Best Illinois Betting Apps 2026: All 10 Legal Sportsbook Apps Ranked

Since launching its live sports betting market in 2020, Illinois now has one of the biggest and most competitive sports wagering markets in the US. With 10 legal Illinois betting apps and multiple retail operators, the Prairie State is the fourth-largest US sports betting market.

Sports betting apps in the state are licensed and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), and you must be at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois to place bets through any licensed app.

Before I rank the top 10 Illinois sports betting apps, it’s important to note that a few operators are now charging per-bet fees ($0.25 to $0.50) due to state tax increases announced in 2025.  In this guide, I’ll review the best betting apps for Illinois bettors.

Top 5 quick picks:

1. FanDuel – Best Overall App + Bulls/Blackhawks Partner (4.9/5)
2. DraftKings – Best for Props + Cubs partner (4.8/5)
3. BetMGM – Best for New Bettors & No Per-Bet Fee (4.8/5)
4. Bet365 – Best for Live Betting (4.8/5)
5. Caesars – Best Rewards Program (4.7/5)

Best Illinois Sports Betting Apps Ranked

With 10 high-quality and legal Illinois sportsbook apps available, you have several ways to bet on your favorite sports and choose the app that best fits your preferences. While every licensed app offers a secure betting platform, you’ll notice different odds, features, bonuses, market coverage, and fees across operators.

For this reason, I’ve reviewed and evaluated the best Illinois betting apps based on odds competitiveness, bettor-friendly features, and overall usability to make it easy for you to find the Illinois sports betting apps that fit your style best.

1. FanDuel Illinois – Best Overall App

FanDuel was one of the first sports betting apps to operate in Illinois when the state legalized sports wagering in 2020. The app is the official betting partner of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, offering coverage of over 20 sports, including extensive NFL and NBA markets.

It’s currently one of the top-rated betting apps in Illinois, with a near-perfect score of 4.9 stars on the App Store. The app’s clean design and intuitive interface are among the best in the industry, and I was particularly impressed with the same-game parlay builder in the Parlay Hub. If you’re a new bettor, you can easily get started with pre-built parlays or build your own by tapping on eligible selections.

FanDuel also boasts fast withdrawals, especially if you use quick payment options like PayPal, Venmo, or debit cards. However, it’s important to note that as of September 2025, FanDuel charges a $0.50 fee per bet. You can learn more about this and other features in our FanDuel Illinois review.

Illinois Sportsbook	FanDuel
Our Rating	4.9/5
Standout Feature	Best UI + Bulls/Blackhawks partnerships
Best For	Beginners, live bettors, NBA fans
Live Betting	Yes – fastest updates
Payout Speed	Same-day (PayPal)
Per-Bet Fee	$0.50

2. DraftKings Illinois – Best for Prop Bettors

The DraftKings Illinois sportsbook app earns the second spot on this list, standing out as one of the best options for prop bettors. The app boasts a 4.8 rating among iOS users and offers the deepest betting markets across more than 40 sports with competitive odds.

The app is the official betting partner of the Chicago Cubs, making it particularly popular among local baseball fans. Its SGP builder is also very user-friendly but offers more advanced customization than most apps. You can create multi-sport parlays using the SGPx builder, which allows you to combine legs from multiple games for enhanced payouts.

If you’re looking for a reliable betting app that allows you to experiment with more advanced bets while giving you the best value for your wagers, DraftKings is a strong pick. The app also gives you access to daily profit boosts and enhanced features to reduce risk and boost potential, including Injury Protection and Early Exit on live player props.

Like FanDuel, DraftKings has implemented a $0.50 fee on every bet, which you can learn more about by reading the full DraftKings Illinois review.

Illinois Sportsbook	DraftKings
Our Rating	4.8/5
Standout Feature	Deepest markets + Cubs partnership
Best For	Prop bettors, DFS players, MLB fans
Live Betting	Yes – live hub with SGP
Payout Speed	Same-day available
Per-Bet Fee	$0.50

3. BetMGM Illinois – Best for New Bettors (No Fee)

BetMGM ranks as the best Illinois sports betting app for new bettors and cost-conscious bettors looking to wager with smaller stakes. The app is impressively intuitive and easy to use, boasting a 4.8 iOS rating and unique protection features for beginners.

