Top 5 Illinois sports betting apps reviewed
In June 2019, Governor J. B. Pritzker signed the Illinois Sports Wagering Act, which legalized retail sports betting and created a path for Illinois sportsbook apps to go live within 18 months.
There are now eight legal Illinois sports betting apps. Our expert team at Oddspedia has compiled the five best ones.
FanDuel Illinois sports betting app
Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus BetsNo code required Claim bonusNew customers only. Deposit min $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $150 in bonus bets (within 72 hours). 21+ and present in IL. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
FanDuel Sportsbook was one of the first Illinois sports betting apps to go live, launching in the Prairie State in 2020. The Daily Fantasy Sports giant is now one of the most well-known online sportsbooks in the U.S. and is undoubtedly one of the best choices for IL bettors.
It's easy to use and regularly has the best betting odds in Illinois. FanDuel has a ton of great features, including a welcome offer that allows you to earn $150 in bonus bets from a $5 first wager. No FanDuel promo code is needed to take advantage of one of the best Illinois sportsbook promos going.
FanDuel Illinois also stands out because it is a great place to bet on local sports. Thanks to FanDuel's partnerships with the NBA and MLB, fantastic promotions are consistently available for betting on the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Bulls. These promos typically feature boosted bets or special same-game parlays tailored for major matchups.
Check out our full FanDuel review to learn more about one of the best Illinois sportsbooks out there.
| FanDuel app Illinois | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.9/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.6/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets |
| 🥇 Top feature | Unique promotions |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-3 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 142.4 MB |
Caesars Illinois sports betting app
- $1,000 First Bet on CaesarsClaim bonus
If your wager is unsuccessful, Caesars Sportsbook will refund the full amount of your initial wager, up to a maximum of $1,000, back as one bonus bet. If your first wager wins, the offer is void. Must be 21+ years of age and physically present in IL. T&Cs apply.
Caesars Sportsbook has been in Illinois since 2018, but it’s actually one of the newer Illinois sports betting apps, going live in 2022. Despite the late entry, Caesars immediately made a huge splash in the Illinois sports betting market with its world-class app.
The Caesars Sportsbook app has one of the biggest sportsbook welcome bonuses in Illinois, allowing new players to earn up to $1,000 in bonus bets with its "Get Your First Bet Back" promo. Use Caesars Sportsbook promo code OPBONUS1000 to qualify.
You can also earn Caesars reward credits when you play on the app and redeem them at Caesars Entertainment casinos and resorts worldwide.
Parse through our extensive Caesars review for more information.
| Caesars Sportsbook app Illinois | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.6/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.2/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | $1,000 first bet on Caesars |
| 🥇 Top feature | Unique promotions |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-3 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 214.1 MB |
BetMGM Illinois sports betting app
- Up to $1,500 back in Bonus BetsClaim bonus
Place your first wager and receive up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets if the bet loses. If the bet does lose, your Bonus Bets will be available once your initial wager is settled. Must be 21+ and located in IL. T&Cs apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER IL. Please Gamble Responsibly!
Like Caesars, the BetMGM Sportsbook app instantly became a major player in the Illinois sports betting market after it went live in the state in March 2022.
The BetMGM app has garnered numerous awards for its sleek design and innovative sports betting features. With its user-friendly layout, betting on major leagues is effortless. However, it's worth noting that BetMGM's betting market may be slightly limited compared to other Illinois sportsbook apps.
BetMGM's current welcome offer gives new bettors the chance to earn up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first wager loses. Sign up with BetMGM bonus code ODDSBONUS to claim the perk.
For more information on one of the leading Illinois betting apps, dive into our full BetMGM review.
| BetMGM app Illinois | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.8/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.1/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | $1,500 back in bonus bets |
| 🥇 Top feature | Best parlay builder |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 1-5 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 114.3 MB |
DraftKings Illinois sports betting app
- Bet $5, Get $200 + No Sweat NBA SGP TokensNo code required Claim bonus
Regardless of the outcome of the wager the bonus will be awarded as six(8) $25 Bonus Bets. Must be 21+ years of age or older and physically located in IL. T&Cs apply.
As one of the most popular online sportsbooks in the U.S., it's no surprise DraftKings boasts one of the best Illinois sports betting apps.
The highlights of the DraftKings Sportsbook app include its variety of betting markets and ease of use. DraftKings also has monthly, weekly, and even daily promos, plus special bets and other features that keep you coming back for more.
