How to Bet on Sports Online in Illinois

Illinois has quickly become one of the most dynamic sports betting markets in the U.S., offering an extensive mix of wagering opportunities. Whether you’re placing a pregame bet on the Bears, exploring NBA player props for the Bulls, or diving into live MLB action with the resident teams, Illinois gives you multiple ways to engage with the games and teams you love. The market’s diversity makes it ideal for both seasoned bettors and newcomers looking for a structured start.

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This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Illinois online sports betting: legal requirements, taxes, key restrictions, top platforms, betting types, and strategies to maximize your results.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois officially legalized sports betting in 2019, with the first online sportsbooks launching in March 2020. The Illinois Gaming Board oversees all operations, from licensing to compliance checks, ensuring betting is fair and secure.

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Key requirements for legal betting in Illinois:

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• The legal betting age is 21
  
  
• You must be physically located in Illinois
  
  
• For each sports book, only 1 account is allowed per operator
  
  
• You’ll undergo a complete identity verification, usually the last four digits of your SSN or an ID.
  
  

These regulations ensure a safe, transparent environment where bettors can focus on the action, not compliance headaches.

Taxes & Restrictions for Illinois Bettors

All gambling winnings in Illinois are considered taxable income. The state imposes a flat 4.95% tax on winnings, which applies regardless of how frequently you place bets. Federal taxes also apply, and for larger payouts, sportsbooks may withhold a portion to cover federal obligations.

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For casual bettors, reporting winnings on your state and federal tax returns is typically straightforward. High-volume bettors or those with significant payouts benefit from keeping a detailed record of wagers, results, and losses throughout the year. This practice ensures accurate reporting, simplifies tax filing, and keeps you fully compliant with state regulations.

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Restrictions to note:

• College sports: Betting on Illinois colleges, like Northwestern or Illinois, is prohibited. Player props are also banned.
  
  
• Professional leagues and out-of-state colleges remain open for standard bets, spreads, totals, and props.

Top Online Sportsbooks in Illinois

Illinois has several licensed and reliable options, each with different strengths:

• FanDuel – Clean, intuitive app with strong live betting and same-game parlay options.
  
  
• DraftKings – Extensive markets, competitive lines, and standout for prop bets.
  
  
• Caesars Sportsbook – Trusted platform with consistent payouts and rewards programs.
  
  
• BetRivers – Simple interface, beginner-friendly promotions, and solid coverage.
  
  
• PointsBet – Known for its “PointsBetting” system, offering high-risk/high-reward plays.
  
  
• WynnBET – Smooth mobile experience with regular bonuses and promotions.
  
  
• Barstool Sportsbook – Engaging content, unique promotions, and celebrity tie-ins.
  
  

Heads Up: Only use licensed apps; offshore sportsbooks are unregulated and can put your funds and data at risk.

How to Start Betting in Illinois (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose a Licensed Platform – Stick to FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetRivers, PointsBet, WynnBET, or Barstool.
   
   
2. Sign Up & Verify – Provide personal details and complete ID verification.
   
   
3. Enable Geolocation – Illinois sportsbooks require confirmation that you’re physically in the state.
   
   
4. Deposit Funds – Cards, PayPal, bank transfers, or Play+ are widely accepted.
   
   
5. Claim Welcome Offers – Check terms before using bonuses or odds boosts.
   
   
6. Place Bets – Explore spreads, moneylines, totals, props, parlays, futures, and live bets. Start small.
   
   
7. Withdraw Winnings – PayPal is usually instant, while cards or bank transfers can take 1–3 days.

Illinois’ Major Teams & Betting Markets

Illinois sportsbooks cover the full spectrum of professional and global sports:

Professional Leagues

NFL

Football markets are some of the most active in Illinois. You’ll see familiar options like moneylines, spreads, totals, player props, and in-game lines that shift as the action unfolds. It’s a strong fit for both structured pregame bettors and those who enjoy live betting. [Read more: NFL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Football Season]

NBA

Basketball offers a deep pool of player-based markets, points, assists, rebounds, steals — along with team totals and quarter-by-quarter options. Lines often move quickly, which makes timing and odds-shopping important.

MLB

Baseball betting gives you something new almost every day. Markets range from hits and home runs to pitching matchups, strikeout totals, and game outcomes. Because the season is long, MLB is a favorite for bettors who prefer steady, predictable markets.

NHL

Hockey markets are built around pace. You’ll find wagers on periods, team goals, shot totals, and live swings during power plays or momentum shifts. NHL betting suits players who enjoy quick, dynamic odds.

Specialty & Global Sports

Soccer

Illinois sportsbooks cover everything from domestic leagues to major international competitions. Markets include match results, totals, player props, corners, cards, and tournament futures.

Tennis & Golf

These individual sports attract bettors who follow rankings and recent form. Tennis offers match winners and set totals, while golf provides outright winners, placements (top 5/10/20), and head-to-head matchups.

UFC & Boxing

Straightforward markets like fight winners, round betting, and method of victory make combat sports accessible, even for beginners.

College Sports

• In-state college betting is restricted, so you won’t find lines for Illinois-based programs.
  
  
• Out-of-state college games are available, but only for standard pregame markets, no player props or micro-bets.

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Smart Betting Tips for Illinois Players

• Start small: Learn the ropes before taking larger risks.
  
  
• Know your teams: Local knowledge gives you an edge.
  
  
• Compare odds: Even slight differences across platforms can add value.
  
  
• Budget wisely: Set weekly or monthly limits to avoid chasing losses.
  
  
• Use promotions strategically: Bonuses are helpful but shouldn’t dictate your bets.
  
  
• Focus on live betting selectively: Only wager in-play if following the action closely.
  
  
• Track your bets: Record wins and losses to refine strategy over time.
  
  
• Respect restrictions: Avoid in-state college teams and player props.

FAQs – Online Betting in Illinois

• Is sports betting legal in Illinois?
  Sports betting is fully legal and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, ensuring licensed operators follow strict standards.
  
  
• What are the age and location requirements?
  Bettors must be 21 or older and physically located within Illinois when placing a wager.
  
  
• Are winnings taxed?
  All gambling winnings are considered taxable income. Illinois applies a 4.95% state tax, and federal taxes also apply.
  
  
• Which sportsbooks are legal?
  Licensed operators include FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetRivers, PointsBet, WynnBET, and Barstool Sportsbook.
  
  
• Can I bet on college sports?
  In-state schools and college player props are restricted. Out-of-state matchups are allowed under standard betting markets.
  
  
• What types of bets can I place?
  Bettors can access moneylines, spreads, totals, props, parlays, futures, and live bets across professional and global sports.
  
  
• How do I withdraw winnings?
  Withdrawals are available via PayPal, cards, or bank transfers, with processing times ranging from instant to 1–3 business days, depending on the method.

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• Are offshore sportsbooks safe?
  Offshore platforms are unregulated and pose a significant risk. Only use Illinois-licensed sportsbooks to ensure security, fair play, and reliable payouts.

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• What should I do if I think I’m betting too much?
  If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, you can use built-in sportsbook tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options. You can also seek help through 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 800gambler.

Conclusion

Illinois provides a well-regulated online betting market with diverse options for every type of bettor. With the right approach, you can enjoy the state’s action-packed sports landscape while keeping your experience secure and enjoyable.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines

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