Besides giving you up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first wager doesn’t win, there’s also the Edit My Bet feature, which allows you to edit your bet after placing it. When it’s available, you can increase your stake, add a moneyline bet to your NBA parlay, swap a team, or completely cancel your bet.

It’s a rare tool that most Illinois betting apps don’t offer, giving you much more flexibility than standard cash-out options and other features.

Combined with the prestigious reward system, BetMGM is one of the best apps if you’re looking for top value. Even better, it’s one of the few apps that doesn’t charge a per-bet fee. Instead, the app has a minimum bet of $2.50 across all wagers. Find out about the app’s exclusive bonuses and other features in the BetMGM Illinois review.

Illinois Sportsbook	BetMGM
Our Rating	4.8/5
Standout Feature	Edit My Bet + NO per-bet fee
Best For	New bettors, casual bettors
Live Betting	Yes – with streaming
Payout Speed	Same-day available
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

4. Caesars Sportsbook Illinois – Best Rewards

For bettors who prioritize consistent rewards and an app that rewards regular users, the Caesars betting app stands out as the top choice. When I tested the app for this guide, I was impressed by its Vegas-style betting experience, which explains its high 4.7 iOS rating. The sleek app interface, combined with one of the most recognizable loyalty programs, makes it the best pick for regular sports bettors.

Caesars Rewards are earned with every wager placed in the app and can be redeemed for premium rewards, including hotel stays, dining, and live entertainment. You’ll also be able to take advantage of daily odds boosts with over 20 daily offers across sports, including strong NFL coverage for Bears games. If you accumulate tier credits, you can also unlock elite status for exclusive Las Vegas trips.

While the Caesars Illinois sportsbook app does charge a per-bet fee, it’s lower than DraftKings and FanDuel’s at $0.25 per bet. For a more in-depth breakdown of current offers and my overall user experience, check out the full Caesars Illinois review.

Illinois Sportsbook	Caesars
Our Rating	4.7/5
Standout Feature	Caesars Rewards program
Best For	Loyalty reward seekers, Vegas visitors
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-3 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.25

5. bet365 Illinois – Best for Live Betting

bet365 is one of the most trusted names in the sports betting industry, but it’s the newest app to join the Illinois market. It’s the best sportsbook for live betting in the state, supported by a multi-award-winning app and a 4.8 iOS rating from thousands of users.

The app’s industry-leading live betting interface, smooth navigation, and fast load times make it easy to place bets from kickoff through the final few minutes. I tested the app with a few in-play bets and was impressed by how quickly bets are accepted, and I could live-stream most games for free once logged in.

Another perk of the bet365 app is that, unlike most competitors, there’s currently no per-bet fee. Competitive odds and early payouts on NFL, NBA, and NHL markets give you more value for your wagers, plus additional tools, as I explain in greater detail in our bet365 Illinois review.

Illinois Sportsbook	bet365
Our Rating	4.8/5
Standout Feature	Early Payouts + live streaming
Best For	Live bettors, in-game wagering
Live Betting	Yes – industry leader
Payout Speed	1-3 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

6. Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois – Best for Merchandise

Fanatics is one of the most fun sports betting apps I tested for this review, designed for avid sports fans and offering exciting rewards. The app is a favorite among Illinois bettors, with a 4.8 iOS rating and a lower per-bet fee than most competitors ($0.25). If you’re a regular sports bettor looking for the best long-term value, Fanatics is one of the best apps, even if you bet with more moderate stakes.

One of the standout features is the FanCash rewards program, which allows you to earn credits with every wager that can be redeemed for official jerseys and merchandise from teams like the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks.

Fanatics also offers highly competitive player prop odds and features, including a real-time withdrawal tracker, live NFL streaming, and a generous welcome offer of up to $2,000 in FanCash. Check out our full Fanatics Illinois review to learn more about the app’s standout features and sports coverage.