Simplicity is the name of the game with the DraftKings app, which is evident when you look at its welcome bonus. A $5 deposit and a $5 bet are all you need to claim $200 in bonus bets, regardless of if your first wager wins or loses. You don't even need to worry about inputting a DraftKings promo code.
The operator is also offering daily no-sweat bets for NBA same-game parlays throughout the 2024 playoffs.
Our thorough DraftKings review feeds you all the information you need about the ultra-popular sportsbook.
| DraftKings app Illinois | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.6/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.7/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets |
| 🥇 Top feature | Best mobile app |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-5 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 466.3 MB |
BetRivers Illinois sports betting app
- Up to a $500 Second-chance BetClaim bonus
Payout on Free Bet wagers includes profits only(stake not returned). Must be 21+ and present in IL. T&Cs apply.
Rounding out our list of the top online sports betting apps in Illinois is BetRivers.
The BetRivers Sportsbook app is more in tune with the local sports market than most other Illinois betting apps, giving good offers on the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bears in addition to the Cubs, White Sox and Bulls. What's more, the BetRivers app user interface is extremely friendly. Our experts described the app as an excellent choice for local fans just getting started with sports betting.
While BetRivers Sportsbook is great for beginners, some experienced sports bettors might find it lacking in certain areas. BetRivers has more limits on parlays and live betting than the other top Illinois sportsbook apps.
BetRivers Sportsbook's welcome offer gives new members a second-chance bet up to $500 if they sign up with the BetRivers bonus code ODDSPEDIA. A losing first wager will be credited in the form of bonus funds.
Our BetRivers review provides a more detailed look at one of the elite online sports betting sites.
| BetRivers app Illinois | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.4/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 3.3/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | $500 second chance bet |
| 🥇 Top feature | Great local markets |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-3 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 182.4 MB |
What makes a good Illinois sports betting app?
We’ve done the hard work for you, so you can rest assured that any Illinois mobile sports betting app we recommend is a good one. We take several factors into account, including:
Security
Your safety is our top priority. That’s why our first port of call is to verify that the state’s regulator, the Illinois Gaming Board, licenses the app. We also check for strict privacy policies and encryption technologies.
Usability
We only recommend Illinois sportsbooks that prioritize user-friendly experiences. The best apps feature clear menus for easy browsing of markets and odds, as well as smooth processes for depositing and placing bets.
Responsiveness
The best IL sports betting apps will transition seamlessly between desktop and mobile, offering the same experience no matter whether you’re using your phone, tablet, or desktop device. Our top Illinois sportsbook apps are highly responsive, even during periods of high traffic.
Bonuses
Bonuses can significantly enhance your sports betting experience, offering a boost to your bankroll or the opportunity to place sweat-free wagers. We look for Illinois betting apps with generous promotions for both new and existing customers, taking into account minimum deposit limits, wagering requirements, and cashout limits. A strong sportsbook referral bonus is also nice to have.
Odds
We understand that you’ll want to maximize your returns, so we prioritize finding IL betting apps that offer competitive, fair and transparent odds. You can shop around at different online sportsbooks to find the best NFL odds, NBA odds, MLB odds, and NHL odds.
Market coverage
The best Illinois betting apps will give you more betting options with extensive market coverage, whether you're looking for major North American sports or more niche markets. The top apps typically go hand-in-hand with the best football betting sites, NBA betting sites, MLB betting sites, NHL betting sites, etc. They'll also deliver during special events, so you can count on them to be the best Super Bowl betting sites and March Madness betting sites.
Banking
Since you’ll need to fund your betting account, it’s important to choose an IL sports betting app that offers payment methods that suit you. The best apps will offer a variety of safe and convenient online banking options — like debit cards and credit cards — from renowned brands like Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal. We also look for online sportsbooks with speedy withdrawal times, allowing you to get your hands on your winnings faster.
Live betting
Another critical factor to consider when choosing an IL sportsbook is live betting during sporting events, otherwise known as in-play or in-game betting. The best apps offer this exciting feature, which allows you to place bets while the game is in action.
App features
The best Illinois sportsbook apps will offer live streaming of sporting events to assist in your in-game betting. The top apps also feature live feeds and alerts, allowing you to make informed decisions, like whether to cash out early.
How to download Illinois sports betting apps
Downloading an Illinois sports betting app is a breeze, and we've made it even easier with this step-by-step guide:
1. Select an Illinois sportsbook
After reading our expert reviews, you may have a preferred sportsbook in mind. Choose whichever betting app pleases you and follow our links to visit the sportsbook’s website. From there, you can find a link to download the app.
