Best Sports Betting Sites in Illinois

Illinois has rapidly emerged as a significant player in the realm of sports betting within the United States. With a growing number of sportsbooks offering diverse betting options, the Land of Lincoln has become a hotspot for sports enthusiasts and bettors alike. This comprehensive guide delves into the best sportsbooks in Illinois, exploring legal considerations, tax implications, favored local teams and events to bet on, other noteworthy sports and events for betting, the array of available bet types and odds, deposit and withdrawal methods (including cryptocurrencies), betting restrictions within Illinois, a brief history of online betting in the state, and concludes with key insights for avid sports betting enthusiasts.

Top Sportsbooks in Illinois

Established in 2014, MyBookie has gained popularity in Illinois for its user-friendly interface and wide range of betting options, making it a reliable choice for sports enthusiasts.

With a history dating back to 1994, BetUS boasts experience and trustworthiness in the betting world. It’s known for offering competitive odds, especially for major sporting events.

A pioneer in online sports betting since 2011, BOVADA has become a household name in Illinois. Its reputation for reliability and an extensive selection of betting markets makes it a top choice.

Operating since 2001, SportsBetting.ag provides Illinois bettors with a consistent and secure platform. Their commitment to fair play and varied betting options makes them stand out.

Originally focused on horse racing, BUSR has expanded its offerings since 2012. It’s a unique choice for Illinois residents looking to diversify their betting experience.

Founded in 2011, GTBets has established a strong presence in Illinois due to its exceptional customer service and enticing promotions, enhancing the overall betting experience.

Serving bettors since 1994, WagerWeb is one of the oldest players in the industry. Its reliability, especially with quick payouts, makes it a trustworthy option.

A newcomer since 2019, EveryGame has rapidly gained recognition in Illinois for its sleek interface and innovative features, attracting a younger betting audience.

Since 2013, XBet has been offering Illinois residents a dynamic sports betting platform with a focus on competitive odds and an array of betting markets.

Operating since 2001, BetOnline is known for its consistency and commitment to player satisfaction. It remains a go-to choice for sports enthusiasts in Illinois.

With roots dating back to 1994, JazzSports brings experience and reliability to Illinois bettors. Their dedication to customer service and unique betting options set them apart.

Legal and Tax Issues

When it comes to sports betting in Illinois, understanding the legal framework and potential tax implications is essential. Here, we delve deeper into these crucial aspects that shape the landscape of sports betting in the state.

Regulatory Framework

In 2019, Illinois took a significant step forward by legalizing both online and in-person sports betting. BetRivers made history by accepting the state’s first online sports wager in June 2020. However, one notable requirement was in-person registration, meaning bettors had to physically visit an Illinois casino or racetrack to sign up for an online sports betting account. This changed dramatically on March 5, 2022, when the in-person registration requirement expired, opening the door to more convenient mobile betting.

The state’s regulatory framework is robust, with the Illinois Gaming Board overseeing and regulating the industry. This body ensures fair play, player protection, and the integrity of sports betting operations. Additionally, the Gaming Board provides dispute resolution mechanisms directly through its website, offering bettors a recourse avenue in case of disputes with sportsbooks.

Tax Implications

Tax considerations are a vital aspect of sports betting, and Illinois has clear guidelines in this regard. Bettors are legally obligated to report their net winnings from gambling every year, subject to income tax at both the state and federal levels. The online sportsbooks in Illinois are also obliged to provide tax documents to bettors, simplifying the process of reporting earnings. Moreover, these sportsbooks report net winnings to the IRS and the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Betting Licenses

Illinois employs a unique system for licensing online sportsbooks. Some licenses are “untethered,” meaning they don’t require a partnership with an Illinois casino, horse track, or pro sports venue. However, these untethered licenses come at a significant cost, requiring a $20 million investment. This pricing strategy is notably higher than the fees paid by the state’s six current online sportsbook operators.

The reasoning behind this fee structure is believed to be connected to the penalization of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) operators DraftKings and FanDuel. These operators continued to offer DFS games in Illinois despite legal concerns. To avoid the 18-month “penalty box” period, DraftKings collaborated with Casino Queen, granting them immediate access to offer retail and online wagering. FanDuel, on the other hand, secured access by purchasing an interest in Fairmount Park.

In essence, while Illinois offers a thriving sports betting market, the regulatory landscape and tax implications are substantial considerations that impact both operators and bettors. Understanding these legal and tax aspects is pivotal for a seamless and legally compliant sports betting experience in Illinois.

Popular Local Teams to Bet On

Illinois boasts a vibrant sports scene, home to several prominent teams and events that capture the attention of sports enthusiasts and bettors alike. Here, we delve into some of the top local teams and events that attract substantial betting interest in the state.

