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Is Sports Betting Legal In Illinois? How To Find The Best Legal IL Betting App

Since 2020, sports betting has been fully legal in Illinois, with both online and in-person gambling available to players aged 21 and over. As always, to place wagers you will need to do so through state-licensed operators regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), while being physically located within state lines at the time of betting. After launching just over six years ago, Illinois now has 10 licensed online bookmakers, including Fanatics Sportsbook which contributes to one of the larger Midwest markets.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how sports betting laws work in Illinois and show you how to find the best legal IL betting apps, with a focus on Fanatics Sportsbook’s user-friendly mobile experience, FanCash rewards programme, and range of promotions designed to enhance your betting experience while keeping things safe and responsible.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed legislation in June 2019 which significantly expanded gambling within the State of Illinois, including legalized sports gambling. This legislation struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PAPSA) imposed by the Supreme Court, that had effectively banned sports betting nationwide outside the state of Nevada.

June 2019 sports betting legalization

On 28 June 2019, Illinois sports betting was legalized as part of the Illinois Sports Wagering Act, however it took some time for the launching of sportsbooks to take place in the state.

Illinois sports betting law explained

Illinois sports betting is legal under the Sports Wagering Act, introduced in 2019, which created a regulated market for both in-person and online betting. Bettors must be aged 21 or over and within state lines, while the Illinois Gaming Board oversees all licensed operators to ensure compliance and player protection. Since launching in 2020, the market has expanded to include mobile betting apps, although restrictions still apply, such as limits on certain college markets and a requirement to use approved sportsbooks.

March 2020 sportsbook launch

Illinois sportsbooks officially launched in March 2020, when Rivers Casino in Des Plaines opened the state’s first retail betting site and accepted its first legal wager on 9 March. The launch marked the start of regulated sports betting in the state, with additional casinos and racetracks expected to follow as licences were approved, and it was timed to coincide with the build-up to major events such as March Madness.

Illinois online betting expansion

Illinois quickly expanded into online betting after legalising sports wagering in 2019, with mobile sportsbooks launching later in 2020 following the initial retail rollout. This shift allowed bettors to register and place wagers remotely, significantly increasing accessibility and market growth, while remaining under the oversight of the Illinois Gaming Board. As the market has matured, a wider range of licensed operators has entered the state, highlighting its development into one of the largest regulated betting markets in the US.

Illinois sports betting timeline

Illinois legalised sports betting in June 2019 when Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the Sports Wagering Act into law, marking the foundation of a regulated industry. The first sportsbooks officially launched in March 2020, with Rivers Casino taking the state’s first legal bet and beginning the rollout of retail betting. From there, the timeline has seen rapid expansion into mobile wagering and increased operator participation, supporting the continued growth of licensed sportsbooks across the state.

How to Bet on Sports with Fanatics Sportsbook in Illinois

Since being launched in 2024, Fanatics Sportsbook has quickly become many bettors go-to choice for sports betting, with some incredible value provided especially through the FanCash promotion. Below, we’ll show you how to bet on sports with Fanatics Sportsbook in Illinois.

Downloading the Fanatics Sportsbook app

To get started, download the Fanatics Sportsbook app from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, the app provides a streamlined interface with quick access to popular sports, live betting markets, and personalised offers, making it easy for beginners to navigate from the homepage.

Creating and verifying your account

After downloading the app, you’ll need to create an account by entering your basic details, such as name, date of birth and address. You’ll also be asked to verify your identity, typically by providing additional information or documents, to confirm you meet Illinois’ legal requirements and to ensure a secure betting environment.

Depositing funds securely

With your account set up, you can deposit funds using a range of secure payment methods, including debit cards and online payment options. The app clearly displays deposit limits and transaction details, helping you manage your spending while ensuring all payments are processed safely.

Placing your first sports bet

Once your account is funded, you can browse betting markets across major sports, including match betting, props, and in-play options. Simply select your market, add it to your bet slip, choose your stake and confirm your wager, with the app offering clear odds displays and an intuitive slip to guide you through the process.

