known US sportsbooks have entered the Illinois market. Some of the best Illinois sportsbooks include:

• FanDuel
• DraftKings
• BetRivers
• PointsBet
• Caesars Sportsbook

Each sportsbook offers unique features, odds, and promotions, catering to different preferences and betting styles.

Illinois offers both online and retail sports betting options, providing flexibility for bettors. Online betting has several advantages:

• Convenience: Place bets from anywhere within Illinois using a smartphone or computer.
• 24/7 Access: Bet at any time, without being restricted by the operating hours of a physical location.
• Competitive Odds: Online sportsbooks often have lower overhead costs, translating to better odds for bettors in many cases.

How Can I Sign Up For An Online Sportsbook in Illinois?

Signing up for an online sportsbook in Illinois is straightforward:

1. Choose a licensed Illinois sportsbook.
2. Download the Illinois betting app or visit the website.
3. Click "Sign Up" or "Register."
4. Provide personal information (name, address, last four digits of SSN).
5. Verify your identity and age (must be 21+).
6. Set up account preferences and security measures.
7. Make your first deposit.

Illinois sports betting offers a broad range of options. Here's a breakdown of popular sports available for wagering:

NFL

The Chicago Bears are a focal point for NFL betting in Illinois. Bettors can wager on individual games, player props, and season-long futures.

NBA

With the Chicago Bulls based in Chicago, NBA betting is particularly popular. Bets can be placed on any NBA team or game.

MLB

The Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox provide strong local interest, making MLB betting a major draw. Wagers can be placed on games, player performances, and season outcomes.

NHL

Hockey fans can bet on the Chicago Blackhawks and other NHL teams, with options ranging from moneyline bets to prop bets.

College Sports

Illinois sports betting includes NCAA events, with teams like the Illinois Fighting Illini drawing significant interest. However, prop bets on individual college athletes are prohibited.

NASCAR

Auto racing betting is popular in Illinois, with bets available on race winners, top finishers, and various props.

Soccer

The Illinois MLS team is the Chicago Fire FC. They are based in Chicago and compete in Major League Soccer.

Illinois’s Sports Teams to Bet On

Illinois boasts several professional and collegiate teams that attract significant betting interest:

Chicago Bears (NFL)

Based in Chicago, the Bears are a major focus for NFL betting in the state. Fans can wager on game outcomes, player performances, and season-long props.

Chicago Bulls (NBA)

The Bulls have a storied history and remain a popular choice for NBA betting among Illinois sports bettors.

Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox (MLB)

With two MLB teams, Illinois offers ample opportunities for baseball betting throughout the season.

Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

Hockey betting has grown alongside the Blackhawks' success, with fans eager to back their team throughout the NHL season.

Types of Wagers Available

Illinois sports betting offers a diverse range of wagering options to suit different preferences and strategies:

Moneyline

The simplest form of betting, where you pick the outright winner of a game or event.

Parlays

Combine multiple bets into one wager for higher potential payouts, but all selections must win for the parlay to pay out.

Totals (Over/Under)

Bet on whether the combined score of a game will be over or under a predetermined number set by the sportsbook.

Point Spreads

Wager on the margin of victory in a game, with the favorite giving points and the underdog receiving points.

Futures

Long-term bets on outcomes like championship winners, season win totals, or individual awards.

Prop Bets

Wagers on specific events within a game, such as player performance statistics or game occurrences.

Live Bets

Place bets during a game with odds that update in real-time based on the action.

Prohibited Bets

While Illinois sports betting is relatively open, there are some wagering restrictions by Illinois Gaming Board (IGB):

• No prop bets on individual college athletes.
• No betting on youth sports (under 18).

With multiple options available, it's crucial to select the right sportsbook for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

What Should I Look For When Deciding Which Illinois Online Sports Betting Site is Right for me?

• Competitive odds.
• Real sportsbook user reviews
• Variety of betting markets.
• User-friendly interface.
• Reliable customer support.
• Secure and convenient payment options.
• Attractive promotions and bonuses with transparent terms and wagering requirements.
• Mobile app quality.
• Reputation and licensing.

Take the time to research and compare different sportsbooks to find the one that best aligns with your preferences and betting style.

Why Should I Have At Least 3 Illinois Sportsbook Accounts?

Having multiple sportsbook accounts offers several advantages:

• Line Shopping: Compare odds across different books to find the best value.
• Access to Different Markets: Some sportsbooks may offer unique betting options or better lines for specific sports.
• Backup Options: If one sportsbook experiences technical issues, you have alternatives.

What Deposit And Withdraw Options Are Available?

Illinois sports betting sites typically offer a range of payment methods:

• Credit/debit cards.
• E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill).
• Online bank transfers.
• ACH/eCheck.
• Play+ prepaid cards.
• PayNearMe (cash deposits at participating retailers).

Withdrawal options by nature are more limited but usually include bank transfers, e-wallets, and checks.

Sports Betting in Illinois: The Big Picture

The introduction of legal Illinois sports betting has significantly impacted the state's economy and sports culture. In 2023, the Illinois online sports betting handle was $5,167,532,680 generating substantial tax revenue for the state. You can find monthly wagering reports with the Illinois Gaming Board.

This success has provided a new form of entertainment for sports fans and generated substantial tax revenue for Illinois. A portion of this revenue is earmarked for education, local governments, and problem gambling services.

Illinois Sports Betting Tax Rate

Illinois imposes a 15% tax rate on sportsbooks' adjusted gross income. This rate aims to balance generating revenue and keeping the market competitive.

Importance of Responsible Gaming in Illinois

While Illinois sports betting offers excitement and potential profits, it's crucial to approach it responsibly. The Illinois Gaming Board and licensed sportsbooks promote responsible gambling tools and practices:

• Age Verification: Strict measures to prevent underage betting.
• Self-Exclusion Programs: Allow bettors to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling.
• Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on deposits.
• Cool-Off Periods: Temporary account suspensions.
• Problem Gambling Resources: Access to helplines and support services.

Sports betting should be viewed as entertainment, not a guaranteed way to make money. Always gamble within your means and seek help if you feel your betting habits are becoming problematic.

Illinois sports betting offers a comprehensive, flexible, and engaging experience for residents and visitors. With a variety of licensed sportsbooks, extensive betting markets, and a commitment to responsible gambling, Illinois has established a robust and attractive sports betting environment.

As the market continues to evolve, further innovations and improvements are expected in the Illinois sports betting landscape. Whether you're a casual fan looking to add excitement to your favorite games or a seasoned bettor seeking value, Illinois's sports betting options cater to all.

Remember to always bet responsibly, stay informed about the latest developments in Illinois sports betting, and enjoy the thrill of backing your favorite teams and athletes. With careful research, strategic thinking, and a bit of luck, sports betting can be an enjoyable addition to your sports viewing experience in the Prairie State.