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears, one of the NFL’s original franchises, hold a special place in the hearts of Illinois residents. While they have a storied history, including a Super Bowl victory in 1986, the team has faced challenges in recent years. Bears fans eagerly await a resurgence, and there’s optimism surrounding young talents like Justin Fields, a former first-round pick who aims to lead the team to glory once more. Betting on Bears games is a common practice among Illinois NFL fans.

Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs, a National League team, are renowned for ending a 108-year World Series drought in 2016, marking one of the most celebrated moments in MLB history. However, the team has experienced fluctuations in performance, and after a disappointing 2022 season, they are in rebuilding mode. Despite their ups and downs, the Cubs continue to enjoy a passionate fan base, making them a focal point for MLB betting in the state.

Chicago White Sox

The Chicago White Sox, dominant winners of the MLB American League Central Division in 2021, hold a special place in the South Side of Chicago. Their 2021 division title was their first since 2008, reigniting enthusiasm among fans. The Guaranteed Rate Field serves as their home, and with a talented roster, the White Sox remain a popular choice for MLB betting.

Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls, led by the legendary Michael Jordan, secured six NBA championships during an eight-year span in the 1990s. While they haven’t reached the NBA Finals in recent years, the Bulls continue to command a passionate following. The addition of coach Billy Donovan and standout player Zach LaVine has rekindled hope, and fans eagerly place wagers on Bulls games, seeking a return to glory.

Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks, an original NHL team, share the United Center with the Bulls. They boast an impressive history, winning six Stanley Cups, with the most recent victory in 2014-15. Although they’ve faced challenges in recent seasons, the Blackhawks consistently draw dedicated fans, making them a prominent choice for NHL betting. Their games remain highly sought after, with more than 500 consecutive home game sellouts.

These local teams and events, steeped in tradition and sporting excellence, play a pivotal role in the Illinois sports betting landscape. Fans and bettors alike eagerly anticipate their games, creating a vibrant betting environment centered around the rich sporting heritage of the state. Whether it’s the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, or other sports leagues, Illinois offers a diverse array of betting opportunities to cater to every sports enthusiast’s preferences.

Other Popular Sports and Events for Betting

Beyond the local sports teams and events in Illinois, there’s a diverse world of sports and events that capture the attention of bettors. From international leagues to niche sports and even the exciting realm of esports, Illinois sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting options to satisfy every sporting interest.

International Sports Leagues

Illinois residents can place bets on a variety of international sports leagues, making it easy to follow their favorite teams and athletes worldwide. Some of the most popular international leagues for betting include:

• Premier League: English football’s top tier is a global sensation, attracting millions of fans and bettors. Whether it’s predicting match outcomes, goal scorers, or handicapping, the Premier League provides ample betting opportunities.
• Champions League: Europe’s premier club football competition, the UEFA Champions League, features top clubs from across the continent. Bettors can engage in exciting wagering on matches throughout the tournament.
• NBA: The National Basketball Association (NBA) is not just an American phenomenon; it has a massive international following. With stars like LeBron James and Steph Curry, NBA games attract bettors from around the world.
• NHL: Ice hockey enthusiasts can wager on NHL games, enjoying the fast-paced action and dynamic plays on the ice. The league includes teams from both the United States and Canada, expanding its appeal.
• Formula 1: Formula 1 racing provides high-speed excitement for motorsport enthusiasts. Betting on races, including predicting race winners or podium finishes, adds an extra layer of excitement to the sport.

Tennis and Golf

Tennis and golf are individual sports that have garnered significant attention from bettors due to their global appeal and major events. Notable tournaments like Wimbledon, the US Open, The Masters, and the French Open attract bettors seeking to predict winners and outcomes in these prestigious competitions.

Motorsports

Motorsports offer a variety of events for bettors to explore. From NASCAR races like the Daytona 500 to IndyCar Series events, motorsports betting provides opportunities to predict race winners, podium finishes, and other race-related outcomes. Motorsport fans can enjoy the exhilaration of high-speed betting action.

Major Sporting Events

In addition to regular league and tournament betting, major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, the Olympics, the FIFA World Cup, and the NBA Finals draw substantial betting interest. These events often feature a wide range of unique prop bets and special promotions, making them even more enticing for bettors.

Whether you’re a fan of international sports leagues, individual sports, or emerging esports, Illinois sportsbooks offer a diverse array of betting options. With the convenience of online betting platforms, you can easily explore and wager on sports and events from around the world, adding excitement to your sporting passion.