Illinois Sportsbook	Fanatics
Our Rating	4.8/5
Standout Feature	FanCash for merchandise
Standout Feature	FanCash for merchandise
Best For	Gear collectors, Chicago team fans
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-3 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.25

7. theScore BET Illinois – Best for News Integration

The well-known ESPN BET brand officially rebranded to theScore BET Illinois in 2025, offering a mobile-first betting experience for Illinois bettors. Like Fanatics, theScore BET is a mobile-only sportsbook designed for bettors who want to keep up with the latest stats, news, and engage with fellow sports fans on the same app.

The app integrates with the operator’s news platform, allowing you to customize your feed and receive tailored wagering suggestions based on your favorite sports and teams.

The app also provides detailed matchup insights and quick access to stats, which most apps don’t offer, and is particularly useful for in-play betting. With a 4.5 iOS rating and no per-bet fee, it’s a smart pick for bettors who like to make informed wagers.

Illinois Sportsbook	theScore BET
Our Rating	4.5/5
Standout Feature	News + betting integration
Best For	News-focused bettors, researchers
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-5 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

8. Hard Rock Bet Illinois – Entertainment Focus

Bringing an entertainment twist to traditional sports betting, Hard Rock Bet delivers a modern, polished experience backed by the iconic Hard Rock brand. Launched in 2024 in Illinois, the app has become the go-to choice for many bettors in the state, connecting sports fans with the wider Hard Rock ecosystem.

Bettors in Illinois can earn points with every wager on the Hard Rock Bet app, which can be redeemed for rewards like hotel stays, concert tickets, and live events. One of the best features of this app is its comprehensive coverage of NFL and parlay betting options. Besides the standard parlay builders, you can explore SGPs, pre-built prop parlays, and Flex Parlays that still pay if one leg misses.

If you want an app that’s easy to use and offers fast loading times with real-time odds, Hard Rock Bet is one you should consider, plus it has one of the best sportsbook promos in Illinois. The app has an excellent 4.5 rating and no per-bet fee; instead, it has a $2 minimum bet limit.

Illinois Sportsbook	Hard Rock Bet
Our Rating	4.5/5
Standout Feature	Hard Rock entertainment perks
Best For	Entertainment seekers, music fans
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-5 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

9. BetRivers Illinois – First IL Sportsbook

BetRivers was the very first sports betting app to launch in Illinois, making it one of the most trusted and reliable apps for bettors in this state. The app launched in 2020 and is powered by Rivers Casino Des Plaines, which gives it a strong local reputation and track record.

Sports fans can expect a reliable and consistent betting experience from the BetRivers app, with good odds across over 20 sports, including live markets and house specials. You can earn rewards with every wager through the iRush Rewards program, unlocking exclusive rewards like profit boosts, bonus bets, and second chance tokens.

The BetRivers app currently has a 4.6-star rating, and users particularly appreciate the availability of live streaming across major sports, including international leagues. Even better, BetRivers hasn’t implemented a per-bet fee yet, but the minimum bet limit is quite high at $5 per wager.

Illinois Sportsbook	BetRivers
Our Rating	4.6/5
Standout Feature	First IL online sportsbook
Best For	Illinois veterans, loyal bettors
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-3 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

10. Circa Sports Illinois – Best for High Limits

Built for serious sports bettors in Illinois, the Circa Sports app does things a little differently than most competitors. You won’t find a sign-up offer or regular promotions here, but the app is known for guaranteeing competitive odds and reliable betting without flashy extras. The app’s interface is minimal and straightforward, offering higher-than-average betting limits and a sharp-friendly approach.

The app covers all the core sports and markets that Illinois bettors typically look for, with fast bet acceptance and live betting options. Instead of a per-bet fee, Circa Sports has a $10 minimum bet limit, which may be too high for casual and recreational bettors. However, the low commissions, zero fees, and 4.5 iOS rating make it a reliable option for high-stakes bettors in Illinois.

Illinois Sportsbook	Circa Sports
Our Rating	4.5/5
Standout Feature	Higher limits, sharp-friendly
Best For	High rollers, professional bettors
Live Betting	Yes
Payout Speed	1-5 days
Per-Bet Fee	$0.00

Illinois Per-Bet Fees Explained (2026 Update)

As of July 2025, Illinois sports operators are required to pay taxes for every wager accepted on their platform. Illinois is currently the only state to implement a direct per-bet wager tax on operators. As a result, most online IL sportsbooks have passed on the increased costs to customers, charging a per-bet fee or imposing a minimum bet limit.

FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars were among the first Illinois betting apps to charge fees in September 2025, and the fees still apply in 2026.

Other sportsbook apps, like BetMGM, BetRiver, and Circa Sports, increased the minimum bet limit instead, ranging from $2 to $10 per wager. As a result, Illinois bettors are placing fewer wagers with higher stakes to avoid paying a fee on every wager. Parlay betting has also become more popular in the state, as bettors combine multiple single bets into one wager to avoid paying multiple fees.

Which Apps Charge Per-Bet Fees?

As of 2026, four sportsbook operators have added a per-bet fee, while others are absorbing the costs or offsetting them by increasing the minimum bet limit. The table below shows which apps currently charge a per-bet fee, the fee amount, and the annual cost for users, based on 100 wagers per month.

Why Do Fees Exist?

These fees exist because Illinois changed its tax model from a revenue-based one to a flat fee on every wager. In 2024, the state increased sportsbook taxes from a 15% flat fee to a tiered system with rates ranging from 20% to 40%, depending on the operator’s annual revenue.

In July 2025, the state also added a per-bet tax, charging operators $0.25 per wager for the first 20 million wagers placed annually, increasing to $0.50 per wager for subsequent wagers.

Tip: To reduce the impact of per-bet fees, use multiple apps to minimize fees by placing high-frequency bets on no-fee apps like BetMGM or bet365. Reserve larger bets for apps like FanDuel or DraftKings to avoid paying a fee on small wagers.

How to Download Illinois Betting Apps

This section of my guide explains how to download a betting app in Illinois, with different steps for iOS and Android users. Getting started is easy and straightforward, and most apps make it easy to sign up and place your first wager without unnecessary delays.

Before you download Illinois betting apps on iOS or Android, remember you must be at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois. Below are step-by-step guides to securely download your preferred app and set up your account.

iOS Download Steps

1. Open App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Search for the sportsbook by name, e.g., “FanDuel Illinois”.
3. Tap “Get” to download.
4. Enable location services when prompted.
5. Register with your email, the last four digits of your SSN, and a valid ID.
6. Deposit funds and start betting.

Android Download Steps

1. Open the Google Play Store on your device.
2. Search for the sportsbook app.
3. Tap “Install”.
4. Allow location permissions.
5. Complete registration (including age verification).
6. Deposit funds and place your first bet.

Troubleshooting

You can typically download an app, set up your account, and place your first wager within minutes. However, if you encounter any issues, use these troubleshooting tips to resolve common problems.

• Location errors: Remember to enable GPS, disable VPN, and ensure you’re in Illinois.
• Registration issues: Double-check that the last four digits of your SSN are correct and that you used a valid Illinois address or ID.
• Age verification: You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID to download and sign up. This is a mandatory requirement from the Illinois Gaming Board that all apps must comply with; you won’t be able to sign up if you’re ineligible to bet in Illinois.

Illinois Betting App Features Comparison

When evaluating Illinois mobile sports betting options, it helps to compare key features like app ratings, market coverage, and average payout speed.

While all the apps reviewed here are licensed and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, factors like usability, bet limits, and fees can significantly impact your overall user experience, so you’ll want to pick your go-to app carefully.

App Store Ratings Comparison

User ratings on Google Play and the App Store can provide valuable insight and feedback to consider before downloading an app. Newer apps typically have fewer ratings and reviews, so it’s important not to rely solely on app ratings.

That said, high ratings generally indicate a smooth app experience with few bugs or crashes and reliable performance. On the other hand, low ratings may indicate app stability, navigation, or frequent crashes.

The table below provides the current ratings for the best IL betting apps from iOS and Android users.

App	iOS Rating	iOS Reviews	Android Rating
FanDuel	4.9	1.9M	4.6
DraftKings	4.8	847K	4.4
bet365	4.8	189K	4.5
BetMGM	4.8	240K	4.5
Fanatics	4.8	138K	4.4
Caesars	4.7	89K	4.4
BetRivers	4.6	45K	4.3
theScore BET	4.5	35K	4.3
Hard Rock Bet	4.5	28K	4.4
Circa Sports	4.5	12K	4.3

Why Do Fees Exist?