Geo-location requirements in Illinois

To place a bet, you must be physically located within Illinois state lines, even if you don’t permanently live there. The app uses geo-location technology to confirm your location before allowing bets, ensuring all wagers comply with state regulations while still enabling visitors to access the platform.

Major Illinois Teams You Can Bet On with Fanatics Sportsbook

From the Chicago Bears all the way to college sports, there are plenty of top teams which you can bet on in Illinois, therefore below we’ll explain a bit more about the options available to players.

Chicago Bears betting

Betting on the Chicago Bears remains one of the most popular options in Illinois, especially during the NFL season. Common markets include spreads, moneylines, totals, player props and same-game parlays, alongside live betting that updates throughout games.

Chicago Bulls betting

Chicago Bulls betting is popular across the NBA season, with markets such as spreads, moneylines, totals and player props widely available. The fast pace of basketball also makes live betting and parlays particularly common, with odds updating across each quarter.

Chicago Cubs betting

Cubs betting is a key part of MLB wagering in Illinois, with options including moneylines, run lines and totals, as well as player props and futures markets. The regular schedule of baseball also supports live betting and multi-leg parlays across games.

Chicago White Sox betting

Chicago White Sox betting focuses on many of the same core MLB markets, including moneylines, run lines and totals. Bettors can also look at player props, futures and in-play betting to track games as they develop.

Chicago Blackhawks betting

For the Chicago Blackhawks, NHL markets typically include moneylines, puck lines and totals, along with player props and period betting. Live betting is also available, allowing odds to adjust as the game progresses.

Illinois college sports betting

College sports betting is legal in Illinois but comes with additional restrictions. Bettors can access standard markets like spreads, moneylines and totals on most events, but online betting on in-state college teams is not permitted, and player prop bets on college athletes are restricted.

What Can You Bet On with Fanatics Sportsbook in Illinois?

In this section, we’ll break down what sports you can bet on with Fanatics Sportsbook in Illinois, as there is plenty to get involved in from the NFL all the way to golf markets. See our brief explanation for each available below:

NFL betting

NFL betting is one of the core markets available, with options including spreads, moneylines, totals and player props. The Fanatics Sportsbook app also supports live betting during games, letting users react to momentum swings and changing odds in real time.

NBA betting

NBA betting offers similar core markets, including spreads, moneylines, totals and player props. The fast-paced nature of basketball makes in-play betting a key feature, with regularly updated odds and same-game parlay options available within the app.

MLB betting

MLB betting focuses heavily on moneylines, totals and run lines, alongside player props and futures such as division or World Series winners. The daily schedule of games also makes live betting and multi-bet slips a common part of the experience.

NHL betting

NHL markets typically include moneylines, puck lines (the hockey version of a spread) and totals. Bettors can also explore player props and live betting, with odds updating throughout each period of play.

College sports betting

College sports are available with standard markets like moneylines, spreads and totals, along with futures on major competitions. However, some restrictions apply depending on the teams or markets offered in Illinois, so availability can vary.

Soccer betting

Soccer betting includes markets such as match result (moneyline), totals, and both teams to score, alongside player and team-based props in selected competitions. Same-game parlays can be used to combine multiple selections from a single fixture within the app.

Golf betting

Golf betting is typically available for major tournaments, with markets ranging from outright winners and each-way style bets to player matchups. Futures markets are a key focus here, especially across multi-day events.

UFC and MMA betting

UFC and MMA betting centres on moneyline markets for fight winners, along with props such as method of victory or round betting. These events often feature pre-fight odds boosts and simple bet slips that make them accessible for beginners.

Tennis betting

Tennis betting generally includes match winner markets, set betting and totals. Due to matches swinging quickly, live betting is widely used, with odds updating point by point within the app interface.