Alternatively, you could simply visit the app store on your mobile device and search for your chosen sportsbook.
2. Install the app
Click the “install” button to download the app onto your mobile device.
3. Enable device location services
Before proceeding any further, the app must verify that you are in Illinois. Therefore, you’ll need to enable location services on your mobile device. It may prompt you to do so. If not, head to your device settings.
How to sign up for Illinois betting apps
Now that you’ve downloaded your Illinois sports betting app, the next step is to sign up, deposit, and enjoy placing wagers on your favorite sporting events. Here's how to do so:
1. Begin the registration process
Open the app and click the “sign up” or “register” button to get started.
2. Enter your email and create a password
Provide your email address and choose a username and password for your account.
Next, you’ll need to confirm your email address. To do so, head to your inbox and click the provided link or enter your verification code in the app.
3. Provide personal details
Enter the details the site requests, including your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Finalize the registration process by accepting the terms and conditions if you’re happy with them.
4. Make a deposit
Before you can place your first bets, you’ll need to fund your sports betting account. Head to the cashier and choose to deposit. Follow the steps on the screen, including selecting a payment method and entering the amount you’d like to deposit.
5. Place your first bets
Browse through the sportsbook’s lobby to decide what you’d like to bet on. Then, choose how much you’d like to wager and confirm your lines on the betting slip before submitting.
6. Verify your account
Before you can cash out any winnings, you must verify your identity per Know Your Customer protocols, which protect against underage gambling and fraud.
To verify your identity, upload copies of a photo ID, proof of address, and proof of payment method. It may take up to three days to verify your details, but you only have to do this once.
Benefits of using Illinois betting apps vs. desktop
The best sportsbooks are built with HTML5 technology, making them responsive and customizable to device type and screen size. You can access them on both your desktop device and mobile phone via your web browser, or through a downloadable app.
Using an Illinois sportsbook app has some noteworthy advantages over betting from your desktop.
Firstly, IL sports betting apps offer the convenience of accessing the platform no matter where you are in the state, provided you have a stable internet connection. You can also enjoy in-app alerts that keep you updated on the latest scores.
Additionally, the mobile-optimized layout of an app can simplify the overall user experience. Your chosen Illinois sports betting app may even offer mobile-exclusive bonuses, significantly enhancing the betting experience for sports fans.
How we rate sportsbook apps
Our Oddspedia experts test sportsbook apps through a rigorous set of criteria and only recommend the ones that pass with flying colors. Here's what we prioritize.
Safety and security
- Does the sportsbook hold a valid Illinois Gaming Board license?
- Does the app use up-to-date encryption technologies?
- Are there strict privacy and security policies in place?
- Can we see a responsible gambling section offering useful information?
Design and usability
- Does the app feature a modern and sleek design?
- Is it easy to navigate the app?
- Can you easily place bets on the app?
- Does the app offer a seamless experience across desktop and mobile?
- Does the app take up a small amount of storage space?
Customer support
- Does the sportsbook offer attentive and professional customer support?
- Does the app provide various support channels like phone, email, and live chat?
- Is support available to Illinois sports bettors 24/7?
- Is the customer support response time reasonable?
- Does the app offer a detailed FAQ section?
Bonuses and rewards
- Does the app offer generous welcome bonuses for new Illinois bettors?
- Does the app offer good ongoing promotions for returning customers?
- Can you enjoy competitive odds and odds boosts?
- Is there a rewards program to take advantage of?
Betting features
- Are there any features within the app that assist with making bets?
- Can you live-stream sporting events through the app?
- Does the app cover a wide range of sports, leagues, and competitions?
- Does the app offer many different bet types?
- Can you place live bets during games?
Best Illinois sports betting apps: Promos and bonuses
One of the ways Illinois sportsbook operators differentiate themselves from one another is with their welcome bonuses. To help you decide which ones are best for you, here’s what you need to know about the bonuses on offer at the best Illinois betting apps.
| Sportsbook ⭐ | Promo code ✅ | Welcome bonus 💰 |
| FanDuel | No code required | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets |
| Caesars | OPBONUS1000 | $1,000 first bet on Caesars |
| BetMGM | ODDSBONUS | $1,500 back in bonus bets |
| DraftKings | No code required | Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets |
| BetRivers | ODDSPEDIA | $500 second chance bet |
| ESPN BET | No code required | Up to $600 in bonuses |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | No code required | Up to $1,000 in bonus bets |
| Circa Sports | No code required | N/A |
21+ in IL. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
🔥 FanDuel Illinois welcome bonus — If you’re in Illinois and you sign up for FanDuel, you instantly become eligible to earn $150 in bonus bets. All you need to do to claim this FanDuel welcome bonus is deposit at least $10, then place a bet of $5 or more. Regardless of if your bet wins or loses, enjoy $150 in bonus bets that you can use on all eligible FanDuel betting markets. No promo code is required.