These fees exist because Illinois changed its tax model from a revenue-based one to a flat fee on every wager. In 2024, the state increased sportsbook taxes from a 15% flat fee to a tiered system with rates ranging from 20% to 40%, depending on the operator’s annual revenue.

In July 2025, the state also added a per-bet tax, charging operators $0.25 per wager for the first 20 million wagers placed annually, increasing to $0.50 per wager for subsequent wagers.

Tip: To reduce the impact of per-bet fees, use multiple apps to minimize fees by placing high-frequency bets on no-fee apps like BetMGM or bet365. Reserve larger bets for apps like FanDuel or DraftKings to avoid paying a fee on small wagers.

How to Download Illinois Betting Apps

This section of my guide explains how to download a betting app in Illinois, with different steps for iOS and Android users. Getting started is easy and straightforward, and most apps make it easy to sign up and place your first wager without unnecessary delays.

Before you download Illinois betting apps on iOS or Android, remember you must be at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois. Below are step-by-step guides to securely download your preferred app and set up your account.

iOS Download Steps

1. Open App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Search for the sportsbook by name, e.g., “FanDuel Illinois”.
3. Tap “Get” to download.
4. Enable location services when prompted.
5. Register with your email, the last four digits of your SSN, and a valid ID.
6. Deposit funds and start betting.

Android Download Steps

1. Open the Google Play Store on your device.
2. Search for the sportsbook app.
3. Tap “Install”.
4. Allow location permissions.
5. Complete registration (including age verification).
6. Deposit funds and place your first bet.

Troubleshooting

You can typically download an app, set up your account, and place your first wager within minutes. However, if you encounter any issues, use these troubleshooting tips to resolve common problems.

• Location errors: Remember to enable GPS, disable VPN, and ensure you’re in Illinois.
• Registration issues: Double-check that the last four digits of your SSN are correct and that you used a valid Illinois address or ID.
• Age verification: You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID to download and sign up. This is a mandatory requirement from the Illinois Gaming Board that all apps must comply with; you won’t be able to sign up if you’re ineligible to bet in Illinois.

Illinois Betting App Features Comparison

When evaluating Illinois mobile sports betting options, it helps to compare key features like app ratings, market coverage, and average payout speed.

While all the apps reviewed here are licensed and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, factors like usability, bet limits, and fees can significantly impact your overall user experience, so you’ll want to pick your go-to app carefully.

App Store Ratings Comparison

User ratings on Google Play and the App Store can provide valuable insight and feedback to consider before downloading an app. Newer apps typically have fewer ratings and reviews, so it’s important not to rely solely on app ratings.

That said, high ratings generally indicate a smooth app experience with few bugs or crashes and reliable performance. On the other hand, low ratings may indicate app stability, navigation, or frequent crashes.

The table below provides the current ratings for the best IL betting apps from iOS and Android users.

App	iOS Rating	iOS Reviews	Android Rating
FanDuel	4.9	1.9M	4.6
DraftKings	4.8	847K	4.4
bet365	4.8	189K	4.5
BetMGM	4.8	240K	4.5
Fanatics	4.8	138K	4.4
Caesars	4.7	89K	4.4
BetRivers	4.6	45K	4.3
theScore BET	4.5	35K	4.3
Hard Rock Bet	4.5	28K	4.4
Circa Sports	4.5	12K	4.3

Payout Speed Comparison

Withdrawal speed is also important to consider before you download Illinois sportsbook apps. The table below provides an overview of the typical payout timeframes and the fastest payment methods for each app.

Betting on Chicago Teams

As an Illinois sports fan, betting on Chicago teams and games is always part of the fun. Licensed Illinois sports betting apps make it easy to wager on any game, from NFL Sundays to NHL nights at the United Center. Whether you’re an avid fan with minimal betting experience or an avid bettor looking to test more in-depth betting strategies, legal betting apps in Illinois provide extensive opportunities.