Live betting

Live betting allows you to place wagers while a game or event is in progress, with odds updating in real time based on the action. This feature is built into the Fanatics Sportsbook app, giving users a quick and responsive way to react to games as they unfold.

Parlays and same-game parlays

Parlays combine multiple bets into one slip for a larger potential return, while same-game parlays let you build several selections from a single match. The Fanatics Sportsbook app includes an in-built parlay builder, making it easy to add legs such as spreads, totals or props in one place.

Futures betting

Futures betting focuses on longer-term outcomes, such as league winners, season totals or tournament champions. These markets are often available across major sports like NFL, NBA and MLB, and remain open throughout the season.

Player props betting

Player props allow you to bet on individual performances, such as points scored, touchdowns or other statistics. These markets are available across multiple sports and can also be combined into parlays or same-game parlays for added flexibility.

Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois Bonuses & Promotions

Fanatics Sportsbook has quickly become a household name in the US sports betting industry and with that comes regular bonuses and promotions for customers wagering in Illinois. Below, we will explain the latest Fanatics welcome bonus, odds and profit boosts available, FanCash rewards and much more.

Fanatics Sportsbook welcome bonuses

The current Fanatics Sportsbook welcome bonus is $200 when you create a new account and wager just $20. This is an excellent offer, available to all new customers, but as with all licensed operators these offers are subject to terms, wagering requirements, and Illinois gaming regulations, so it’s important to review the details within the app before signing up.

Odds boosts and profit boosts

Odds and profit boosts are regularly available on Fanatics Sportsbook, giving bettors the chance to increase potential returns on selected markets and sports such as the NFL, NBA and MLB. You can find these promotions directly on the app, with clear marketing making them easily accessible for players. Availability and terms can vary depending on the event and user eligibility, so make sure to always double check before opting in.

Bet and get promotions

As explained above with Fanatics Sportsbook’s current welcome bonus, bet and get deals are a core part of their offerings, allowing players to receive free bets or FanCash after placing a qualifying bet that meets the wagering requirements. These promotions are designed to be simple and beginner-friendly, with clear guides shown in app, but it’s always good practice to double check the specific conditions before claiming.

Reduced juice betting offers

Reduced juice promotions occasionally feature, lowering the margin on selected markets to offer better value on certain bets. This can mean more competitive pricing on popular events, particularly across major US sports, though these offers are usually limited to specific games or timeframes.

FanCash rewards and referral bonuses

FanCash is a key feature of the Fanatics Sportsbook experience, acting as a loyalty-style reward that can be earned on qualifying bets and promotions. It can then be used for future wagers within the app, adding extra value over time. Fanatics also runs referral-style incentives in some cases, rewarding users for introducing new customers, although availability and terms will depend on current promotions and Illinois regulations.

Illinois Sports Betting Restrictions

Before placing any wagers in Illinois, it’s important to look at the sports betting restrictions in this state, as you will need to meet the requirements below in order to do so. Don’t worry, as we have you covered with everything you need to know below:

Minimum betting age requirements

To place a sports bet in Illinois, you must be at least 21 years old. This applies to both online and in-person wagering, and all licensed sportsbooks, including apps like Fanatics Sportsbook, will ask for age verification during registration to ensure you meet the legal requirement.

Geo-location requirements

Illinois law requires bettors to be physically located within state lines when placing a wager. Sportsbook apps use geo-location technology to confirm your location before accepting bets, even if you are only visiting the state rather than permanently living there.

College sports betting restrictions

College sports betting is allowed in Illinois, but with stricter rules than professional sports. While you can bet on many college events, certain restrictions apply, particularly for games involving Illinois-based teams, where online betting may not be permitted.

Player prop restrictions

One of the key limitations in Illinois involves player prop betting on college athletes. Wagers on individual player performance, such as points, goals or yards are generally restricted in college sports, even when betting on teams outside the state.

Licensed sportsbooks only

To bet legally in Illinois, you must use a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board. These operators are required to meet strict standards around security, fair play and responsible gambling, giving bettors a safer and more reliable and transparent experience.