Types of Bets and Betting Odds Available

Illinois sportsbooks provide a multitude of betting options to cater to the diverse preferences of sports enthusiasts and bettors. From traditional wagering choices to dynamic in-game betting, here’s an overview of the types of bets and betting odds available:

1. Point Spread Betting:

• What is it: In point spread betting, a sportsbook sets a margin of points by which one team is favored over the other. Bettors can choose to wager on the favorite (minus the spread) or the underdog (plus the spread).
• Example: If the Chicago Bulls are favored by -6.5 points over the New York Knicks, a bet on the Bulls means they must win by at least 7 points for the bet to pay out.

2. Moneyline Betting:

• What is it: Moneyline betting involves placing a bet on a team to win a game, regardless of the margin of victory. Moneyline odds are assigned to each team based on their perceived chances of winning.
• Example: If the Chicago Cubs have moneyline odds of -150, you would need to wager $150 to win $100 if they win the game.

3. Parlay Betting:

• What is it: Parlay betting allows bettors to combine multiple individual bets into a single wager. All selections within the parlay must win for the bet to be successful.
• Example: You could create a parlay bet by combining wagers on the Chicago Bulls to win, the Chicago Bears to cover the spread, and the Chicago White Sox to win their respective games. If all three outcomes are correct, the parlay pays out at higher odds.

4. Over/Under Betting (Totals):

• What is it: Over/under bets, also known as totals bets, involve wagering on whether the combined score of both teams in a game will be over or under a specific number set by the sportsbook.
• Example: If the total for an NBA game between the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat is set at 210 points, you can bet on whether the final score will be over or under that total.

5. Futures Betting:

• What is it: Futures betting allows you to place wagers on events or outcomes that will be determined at a later date. It’s commonly used for long-term predictions, such as championship winners.
• Example: Betting on the Chicago Bears to win the Super Bowl next season is a futures bet.

6. In-Game Betting (Live Betting):

• What is it: In-game betting, or live betting, enables you to place wagers on a game after it has started. Sportsbooks continuously update odds and offer a wide range of bets during the course of the event.
• Example: While watching a Chicago Blackhawks game, you can bet on specific in-game events like the next goal scorer or the outcome of the current period.

Betting Odds Formats:

Illinois sportsbooks typically present odds in different formats:

• American Odds: American odds are presented with a plus (+) or minus (-) sign. Positive odds indicate potential profit on a $100 wager, while negative odds show the amount you need to bet to win $100.
• Decimal Odds: Decimal odds represent the total payout, including the initial stake. For example, odds of 2.50 mean you would receive $250 for a $100 bet ($150 profit plus the $100 stake).
• Fractional Odds: Fractional odds express the profit relative to the stake. Odds of 5/2 mean you would make a profit of $5 for every $2 wagered, plus your initial stake.

Understanding these types of bets and odds is crucial for making informed betting decisions in Illinois. Whether you prefer the simplicity of moneyline bets, the strategy of point spreads, or the excitement of live betting, the state’s sportsbooks offer a wide array of choices to enhance your sports wagering experience.

Deposit and Withdrawal Methods

Illinois sportsbooks aim to streamline the process of funding your account and withdrawing your winnings, offering various methods to cater to your preferences. Here’s an in-depth look at the deposit and withdrawal methods available:

1. Mastercard and Credit/Debit Cards:

• Deposits: Credit and debit cards are among the most popular deposit options. They offer convenience and allow for quick deposits. However, some financial institutions may not process gambling transactions, so success may vary.
• Withdrawals: Few online casinos permit credit card withdrawals, which is important to note when planning your withdrawal strategy.

2. Play+ Card:

• Deposits: Play+ is a dedicated option designed for online sports betting. You can sign up for a Play+ card via the operator’s website and fund it using a credit card or bank account. This card allows you to deposit funds into your sportsbook account easily.
• Withdrawals: Play+ also facilitates withdrawals. You can transfer your winnings back to the Play+ account and access the cash via an ATM. A notable advantage is that you can use one Play+ card across multiple operators, adding to its convenience and reliability.

3. PayPal and E-Wallets:

• Deposits: E-wallets like PayPal and Neteller offer a straightforward method for making deposits and withdrawals. Setting up an account with these platforms allows for low-fee transactions.
• Withdrawals: Similar to bank transfers, e-wallet withdrawals may take slightly longer, but they remain a convenient option for bettors.

4. PayNearMe:

• Deposits: PayNearMe is a cash-only deposit method available at select Illinois locations like 7-Eleven, Family Dollar, or CVS Pharmacy. You transfer money to your sportsbook account through a barcode system.
• Withdrawals: PayNearMe primarily functions as a deposit method, so withdrawals typically use other options.