🔥 Caesars Illinois welcome bonus — Caesars Sportsbook gives you the chance to get your money back if your first bet loses. If you sign up using the promo code OPBONUS1000 and deposit at least $10, you become eligible for the Caesars "Get Your First Bet Back" promo. If your first bet loses, Caesars Sportsbook will give you a bonus bet equal to your initial bet amount, up to $1,000.
🔥 BetMGM Illinois welcome bonus — Like Caesars, BetMGM offers bet insurance on a losing first wager. To claim the bonus, sign up using promo code ODDSBONUS, and if your first bet loses, you will be credited with bonus bets up to a maximum of $1,500.
🔥 DraftKings Illinois welcome bonus — DraftKings Illinois’ welcome bonus is another easy one to claim. Provided you’re a new player, you just need to sign up, deposit as little as $5, and make a $5 wager on any eligible DraftKings market. You will be awarded $200 in DraftKings bonus bets, regardless of if you win or lose. No DraftKings promo code is required to claim this great offer.
🔥 BetRivers Illinois welcome bonus — BetRivers gives Illinois sports bettors the chance to get a do-over on their first bet. When you sign up using the BetRivers promo code ODDSPEDIA and place your first real-money wager, you'll receive a second-chance bonus bet of up to $500 if your first bet loses.
Illinois sports betting resources
It’s important that you bet for entertainment purposes only and that your gambling doesn’t become harmful. That’s why we only recommend the best Illinois sports betting apps with responsible gambling tools and support resources.
Secure IL sportsbook apps will provide tools to promote responsible gambling, such as self-exclusion, time and deposit limits, and timeout sessions. Additionally, under Illinois state law, licensed online sportsbooks must display a pop-up promoting safe betting after every 10 wagers placed.
While you’ll find links to responsible gambling tools through the sportsbooks themselves, we’ve also listed some of our recommended support channels here. You can get in touch with any of these resources if you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s gambling habits.
- Illinois Council on Problem Gambling - Call 833-937-4274
- National Problem Gambling Helpline - Call 1-800-GAMBER; text 800GAM
- Illinois Gaming Board - The regulator overseeing sports betting in the state
- Are You Really Winning?
- Illinois State Government
Sports betting apps in other states
Illinois sports betting apps FAQs
Are sports betting apps legal in Illinois?
Yes, sports betting apps are legal and live in Illinois. In fact, IL has become one of the most competitive sports betting states since launching in 2020. You can choose from eight sports betting apps in the state, including BetMGM, BetRivers, and others.
How old do I have to be to bet in Illinois?
You must be at least 21 years old to bet on sports in Illinois legally. This minimum age limit applies to both retail betting and mobile betting apps.
Can I bet on college teams in Illinois?
Yes, it is legal to wager on college sports teams in Illinois, but you must place your bets in person at retail locations.
Where can I bet from in Illinois?
You can place bets from anywhere in the state. Illinois sports betting apps make the process simple, as you’ll be able to access top sportsbooks like Caesars and FanDuel from your pocket. As long as you have an internet connection, you’re good to go.
Does Illinois have in-person betting?
Yes, retail sports betting has been available in the state since 2019. You have 12 retail sportsbooks to choose from in Illinois, including physical locations for FanDuel, Caesars, DraftKings, and more.
Must I be in Illinois to use an IL sportsbook app?
Yes, you must be physically located within Illinois’ state lines to use an IL sportsbook app legally. You’ll need to enable your location services to confirm your location before you can start playing.
Do I need to live in Illinois to place bets?
While you’ll need to be physically located in Illinois to place bets, you don’t have to be a permanent resident. Even if you’re just visiting, you can join in on the action. Remember, you must be at least 21 years old and have location services activated.
Are online casinos legal in Illinois?
No, online casinos are not yet legal in Illinois. To play casino games in Illinois, you must visit a land-based venue or play online at a sweepstakes site.
Where do I download an Illinois sports betting app?
You can download one of the best Illinois sportsbook betting apps right here on this page. Simply choose a sportsbook and follow our links using your mobile browser. From there, follow the installation prompts and wait a few seconds for it to download on your mobile device.