Chicago Bears Betting

Chicago Bears betting offers a wide range of wagering options, including point spreads, moneylines, and totals. Player props are also popular, including wagering on touchdown totals or Caleb Williams’ passing yards.

Futures markets also attract long-term bettors, particularly for Super Bowl and NFC North odds. If you want the deepest NFL props coverage, DraftKings is one of your best options.

Chicago Bulls Betting

Bulls fans can wager on spreads, moneylines, and totals, or explore player props, such as Zach LaVine points and assists. Futures include the Central Division and the NBA Championship. As the official Bulls partner, FanDuel is the best app for Chicago Bulls betting. 

Chicago Cubs & White Sox Betting

Baseball fans can explore moneylines, run lines, totals, and player props such as batting averages and home runs. DraftKings is the official Cubs partner, making it the go-to app for many Cubs fans. White Sox betting is widely available across Illinois sports apps, offering futures, moneylines, and other markets across major MLB teams.

Chicago Blackhawks Betting

Illinois betting apps provide competitive odds across popular hockey markets, including puck lines, moneylines, totals, and Stanley Cup futures. FanDuel is also the official partner of the Blackhawks, making it one of the best apps for pre-game, props, and live wagers.

Illinois College Betting Restrictions

Illinois gambling laws allow betting on college sports, excluding in-state teams. That means you can still wager on Big Ten teams, like Michigan, Ohio State, and other out-of-state teams, but not on Illinois Fighting Illini or Northwestern Wildcats games. College player props are prohibited, including for both in-state and out-of-state teams.

Illinois Gaming Board Rule: No wagering on games involving Illinois-based collegiate teams.

Legal Requirements

Legal betting apps in Illinois operate under strict requirements and state regulations designed to ensure fairness and safety for bettors. Sports betting is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, and only sportsbooks that meet its requirements and standards are licensed.

Any app that isn’t approved and licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board is illegal in Illinois. Sports betting apps also use geolocation technology and conduct identity verification checks to ensure that only members legally permitted to place bets on their platform can sign up.

Age and Location

You must be 21 years or older to sign up at any Illinois betting app. You must also be physically in Illinois to wager on sports in the state.

Out-of-state visitors and tourists can bet as long as they are within state borders, and sportsbooks use GPS-based geolocation technology to check your age and location on every bet.

Registration Requirements

You’ll need to provide a valid identity document, such as a government-issued ID or driver’s license, plus the last four digits of your SSN. An Illinois address or a valid ID showing you’re at least 21 years old is also required during registration. As of March 2022, in-person registration is no longer required.

Betting Restrictions

Illinois sports betting laws also place the following restrictions on wagering in the state:

• Bets on Illinois college teams are prohibited (including Fighting Illini, Northwestern, and DePaul).
• College player props are prohibited.
• As of 2025, the IGB also banned the use of credit cards for deposits.
• VPNs or location spoofing tools are blocked by geolocation.

Payment Methods

Illinois sportsbooks offer a range of secure and convenient ways to deposit and withdraw funds from your preferred betting app. Most legal betting apps in Illinois support instant deposits via digital wallets or debit cards, but withdrawal methods vary by app.

Deposit Methods (2026 Update)

Debit cards and e-wallets are the preferred payment methods for most bettors because they enable instant, easy deposits. Bank transfers are also widely supported, though transactions may take up to three business days.

The table below lists the most commonly accepted payment methods, along with estimated processing times and availability across the top IL betting apps.

⚠️ Credit Cards BANNED: As of April 2025, the Illinois Gaming Board prohibits credit card deposits at all Illinois sportsbooks.

Withdrawal Tips

While deposits are usually instant, withdrawal times vary by method and app. Here are my top tips to speed up withdrawals and avoid unnecessary delays:

• Complete the identity verification process before requesting a withdrawal.
• PayPal and Venmo offer the fastest payouts, with same-day payouts on most apps, including FanDuel and DraftKings.
• Bank transfers can take up to five business days, so it’s best to avoid this method or reserve it for larger withdrawals only.
• Always check the minimum withdrawal amounts, which vary by app.

What to Look for in an Illinois Betting App

With more than 10 legal sports betting apps in Illinois, choosing the right one comes down to comparing features and evaluating which one fits your betting style. All licensed Illinois apps are secure and reliable, but they vary widely in terms of sports coverage, odds, features, and rewards.