Offshore sportsbook risks

Offshore or unlicensed betting sites operate outside Illinois regulations and do not offer the same protections as licensed sportsbooks. Using these platforms can carry risks, including limited consumer safeguards, potential issues with withdrawals, and no regulatory oversight if disputes arise. Sticking to state-approved apps ensures your bets fall within the legal framework and are protected under Illinois law.

Responsible Gambling with Fanatics Sportsbook in Illinois

Responsible gambling is a core part of sports betting and Fanatics Sportsbook strongly encourages all players in Illinois to follow the guidance provided. In this section, we will give you all the tools and support you need if you feel your betting habits are getting out of control.

Illinois problem gambling resources

Illinois provides access to a range of responsible gambling resources for anyone who may need support. The statewide helpline, 1-800-GAMBLER, is available 24/7 and connects callers to trained specialists who can offer confidential advice and direct them to treatment services. In addition to phone support, online resources such as AreYouReallyWinning.com and similar state-backed tools offer guidance, screening tools and access to local help.

Illinois self-exclusion programs

Illinois operates a voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (SEP) through the Illinois Gaming Board, allowing individuals to exclude themselves from all licensed casinos and sportsbooks, including online betting. Once enrolled, participants are prevented from placing bets or accessing gambling services for a set period, helping to manage or stop gambling behaviour. This programme is free to join and is designed as a formal safeguard for those who need stronger controls.

Deposit limits and betting controls

Licensed sportsbooks in Illinois, including Fanatics Sportsbook, provide built-in controls to help manage spending. Users can set daily, weekly or monthly deposit limits, as well as limits on wager size and overall betting activity. These tools are designed to support responsible budgeting and can be adjusted within the account settings, helping bettors stay in control of how much they spend.

Gambling support organizations

Alongside state resources, several organisations provide additional support. The Illinois Council on Problem Gambling offers information, education and access to treatment services, while national groups such as the National Council on Problem Gambling provide broader support networks. Gamblers Anonymous and similar peer-support groups are also available across the state, offering community-based help for those affected by gambling-related harm.

Responsible gaming tools

Responsible gaming tools are a core part of the in-app experience. On Fanatics Sportsbook, these include deposit limits, session time limits, single wager limits, and options to take a short-term timeout or longer-term self-exclusion directly from your account. These features are designed to be easy to access and give users practical ways to control their betting activity, supporting a safer and more informed approach to gambling at all times.

Illinois Sports Betting FAQs

Yes, sports betting is legal in Illinois under the Sports Wagering Act, which was signed into law in June 2019 and created a regulated market for licensed sportsbooks.

You must be at least 21 years old to place a legal sports bet, whether online or in person.

Where can I legally place sports bets in Illinois?

You can place bets at licensed retail sportsbooks (casinos and racetracks) and on approved mobile apps, as long as you are within Illinois state lines.

Is Fanatics Sportsbook available in Illinois?

Yes, Fanatics Sportsbook operates in Illinois as a licensed mobile betting app, offering a range of sports and betting markets through its platform.

How do I place a sports bet in Illinois?

To place a bet, you need to register with a licensed sportsbook, verify your identity, deposit funds and then choose a market (such as a moneyline or spread) before confirming your wager.

Are there bonuses and promotions available?

Yes, licensed sportsbooks often provide welcome offers, odds boosts and ongoing promotions, although availability and terms can vary depending on the operator and promotion.

Are there restrictions on college sports betting?

Yes, Illinois has specific rules for college betting, including restrictions on betting on in-state college teams online and limits on certain types of markets.

Can I bet on college player props in Illinois?

No, player prop bets on college athletes are generally restricted, meaning you cannot wager on individual player performance in college games.

Is mobile betting allowed in Illinois?

Yes, mobile betting is fully legal and widely used, but you must be physically located within Illinois when placing bets, as apps use geo-location checks to confirm your location.