5. Bank Transfer and ACH:

• Deposits: Bank transfers or Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers allow sportsbooks to withdraw funds directly from your checking account, ensuring instant transactions.
• Withdrawals: Bank transfers also offer a convenient method for withdrawing your winnings, providing a seamless experience for bettors.

6. Cash and Cashier Cage:

• Deposits: If you prefer dealing with physical currency, you can fund your sportsbook account by visiting the cashier cage at the affiliated Illinois casino or sportsbook.
• Withdrawals: Additionally, you can make withdrawals in cash by visiting the cashier cage, making it a suitable option for those who prefer in-person transactions.

7. Paper Checks:

• Withdrawals: Paper checks remain a viable withdrawal method at most operators. While they may take some time to process, they offer a traditional way to receive your winnings by mail.

8. Cryptocurrencies:

• Deposits and Withdrawals: Some online sportsbooks have started accepting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. These digital currencies offer anonymity, security, and potentially faster transaction times. While not as widely available as other methods, they are gaining popularity among bettors.

Understanding the various deposit and withdrawal methods available in Illinois can help you choose the option that best aligns with your preferences and needs. Keep in mind that processing times and fees may vary depending on the method you select, so it’s essential to review the terms and conditions of each sportsbook to make informed decisions regarding your financial transactions.

Illinois Betting Restrictions

When engaging in sports betting in Illinois, it’s essential to be aware of the legal restrictions and regulations in place. Here are some key points regarding betting restrictions in the state:

1. In-Person Registration Requirement (No Longer in Effect):

• Illinois was one of the few states in the United States to have an in-person registration requirement for online sports betting. Initially, bettors had to physically visit an Illinois casino or racetrack before signing up for an online sports betting account and gaining access to Illinois sports betting apps.
• However, this requirement changed with the introduction of House Bill 3136. As of March 5, 2022, the in-person registration requirement was lifted, allowing bettors in Illinois to sign up for online sports betting accounts remotely.

2. In-Stadium Sports Betting:

• In mid-December, the Chicago City Council approved in-stadium sports betting, allowing sports betting at major Chicago sports venues such as Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, Guaranteed Rate Field, and the United Center. This expansion provides additional options for sports bettors in the city.
• Notably, there is a 2% tax on stadium sports betting, which was initially opposed by casino operators who believed it would negatively impact their business.

3. Online-Only Betting Licenses (High Cost):

• Illinois offers online-only betting licenses that are untethered, meaning they do not require partnerships with existing Illinois casinos, horse tracks, or pro sports venues. However, obtaining these licenses comes at a significant cost—$20 million.
• This high price for online-only licenses is believed to be a measure aimed at penalizing Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) operators DraftKings and FanDuel. These operators had previously offered DFS games in Illinois despite legal concerns. To avoid an 18-month “penalty box” period, DraftKings partnered with Casino Queen, while FanDuel gained access through an interest in Fairmount Park.

4. Betting on College Sports and Esports:

• Illinois sports betting law allows wagering on college sports, with the exception that betting on games involving Illinois-based college teams is prohibited.
• While the changes in sports betting law addressed in-person registration, they did not directly address esports betting, leaving room for potential developments in this area in the future.

Understanding these betting restrictions is crucial for anyone interested in sports betting in Illinois. While the lifting of the in-person registration requirement has made online sports betting more accessible, it’s essential to stay informed about any evolving regulations and developments in the state’s sports betting landscape. Additionally, responsible betting practices should always be followed to ensure a positive and safe betting experience.

Short History of Online Betting in Illinois

Online sports betting in Illinois has undergone significant changes and growth in recent years. The legalization of online and in-person sports betting in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in the state’s gambling landscape. BetRivers made history by accepting the state’s first online sports wager in June 2020. The state initially required in-person registration for online sports betting accounts, making it unique compared to other states. However, this requirement was lifted on March 5, 2022, opening the door for widespread mobile betting. Chicago’s major sports venues, including Wrigley Field and Soldier Field, were also approved for in-stadium sports betting, expanding the options for bettors. The high cost of online-only betting licenses, at $20 million, aimed to regulate the market and address concerns related to Daily Fantasy Sports operators. As online and mobile betting continue to thrive, Illinois has become a significant player in the evolving landscape of legal sports wagering in the United States.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Illinois offers a dynamic and promising environment for sports betting enthusiasts. With a rich tapestry of sports, local teams, and major events to wager on, coupled with a wide spectrum of betting options and convenient deposit methods, Illinois stands as a vibrant hub for both casual and seasoned bettors. While certain restrictions exist, the overall landscape holds immense potential, solidifying Illinois as a thriving epicenter for sports enthusiasts seeking to infuse excitement into their favorite sporting events.

FAQs about Best Sports Betting Sites in Illinois