In the following sections, I’ve included quick and practical tips to help you find the best app and get more value from every wager.

User Experience & Interface

Look for betting apps with a clean, intuitive interface, fast load times, and quick odds updates. Placing a wager should take no more than 1 or 2 taps, and live markets should update quickly without requiring a refresh every few minutes. Right now, FanDuel and BetMGM lead in overall usability and app performance in Illinois.

Per-Bet Fees (Illinois-Specific)

Remember that some Illinois betting apps now charge per-bet fees under the state’s new tax model. The fee is usually $0.25 or $0.50 per bet, but apps like BetMGM, bet365, and BetRivers currently don’t charge these fees. If you’re a frequent or high-volume bettor, consider sticking to no-fee apps.

Betting Markets & Features

Market depth and sports coverage are key, especially for experienced bettors. DraftKings is my top recommendation for player prop betting, while Hard Rock Bet excels at same game parlays and bet flexibility. For live betting, bet365 leads the way with market variety and app speed.

Local team coverage is also important to consider when choosing an app, so you’ll want to ensure you can bet on the Bears, Bulls, or Cubs with solid odds.

Loyalty Programs

A high-quality rewards or loyalty program can deliver much greater long-term value than one-off bonuses or sign-up offers. BetMGM and Caesars are known for their top-tier rewards programs, offering hotel, dining, and Las Vegas perks.

The Fanatics app features a unique rewards system that lets you earn FanCash to redeem for official team merchandise. BetRivers is integrated with the iRush Rewards program, giving you local and casino-linked rewards, making it an ideal app if you enjoy occasional casino gameplay alongside sports wagering.

Responsible Gambling

Sports wagering is widely available with multiple legal Illinois betting apps offering competitive odds and bonuses. However, it’s always crucial to gamble responsibly and watch out for signs of a gambling problem. Sports betting should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or a source of stress.

Licensed betting apps in Illinois are required to provide responsible gambling tools and access to support tools to help you stay in control.

Available Tools

The IGB requires licensed betting apps to provide tools and limits to help you bet within your limits and avoid the temptation of chasing losses. These tools include:

• Daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits.
• Loss limits and session time limits.
• Self-exclusion and cooling-off periods (24 hours to 30 days).
• Reality check reminders to track time and money spent on betting.

Getting Help

Whether you want to learn more about responsible betting or wish to seek confidential, professional support, there are many resources available.

• National Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
• National Council on Problem Gambling
• Text: “ILGAMB” to 833234 to speak to helpline clinical staff.
• Illinois Alliance on Problem Gambling: Live Chat & other help resources
• Illinois Gaming Board: Self-Exclusion Program (SEP)

FAQs

What is the best Illinois betting app?

FanDuel is the best overall with a 4.9-star rating. The sportsbook is the official partner of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, and the app offers an industry-leading user experience.

How many betting apps are legal in Illinois?

There are currently 10 legal sportsbook apps in Illinois, licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board. These are: FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, Fanatics, theScore BET, Hard Rock Bet, BetRivers, and Circa Sports.

Can I bet on Illinois college teams?

No. The Illinois Gaming Board prohibits wagering on games involving Illinois-based collegiate teams (including Fighting Illini, Northwestern, and DePaul). However, you can bet on out-of-state college teams.

Which Illinois apps charge per-bet fees?

DraftKings and FanDuel charge $0.50 per bet, while Caesars and Fanatics charge $0.25. Other apps do not charge per-bet fees, but may have implemented a minimum bet amount. For example, Circa Sports has a minimum bet limit of $10, while Hard Rock Bet allows bets starting from $2.

How do I download betting apps in Illinois?

You can download an official betting app from the App Store or Google Play, depending on your device. Search for the app using the official name, download it, enable location services, and sign up with a valid ID.

Which Illinois apps have the fastest payouts?

FanDuel and DraftKings offer same-day payouts via PayPal, making them faster than most apps. bet365 and BetMGM also process within 24 hours.

Do I need to be an Illinois resident to bet?

No, but you must be physically located in Illinois and over 21 years old to place a bet.